Two local toy consultants have put together a plan to develop and market a new line of action figures based not on sports stars or the latest movie, but the world’s greatest heroes in folklore. It’s called The Hero Project, a new generation of action figures based on traditional heroes. Their first figure is based on the Indian hero Rama. more

Nortek Inc. President and CEO Michael Clarke and other company executives lead a round of applause after ringing the opening bell for the NASDAQ stock market on Aug. 7 in New York City. Clarke, front row, third from left, said he’s pleased with the performance of the Providence-based residential and commercial ventilation maker. “Our brands are well-recognized worldwide for their quality and performance,” he said. more

The road to a healthy workplace starts the first day of work at The Beacon Mutual Insurance Co., when an in-house ergonomics professional helps new employees set up their workstations. more

Employees at BankNewport are not just standing behind the teller counter anymore. They are walking. more

At Kahn, Litwin, Renza & Co., the results of the office wellness program can be seen at every morning staff meeting. more

For the people, by the people: The health programs offered at Ryan LLC in Providence, a leading global tax-services firm, aren’t just for workers, they’re designed by workers as well. more

Eight-seven percent of FM Global’s employees said that health and wellness has become part of the company’s culture, according to the most recent employee health survey. “Our business is all about minimizing risk and preventing losses,” said Carole Williamson, manager of FM Global’s health-and-wellness programs, explaining why initiatives resonate with employees. more

Paul E. Kandarian more

Cornell University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology are scaling back financial assistance to students, adding to the burden of families already coping with climbing college costs. more

Richard J. Land, an attorney with Chase Ruttenberg & Freedman LLP, has been appointed state receiver in the 38 Studios LLC bankruptcy case, Gov. Lincoln D. Chafee announced Thursday. more