Latest news with #EmilyJohnson
BBC News
08-06-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Stoke pottery firm's plea to help industry 'on its knees'
Ahead of the government spending review on Wednesday, pottery bosses are not holding out hope for it to contain support with spiralling energy or employment costs. "Our industry is on its knees," said fifth generation ceramicist Emily Johnson, from one of the oldest traditional Stoke-on-Trent manufacturing families - the Johnson brothers. "There is a lot of hope and opportunity, however, we need help. If our industry fails, where do people work?"The Department for Business and Trade said: "Ministers continue to engage closely with the ceramics sector to understand the challenges and provide support, ensuring the industry is globally competitive as part of our Plan for Change." In 2011, Ms Johnson established 1882 Ltd, one of the youngest ceramics firms in Staffordshire. She said she did not believe ministers would step in: Although the pottery industry has been in decline for decades, 2025 has seen a quick succession of three Stoke-on-Trent manufacturers going bump, citing energy bills as the events included:The February collapse of historic firm Royal Stafford along with the loss of 70 jobs, followed by Heraldic Pottery going into liquidation, and other firms working on reduced hours. Moorcroft's trading end in April. The company stated its energy costs had gone up almost £250,000 over the past two March, in between the events, industry bosses and unions pitched a rescue plan to ministers in "make or break" meetings, including Labour Stoke-on-Trent Central MP Gareth Snell who said help could not come fast Ms Johnson said she believed that while "our local MPs are doing all they can", they were just "getting lip service" from ministerial colleagues."We don't need lip service," she said, "we need help." Without it, she added, the future of factories, and the industry itself, were in jeopardy. The 1882 Ltd firm has a factory within the Wedgwood site in Barlaston, employs 23 potters, and operates ten electric kilns for firing products, as opposed to the traditional gas operator Nathan Platt said that insulating kilns with bricks made them more efficient, however they still used a lot of energy. "The gas kilns, it's a lot of money. Electric, it's a lot of money. But I'd say electric kilns are smaller, easier to fill, easier to empty quicker," he said. With an ageing workforce within the industry, there are fears those with specialised skills will literally die out. Andrew Henshall, a potter for 50 years, and one of only a handful of ceramic modellers left, said he was positive there remained a demand for handmade despite a changing market, he likes an approach that prioritises the potential of the craft."It's not who can make the cheapest mug or who can make the cheapest teapot now," he said. "It's often guided by designers who say they want to create a new range, or create something beautiful." Rob Flello, chief executive of Ceramics UK, said he believed the government was listening, but whether the message cut through to the treasury remained to be seen."All we're asking really is that some of the burdens that are placed on our industry are lifted, so those taxes, those levies - get those lifted off."
Times
13-05-2025
- Times
P Diddy trial live: Sean Combs' ex Cassie gives evidence
Emily Johnson, the assistant US attorney, showed Cassie a still image from surveillance footage captured at a Los Angeles hotel in 2016. Video of the incident in which Combs dragged her by her hair down a hallway was shown to the jury on Monday. She explained that she and Combs had been engaged in a 'freak off' prior to the altercation and that she was attempting to leave. Cassie testified that she didn't understand how the 'freak offs' could be sexually arousing for Combs, but felt obliged to participate in them. She told the jury that video tapes of the sessions were 'blackmail materials' and worried that they would end up on the internet. Asked to describe a 'freak off', Cassie said it involved hiring
Time Business News
13-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Agents and Brokers Reclaim Lost Deals: Credit-Challenged Clients Get Approved in 2025
TORONTO — For real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and vehicle finance professionals, nothing is more frustrating than watching a promising deal fall apart due to a client's poor credit. But now, many professionals across North America are partnering with GTFS to turn rejected leads into funded and approved clients, thanks to the firm's cutting-edge Credit Optimization Partnership Program (COPP). GTFS is helping brokers and agents bridge the gap between aspiration and approval by offering strategic tools, coaching, and client-centred services designed to restore credit, build trust, and close transactions. The Credit Challenge Brokers Know All Too Well In today's high-interest lending environment, clients with scores below 660 often find themselves sidelined, despite substantial income or assets. Even minor credit blemishes can derail home purchases, auto financing, or commercial leases. 'Agents and brokers come to us daily saying, 'This client was ready—except for their credit score,'' said Robert Wilson, Head of Sales and Marketing. 'That's where we step in to help both the client and the professional.' What GTFS Offers to Brokers and Agents The GTFS Credit Optimization Partnership Program (COPP) includes a range of tools designed to help professionals retain leads and increase approvals: White-label onboarding portals that brokers can offer to clients as part of their service portals that brokers can offer to clients as part of their service Branded credit progress dashboards with real-time updates with real-time updates Custom letters of explanation and financial rationale documents for underwriting reviews and financial rationale documents for underwriting reviews Client education and coaching services tailored to homebuying, auto, or business lending goals and coaching services tailored to homebuying, auto, or business lending goals Direct access to GTFS credit advisors for professional guidance and client-specific planning 'We're not just providing credit repair,' explained Emily Johnson, Senior Credit Analyst. 'We're giving brokers and agents a way to say, 'Not today, but maybe in 90 days—with a plan.' That's powerful.' Real Results, Real Closings ✅ Case Study – Los Angeles : A mortgage broker submitted a couple with a 585 and 612 score for a $400,000 home. GTFS enrolled them in a 100-day improvement plan. Their scores were 678 and 693 in three months—just enough to secure preapproval. The deal closed two weeks later. ✅ Case Study – Toronto : A vehicle financing specialist referred a self-employed Uber driver who was denied a loan due to inconsistent income and a 609 score. GTFS guided the client in adding a tradeline, restructuring debt, and submitting a letter of explanation. The dealer issued financing 45 days later at a fair interest rate. Compliance, Transparency, and Speed Unlike credit 'fixers' that promise overnight results or operate in regulatory grey zones, GTFS follows a fully compliant and transparent model. Each referral is documented, each result is measurable, and each plan is built within the legal frameworks of Canadian and U.S. credit reporting systems. All broker-partner activity is protected by: Non-circumvention agreements Agent-broker referral codes Data privacy compliance (PIPEDA and FCRA) Zero cross-sell guarantees (GTFS never markets competing products to your clients) 'We respect the broker-client relationship,' said Willard Dunne, Head of Operations. 'Our role is to support that relationship, not compete with it.' Built for Real Estate, Auto, Business, and More GTFS's platform is customizable for industry-specific needs. Whether you're a mortgage agent, car dealership finance manager, business credit consultant, or rent-to-own housing specialist, the tools and support adapt to your vertical. COPP Customization Options: Real estate agents can set milestone timelines synced with financing deadlines Auto lenders can pre-screen financing partners with score forecasts Business credit advisors can bundle COPP with entity structuring and funding prep Commercial leasing agents can offer repair timelines aligned to lease start dates Tech-Driven, Human-Centred The GTFS system is built on a secure digital platform but delivered with human connection. Each client is assigned a dedicated credit advisor, and each agent or broker receives personal support from a GTFS partner manager. 'Automation is great,' said David Clark, IT Director, 'but credit recovery is personal. That's why our platform tracks progress—but our people make it work.' From Lead Recovery to Long-Term Loyalty When a broker tells a client, 'Let's fix this and come back stronger,' it builds loyalty that lasts. GTFS partners report up to 40% lead recovery, and higher client retention compared to brokers who simply walk away from bad-credit prospects. ✅ Broker Testimonial – Florida : 'Before GTFS, I was throwing away 1 in 5 leads. Now I send them to GTFS, and half of them come back ready to close. My pipeline is healthier than ever.' – J. Nelson, Licensed Mortgage Broker Get Started as a GTFS Partner Today GTFS is currently onboarding real estate agents, commercial brokers, credit advisors, and auto finance professionals across North America. There is no cost to become a partner, and all partners receive: Digital marketing toolkits A custom referral portal Access to client success data Revenue-sharing opportunities on completed improvements Co-branded webinars and educational sessions About GTFS GTFS is a Toronto-based financial services firm offering personalized credit solutions, alternative financing, and commercial financial instruments. With over 115 years of combined leadership experience, GTFS empowers individuals and businesses with compliant, practical financial tools to meet today's challenges. For broker inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact:📧 Email: info@ 🌐 Website: 🔗 Social Media: LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Facebook | Instagram
Time Business News
13-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
How GTFS Is Helping Thousands Repair Their Credit in 2025
TORONTO — In the wake of rising interest rates and stricter lending requirements, consumers across North America are turning to GTFS to help rebuild and protect their credit scores. Following the success of last month's public release on 'How Do I Increase My Credit Score?' , GTFS is now spotlighting its comprehensive Credit Optimization Program—a suite of legal, transparent, and highly effective services designed to empower individuals and small businesses to take control of their creditworthiness. The program has helped thousands improve their scores by 50 to 200 points, proving essential to those locked out of the traditional financial system. From Bad Credit to Better Futures: Real Stories of Recovery 'Our mission is about more than improving credit scores,' said Sophia Brar, Chief Financial Officer at GTFS. 'It's about restoring dignity and access to financial opportunities for people who've been ignored or penalized by outdated credit practices.' ✅ Case Study – Alberta : A single mother of two in Edmonton was denied a mortgage due to a 582 credit score caused by medical debt and a past divorce. Within seven months of enrolling in GTFS's Credit Optimization Program, her score reached 711. She's now a homeowner. ✅ Case Study – Florida : A small-business owner near Miami had maxed out credit cards during the pandemic. With GTFS negotiating a settlement and guiding utilization management, his score rose from 618 to 750. He qualified for a $150,000 business expansion loan in February 2025. What Sets GTFS Apart in Credit Repair and Optimization? Unlike fly-by-night 'credit fixers' or gimmick-based apps, GTFS offers a holistic, compliance-driven approach. Every step is designed to align with Canadian and U.S. credit bureau policies, lender guidelines, and banking compliance protocols. The GTFS Credit Optimization Program includes: Complete tri-bureau credit analysis (Equifax, TransUnion, Experian) Dispute resolution and account reconciliation Personalized financial coaching and debt strategy planning Soft-pull prequalification mapping (to avoid hard inquiries) Positive tradeline development and placement Ongoing monitoring and credit score tracking 'We don't make promises we can't legally or ethically keep,' said Emily Johnson, Senior Credit Analyst. 'But we guarantee our commitment to education, transparency, and results.' Helping First-Time Homebuyers Qualify for Mortgages Many credit repair services stop at increasing a number. GTFS goes further, helping clients qualify for real financial milestones , such as homeownership. In partnership with Canadian mortgage brokers and U.S. loan officers, GTFS now offers Pre-Approval Credit Readiness Plans tailored for: First-time homebuyers Gig economy workers with irregular income New immigrants building credit from scratch Recently divorced individuals starting over ✅ Case Study – Ontario : A 33-year-old first-time buyer in Mississauga was stuck at 634. With GTFS guidance, her score reached 701 in six months. She secured a 3.9% fixed-rate mortgage and moved into her home in March 2025. Tools for Professionals: Agents, Brokers, and Developers Due to low credit scores, real estate agents, lenders, and auto financing professionals often lose clients. GTFS offers white-label support and credit planning tools to help these professionals keep deals alive rather than lose them to the credit bureau system. For brokers and agents, GTFS provides: Branded client referral portals Real-time credit progress reports Letters of explanation and credit rationale templates Group rate access for client programs Compliance training on legal credit assistance 'Our platform was built with professionals in mind,' said Willard Dunne, Head of Operations. 'We help you turn rejected leads into successful closings.' Credit Optimization in the Age of AI-Based Lending With banks and lenders using automated underwriting tools more than ever, minor improvements in a score can significantly affect loan approval. GTFS's tech-forward process includes predictive credit modelling and a proprietary scoring trajectory tool that simulates how actions like payments, deletions, and new tradelines will impact scores over 3–12 months. 'We use a predictive model that shows clients how today's actions will affect their credit 90 or 180 days from now,' said David Clark, IT Director at GTFS. 'It's not about fixing the past—it's about proactively managing your financial future.' Credit Education for the Long Run The GTFS mission includes ongoing credit education so clients can maintain their improvements. Every enrollee receives access to: Monthly credit health webinars Budgeting and finance tracking tools Customized action checklists Credit literacy coaching for youth and families ✅ Client Testimonial : 'GTFS didn't just fix my credit—they helped me understand how it works. I've taught my kids about credit cards, interest, and savings. We're building generational knowledge.' – Tanya M., Hamilton, ON. Expansion into the U.S. and New Services for 2025 Due to overwhelming demand, GTFS is expanding its Credit Optimization Program across the United States this summer. New partnerships with fintech firms and U.S.-based credit unions will allow for cross-border services and hybrid plans that work seamlessly in both Canada and the U.S. Planned features for 2025 include: AI-enhanced credit simulations Digital 'score tracking passports' for immigrant professionals Business credit builder programs for LLCs and small firms Crypto-repayment reporting tools to help build credit About GTFS GTFS is a Toronto-based financial services firm offering comprehensive credit solutions, alternative financing, and commercial financial instruments to individuals, professionals, and businesses. With over 115 years of combined executive experience, GTFS is a leader in ethical, innovative, and client-centred financial services. For media inquiries or to speak with a credit optimization advisor, contact:📧 Email: info@ 🌐 Website: 🔗 Social Media: LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Facebook | Instagram
Malay Mail
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
‘This is coercive and criminal': Prosecutor lays out case against Sean ‘Diddy' Combs in sex trafficking trial
NEW YORK, May 13 — Sean 'Diddy' Combs used violence and threats of reputational ruin to control women he abused for years, New York jurors heard Monday during opening statements of the federal sex trafficking trial that was followed by the case's initial graphic testimonies. The panel of 12 jurors and six alternates responsible for determining Combs's fate heard of the famed artist's explosive outbursts and an attempt to preserve his own reputation and power of celebrity through bribery. But the 55-year-old music mogul's defence team insisted that while some of his behaviour was questionable — and at times constituted domestic abuse — it did not amount to evidence of the racketeering and sex trafficking he's charged with. Combs has pleaded not guilty on all counts, including the racketeering charge that the hip-hop pioneer led a sex crime ring that included drug-fuelled sex parties by use of force, threats and violence. Prosecutor Emily Johnson alleged Combs 'brutally' beat his former girlfriend, singer Casandra 'Cassie' Ventura, threatening to release videos of her participating in elaborate sexual 'freak-offs' if she defied him. Ventura's testimony is core to the case, and she is expected to take the witness stand as soon as Tuesday. Johnson also told jurors Combs had set a man's car ablaze and dangled a woman from a balcony, and made impossible demands of his lovers and employees alike. 'Let me be clear,' US attorney Johnson said, 'this case is not about a celebrity's private sexual preferences.' 'It's coercive and criminal.' 'Toxic relationship' claim But Combs's defense lawyer Teny Geragos told jurors the 'case is about love, jealousy and infidelity and money.' Combs, appearing aged with his once jet-black hair now grey, dramatically stood up and looked at the jury box when Geragos introduced him, his hands clasped. Geragos called Combs's accusers 'capable, strong adult women,' and said his situation with Ventura was a 'toxic relationship' but 'between two people who loved each other.' 'Being a willing participant in your own sex life is not sex trafficking,' she said, adding that the defence would admit there was domestic violence — but that Combs is not charged with such crimes. Combs was joined at the courthouse by his children, including 18-year-old twin daughters, as well as his mother Janice. 'Woman in distress' The case's first witness was Israel Florez, a Los Angeles police officer who 'at the time' was a security officer — and who responded to a call of 'a woman in distress' on March 5, 2016 at the Los Angeles-area InterContinental Hotel. Florez's testimony provided the foundation for the prosecution to introduce evidence of now-infamous security footage — published by CNN last year — of Combs in a towel chasing Ventura throughout the hotel hallways, at times striking her. The jury was repeatedly shown the video on Monday, including a cell phone-recorded version that Florez filmed himself of the original footage. Florez detailed his interaction with Combs and Ventura in painstaking detail, including saying that after the officer escorted the rapper back to his room, Combs offered him a wad of cash. The officer understood this was intended as a bribe: 'He was telling me, 'Don't tell nobody,'' Florez said. Florez's testimony was followed by a male dancer who engaged in a sexual relationship, often in exchange for money, with Combs and Ventura from 2012 to approximately the end of 2013. In lurid detail, Daniel Phillip described his encounters with the pair, which generally involved sex with Ventura while Combs watched. But eventually, Phillip said, Combs physically abused Ventura in front of him. 'Why is she doing this, why is she staying with this guy?' Phillip recalled thinking. 'I tried to explain to her that she was in real danger if she stayed with him.' Day one of testimony in the blockbuster trial saw hoards of journalists, influencers and members of the public descend on the downtown Manhattan courthouse. If convicted, the one-time rap producer and global superstar, who is often credited for his role in bringing hip-hop into the mainstream, could spend the rest of his life in prison. The selected jurors will remain anonymous, but not sequestered — meaning they must individually ensure they stay away from media coverage and social media commentary about the high-profile case. The proceedings are expected to last eight to 10 weeks. — AFP
