Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
American Fintech Council Urges California Lawmakers to Protect Flexible Rent Payment Solutions
WASHINGTON, April 7 -- The American Fintech Council, an organization that says it promotes a transparent, inclusive and customer-centric financial system, issued the following news release:
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American Fintech Council (AFC) Urges California Lawmakers to Protect Flexible Rent Payment Solutions
Smarter Decisioning, Less FrictionAB 2350 would restrict important financial options for hundreds of thousands of California renters
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Sacramento, CA - The American Fintech Council (AFC), the largest industry association representing both responsible fintech companies and innovative banks, submitted
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WASHINGTON, April 7 -- The American Fintech Council, an organization that says it promotes a transparent, inclusive and customer-centric financial system, issued the following news release:
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American Fintech Council (AFC) Urges California Lawmakers to Protect Flexible Rent Payment Solutions
Smarter Decisioning, Less FrictionAB 2350 would restrict important financial options for hundreds of thousands of California renters
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Sacramento, CA - The American Fintech Council (AFC), the largest industry association representing both responsible fintech companies and innovative banks, submittedtestimony to the California State Assembly Committee on Banking and Finance in opposition to Assembly Bill 2350. The legislation would effectively ban flexible rent payment solutions in California, removing a widely used financial tool that helps renters better manage their largest monthly expense and stay current on housing payments.
In its testimony, AFC warned that the bill would eliminate a financial service already safely used by nearly 400,000 Californians to pay more than $2.1 billion in rent. Eliminating this service would push renters toward higher-cost alternatives such as late fees, overdraft charges, and payday loans. AFC emphasized that flexible rent payment solutions help address a structural challenge in the rental market: many workers are paid weekly or biweekly, yet rent is due in full at the start of the month, creating recurring cash flow pressure that can lead to penalties or reliance on expensive short-term credit.
"California renters are already navigating rising housing costs and an affordability crisis, and removing flexible rent payment solutions would take away a practical tool that helps families stay current on their rent and avoid unnecessary fees," said Phil Goldfeder, CEO of the American Fintech Council. "State lawmakers should not eliminate solutions that help working families manage cash flow and remain in good standing with their landlords."
The testimony also noted that flexible rent payment solutions offered by AFC members are already subject to federal and state oversight, including the Truth in Lending Act and Regulation Z, contrary to claims in AB 2350 that these services operate outside meaningful regulatory frameworks. Rather than banning these solutions, AFC urged lawmakers to pursue a pragmatic regulatory approach that establishes clear standards for transparency, consumer protections, and product design, ensuring responsible providers can continue serving renters while strengthening oversight and accountability across the market.
Recent research from Flex, an AFC member, underscores the importance of these solutions for renters: their 2026 Financial Health Survey and a separate causal study of nearly 10,000 applicants found that most renters face frequent financial shocks and have very limited savings, yet access to rent-splitting measurably reduced financial stress.
"California policymakers have an opportunity to establish clear standards that protect renters from unexpected fees and financial strain," said Ian P. Moloney, Chief Policy Officer at the American Fintech Council. "A thoughtful regulatory framework that sets clear guardrails and strong consumer protections would better support California renters while preserving access to responsible financial tools that promote housing stability."
A standards-based organization, the American Fintech Council (AFC) is the largest and most diverse trade association representing financial technology (fintech) companies and innovative banks. On behalf of over 150 member companies and partners, AFC promotes a transparent, inclusive, and customer-centric financial system by supporting responsible innovation in financial services and encouraging sound public policy. AFC members foster competition in consumer finance and pioneer products to better serve underserved consumer segments and geographies.
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Original text here: https://www.fintechcouncil.org/press-releases/american-fintech-council-afc-urges-california-lawmakers-to-protect-flexible-rent-payment-solutions
[Category: Financial Services]
2026 USPOULTRY Poultry Processor Workshop to Focus on Operational Efficiency, Innovation and Food Safety in Poultry Processing
TUCKER, Georgia, April 7 [Category: Agriculture] -- The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association (USPOULTRY) issued the following news release:
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2026 USPOULTRY Poultry Processor Workshop to Focus on Operational Efficiency, Innovation and Food Safety in Poultry Processing
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USPOULTRY will hold its annual Poultry Processor Workshop on May 20-21 in Greenville, S.C. This year's program will focus on leadership and operational excellence, along with a U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service update and discussions on retained water and overall operational efficiencies, including
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TUCKER, Georgia, April 7 [Category: Agriculture] -- The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association (USPOULTRY) issued the following news release:
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2026 USPOULTRY Poultry Processor Workshop to Focus on Operational Efficiency, Innovation and Food Safety in Poultry Processing
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USPOULTRY will hold its annual Poultry Processor Workshop on May 20-21 in Greenville, S.C. This year's program will focus on leadership and operational excellence, along with a U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service update and discussions on retained water and overall operational efficiencies, includingpreventive maintenance and the use of data analytics to enhance plant performance. The program will also address packaging considerations, including producer responsibility and sustainability.
Additional topics include sanitation and bio-mapping practices, and updates on automation, including the latest innovations and the role of artificial intelligence in processing plants, will be discussed. There will also be a safety overview and ammonia update, along with sessions on Salmonella interventions, including the use of phages and UV lighting, perspectives from a researcher in the field and discussions on shelf-life extenders.
"This workshop brings together the practical insights and strategies processors need to stay competitive in today's environment," said Matthew Wood, senior manager of research and development at Butterball and planning committee chair. "From operational efficiencies and automation to food safety and workforce considerations, attendees will gain actionable takeaways they can implement immediately in their operations."
The agenda was developed by a program committee of plant managers and food safety and quality assurance professionals that includes Corbett Kloster, Fieldale Farms Corporation; Dawn Lynch, House of Raeford Farms Inc.; Steve Snyder, Claxton Poultry Farms; Matthew Wood, Butterball and program planning committee chair; and Dr. Alicia Walker, Wayne-Sanderson Farms.
To view the full agenda, register for the Poultry Processor Workshop and reserve your hotel room, click here or visit uspoultry.org.
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Original text here: https://www.uspoultry.org/media-center/press-releases/single-view/?id=4675
ECI Software Solutions Drives Increased MPS Efficiency Through Strategic Alliance With In Time Tec
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, April 7 [Category: Business] -- The Business Technology Association posted the following news:
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ECI Software Solutions Drives Increased MPS Efficiency Through Strategic Alliance With In Time Tec
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ECI Software Solutions Inc. has announced its strategic alliance with In Time Tec. This alliance will drive automation, quality and speed in managed print services (MPS) assessments and fleet design.
In Time Tec brings a critical, user-friendly assessment and design platform to ECI's integrated product ecosystem. Its Cartos Suite, a cloud-native MPS assessment tool set,
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KANSAS CITY, Missouri, April 7 [Category: Business] -- The Business Technology Association posted the following news:
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ECI Software Solutions Drives Increased MPS Efficiency Through Strategic Alliance With In Time Tec
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ECI Software Solutions Inc. has announced its strategic alliance with In Time Tec. This alliance will drive automation, quality and speed in managed print services (MPS) assessments and fleet design.
In Time Tec brings a critical, user-friendly assessment and design platform to ECI's integrated product ecosystem. Its Cartos Suite, a cloud-native MPS assessment tool set,leverages ECI's Printanista remote device data collection to bridge business logic with real-time fleet intelligence. Working together, these products bring dealers greater sales proposal automation capabilities, allowing them to gain a competitive advantage by creating a faster, streamlined end-to-end assessment workflow with more data-driven insights.
This integration highlights ECI's continued investment in digital transformation of the managed print services industry, advancing toward a fully connected and automated dealership.
"Being an industry leader means more to ECI than just providing applications," said Laryssa Alexander, industry president, field service, ECI Software Solutions. "It means providing an entire solution ecosystem by anticipating where the industry is headed and equipping our customers to with the tools they need to grow. In collaborating with In Time Tec, we are ensuring our customers can effectively and efficiently increase the number of devices they have under contract. We are providing the speed, accuracy and scalability required for our Printanista users to capture more market share and drive long-term growth."
"This alliance marks a pivotal step forward for the MPS industry," said Anthony Chen, senior vice president of sales, In Time Tec. "By combining fleet intelligence with AI-powered analytics and informed assessment design, we're turning raw device data into actionable insights in minutes. Dealers can now easily analyze thousands of devices, generate an assessment and move from discovery to proposal faster than ever before. It's a fundamentally smarter way to sell -empowering Printanista dealers to uncover opportunities earlier, shorten sales cycles and compete with a data-driven advantage."
To learn more about the new Printanista integration, click here.
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Original text here: https://businesstechnologyassociation.growthzoneapp.com/news/Details/eci-software-solutions-drives-increased-mps-efficiency-through-strategic-alliance-with-in-time-tec-323784
DEX Expands Texas Presence With Southwest Office Systems Acquisition
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, April 7 [Category: Business] -- The Business Technology Association posted the following news:
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DEX Expands Texas Presence With Southwest Office Systems Acquisition
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BTA member DEX Imaging has announced it has acquired BTA member Southwest Office Systems (SOS), a Sharp and Epson dealership serving the Dallas-Fort Worth market since 1964. The deal marks DEX's latest regional expansion move.
SOS was founded by Victor Puente, Sr., as a two-person typewriter repair shop and grew into what the company describes as the largest minority-owned independent office equipment
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KANSAS CITY, Missouri, April 7 [Category: Business] -- The Business Technology Association posted the following news:
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DEX Expands Texas Presence With Southwest Office Systems Acquisition
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BTA member DEX Imaging has announced it has acquired BTA member Southwest Office Systems (SOS), a Sharp and Epson dealership serving the Dallas-Fort Worth market since 1964. The deal marks DEX's latest regional expansion move.
SOS was founded by Victor Puente, Sr., as a two-person typewriter repair shop and grew into what the company describes as the largest minority-owned independent office equipmentdealership in the Southwest. The 39,000-square-foot facility near the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport positions the combined entity for scaled growth across north Texas.
"This acquisition is an important step in expanding our presence in the Texas market and strengthening our ability to serve customers across the region," said Dan Doyle Jr., CEO, DEX Imaging.
SOS's portfolio spans Sharp and Epson hardware, managed services and technology solutions. The dealership has earned recognition from Sharp, the North Dallas Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Small Business Administration, among others.
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Original text here: https://businesstechnologyassociation.growthzoneapp.com/news/Details/dex-expands-texas-presence-with-southwest-office-systems-acquisition-323769
Core ALA Annual Preconference: Assembling Your Consultant Tool Kit: What You Need to Know to Become a Successful Consultant
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 7 [Category: Libraries] -- The American Library Association posted the following news release:
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Core ALA Annual Preconference: Assembling Your Consultant Tool Kit: What You Need to Know to Become a Successful Consultant
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CHICAGO-Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, Futures will host the full-day session " Assembling Your Consultant Tool Kit: What You Need to Know to Become a Successful Consultant " on Friday, June 26, 2026, during the 2026 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition in Chicago, IL. Join Preservation in Action for an engaging opportunity to help preserve cultural
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CHICAGO, Illinois, April 7 [Category: Libraries] -- The American Library Association posted the following news release:
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Core ALA Annual Preconference: Assembling Your Consultant Tool Kit: What You Need to Know to Become a Successful Consultant
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CHICAGO-Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, Futures will host the full-day session " Assembling Your Consultant Tool Kit: What You Need to Know to Become a Successful Consultant " on Friday, June 26, 2026, during the 2026 ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition in Chicago, IL. Join Preservation in Action for an engaging opportunity to help preserve culturalheritage in Chicago and gain practical experience! Participants will take part in a day-long preservation-focused project at a local cultural heritage institution. The project will be led by preservation experts and participants will gain basic hands-on training in the care and handling of various materials. No experience is required.
Assembling Your Consultant Tool Kit: What You Need to Know to Become a Successful Consultant
Friday, June 26, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Registration
Core Member: $239.00 advance | $289.00 standard
ALA Member: $279.00 advance | $319.00 standard
Non-member: $319.00 advance | $369.00 standard
View the complete schedule of the 2026 Core Annual preconferences, programs, and events.
For questions or comments related to Core continuing education events, please contact Core CE staff at corece@ala.org.
About Core
Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, Futures is the national association that advances the profession of librarians and information providers in central roles of leadership and management, collections and technical services, and technology. Our mission is to cultivate and amplify the collective expertise of library workers in core functions through community building, advocacy, and learning. Core is a division of the American Library Association. Follow us on our Blog, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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Original text here: https://www.ala.org/news/2026/04/core-ala-annual-preconference-assembling-your-consultant-tool-kit-what-you-need-know
Congress Must Restrain the Trump Administration from Nuclear Weapons First Use
CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, April 7 [Category: Environment] -- The Union of Concerned Scientists posted the following news release:
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Congress Must Restrain the Trump Administration from Nuclear Weapons First Use
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This morning, President Trump issued this bleak threat : "A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back" unless Iran cedes to his demands, and Vice President Vance intimated that the United States could use nuclear weapons against Iran. The Trump administration has expressed clear intent and willingness to commit acts of violence that cross the thresholds of decency
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CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, April 7 [Category: Environment] -- The Union of Concerned Scientists posted the following news release:
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Congress Must Restrain the Trump Administration from Nuclear Weapons First Use
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This morning, President Trump issued this bleak threat : "A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back" unless Iran cedes to his demands, and Vice President Vance intimated that the United States could use nuclear weapons against Iran. The Trump administration has expressed clear intent and willingness to commit acts of violence that cross the thresholds of decencyand legality.
"President Trump actively chose to discard diplomatic solutions and pursue an illegal war of aggression against Iran, with unclear and shifting aims," said Dr. Tara Drozdenko, director of the Global Security Program at UCS. "Now that the consequences and public narrative have spiraled out of his control, President Trump and his administration are acting erratically, even issuing nuclear and genocidal threats, to bring the conflict to a catastrophic new level.
"Congress should intervene today to rein in this illegal conflict, making it clear that what the president and vice president are suggesting is beyond the pale-defying both international law and common sense. This means passing a law restricting the United States from using nuclear weapons first in any circumstance."
Such a law would prevent the United States from using nuclear weapons unless there has first been a nuclear strike against the United States or its allies. Variations of a bill to do so have been proposed in the past.
The use and threat of nuclear use have long been soundly rejected by civil society in the United States, by nations around the world, and by nuclear weapons states themselves. The G20 stated that use and threats of nuclear use are inadmissible, and the permanent five members of the United Nations Security Council - China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States - reaffirmed that nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought.
If the Trump administration were to use nuclear weapons on Iran, they would break an 80-year taboo; cause enormous amounts of death, injury and destruction; create "hibakusha," or survivors, with long-term trauma and health effects ; risk retaliation against the United States; provoke the possible use of nuclear weapons by other powers in their own wars; push countries without nuclear weapons to acquire them; threaten the United States' alliances and bring about sanctions; and other consequences. The United States would essentially become a pariah state in a much more violent world.
The war against Iran raises additional notable nuclear risks, including:
* Could lead to nuclear proliferation, as it increases the likelihood that other governments may in the future seek to develop a nuclear arsenal as a security guarantor against the United States' aggression.
* Risks purposeful or accidental damage or destruction to nuclear power plants - according to the International Atomic Energy Agency there have been four strikes worryingly close to nuclear power plants so far-which could cause long-term environmental damage and kill or sicken large numbers of civilians.
"Threats of indiscriminate violence are unacceptable, whether they come from nuclear or conventional weapons," said Dr. Drozdenko. "As scientists, as members of our communities, and as Americans, we must join together to express our collective outrage and demand our elected officials step in to constrain the dangerous and illegal actions of the Trump administration."
UCS is also issuing a call for action to its members across the United States, urging them to contact their congressional representatives and demand they rein in the Trump administration.
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Original text here: https://www.ucsusa.org/about/news/congress-must-restrain-trump-admin-first-use-nuclear-weapons
C3 Tech Builds on 30-Year Legacy With New Leadership & Cal State Fullerton Partnership
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, April 7 [Category: Business] -- The Business Technology Association posted the following news:
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C3 Tech Builds on 30-Year Legacy With New Leadership & Cal State Fullerton Partnership
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BTA member C3 Tech has announced a landmark transition in its ownership structure. As the company celebrates three decades of service, it is proud to welcome three new equity partners to its leadership team: longtime operations leader Davis Tran, as well as Samantha Sanchez-Lee and Killian Lee.
New Leadership to Fuel a Modern Vision
The expansion of C3 Tech's ownership team marks
... Show Full Article
KANSAS CITY, Missouri, April 7 [Category: Business] -- The Business Technology Association posted the following news:
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C3 Tech Builds on 30-Year Legacy With New Leadership & Cal State Fullerton Partnership
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BTA member C3 Tech has announced a landmark transition in its ownership structure. As the company celebrates three decades of service, it is proud to welcome three new equity partners to its leadership team: longtime operations leader Davis Tran, as well as Samantha Sanchez-Lee and Killian Lee.
New Leadership to Fuel a Modern Vision
The expansion of C3 Tech's ownership team marksa strategic evolution, blending the legacy of founders Tony and Tricia Sanchez with the proven expertise of its veteran team and a new generation of leadership.
"For 30 years, our mission has been to provide high-touch, reliable technology solutions to the businesses that power our local economy," said Tricia Sanchez, founder, C3 Tech. "Elevating Davis, who has brilliantly overseen our operations for many years with unmatched talent and loyalty, into ownership alongside our family ensures that the culture of excellence our clients expect will thrive for the next 30 years."
The new leadership team combines deep institutional knowledge with global enterprise strategy, positioning the company for its next phase of growth. Tran, the company's operational backbone, will continue to oversee the seamless delivery of technical services as chief operating officer.
Samantha Sanchez-Lee, partner, leads business development and community initiatives, while Killian Lee joins the firm as a partner following leadership roles at large global corporations, most recently at GALLO, bringing enterprise-level operational strategy to the Santa Ana, California, headquarters. This leadership transition underscores the company's continued commitment to remaining locally and family owned and operated.
A Commitment to the Next 30 Years
To mark the beginning of this new chapter, C3 Tech is announcing a strategic partnership with Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) to host a "Titan Takeover." This initiative will bring CSUF students into the C3 Tech headquarters for a day of hands-on workshops, leadership Q&A and real-world exposure to the office technology and managed IT industries.
"Our goal is to keep the best and brightest tech talent right here in Orange County," Sanchez-Lee said. "By bridging the gap between the classroom and the local workforce, we are ensuring that the next generation of 'Titans' is ready to lead in a rapidly evolving tech landscape."
In celebration of its 30-year milestone, C3 Tech is also offering a complimentary "C3 Technology Assessment" to local Orange County businesses. This cost-optimization review covers copier/print services, IT security and physical office infrastructure.
To book a C3 Tech Ecosystem Audit with the new ownership team, please visit https://c3tech.com/contact or call the Santa Ana headquarters at (714) 689-1700.
A Comprehensive Approach to Office Technology
C3 Tech continues to strengthen its core offerings through premier technology and leasing partnerships with Sharp, Canon, Epson, Kaseya, Verkada, Wells Fargo and GreatAmerica:
1. Copiers & Printers: Premier imaging solutions and high-volume print environment optimization.
2. Managed IT Services: Proactive cybersecurity and IT management to ensure business continuity.
3. Physical Infrastructure: Expert structured cabling, security camera systems and secure door
access control.
"Whether we are optimizing a print environment or securing a network, our focus is on building a stronger Orange County," Sanchez-Lee said.
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Original text here: https://businesstechnologyassociation.growthzoneapp.com/news/Details/c3-tech-builds-on-30-year-legacy-with-new-leadership-cal-state-fullerton-partnership-323877
Swapping Meat, Dairy for Plant-Based Foods Cuts Climate Pollution by 35%, Randomized Clinical Trial Shows
WASHINGTON, April 6 [Category: Health Care] -- Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine posted the following news release:
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Swapping Meat and Dairy for Plant-Based Foods Cuts Climate Pollution by 35%, Randomized Clinical Trial Shows
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A simple change on the dinner plate could deliver a powerful climate impact. New research published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health shows that replacing meat and dairy with a low-fat vegan diet that includes soybeans reduced diet-related greenhouse gas emissions by 35%. For the average individual, that reduction is comparable to eliminating roughly
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 6 [Category: Health Care] -- Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine posted the following news release:
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Swapping Meat and Dairy for Plant-Based Foods Cuts Climate Pollution by 35%, Randomized Clinical Trial Shows
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A simple change on the dinner plate could deliver a powerful climate impact. New research published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health shows that replacing meat and dairy with a low-fat vegan diet that includes soybeans reduced diet-related greenhouse gas emissions by 35%. For the average individual, that reduction is comparable to eliminating roughly600 miles of driving each year.
"If you're looking for a powerful way to shrink your carbon footprint, start with what's on your plate," says Hana Kahleova, MD, PhD, director of clinical research at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and the lead author of the new research. "Making this swap can help you reduce your greenhouse gas emissions as much as eliminating 600 miles of driving."
The study analyzed dietary records from a randomized clinical trial of postmenopausal women who adopted a low-fat vegan diet with half a cup of soybeans daily for 12 weeks. Researchers linked participants' food intake to environmental impact databases to estimate greenhouse gas emissions and energy demand associated with their diets.
The results were striking:
* Greenhouse gas emissions dropped by 35%.
* Total energy required to produce participants' food fell by 34%.
* The reductions were driven largely by eliminating meat and dairy products.
The dietary intervention also produced major health improvements. In the original clinical trial, participants experienced a 92% reduction in severe hot flashes and lost an average of about 8 pounds.
The researchers found that GHGE decreased in the vegan group by 35% (662.7 g CO2-eq/person day), compared with no change in the control group. This decrease was mainly attributable to reduced meat and dairy consumption. Per person, the reduction is equivalent to eliminating approximately 600 miles. The reduction in GHGE also correlated with a reduction in severe hot flashes for the women in the study.
Cumulative energy demand (CED), which estimates total energy used to produce, process, package, transport, store, and dispose of the waste of food, decreased in the vegan group by 34% (-4956 kJ/person day), compared with no change in the control group. The decrease was also mainly attributable to reduced meat and dairy consumption. The reduction in CED is equivalent to the electricity required to power an average U.S. household for roughly two hours.
"This research shows that replacing meat and dairy with plant-based foods can dramatically cut emissions while improving health at the same time," says Dr. Kahleova.
Physicians Committee research published in JAMA Network Open last year also showed the benefits of a vegan diet for reducing GHGE and CED.
"Dietary choices are one of the most immediate actions individuals can take to reduce climate pollution," Dr. Kahleova added. "Even modest changes, when adopted widely, could have a meaningful impact on climate change."
Food production is a major contributor to climate change, and diets high in animal products generate substantially more greenhouse gases than plant-based diets. Researchers say widespread dietary shifts toward plant-based foods could play a key role in reducing the environmental footprint of the global food system. A recent survey found that nearly half of Americans would consider eating a plant-based diet to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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Original text here: https://www.pcrm.org/news/news-releases/swapping-meat-and-dairy-plant-based-foods-cuts-climate-pollution-35-randomized
SMA: Quality-of-Life Programs Cannot Be an Afterthought
ARLINGTON, Virginia, April 6 [Category: National Defense] -- The Association of the U.S. Army posted the following news:
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SMA: Quality-of-Life Programs Cannot Be an Afterthought
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Safeguarding quality of life of soldiers and their families enables lethality, Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Weimer told a congressional panel March 25.
"Our people are the heart of the Army," he said in testimony before the House Appropriations Committee's military construction, veteran affairs and related agencies subcommittee. "They are the engine of our combat power, and our commitment is to provide them
... Show Full Article
ARLINGTON, Virginia, April 6 [Category: National Defense] -- The Association of the U.S. Army posted the following news:
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SMA: Quality-of-Life Programs Cannot Be an Afterthought
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Safeguarding quality of life of soldiers and their families enables lethality, Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Weimer told a congressional panel March 25.
"Our people are the heart of the Army," he said in testimony before the House Appropriations Committee's military construction, veteran affairs and related agencies subcommittee. "They are the engine of our combat power, and our commitment is to provide themwith the quality of life they need, the leadership they deserve, and the cutting-edge training required to dominate any adversary."
Though the Army exceeded its recruiting and retention goals last year, rest is not an option, Weimer said. "This success is not a signal to relax," he said. "We're committed to sustaining the momentum into the future."
On the Army's installations, beyond addressing the facility maintenance backlog and improving barracks conditions, the service is "also delivering other transformative changes," Weimer said.
"We're revolutionizing soldiers' dining, moving away from outdated cafeterias to flexible, campus-style facilities that feed our soldiers like the warrior-athletes they are," he said. "We're also exploring avenues to solve high construction costs, including our first fully privatized apartments opening this year at Fort Irwin, California."
Quality of life issues take soldiers' attention away from the mission, forcing them to "fight battles against bureaucratic inefficiency" or "poor living conditions," Weimer wrote in his testimony.
"Well-maintained barracks and modern dining facilities are not just amenities; they are critical to ensuring our soldiers are rested, well-fed, and ready to fight," he wrote. "Quality of life cannot be an afterthought, we must set conditions to promote soldier and family cognitive, physical, psychological, social and spiritual well-being and optimal performance."
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Original text here: https://www.ausa.org/news/sma-quality-life-programs-cannot-be-afterthought
MHA, HIDI Refresh Key Community Health And Equity Data
JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 6 [Category: Health Care] -- The Missouri Hospital Association posted the following news:
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MHA, HIDI Refresh Key Community Health And Equity Data
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Having access to detailed information about the health factors and outcomes in the communities where Missourians live equips local leaders and organizations with the insight needed to build and maintain a healthier state.
Aligned with National Public Health Week, both the exploreMOhealth platform and the Missouri Hospital Association's public-facing Disparity Explorer dashboard received data updates this week.
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JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri, April 6 [Category: Health Care] -- The Missouri Hospital Association posted the following news:
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MHA, HIDI Refresh Key Community Health And Equity Data
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Having access to detailed information about the health factors and outcomes in the communities where Missourians live equips local leaders and organizations with the insight needed to build and maintain a healthier state.
Aligned with National Public Health Week, both the exploreMOhealth platform and the Missouri Hospital Association's public-facing Disparity Explorer dashboard received data updates this week.
The updated exploreMOhealth data reflect the most current picture of health and social well-being across 938 Missouri ZIP codes.
Missouri ZIP Health Rankings now incorporate data generated between fiscal years 2023 and 2025, along with findings from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2024 American Community Survey. Additionally, new county-level data from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's County Health Rankings & Roadmaps program now are available on exploreMOhealth.
The companion data featured in MHA's Disparity Explorer dashboard are broken down by race, ethnicity, age, gender and payer, helping illuminate disparities in health outcomes experienced by different groups.
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Original text here: https://www.mohospitals.org/newsroom/mha-hidi-refresh-key-community-health-and-equity-data
Latest Outboard Engine Trends Report Shows Shift to Higher Horsepower Continues
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 6 [Category: Business] (TNSxrep) -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Latest Outboard Engine Trends Report Shows Shift to Higher Horsepower Continues
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NMMA released its annual Outboard Engine Sales Trends report, part of the 2025 U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, offering a comprehensive look at one of the recreational boating industry's closely watched segments.
In 2025, U.S. outboard engine sales totaled 267,000 units, a 3.9% decline year-over-year. Despite softer unit demand, the market remained
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 6 [Category: Business] (TNSxrep) -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Latest Outboard Engine Trends Report Shows Shift to Higher Horsepower Continues
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NMMA released its annual Outboard Engine Sales Trends report, part of the 2025 U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, offering a comprehensive look at one of the recreational boating industry's closely watched segments.
In 2025, U.S. outboard engine sales totaled 267,000 units, a 3.9% decline year-over-year. Despite softer unit demand, the market remainedstable overall, supported by resilient pricing and continued strength in higher horsepower segments. Total market value reached $3.5 billion, while average retail prices rose 3.2% to $13,081.
This comprehensive annual trends report provides a deep dive into the outboard engine market over more than 10 years, providing a valuable historical look at trends and market changes over time.
Data included in the 2025 Outboard Engine Sales Trends report includes:
* Higher horsepower remains in demand: Engines 300 horsepower and greater counted to lead the market with 39,700 units sold.
* Regional concentration continues: The South Atlantic, Great Lakes, and Gulf Coast regions accounted for over 60% of unit sales and more than two-thirds of total market value, with Florida and Texas leading state-level demand.
Download the Report Here (https://www.nmma.org/statistics/publications/statistical-abstract)
NMMA members receive unlimited complimentary access to the digital versions of the annual U.S. Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract. Non-members can purchase the Outboard Engine Sales Trends Report for $1,150.
In addition to this annual report, NMMA provides highly timely monthly wholesale shipment reports and retail reports for outboard engines in the U.S. and Canada.
Bookmark www.nmma.org/statistics/publications/statistical-abstract for direct and easy access.
Visit www.nmma.org/statistics or contact bi@nmma.org for more information.
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Original text here: https://www.nmma.org/press/article/25461
JULY 14-17: National Marine Manufacturers Association Member Opportunities at Marine Accessories Pavilion, Returning to ICAST 2026
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 6 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Member Opportunities at Marine Accessories Pavilion, Returning to ICAST 2026
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ICAST-the world's premier sportfishing trade show-returns July 14-17 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando and is expected to be one of the largest gatherings of the global fishing industry this year. NMMA is offering members the unique opportunity to stand out by exhibiting in the Marine Accessories Pavilion (MAP), located at the front of the show floor.
Key considerations
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 6 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
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Member Opportunities at Marine Accessories Pavilion, Returning to ICAST 2026
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ICAST-the world's premier sportfishing trade show-returns July 14-17 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando and is expected to be one of the largest gatherings of the global fishing industry this year. NMMA is offering members the unique opportunity to stand out by exhibiting in the Marine Accessories Pavilion (MAP), located at the front of the show floor.
Key considerationsfor participating in MAP include:
Front-of-Show Placement : The Marine Accessories Pavilion is positioned at the front of ICAST, offering consistent visibility to attendees as they enter the show floor, including buyers, dealers, distributors, and media.
Access to Industry Buyers and Partners : ICAST convenes a broad cross-section of the sportfishing and marine industry. Exhibiting in MAP provides an opportunity to connect with decision-makers and potential partners in a focused, high-traffic setting.
Dedicated Space for Product Showcase : MAP provides a platform for companies to highlight new and existing marine accessories to an audience actively exploring product innovations and solutions.
NMMA Member-Focused Opportunity : Participation in the Marine Accessories Pavilion is available to NMMA members, offering a streamlined way to engage in ICAST within a curated exhibitor environment.
For more information or to reserve space, contact Chris Kunzer at ckunzer@nmma.org.
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Original text here: https://www.nmma.org/press/article/25449
European Chips Skills Academy Launches ECSA Learning Platform
MILPITAS, California, April 6 [Category: Electronic Products] -- SEMI, an association serving the manufacturing supply chain for the electronics industry, posted the following news release:
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European Chips Skills Academy Launches the ECSA Learning Platform
Offers Skills Development Resources and Career Opportunities for European Semiconductor Workforce
BRUSSELS, Belgium - The European Chips Skills Academy (ECSA), an European Union (EU)-funded initiative coordinated by SEMI Europe, today announced the official launch of its ECSA Learning Platform, a new digital hub with a full suite of
... Show Full Article
MILPITAS, California, April 6 [Category: Electronic Products] -- SEMI, an association serving the manufacturing supply chain for the electronics industry, posted the following news release:
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European Chips Skills Academy Launches the ECSA Learning Platform
Offers Skills Development Resources and Career Opportunities for European Semiconductor Workforce
BRUSSELS, Belgium - The European Chips Skills Academy (ECSA), an European Union (EU)-funded initiative coordinated by SEMI Europe, today announced the official launch of its ECSA Learning Platform, a new digital hub with a full suite oftraining courses designed to support the development of semiconductor skills across Europe. With over 60 introductory to intermediate lessons, the platform brings together learning resources, collaboration spaces, and career opportunities to help students, researchers, and professionals build expertise in microelectronics and connect with the broader semiconductor ecosystem.
Developed with input from industry and academic partners, the platform features a Knowledge Hub with curated learning materials and courses, community spaces for collaboration, and a marketplace for jobs and internships within the semiconductor value chain. Integrated learning analytics allow students to track their progress and support continuous professional development. All courses provided by ECSA partners are made entirely free for learners, supporting equal access to opportunity across Europe.
"The launch of the ECSA Platform marks an important milestone in our mission to strengthen Europe's semiconductor skills ecosystem and grow our workforce," said Christopher Frieling, Director, Advocacy and Public Policy, SEMI Europe. "By bringing together education, industry insights, and career opportunities in one place, the platform helps connect talent with the skills and opportunities needed to support the future of Europe's semiconductor industry."
The platform is now open to students, educators, researchers, and professionals interested in exploring learning opportunities and careers within the semiconductor ecosystem. For companies and educators interested in listing employment opportunities or educational content on the ECSA Platform, please contact Victoria Cummings at vcummings@semi.org.
Explore the platform: https://learn.chipsacademy.eu/
About SEMI
SEMI(r) is the global industry association connecting over 3,000 member companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management, and other programs. Our SEMICON(r) expositions and events, technology communities, standards, and market intelligence help advance our members' business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services, and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit www.semi.org, contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on LinkedIn to learn more.
About ECSA
Launched in October 2023, the European Chips Skills Academy (ECSA) addresses skills shortages across Europe's semiconductor sector. The initiative collaborates closely with industry, academia, and policymakers to upskill, reskill, and attract new talent to the semiconductor workforce, supporting Europe's digital transition and sustainable growth. Visit https://chipsacademy.eu and connect with ECSA on LinkedIn and Instagram to learn more.
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URL: European Chips Skills Academy https://learn.chipsacademy.eu/
Original text here: https://www.semi.org/en/semi-press-release/european-chips-skills-academy-launches-the-ecsa-learning-platform
ABA Foundation Offers Comments to Treasury on Updating National Financial Literacy Strategy
WASHINGTON, April 6 [Category: Financial Services] -- The American Bankers Association posted the following news release:
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ABA Foundation Offers Comments to Treasury on Updating National Financial Literacy Strategy
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In a new comment letter submitted today to the U.S. Treasury, the ABA Foundation offered its perspective on updating the U.S. National Strategy for Financial Literacy. The letter underscores the critical role banks play in advancing financial capability nationwide and offers recommendations to strengthen public private collaboration, modernize financial education and better
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 6 [Category: Financial Services] -- The American Bankers Association posted the following news release:
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ABA Foundation Offers Comments to Treasury on Updating National Financial Literacy Strategy
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In a new comment letter submitted today to the U.S. Treasury, the ABA Foundation offered its perspective on updating the U.S. National Strategy for Financial Literacy. The letter underscores the critical role banks play in advancing financial capability nationwide and offers recommendations to strengthen public private collaboration, modernize financial education and betterprotect consumers from fraud and scams.
The submission comes during April's Financial Literacy Month, a timely reminder of the need to ensure Americans have the knowledge and tools they need to navigate an increasingly challenging financial landscape. In its letter, the ABA Foundation highlights banks' unique position as trusted, community based partners that deliver financial education at scale through schools, workplaces, community organizations and digital platforms.
"We appreciate Secretary Bessent and the Treasury Department's focus on this critical challenge and the opportunity to share our perspective on national strategies for financial literacy," said Lindsay Torrico, executive director of the ABA Foundation. "As Financial Literacy Month reminds us, helping people build financial skills, resilience and confidence is important to the economy. Banks are deeply embedded in their communities and are uniquely positioned to support a modern, coordinated national strategy that meets people where they are."
The ABA Foundation's recommendations to Treasury and Financial Literacy and Education Commission (FLEC) emphasize the need to:
* Strengthen public private partnerships to deliver consistent, high quality financial education at scale;
* Modernize financial literacy to address today's economic realities;
* Support financial counseling as a critical lever for financial stability;
* Promote youth investment accounts and early wealth building tools;
* Elevate scam and fraud prevention as a core pillar of consumer protection; and
* Educate consumers on emerging financial products, services and technologies.
For more than a century, the ABA Foundation has worked with banks, nonprofits and government partners to advance financial education. The Foundation's financial education initiatives have reached millions of people through its banker presentations. Current Foundation programs include:
* Teach Children to Save
* Lights, Camera, Save!
* Get Smart About Credit
* Safe Banking for Seniors
In the past three years alone, ABA Foundation programs have helped more than 1,300 banks and 110,000 bank volunteers reach over 6 million people nationwide. Participation in all of the ABA Foundation programs is available free of charge to ABA member banks and non-member banks.
Click here to view the full comment letter.
About the American Bankers Association
The American Bankers Association is the voice of the nation's $25.3 trillion banking industry, which is composed of small, regional and large banks that together employ over 2 million people, safeguard $20.1 trillion in deposits and extend $13.5 trillion in loans.
About the ABA Foundation
Through its leadership, partnerships, and national programs, ABA's Community Engagement Foundation (dba ABA Foundation), a 501(c)3, helps bankers provide financial education to individuals at every age, elevate issues around affordable housing and community development, and achieve corporate social responsibility objectives to improve the well-being of their customers and their communities.
In Depth
* Financial Literacy
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Original text here: https://www.aba.com/about-us/press-room/press-releases/aba-foundation-financial-literacy-comment-letter
