NINGBO, China, June 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Robotics, semiconductor equipment, and intelligent automation systems are evolving at an accelerating pace, placing OEM manufacturers under growing engineering and supply chain pressure. Product development cycles continue to shorten while system complexity keeps rising. Expectations for validation efficiency, long term reliability, and cost control are becoming increasingly demanding across the industry.

The competitive landscape of motion control manufacturing is also undergoing a fundamental shift. OEM manufacturers are placing greater attention on whether motor suppliers can quickly understand application requirements, shorten validation cycles, and maintain stable collaboration throughout continuously evolving development processes.

With more than 30 years of experience in motion control manufacturing, Smooth Motor has continued expanding across robotics, semiconductor systems, laboratory automation, and precision equipment industries, driven by rapid engineering response capability built through decades of accumulation. The company has steadily evolved into a deeper engineering partner involved throughout customer development processes.

In recent years, global demand for high precision, compact, and customized motion solutions has continued growing across industries ranging from semiconductor equipment and laboratory automation to robotic actuation systems. More projects now require motion control systems capable not only of delivering precision and reliability, but also of supporting faster validation and adapting to constantly changing structural requirements.

Smooth Motor has remained focused on stepper motor and precision motion technologies for decades. Its portfolio covers hybrid stepper motors, linear stepper motors, can stack motors, voice coil motors, compact stepper motors, geared motors, smart integrated motors, coreless motors, as well as transmission components and customized motion modules. Supported by accumulated product development and machining expertise, the company is able to respond more efficiently to customer requirements involving structure, performance, and operating environments.

For a growing number of OEM manufacturers, rapid response is no longer simply about delivery speed.

It also reflects whether engineering, manufacturing, and supply chains can move together under the same rhythm while continuously adapting to rapidly changing market demands.

According to Smooth Motor, this capability is not built through short term expansion, but through long term accumulation in engineering experience, manufacturing investment, and supply chain coordination systems.

Today, approximately 30 percent of the company’s technical and production staff have remained with Smooth Motor since its early years. The stability of the long standing core team has allowed process knowledge, machining expertise, and engineering collaboration capability to continue accumulating over time. In high precision automation industries, continuity in engineering experience often directly affects validation efficiency, manufacturing consistency, and long term operational reliability.

At the same time, Smooth Motor reinvests approximately 20 percent of its annual profits into research and development, manufacturing upgrades, and production optimization. The company has gradually established a flexible manufacturing system capable of supporting small batch production, multiple specifications, and customized development requirements. This helps customers shorten development and validation cycles while improving cost predictability and supply stability.

As robotics and intelligent manufacturing industries continue expanding rapidly, OEM expectations toward motor suppliers are also changing. Rather than maintaining conventional component purchasing relationships, more manufacturers are seeking motor suppliers capable of participating in collaborative development, adjusting solutions quickly, and supporting long term project coordination.

Backed by years of technical accumulation, Smooth Motor has gradually developed integrated motion control capabilities covering motors, drive control systems, and motion modules. The company continues participating in projects related to robotic actuation systems, semiconductor equipment, laboratory automation, and miniature drive technologies. At the same time, Smooth Motor continues strengthening cooperation with international customers and supply chain partners to improve product consistency and global delivery capability.

“Customers today are no longer simply looking for motor suppliers. They are looking for long term partners capable of participating in engineering collaboration and continuously supporting product evolution,” said Leon C, CMO of Smooth Motor. “Rapid engineering response is ultimately the result of long term accumulation across motor manufacturing experience, engineering systems, and supply chain capability.”

As global manufacturing continues advancing toward intelligent production, higher precision, and deeper system integration, motion control systems are becoming increasingly important across robotics, medical equipment, semiconductor manufacturing, and advanced automation industries. For motion control manufacturers, long term competitiveness is no longer defined only by products themselves, but by the ability to sustain rapid collaboration, stable manufacturing capability, and long term engineering support.

About Smooth Motor

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Ningbo, China, Smooth Motor is a motor manufacturer specializing in precision motion control solutions, certified under ISO 9001, RoHS, and CE standards. With more than 30 years of experience in stepper motor and linear motion technologies, the company provides hybrid stepper motors, linear stepper motors, can stack motors, voice coil motors, compact stepper motors, geared motors, smart integrated motors, coreless motors, transmission components, and customized motion modules for industries including robotics, medical equipment, semiconductor manufacturing, laboratory automation, and industrial automation.

Website: www.smoothmotor.com
Email: info@smoothmotor.com

Source: Ningbo Smooth Electric Manufacture Co., Ltd.

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Dr Vincent Candrawinata’s health products derived from apples have helped countless Australians manage pain, earning him a $5 million deal with Woolworths along the way.

Now, after selling out on US television at a rate of one product every three seconds, the health entrepreneur is shining a global spotlight on Australian innovation.

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Growing up in Indonesia, he developed a fascination with the connection between food and science while watching his mother work in her home bakery.

“Even though at the time my mum couldn’t explain the scientific part, I saw science in action in the way that when you whip egg white, it went from a liquid into solid, like meringue,” Candrawinata said.

“Or when you roll out pastry and then it rises in the oven.”

Those early experiences sparked a curiosity that eventually led him to study food, science and technology at university before undertaking antioxidant research at the University of Newcastle.

“We all know we are what we eat,” he said.

“But I really wanted to know how we can our improve lives. “

It was during his time in Newcastle he made a discovery that would ultimately change the course of his career.

Working alongside Australian apple farmers, Candrawinata became interested in what made locally-grown apples unique.

“I was very lucky because I was on a journey where I working with Australian apple farmers,” he said.

“I learnt that we couldn’t compete on pricing and we couldn’t compete on volume, compared to international imports.

“So I investigated the nutritional benefits and after doing the research found apples grown in Australia are higher in their phenolic antioxidants, which is the holy grail of antioxidants.”

He explained Australia’s climate plays a key role, with apple trees exposed to high levels of UV radiation.

As a result, the trees produce greater quantities of antioxidants as a natural defence mechanism.

Phenolic antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds found in fruits and are considered among nature’s most powerful dietary antioxidants.

At the time, extracting these compounds typically required the use of chemicals.

After 18 months of research, Candrawinata developed a world-first technology that used only water to extract and activate the beneficial antioxidants.

The laboratory technique allowed him to isolate what he calls “activated phenolics” — potent antioxidants capable of helping the body combat harmful free radicals more effectively.

The discovery became deeply personal after he witnessed the impact it had on his grandmother, who had been confined to a wheelchair by rheumatic arthritis.

The extracted antioxidants from apples reduced her pain and inflammation and got her back on her feet.

Candrawinata said it inspired him to want to help more people live a better life.

His activated phenolics were eventually developed into health supplements, first through his An Apple A Day vitamins and powders before being incorporated into apple cider vinegar products.

He founded Renovatio — Latin for “new life” — with a mission to make high-quality natural health products more accessible to Australians.

The products are designed to help protect against inflammation while supporting cellular repair and regeneration and digestive health.

A major turning point came in 2019 when, while presenting his research at a conference, he was approached by Woolworths about stocking his products nationally.

Candrawinata wanted his products to be available where everyday Australians shop, and the range launched in 1000 stores nationwide in March 2020.

The partnership resulted in a $5 million deal with the supermarket giant, a relationship that continues today.

He said many customers first discover the products through word-of-mouth recommendations from family and friends who have experienced benefits firsthand.

Today, Candrawinata oversees a rapidly growing health and wellness business that also includes his skincare brand Vincent APSKIN.

Despite the success, he says helping people remains his driving force.

“I read the comments from returning customers and can see how much the vitamins have helped reduce their pain,” he said.

“They can now do things like carry the laundry basket or play with their grandkids because they’re no longer in pain.

“We take these simple things for granted.

“I don’t necessarily have to change the world, but if I can change someone’s world to be better then I’m happy.”

That mission is now fuelling the next chapter of his business expansion.

Motivated by the desire to reach more people, Candrawinata began manufacturing products in the US in 2024.

Last month, he made his US television debut on shopping channel ShopLC and sold products at an astonishing rate of one every three seconds, selling out before his allocated timeslot even finished.

Candrawinata said he had learnt to speak English by watching American shopping channels, making the experience a full-circle moment.

Now, demand continues to grow, with the network bringing him back regularly from June. American customers have even given him the nickname “Aussie Apple Doc”.

Candrawinata said the breakthrough marks a significant international milestone not only for his company but also for Australian innovation in health and wellness.

“This shows the world is paying attention to Australian science, Australian produce and Australian wellness technology,” Candrawinata said.

“We should be incredibly proud of what Australia is producing.”

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New historical research suggests that one of the most legendary cities in history did not start out as a conquering warrior state — poking a hole in its founding myth.

The study, which centered around Sparta, was recently published by historian Hans Beck in The Annual of the British School at Athens, Cover Media reported.

Sparta emerged in the 9th century B.C. and dominated much of the Peloponnese between roughly 700 and 371 B.C.

ARCHAEOLOGISTS EXCAVATE ANCIENT WORKSHOP WITH UNFINISHED SCULPTURES ON GREEK ISLAND

In 371 B.C., the Spartans suffered a decisive defeat to the Thebans at the Battle of Leuctra, marking the beginning of their decline.

Though Sparta is often remembered as a warrior society forged through conquest, the historical picture appears to be far more complex.

Archaeological discoveries are prompting historians to reconsider long-held assumptions about the origins of ancient Sparta. (Amykles Research Project/Cover Images; iStock)

Using archaeological discoveries at a site called Aghios Vasileios, Beck argues that Sparta emerged from an older Lakedaimonian cultural landscape, rather than being created from scratch by conquering warriors.

Lakedaimonians were the people associated with the region of Lakedaimon, or Laconia, the area around Sparta.

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At Aghios Vasileios, archaeologists uncovered the remains of a palace complex, frescoes, bronze swords and administrative records written in Linear B, the oldest written form of the Greek language.

Crucially, the study found that a major sanctuary called Amyklai remained active after the palace collapsed, and later became important to both Spartans and Lakedaimonians.

The new study suggests the Spartans may have built upon existing traditions as their society took shape. (iStock)

“The rise of Sparta deeply altered the picture,” wrote Beck, a professor at the University of Münster. 

“Yet Amyklai retained its quality as a prime location of Lakedaimonian legacies.”

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The continuity of ritual activity there suggests older Lakedaimonian traditions survived into the period when Sparta was emerging, complicating the traditional story of conquest.

The study does not dispute Sparta’s later reputation as a military power, but argues the city-state’s origins were not just a simple story of conquest.

While the Spartans later earned a reputation for military strength, researchers say their origins may have been more nuanced. (iStock)

The findings come amid a wave of new discoveries shedding light on Ancient Greece.

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Earlier in 2026, officials announced the discovery of what may be the oldest wooden tools, dating back hundreds of thousands of years.

Researchers analyzed findings from Aghios Vasileios as part of a study on Sparta’s origins. (V. Georgiadis/Corien Wiersma, Amykles Research Project/Cover Images)

The tools were found in the Megalopolis basin, a low-lying valley in southern Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula.

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More recently, a German teenager stumbled across an ancient Greek coin, marking the first such find ever recorded in Berlin.

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SEOUL, South Korea, June 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Yanolja Research, a global research institute specializing in the travel and tourism industry, announced today the launch of the “Global Festival Attractiveness Index” (widely known as the “Yanolja Festival Index”), a pioneering framework designed to objectively and quantitatively measure the qualitative appeal of major global festivals using global social media big data.

Developed jointly by Yanolja Research, Purdue University’s CHRIBA Institute in the U.S., and Kyung Hee University’s H&T Analytics Center in Seoul, South Korea, this research aims to overcome the structural limitations of conventional festival evaluations. By building a data-driven diagnostic tool, the research team sought to capture the true value of global festivals, which have rapidly grown into vital tourism assets that drive regional economies and strengthen national destination brands.

In the 2026 evaluation, the United States demonstrated overwhelming global appeal, led by the Coachella Festival securing the #1 spot in the overall global rankings. Notably, U.S. festivals showcased exceptional regional dominance, sweeping the top 5 positions within the Americas.

Unparalleled Capacity of U.S. Festivals to Drive Global Traveler Motivation

The 2026 Global Festival Attractiveness Index (Yanolja Festival Index) clearly demonstrates the United States’ position as a powerful global leader in cultural tourism and event experiences. A commanding number of American festivals achieved exceptional scores, proving their enduring ability to attract international travelers with a rich variety of programming.

The Coachella Festival set the benchmark by ranking 1st globally, cementing its reputation as a world-class event celebrated for its immense cultural energy and global buzz. Also performing strongly in the music category was Ultra Miami, which placed 15th in the overall global standings. The historic Kentucky Derby Festival followed at 18th place overall, widely praised for its deep-rooted heritage and national pride, while South by Southwest earned the 20th spot, recognized as a global epicenter for artistic innovation, creativity, and multi-disciplinary content. Additionally, Art Basel Miami Beach ranked 21st globally, drawing global acclaim for its visual grandeur and premier art exhibition offerings, and Lollapalooza Chicago, taking 28th place, captivated international audiences with its legendary musical roots and contemporary vibe.

Within specialized categories, Times Square New Year’s Eve captured the 8th spot in the nature and ecology sector (ranking 66th overall globally), remaining a highly sought-after celebration for travelers seeking iconic seasonal milestones and unforgettable bucket-list experiences. The prominent and widespread presence of these elite events—all positioned comfortably within the global top 100—underscores the diverse appeal of the United States and its undeniable influence in the global cultural tourism landscape.

New Metric Evaluates Global Festivals Through ‘Attractiveness’ and ‘Reputation’

Rather than following traditional “competitiveness” models that focus strictly on supplier-side elements like infrastructure capacity, local tourism policies, or economic output, the “Yanolja Festival Index” shifts the focus entirely to assessing an event’s value from the perspective of actual travel consumers. To achieve this, the framework builds on two foundational pillars: “Festival Attractiveness,” which measures how positively an event is viewed and emotionally embraced by attendees, and “Festival Reputation,” which captures how widely known and frequently discussed the event is across global social platforms.

Using these two pillars as a guide, Yanolja Research conducted a multi-layered evaluation by breaking down a festival’s appeal into three essential dimensions: Core Festival Content and Experiences (assessing main programs, performances, and unique original identity), Festival Atmosphere and Emotion (measuring aesthetic staging, on-site energy, and cultural symbolism), and Operational Convenience and Infrastructure (assessing facilities, cleanliness, crowd flow, accessibility, and economic value).

Global Festival Attractiveness: Regional Strengths Highlight Evolving Traveler Preferences

In the comprehensive 2026 standings, while Japan’s Summersonic Festival (2nd overall) and Rock in Japan Festival (3rd overall) delivered exceptionally strong outcomes, the global cultural landscape highlighted diverse regional strengths across different categories. Asian festivals and events made substantial strides, notably South Korea’s Waterbomb Seoul (16th overall), representing the region’s rising influence in contemporary music entertainment.

Simultaneously, European cultural events displayed formidable consumer appeal, with Spain’s Mad Cool Festival (4th), Hungary’s Sziget Festival (6th), Italy’s Carnival of Venice (7th), and Spain’s Tomato Festival (8th) asserting a massive global draw. These outcomes reflect how global traveler preferences span across modern music, historic heritage, and unique seasonal gatherings, signaling a demand for diverse and localized event experiences.

Expert Opinions

Commenting on the research findings, Dr. SooCheong Jang, Professor at Purdue University and Director of Yanolja Research, stated, “The ‘Global Festival Attractiveness Index’ (‘Yanolja Festival Index’) marks a pioneering milestone as the first systematic framework to evaluate an event’s qualitative appeal through the authentic, multi-lingual sentiments of actual visitors, moving far beyond conventional scale-centric metrics like visitor numbers or direct spending. The exceptional results seen across various regions, particularly the robust standings of diverse U.S. events, demonstrate a highly dynamic shift in traveler preferences. For organizers and regional governments to thrive in this landscape, prioritizing and communicating unique experiential value—spanning core program quality, on-site energy, and operational convenience—will be the defining strategy.”

Professor Kyu-wan Choi of Kyung Hee University’s College of Hotel and Tourism Management added, “Coachella’s peak global ranking clearly validates how a powerful festival experience can satisfy the ‘Push-Pull’ framework of tourist motivation, successfully bridging a visitor’s internal emotional desires with highly unique, external attractions. The dominant presence of numerous U.S. festivals in the top tiers, alongside other global leaders, showcases the powerful synergy of combining an authentic, high-energy event atmosphere with reliable operational convenience and infrastructure. Now is the time for strategic consideration to leverage these multi-dimensional insights to diagnose local operational bottlenecks—such as transit, crowd flow, or amenities—while elevating the global reputation and long-term brand equity of these cultural experiences.”

Yanolja Research intends to publish the “Global Festival Attractiveness Index” (Yanolja Festival Index) on an annual basis to track shifting patterns in global leisure travel and the evolving competitiveness of global events. The comprehensive analysis and detailed visual datasets, released on June 8, are fully accessible on the Yanolja Research Official Website.

https://www.yanolja-research.com/festival/background?lang=en

[Appendix] Global Festival Attractiveness Overall Ranking (1^st-30^th)

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– Held in Namche Bazaar, Nepal, the gateway to Mount Everest, underscoring a commitment to witnessing the climate crisis firsthand and translating awareness into action

– Company also publishes sustainability report outlining efforts to foster a responsible hiking culture and develop sustainable products

NAMCHE BAZAAR, Nepal, June 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global outdoor brand BLACKYAK, which has deep roots in the Himalayas, convened a meaningful gathering in Namche Bazaar, Nepal, widely known as the gateway to Mount Everest and home to many Sherpas. The summit was held to raise awareness of the escalating climate crisis facing the Himalayas and discuss practical measures for preserving a sustainable mountain environment.

BYN BLACKYAK Group, led by Chairman Kang Tae Sun, announced on June 8 that it held the “Himalayan Climate Charter 2026: Namche Summit” on June 1 local time in Namche, Nepal. The event was co-hosted with the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, the Nepal Mountaineering Association, and the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality.

Launched by BLACKYAK in Kathmandu in 2025, the Himalayan Climate Charter is the world’s first mountain-centered climate action initiative rooted in the belief that the Himalayas should not simply be viewed as a destination for mountaineering, but as the frontline of the global climate crisis and a natural heritage that must be protected by the international community. The initiative aims to strengthen global solidarity and encourage concrete action to preserve mountain ecosystems.

The Himalayas continue to face mounting ecological threats caused by global warming, including declining snowfall, flooding of farmland, and waste left behind by climbers. These challenges have made mountain conservation efforts increasingly urgent. In response, BLACKYAK introduced the Himalayan Climate Charter last year, outlining key commitments such as calling for global climate action, carrying out clean-up activities in the Himalayas, strengthening technology- and community-based cooperation, ensuring transparent disclosure of environmental information, amplifying voices from the frontlines of the climate crisis, and expanding global partnerships and solidarity. Participating companies and institutions also joined as co-signatories to the declaration.

This year’s summit served as an opportunity to reaffirm the core values and significance of the Himalayan Climate Charter while discussing concrete ways to put those principles into practice. By moving the event from Kathmandu to Namche, located at an altitude of 3,440 meters, participants underscored their commitment to experiencing the realities of the climate crisis firsthand and turning awareness into action.

Moving beyond declaration-focused initiatives, BLACKYAK plans to launch action-oriented projects beginning next year, with a focus on clean-up and restoration activities carried out in the Himalayas. To support these efforts, the company will further strengthen collaboration with local organizations and communities while continuing more direct and sustainable efforts aimed at preserving the Himalayan ecosystem.

Chairman Kang Tae Sun of BLACKYAK stated, “The village of Thame, which suffered severe damage from a glacial lake outburst flood in 2024, clearly shows that the climate crisis in the Himalayas is already threatening people’s lives. We can no longer view the Himalayan climate crisis as a distant issue. It is a shared challenge that requires all of us to think together and act together.”

He added, “BLACKYAK will move beyond discussion and declarations to expand practical support and solidarity that can drive real change on the ground in the Himalayas.”

BLACKYAK also recently published its first sustainability report since its founding, titled the “BYN BLACKYAK Responsibility Report 2025“. The report highlights a wide range of initiatives aimed at protecting mountains and nature, including the Himalayan Climate Charter, sponsorship of the Icefall Doctors, and environmental clean-up trekking campaigns. It also showcases activities led by the BLACKYAK Alpine Club (BAC) that have contributed to popularizing outdoor culture and promoting a more mature hiking culture.

In addition, the report introduces the company’s efforts toward high-performance technological innovation through global R&D capabilities, the development of sustainable products based on resource circulation principles, and its circular economy model that creates environmental value across the entire product lifecycle, from production to disposal.

Through this report, BLACKYAK expresses its brand philosophy and sense of responsibility, grounded in the belief that nature is a precious legacy that must be preserved for future generations.

About BYN BLACKYAK Group

Founded in 1973, BYN BLACKYAK Group is a global outdoor and lifestyle brand group inspired by the spirit of the Himalayas. Through its flagship brand BLACKYAK and affiliated businesses, the Group develops high-performance outdoor apparel, footwear, and equipment designed for the world’s most demanding environments.

With a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and responsible exploration, BYN BLACKYAK Group continues to expand its global presence while advancing technologies and initiatives that support both people and the planet. The Group actively engages in environmental and social responsibility efforts, including climate action campaigns and partnerships aimed at protecting mountain ecosystems and local communities.

Learn more at: BYN BLACKYAK Group

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So-called flesh-eating bacteria have been detected in one of the most luxurious vacation spots in the United States — but experts say beachgoers should use caution and care rather than panic about it.

East Hampton and Sagaponac on the South Fork of Long Island are exclusive enclaves where wealthy executives, celebrities and old-money families retreat. Yet there’s often an unwanted visitor.

The bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, occur naturally in coastal waters and are more common in warmer, brackish areas where fresh and salt water mix. 

UNSAFE WATER WARNING ISSUED FOR ONE OF AMERICA’S MOST VISITED BEACH DESTINATIONS

It was once more prevalent in Southern states, but scientists have tracked it farther north as water temperatures rise.

Christopher Gobler, a Stony Brook University professor whose recent study set off fresh warnings about Long Island’s summer waters, told Fox News Digital the bacteria poses the greatest risk when it enters the body through an open wound.

A “flesh-eating” bacteria has been found in the water in one of the most luxurious vacation spots in the United States. Experts say residents and visitors should not panic.  (Bing Guan/Bloomberg)

“The organism needs a route of entry into the body, which is usually an open and unprotected wound,” Gobler said. “People with wounds should have them covered and protected.”

Gobler said the organism occurs naturally in marine waters and is not new to New York or Long Island.

VACATION HOT SPOT CRACKS DOWN ON BEACH SETUPS WITH $500 FINES FOR SUN SHADES, CANOPIES

The bacteria have been drawing attention after Gobler’s research found it in parts of the Hamptons and other Long Island waters, including in ponds and bays near the region’s priciest real estate.

Sagaponack ranks among the top three most expensive zip codes in the United States, according to the annual PropertyShark Real Estate Report.

Experts stress that serious infections are rare. Visitors to East Hampton, shown above, should exercise caution, but most travelers do not have to avoid the water. (iStock)

Despite the alarming nickname, experts stress that serious infections are rare. 

Exposure does not mean someone is likely to get sick.

POPULAR CRUISE LINE’S BIKINI CRACKDOWN COULD SURPRISE PASSENGERS AT ISLAND PORTS

Peter Topping, executive director and baykeeper for Peconic Baykeeper, a nonprofit environmental organization, told Fox News Digital that Vibrio vulnificus has led to very few illnesses.

“This bacterium has been in Long Island’s waters for years and there have been very few cases of the illness,” Topping said. “This is despite millions of Long Islanders enjoying our waters each year.”

Experts say the ocean is not the main concern. Warmer brackish waters after heavy rain or during heat waves are a bigger issue. (iStock)

If an infection occurs, it can move quickly. Symptoms can include swelling and redness around a wound, experts said.

“It causes skin infections in open wounds, so if infected, those wounds would become more swollen and red, and it would spread near the wound and beyond,” Gobler said.

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The bacteria can be deadly in some cases, especially for people with weakened immune systems.

“Vibrio vulnificus infections are rare, but any suspected infection should be taken very seriously,” Topping said, citing CDC data that shows about 20% of infections can be fatal.

Experts said Long Island beaches are among the cleanest and most highly ranked in the nation. (iStock)

Still, both experts said residents and tourists should not avoid Long Island beaches this summer.

“Absolutely not,” Gobler said. “Our waters are a treasure to be enjoyed.”

Gobler said Long Island beaches are among the cleanest and most highly ranked in the nation.

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Topping, who is based in Hampton Bays, agreed that most beachgoers face low risk.

“Long Island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the majority are safe for recreation,” Topping said.

“People are much more at risk from rip currents,” he said.

East Hampton is known for historic, tree-lined streets and prestigious shops like Chanel and Ralph Lauren, pictured above.  (Bing Guan/Bloomberg)

Topping urged the public to avoid swimming in areas prone to heavy runoff after recent rain. 

He also said that a recent surgery or new tattoo “could be a pathway to possible infection.”

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The concern has put pressure on local shellfish workers, who worry that alarming headlines could hurt business, Vanity Fair reported.

Experts say most healthy beachgoers can still enjoy Long Island’s waters — as long as they avoid runoff-prone areas after rain and keep open wounds covered.

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“Personally, I’m looking forward to a long, warm summer of open water swimming on Long Island,” Gobler said.

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HONG KONG, June 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Final of the IBA‑UIBC Cup of Bakers 2027 “Golden Statue Cup” China Selection – Hong Kong & Macao SAR Selection Competition was successfully held at the International Culinary Institute in Hong Kong. The event brought together leading baking professionals, industry representatives, and government officials to celebrate excellence, innovation, and talent development within the baking industry.

Recognised as one of the world’s most prestigious professional baking competitions, the IBA‑UIBC Cup of Bakers serves as an important international platform for showcasing craftsmanship, promoting professional development, and fostering cross‑border collaboration. Through its rigorous standards and global influence, the competition continues to inspire excellence and strengthen connections among baking professionals worldwide.

As Title Sponsor of the China Selection Competition and a long‑standing supporter of industry development, Lam Soon (Hong Kong) Limited remains committed to nurturing talent, encouraging innovation, and facilitating international exchange, contributing to the advancement of the baking industry across Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, and beyond.

This year’s Hong Kong & Macao SAR Selection Competition featured outstanding baking professionals from across the region, who demonstrated exceptional technical expertise, creativity, and craftsmanship through a series of challenging tasks. The event also highlighted the continuous progress and growing international competitiveness of China’s baking industry.

The competition received strong support from industry organisations and stakeholders. Distinguished guests included Mr Zhang Jiukui, Chairman of the China Association of Bakery & Confectionery Industry; Mr Kevin Choi, JP, Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau; Ms Stefanie Walter, Vice Consul of the German Consulate General Hong Kong; Mr Edward Yu Kin Keung, Deputy Secretary for Environment and Ecology (Food); Hon Shiu Ka‑Fai, BBS, JP, Legislative Council Member (Wholesale and Retail); Hon Jonathan Leung Chun, MH, Legislative Council Member (Catering); and Mr Lim Shueh Hann, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Lam Soon (Hong Kong) Limited, together with representatives from government, business, industry associations, and the baking community.

Commenting on the significance of the competition, Mr Zhang Jiukui said:

“The IBA‑UIBC Cup of Bakers is widely recognised as one of the most influential and respected competitions in the global baking industry, often referred to as the ‘Olympics of Baking’. Establishing the Hong Kong & Macao SAR Selection Competition not only reflects the spirit of regional collaboration but also highlights the diversity and richness of Chinese baking culture. We hope this platform will enable more talented professionals to showcase their expertise on the international stage and contribute to the continued development of the industry.”

Mr Kevin Choi, JP, added:

“The Hong Kong SAR Government is committed to advancing innovation and technology while promoting new industrialisation. The baking industry is undergoing significant transformation through automation, digitalisation, and smart manufacturing. From food technology and precision production systems to data‑driven supply chain management, innovation is creating new opportunities to enhance efficiency, quality, and competitiveness, driving sustainable and high‑value growth.”

As an international gateway connecting China with global markets, Hong Kong offers unique advantages for facilitating industry exchange, professional collaboration, and international business development. By bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and baking professionals, the competition provides a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and cooperation between Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, and the international baking community.

A delegation of baking industry representatives from Mainland China also participated in exchange and observation activities during the event, further strengthening collaboration within the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area and promoting professional exchanges across the industry.

Mr Lim Shueh Hann commented:

“Talent development and international exchange are fundamental to the long‑term success of the baking industry. As a bridge connecting China with the world, Hong Kong provides an ideal platform for collaboration and professional learning. Through this competition, we hope to create more opportunities for baking professionals from Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao to engage with international peers, broaden their perspectives, and demonstrate the innovation and achievements of China’s baking industry on the global stage.”

Following a full day of competition, the winners were announced as follows:

Professional Category

Champion: LAI, Lam Yam
First Runner‑up: KWOK, Shing Chung
Second Runner‑up: CHAN, Ka Wai

Student Category

Champion: FUNG, Chui Shan
First Runner‑up: CHENG, Yu Lam
Second Runner‑up: YU, Chun Kuen

The Champion of the Professional Category will advance to the China National Final, scheduled for May 2027. The overall winner of the China National Final will represent China at the IBA World Final in Germany in October 2027.

Looking ahead, Lam Soon (Hong Kong) Limited will continue working closely with industry associations, educational institutions, and business partners to support talent cultivation, professional development, and international cooperation. Leveraging Hong Kong’s strategic role as a global connector, the Group remains committed to contributing to the high‑quality development of the baking industry and helping more Chinese baking professionals gain international recognition.

About Lam Soon (Hong Kong) Limited

Lam Soon (Hong Kong) Limited, listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, is a Hong Kong‑based investment holding company principally engaged in food and home care businesses. The Company operates through two segments:

Food segment – manufacture and sales of food products, including flour, edible oil, and specialty fats. Food brands include Knife, Red Lantern, Golden Statue, and American Roses.

Home Care segment – manufacture and sales of household and institutional cleaning products.

Home care brands include AXE, Labour, and Procleanic.

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Trailing by 11 points with less than 30 seconds on the clock, Bombers defender Zach Reid was swung forward and took a spectacular mark in front of goal before hurrying back to kick the goal and keep his side’s slim hopes of a miracle victory alive.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Harry McKay cons umpires with shrewd gamesmanship

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The clock stopped with nine seconds remaining, giving Essendon one last chance to generate a score with a perfect centre clearance and mark or free kick inside 50.

And they almost pulled it off — only for an uncharacteristic fumble from Zach Merrett to stall their break from the centre circle and run the clock down to zero.

Critically though, the Bombers might be forgiven for feeling hard done-by that they didn’t have more time, given the shrewd gamesmanship from Carlton forward Harry McKay about a minute earlier.

McKay took a mark outside 50 near the boundary line with one minute and 43 seconds left to play.

Given the player on the mark was standing at about 55, and a shot for goal would have had to clear the pack on the goal line, McKay would have needed to kick it close to 65 metres to be a realistic chance for a major.

It was always going to be beyond him, but that didn’t stop the former Coleman medallist from selling his intentions to the umpire.

McKay went back and pointed to the goals to try to get the valuable 30 seconds allocated for a shot on goal, as opposed to the eight given for marks around the ground.

“Does the umpire believe him that he’s having a shot and can take his 30, or will they call his bluff?” Kane Cornes said on Channel 7.

Brian Taylor wasn’t buying it, but the umpire did.

“Surely not. You can’t give him 30 from there,” Taylor said.

“He’s asking, he’s appealing for it. Oh, c’mon — the man on the mark’s at 55! They’re giving him the 30.

“Even he is having a giggle.”

McKay started his approach to goals with 1:14 left on the clock and didn’t take his kick until the 1:03 mark.

Predictably, he didn’t even take the shot, instead kicking it to the top of the goal square.

“He doesn’t even go for it in the end,” Taylor said.

“Umpires were completely conned on that one I reckon, late in the game. And it’s cost them (Essendon) 30 seconds.”

The ball was contested by a pack of players who locked it up and forced a stoppage with 55 seconds left.

As it would turn out after Reid’s goal a minute of actual time later, those seconds proved crucial in the result.

Asked about McKay’s tactic after the game, Essendon interim coach Dean Solomon tipped his hat to the Carlton forward.

“I think it’s just smart, isn’t it?” he said.

“It’s just using the rules and maximising the opportunity at that time and milking the clock and putting themselves in a winnable position.

Speaking to Fox Sports after the game, McKay admitted “it was slightly ambitious to think I was going to kick it from 75”.

“But any time you can take a little bit of time off the clock late, we practice it a lot at training. I’m glad it worked,” he added.

“There’s nothing I can do to control that. He did it really well.”

Carlton trailed by 23 points in a poor first half showing before George Hewett (27 disposals), Sam Walsh (24), Jagga Smith (24) and Patrick Cripps (23) turned the midfield battle around.

Harry McKay kicked three crucial goals, and the Blues added seven majors to the Bombers’ four after the main break in a fiery contest.

Essendon (1-12) remain anchored to the bottom of the ladder despite Reid’s efforts in defence and a dominant first half from Sam Durham (30 disposals).

Ben McKay and Hussien El Achkar kicked two goals each. Zach Merrett had 33 touches at half-back but did not have his usual influence.

Essendon led at quarter-time for just the second time this season after also doing so in their only win of the campaign in Round 5 against Melbourne.

The Bombers took advantage of their opponents’ lack of pressure when Max Kondogiannis, El Achkar and Durham goaled in quick succession to send their team clear.

But Harry McKay kept Carlton in touch with two late majors before halftime, trimming the margin to 14 points.

The Blues spearhead wobbled through another set shot after the main break but a reply from comeback kid Harrison Jones — in his first AFL game in more than 13 months — lifted Essendon.

Tension boiled over as Jones celebrated and a series of spotfires broke out in a heated contest.

Durham went quiet in the third term and the Blues lifted their intensity, drawing level with one quarter left to play.

They hit the front for the first time when a score review confirmed a rushed behind, and gained some breathing space through Ben Ainsworth’s goal on the run.

Ben McKay converted the second of two chances to drag Essendon back within a kick but teammate Jacob Farrow’s late shove on Brodie Kemp led to a free kick and a brilliant goal from the boundary line.

The lead grew to 18 points but two late goals to Essendon set up a huge finish.

With AAP

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A researcher who believes he’s identified the remains of Noah’s Ark points to new soil data to support his claims.

Andrew Jones, a researcher with Noah’s Ark Scans, said in a recent appearance on “Fox & Friends” that the team believes a site in Turkey contains the buried remains of the biblical vessel.

The formation, located at the Durupinar site in eastern Turkey, has been studied since it was first identified in the 1950s — and has long been the subject of spirited debate.

ANCIENT RITUAL COMPLEX UNEARTHED AT SITE TIED TO BIBLICAL CITY IN EZEKIEL: ‘STILL HOLDS MANY SECRETS’

Some geologists argue the “ark” is a naturally occurring formation — yet other researchers say the latest findings offer new support for the biblical vessel theory.

One source of the skepticism: A 1996 paper published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Geoscience Education argued the formation was a natural geological structure, not the remains of Noah’s Ark.

Researchers say new soil analysis from Turkey’s Durupinar formation shows chemical differences consistent with decayed organic material, fueling claims that the site could contain remains of Noah’s Ark. (Huseyin Yildiz/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images; Fine Art Images/Heritage Images/Getty Images)

Speaking to Fox News Digital, Jones said he believes the new results “are perhaps the most compelling evidence for a man-made origin.”

He added, “The differences between the ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ samples are statistically staggering. Organic matter was three times more inside the boat shape versus the soil just right outside.”

That difference in organic matter, he said, suggests a “massive concentration of decayed carbon-based material” — such as wood, resin or animal matter.

ANCIENT ESTATE TIED TO GROUP IN THE BIBLE UNEARTHED WITH ‘FASCINATING’ TREASURES IN ISRAEL

But in the 1996 paper, authors Lorence Gene Collins and David Franklin Fasold described previous Noah’s Ark claims as “bogus,” writing that the site was instead “a natural rock structure.”

The latest findings center on a newly released soil analysis, which researchers say points to chemical differences consistent with decayed organic material beneath the surface.

The soil samples were collected in 2024 and have been analyzed in the months since.

Scientists researching at Turkey’s Durupinar site say they have found convincing evidence supporting the Noah’s Ark hypothesis. (Noah’s Ark Scans)

“If it was random mountainside earth that came down around a rock, then the soil would be the same,” Jones said.

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Researchers found 38% more potassium inside the boat shape, which is associated with wood ash, as well as an eight-times difference in pH level.

Jones said a radical shift in pH “suggests the internal environment has a different chemical history than the surrounding mountainside soil.”

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“An eight-times difference in pH and three times the organic matter suggests a ‘closed system’ where biological materials decayed over time, leaching minerals into the surrounding earth and permanently altering its chemistry,” he said.

A general view of Mount Ararat, also known as Agri Mountain, in Agri, Turkey, which is alleged to have traces of Noah’s Ark, on Oct. 25, 2017. (Huseyin Yildiz/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

The findings will likely fuel further debate over the Durupinar formation.

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But the new data, Jones said, “suggests an internal complexity that is difficult to attribute to natural geological processes.”

Jones said the team is asking Turkish scientists to do further testing, including core drilling and advanced 3-D mapping.

“We really believe that this layout … would suggest that it’s a man-made object and not just a natural formation.”

Said Jones, “We’ve moved from asking ‘Does it look like a boat?’ to ‘Why is there a three-layered, right-angled inside structure, carbon-rich boat formation the exact length of Noah’s ark given in the Bible buried in the middle of a mountainside in the mountains of Ararat?'”

He has also pointed to scan data showing subsurface features within the formation.

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Jones told “Fox & Friends” that research has shown “there are tunnels about four meters down and about two meters high, going down the center of the boat and on the inside edge of the hull shape.

“We really believe that this layout … would suggest that it’s a man-made object and not just a natural formation,” he said.

Fox News Digital previously reported on Jones’ earlier analyses of potential organic material and anomalies beneath the formation.

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The research builds on previous 3-D ground penetrating radar scans from 2019 that “struck subsurface features,” and found anomalies. 

Max Bacall of Fox News Digital contributed reporting.

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