Latest news with #AFS
IOL News
3 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Controversy surrounds ASA Presidential Elections amid candidate withdrawals
IT WOULDN'T be the elections for sports administrators without the bickering and the controversy, would it? Athletics South Africa's (ASA) presidential elections will take place in Johannesburg on Saturday amidst drama that has served to threaten the legitimacy of the event. As if the mudslinging among the prime candidates was not enough, there have been two federations withdrawing their nominations to the detriment of athletes who were looking for an opportunity to serve at national level. Gladwin Mzazi and Kesa Moletsane are highly-achieved stars who were nominated for roles at ASA but their provinces Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) and Athletics Free State (AFS) have made the strange decision of withdrawing all their nominees. As such their hopes of serving have been dashed. Talk in athletics is that the withdrawal decisions are part of a ply to unseat current president James Moloi, who was nominated by the two federations and will thus lose out on those votes. There is a suggestion that a group pushing for the return of former president Aleck Skhosana, who is the main challenger to Moloi, has connived to get the two provinces withdrawing their nominations. 'The elections are definitely going to happen,' a source within ASA told Independent Media. 'CGA and AFS withdrawing their nominations will not stop the elections or make them illegitimate. "We are aware that there's a group that wants James Moloi out and they are the ones behind these withdrawals. They started at CGA and then went to the Free State because those provinces nominated Moloi. But he should still get enough votes to retain the presidency.' It is believed that while there are five nominations for the position, there will be just two men standing come Saturday morning – Moloi and Skhosana likely to be those. Independent Media were told Friday that Harold Adams had sent a letter to ASA confirming his withdrawal from the presidential race and new Athletics Gauteng North (AGN) president John Mathane is also expected to do the same by the end of the day. It was not immediately clear whether current ASA vice president Shireen Noble will stay on for the race, but whatever her decision she is generally seen as not having enough support to challenge the two. It thus leaves Skhosana to try and unseat Moloi. The narrative currently being pushed is that under Moloi ASA has lacked strong leadership hence the hankering for Skhosana's return. Moloi argues though that those calling for his removal are ignoring the reality of the situation as he feels that the sport has improved in the four years he has been in charge. 'The reality is that we have done very well because not only have we got the sport back on television as we promised before we were elected but you'd have seen the huge strides our athletes have made at international events and we are looking to build on those gains,' the current incumbent said – no doubt referring to the medals won at the Olympics and international events such as the junior and youth championships as well as in the relay championships. He finds it laughably sad that those against him have gone the route of getting federations withdrawing their nominees withdrawn from the elections. 'It's totally unfair because we are not working for ourselves here. We are working for Athletics South Africa and the athletes must be our priority. "Let's not demoralize the athletes and rob people who want to serve the sport of the opportunity because withdrawing those nominations is not hurting James Moloi but other athletes who wanted to serve the sport.' The elections will be held in Kempton Park Saturday.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Six Area Financial Services CUSO Credit Unions Select Mahalo Banking
~ Selection follows in-depth evaluation, affirming provider's platform innovation and deep industry expertise~ TROY, Mich., May 28, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mahalo Banking, a CUSO that specializes in online and mobile banking solutions for credit unions, today announced the addition of six new credit union partners through a strategic relationship with Area Financial Services (AFS), a CUSO focused on data processing and technology services. These new partnerships underscore Mahalo's rising impact among credit unions seeking a modern digital experience that prioritizes innovation, member-centric usability, and seamless core compatibility with Corelation KeyStone. The credit unions – Directions Credit Union, Firelands Federal Credit Union, Fremont Federal Credit Union, Glass City Federal Credit Union, Impact Credit Union, and Midwest Community Federal Credit Union – selected Mahalo following an extensive and collaborative evaluation process led by AFS in partnership with credit union leadership and staff selection teams. The selection reflects the strong confidence in Mahalo's digital platform, team, technical flexibility, and ability to support diverse member needs through a secure and inclusive user experience. "Our due diligence process was incredibly thorough as we reviewed almost every major digital banking solution on the market, and Mahalo stood out for its flexibility, functionality, and the strong team behind the technology," Michael Tindall, CEO of AFS said. "In addition to an outstanding platform, several key factors contributed to their partnership selection. The deep core connectivity with Corelation KeyStone was essential for our credit unions' operational goals, and just as important was the close relationship we've built with Mahalo. They are more than a vendor – they are credit union people through and through, with a genuine investment in the movement and a clear understanding of our mission." Mahalo's advanced digital banking solution enables credit unions to deliver innovative, member-centric experiences through features such as Credential Assurance Technology (CAT), which proactively defends against credential stuffing attacks, and its Thoughtful Banking® capabilities that support neurodiverse and accessibility-focused user needs. The platform's strong core integration supports optimized workflows, improved back-office efficiency, and quicker time to market for new digital features. "Earning the trust of AFS and its credit unions was critically important to us, and we are proud to be chosen as their digital banking provider," said Jim Stickley, CEO of Mahalo. "This partnership is a powerful validation of what sets Mahalo apart: our unwavering focus on the credit union movement, our intuitive understanding of member needs, and our ability to deliver a flexible, future-ready platform that stands out in a crowded marketplace. Our solution offers a true strategic advantage, empowering our credit union partners to innovate, differentiate, and create more meaningful, lasting member relationships." About Area Financial Services Located in Northwest Ohio, Area Financial Services, Inc. has been dedicated to supporting credit unions since 1986. What began as a humble check processing CUSO has evolved into a comprehensive service provider for the modern credit union. With a rich history and forward-thinking approach, Area Financial Services, Inc. is a trusted partner providing high-quality solutions and unparalleled support. For more information, please visit About Mahalo Mahalo Banking provides online and mobile banking solutions for credit unions. Based in Troy, Mich., the Mahalo platform is designed and built on superior architecture with deep integration to core processing, providing security and a robust feature set across all delivery channels for a true omni experience. Mahalo offers the industry's first and only online banking solution to fully integrate comprehensive neurodiverse functionality directly into its platform. This inclusive approach allows credit unions to support and embrace all members and accommodate their unique needs. For more information about Mahalo Banking, please visit us at follow us on Twitter or connect via LinkedIn. View source version on Contacts MEDIA CONTACT: Gabriela Fowlergabriela@ 678.781.7229 Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Six Area Financial Services CUSO Credit Unions Select Mahalo Banking
BUSINESS WIRE)-- Mahalo Banking, a CUSO that specializes in online and mobile banking solutions for credit unions, today announced the addition of six new credit union partners through a strategic relationship with Area Financial Services (AFS), a CUSO focused on data processing and technology services. These new partnerships underscore Mahalo's rising impact among credit unions seeking a modern digital experience that prioritizes innovation, member-centric usability, and seamless core compatibility with Corelation KeyStone. "Our due diligence process was incredibly thorough as we reviewed almost every major digital banking solution on the market – Mahalo stood out for its flexibility, functionality, and the strong team behind the technology." The credit unions – Directions Credit Union, Firelands Federal Credit Union, Fremont Federal Credit Union, Glass City Federal Credit Union, Impact Credit Union, and Midwest Community Federal Credit Union – selected Mahalo following an extensive and collaborative evaluation process led by AFS in partnership with credit union leadership and staff selection teams. The selection reflects the strong confidence in Mahalo's digital platform, team, technical flexibility, and ability to support diverse member needs through a secure and inclusive user experience. 'Our due diligence process was incredibly thorough as we reviewed almost every major digital banking solution on the market, and Mahalo stood out for its flexibility, functionality, and the strong team behind the technology,' Michael Tindall, CEO of AFS said. 'In addition to an outstanding platform, several key factors contributed to their partnership selection. The deep core connectivity with Corelation KeyStone was essential for our credit unions' operational goals, and just as important was the close relationship we've built with Mahalo. They are more than a vendor – they are credit union people through and through, with a genuine investment in the movement and a clear understanding of our mission.' Mahalo's advanced digital banking solution enables credit unions to deliver innovative, member-centric experiences through features such as Credential Assurance Technology (CAT), which proactively defends against credential stuffing attacks, and its Thoughtful Banking® capabilities that support neurodiverse and accessibility-focused user needs. The platform's strong core integration supports optimized workflows, improved back-office efficiency, and quicker time to market for new digital features. 'Earning the trust of AFS and its credit unions was critically important to us, and we are proud to be chosen as their digital banking provider,' said Jim Stickley, CEO of Mahalo. 'This partnership is a powerful validation of what sets Mahalo apart: our unwavering focus on the credit union movement, our intuitive understanding of member needs, and our ability to deliver a flexible, future-ready platform that stands out in a crowded marketplace. Our solution offers a true strategic advantage, empowering our credit union partners to innovate, differentiate, and create more meaningful, lasting member relationships.' About Area Financial Services Located in Northwest Ohio, Area Financial Services, Inc. has been dedicated to supporting credit unions since 1986. What began as a humble check processing CUSO has evolved into a comprehensive service provider for the modern credit union. With a rich history and forward-thinking approach, Area Financial Services, Inc. is a trusted partner providing high-quality solutions and unparalleled support. For more information, please visit About Mahalo Mahalo Banking provides online and mobile banking solutions for credit unions. Based in Troy, Mich., the Mahalo platform is designed and built on superior architecture with deep integration to core processing, providing security and a robust feature set across all delivery channels for a true omni experience. Mahalo offers the industry's first and only online banking solution to fully integrate comprehensive neurodiverse functionality directly into its platform. This inclusive approach allows credit unions to support and embrace all members and accommodate their unique needs.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
White Cap Signs Definitive Agreement to Acquire the Business of Advanced Fastening Supply
ATLANTA, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- White Cap, the leading distributor of specialty construction supplies and safety products for professional contractors, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the business of Advanced Fastening Supply ("AFS"), a Wisconsin-based supplier of fasteners, tools, safety products and other accessories to commercial and residential end markets. AFS operates three locations in Appleton/Greenville, Madison and Waukesha, Wis. "We look forward to welcoming AFS to the White Cap family in the coming weeks," said Alan Sollenberger, CEO of White Cap. "Their strong reputation and product mix will enhance our ability to serve contractors across the Midwest with the tools, fasteners and safety solutions our customers need to get the job done." "White Cap shares our customer-first mindset and commitment to delivering total jobsite solutions," said George Rasmussen, Co-Owner of AFS. "Together, we can open the door to new growth opportunities for the AFS team and for delivering even more value, service and solutions to our customers across Wisconsin and beyond." About White CapWhite Cap and its affiliates serve as a one-stop shop, providing concrete accessories and chemicals, tools and equipment, building materials and fasteners, erosion and waterproofing products, and safety products to professional contractors by meeting their distinct and customized supply needs in non-residential, infrastructure, and residential end markets. White Cap operates approximately 500 branches across North America with more than 10,500 employees supporting approximately 200,000 customers. For more information about White Cap, visit View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE White Cap Supply Holdings LLC Sign in to access your portfolio
Agriland
23-05-2025
- Business
- Agriland
Red Tractor appoints first farmer as chair
The Ownership Body of Assured Food Standards (AFS), responsible for the Red Tractor food assurance programme, has announced the appointment of Alistair Mackintosh as chair of the AFS board of directors. The appointment follows what the body has described as a 'comprehensive and rigorous selection process'. In a joint statement, the Ownership Body said: 'Alistair brings a wealth of experience and continuity to the role, having served as interim chair during a pivotal period for Red Tractor. 'Under his leadership, the organisation has made significant progress in responding to the Campbell Tickell and Farm Assurance Reviews, with key recommendations now actively being adopted. 'His appointment reflects the Ownership Body's confidence in his ability to lead Red Tractor forward with clarity, integrity, and a strong commitment to robust assurance standards.' Red Tractor appointment The Ownership Body said it has also accepted the Campbell Tickell and Farm Assurance Reviews' recommendations that, in addition to its current responsibilities in regard to appointment of AFS board members and chair and adoption of the annual report, the body should play a more active role. While the AFS board will retain full responsibility for the governance of the organisation, the Ownership Body said it will support the chair as the AFS board considers the recommendations of both reviews. Alistair Mackintosh, a Cumbrian beef, sheep and arable farmer, has been serving as interim chair of Red Tractor since 1 July 2024. Mackintosh said: 'I am honoured to be appointed chair of Red Tractor, an organisation that I believe has a central role to play in ensuring confidence in British food and farming. 'I am totally committed to rebuilding farmer's trust in Red Tractor. There's a great deal of work to do and I look forward to working with the Ownership Body, AFS board and Red Tractor team as we continue to deliver the improvements needed.' Mackintosh is the first farmer to be appointed as chair of the AFS board in the programme's 25-year history. He has a long history of championing the farming industry and has previously served as National Farming Union (NFU) livestock chairman and as a member of the NFU Council. Prior to his appointment as interim chair, Mackintosh held the positions of cice-chair on the AFS board and chair of the Red Tractor Beef & Lamb Sector Board. Last August he was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Cumbrian Farming Awards. Red Tractor's Ownership Body The Red Tractor food assurance programme is owned and run by the registered company Assured Food Standards (AFS). AFS is owned by a coalition of trade bodies: NFU; NFU Scotland,; Ulster Farmers Union (UFU); Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB); Dairy UK; the British Retail Consortium. Each owner organisation provides the 'limited by guarantee' of £1 to AFS, which operates as a not-for-profit company. The Food and Drink Federation is also an observer of the Ownership Body. Red Tractor is the UK's largest food and farm assurance scheme, and the only one assuring the entire food supply chain – from animal welfare and food safety to traceability and environmental protection.
