Summerfield colleagues celebrate half a century of service
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 09:55 EDT
Two dedicated members of Summerfield Homes ' After Sales team are celebrating a combined 50 years of service, marking an extradentary milestone for the Taunton-based, family-run developer. Build Quality and After Sales Manager Jim Wheeler and After Sales Supervisor Ian Cassling have dedicated five decades helping homeowners across the South West, ensuring customers continue to receive exceptional support long after they move into their new homes. For Jim, the milestone marks more than 40 years with the wider Summerfield business. He first joined as an apprentice with Stansell Builders, which later became the development arm of Summerfield, arriving at the company's South Road headquarters with his parents to sign his apprenticeship papers - a tradition at the time. Starting as a labourer, Jim went on to qualify as a painter and decorator before returning to college to gain management qualifications. One of the highlights of his career was overseeing the construction of a block of flats in Teignmouth, a project the company was so proud of that it arranged for colleagues to travel together to see the completed development. Jim joined Summerfield Homes in 2001 and now leads the Build Quality and After Sales team. Outside work, he enjoys spending time with his six grandchildren. Ian has also built a long and successful career with Summerfield Homes. Joining the business in 2001 as a labourer and has steadily worked his way through the company to become After Sales Supervisor. In his role he works closely with homeowners, resolving any issues and ensuring every customer enjoys the best possible experience in their new homes. For Ian, helping customers is what makes the role so rewarding. "Every day is different, I enjoy the challenge that comes with the role," he said. "The best part is knowing you've solved a problem and left a customer happy. That feeling of achievement never gets old." Jim added: "I've seen the business grow and evolve over the years, but one thing has always stayed the same - our commitment to quality and looking after our customers. I'm proud to have been part of that journey." James Holyday, Managing Director of Summerfield Homes, said: "Jim and Ian have made an outstanding contribution to Summerfield over many years. Their knowledge, dedication and commitment to delivering excellent customer service are invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they have done. Reaching a combined 50 years of service is a fantastic achievement and one we are delighted to celebrate." As a long-established family business, Summerfield believes its people are at the heart of its success, with the long service of colleagues such as Jim and Ian reflecting the company's commitment to quality, continuity and customer care.
The American Marketing Association Welcomes New Members to the Board of Directors
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 08:42 EDT
The American Marketing Association Welcomes New Members to the Board of Directors AMA Welcomes New Board Chair Tiffany White, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs and Professor of Business Administration and Bruce and Anne Strohm Faculty Fellow, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Chicago, IL -The American Marketing Association (AMA) is pleased to announce new members for the 2027 Board of Directors term. The AMA Board of Directors is made up of volunteer leaders and impactful marketing visionaries who are providing insight and guidance to create the essential community for marketers. The new Board appointments are effective July 1, 2026. More information about AMA's Board of Directors is here . "It's a pleasure to officially welcome our new members of the AMA Board of Directors who are bringing diverse insights and knowledge. I look forward to working with our fellow colleagues to create impact for our global marketing community," said Bennie F. Johnson, AMA's Chief Executive Officer . "I also want to thank our outgoing Board members for their incredible leadership, dedication, and service to AMA. They are extraordinary leaders in our community and we are thankful for their service to not only AMA but the marketing profession." "I'm excited for the chance to work with my fellow AMA Board members as we focus on shaping the future of marketing and supporting our amazing community," said Tiffany White, Board Chair, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs and Professor of Business Administration and Bruce and Anne Strohm Faculty Fellow, Gies College of Business, University of Illinois. "It was an honor to serve the AMA as Board Chair during the last year. The AMA Board of Directors is focused on the future and is continually finding innovative ways to support our community," stated Robins Tooms, Chief Marketing Officer at Firstmark Credit Union. Executive Committee of the AMA Board: Tiffany White - Chair, Professor of Business Administration and Advertising and Bruce and Anne Strohm Faculty Fellow in the Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Robin Tooms - Immediate Past Chair, Chief Marketing Officer, Members Choice Credit Union Peter Barber - Chair-Elect, Former Marketing Executive Kim Whitler - Secretary, Frank M. Sands Sr. Associate Professor of Business, University of Virginia's Darden School of Business Michael Day , Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer, Spark Foundry and Chief Financial Officer, Connect at Publicis Media The AMA intentionally structures its board as a community of communities, reflecting the diverse landscape of the marketing profession. By bringing together leaders from both industry and academia-across a wide range of sectors and disciplines-AMA ensures that its strategic direction is informed by a rich blend of perspectives, expertise, and experiences. This inclusive approach strengthens AMA's ability to serve as the essential community for all marketers, fostering collaboration, advancing thought leadership, and shaping the future of the field. New members of the AMA Board: Joseph A. Brennan , At-Large Member, Vice President, Communications and Marketing, Montclair State University Rajesh Chandy , At-Large Member, Professor of Marketing and the Tony and Maureen Wheeler Chair in Entrepreneurship, London Business School Tom Dawson , At-Large Member, CFO, Flywheel (an Omnicom Company) Michael Day , Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer, Spark Foundry and Chief Financial Officer, Connect at Publicis Media Lori Janson , At-Large Member, Director of Project Communications & External Affairs for the JGC Fluor Joint Venture (JFJV) on the LNG Canada Project Aric Rindfleisch , Chair of the AMA Foundation, John M. Jones Professor of Marketing and Executive Director of Illinois MakerLab, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Gies College of Business Kim Whitler , Secretary, Frank M. Sands Sr. Associate Professor of Business, University of Virginia's Darden School of Business Continuing members of the AMA Board: Peter Barber , Secretary, Former Marketing Executive Andrea Dixon , At-Large Member, Executive Director, Center for Professional Selling, Frank and Floy Smith Holloway Professor of Marketing, Hankamer School of Business, Baylor University John Kennedy , At-Large Member, Managing Partner, The Sorium Group Nadya Kohl , At-Large Member, Former Chief Marketing Officer, Volta Charging Maura Scott , At-Large Member, Professor of Marketing and the Edward M. Carson Chair in Services Marketing at the W. P. Carey School of Business, at Arizona State University Shrihari Sridhar , At-Large Member, Senior Associate Dean of Mays Business School, Professor of Marketing and Joe Foster '56 Chair in Business Leadership Robin Tooms , Immediate Past Chair, Chief Marketing Officer at Firstmark Credit Union Tiffany White , Chair, Professor of Business Administration and Advertising and Bruce and Anne Strohm Faculty Fellow in the Gies College of Business, University of Illinois Karen Winterich , At-Large Member, Gerald I. Susman Professor in Sustainability and Professor of Marketing, Smeal College of Business, Penn State University Departing members of the AMA Board include: Hami Vo Arrington , Founder, One Foot Over Mike Brady , The Rockwood Professor of Marketing and Assistant Provost, Rockwood School of Marketing, Florida State University Angela Brutsche , Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Texas REALTORS® Eli Jones , Professor of Marketing, Mays Business Schools, Texas A&M University Jeff Lupinacci , Chief Financial Officer, Real Chemistry Christine Mathers , Head of Global Communications and Brand for Noble Corporation Matt Witt , National Digital Experience Lead, Deloitte Digital ###
Luxury Occasionwear Brand Grande Luxe Collection Opens Pop-Up on Fulham Road
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 06:01 EDT
Grande Luxe Collection, the luxury occasionwear label known for its exclusive, beautifully crafted eveningwear, has opened a pop-up boutique on Fulham Road in South Kensington - giving local shoppers the chance to experience the brand's collections in person for the first time. The brand has built a loyal following online for its gowns and statement dresses designed for weddings, galas, race days and other memorable occasions. For founder Sandra Morayo Eniade, bringing the collection to a physical space was a natural next step. "The pop-up is an exciting milestone for Grande Luxe Collection and gives customers the opportunity to experience our collections in person," she said. "Occasionwear is a category where women often want to see the quality of the fabrics, try on different silhouettes and receive styling advice before making a purchase. Fulham Road, in the heart of South Kensington, was the perfect location." Inside the boutique, shoppers can browse the current collection in a relaxed setting and receive one-to-one styling advice - something that truly the experience apart from buying occasionwear online or on the high street. "Visitors can experience the quality, craftsmanship and fit of each garment first-hand," she explained. "Compared with many high street retailers, we offer a more curated collection of distinctive statement pieces designed for life's most memorable occasions." The pop-up showcases a range of embellished evening gowns, one-shoulder statement dresses and sophisticated black eveningwear, alongside bolder pieces in rich jewel tones and classic monochrome - all without the price tag typically attached to designer fashion. "We believe women shouldn't have to compromise between quality, style and affordability," Eniade added. "Our collections focus on timeless designs that can be worn confidently across multiple special occasions, rather than just for one event." To complete the month-long event, an exclusive pop-up day will additionally run on Sunday 02 August, with 25% off the entire Grande Luxe Collection for one day only. With the Fulham Road pop-up now open, the brand is looking forward to welcome new customers through its doors as it explores the possibility of further pop-ups, collaborations and appearances at fashion and lifestyle events. For more information, please visit https://www.grandeluxecollection.com .
Adventure Calling: The Sharp Rise in Demand for Amazon River Expeditions
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:52 EDT
A year ago, a typical client call with Voyagers Travel might have focused on Patagonia, or perhaps a Galápagos cruise. Lately, though, another destination keeps coming up first: the Amazon . Not in the old sense, either. Travelers are no longer treating the rainforest as a short extension tagged onto a wider South America trip. According to Voyagers, more people are building entire itineraries around it - sometimes spending more time there than anywhere else. The company says interest in Amazon river expeditions has picked up sharply across Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil, particularly among travelers looking for slower, more immersive journeys centered on wildlife, local communities, and time spent far away from busy tourism hubs. After years of fast-moving itineraries and crowded destinations, many clients seem more interested in depth than quantity. They are asking for experiences that feel harder to replicate - quieter places, smaller boats, fewer people, and guides who know an area personally rather than from a script. The Amazon naturally lends itself to that kind of travel. There is no real predictability to the rainforest. Some days revolve around wildlife sightings; others are shaped entirely by the river itself. A morning excursion can turn into three hours drifting silently through flooded forest while monkeys move overhead and pink dolphins surface beside the boat - then the next day feels completely different again. Voyagers works with a range of expedition vessels and rainforest lodges rather than pushing one specific route or operator. Some journeys focus heavily on biodiversity and naturalist-led exploration, while others lean more toward cultural experiences and time with Indigenous communities. According to the company, travelers are increasingly interested in combining both. The planning process has also become more detailed. Many first-time visitors arrive with a single idea of "the Amazon," only to realize how different one region can feel from another. Water levels, seasonality, wildlife patterns, navigation style, even the atmosphere onboard can vary enormously depending on where travelers go. Marco Sancho, CEO of Voyagers Travel, said, "The Amazon is no longer a niche interest; it has become one of the most requested destinations we work with. Travelers are returning from the Galápagos or Antarctica and asking: 'What's next?' The answer, increasingly, is the Amazon. What draws them is the same thing that makes all great expedition travel meaningful: the sense of being somewhere genuinely wild, with people who understand it intimately." For more information, visit www.voyagers.travel or read the blog: https://www.voyagers.travel/blog/amazon-river-expeditions-are-becoming-the-next-big-journey-for-remote-travel-seekers
Li Auto Earns World-first SGS Premium Performance Mark for Automotive Cellular Communication
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:33 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is delighted to announce the first award of the SGS Premium Performance Mark for an automotive cellular communication product. Li Auto's L9 Livis 5G high-performance intelligent cockpit platform was evaluated using SGS's proprietary testing protocol for automotive 5G cockpit communication (PT-26-000-105640). The assessment evaluates product performance across multiple technical dimensions using a structured and rigorous methodology. The SGS Premium Performance Mark focuses on real-world connectivity performance rather than isolated technical parameters, reflecting a more comprehensive approach to evaluating in-vehicle communication capabilities. Connectivity was translated into performance using measurable indicators, providing a structured and consistent approach to assessing real-world user experience, and SGS's independent and rigorous testing demonstrated that the platform exceeded standard thresholds across all four dimensions: Connection stability Bandwidth capacity Weak-signal recovery capability Performance under network congestion for key services Stable connections, efficient data transmission and a responsive user experience distinguished Li Auto's platform, credibly demonstrating validated high performance under real-world conditions. About SGS Premium Performance Mark The Premium Performance Mark recognizes real-world user experience validation, reflecting a shift from purely technical specifications such as peak speed. Based on defined testing protocols and quantifiable criteria, it provides a structured approach to performance evaluation and enables manufacturers to communicate validated product performance in a clear and consistent way. Learn more about SGS Performance Marks . SGS DIGITAL TRUST SGS DIGITAL TRUST is a global framework that strengthens and consolidates SGS' services into a structured and consistent approach to help organizations navigate today's complex digital trust landscape with confidence. Built on proven expertise, SGS DIGITAL TRUST: Across technologies, services and organizations enables customers to build, demonstrate and sustain trust across the digital ecosystem. For further information, contact: Kayleigh Tan Marketing Supervisor, Connectivity, C&P Tel: +86 172 7470 8089 Image: Jeff Zhao, Vice President, China, SGS (center left), presents the SGS Premium Performance Mark to Xiaofei Gou, Vice President, Li Auto (center right)
SGS Consumer Compact Highlights Key Requirements and Business Impacts of EU Battery Regulation
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:24 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published a new Consumer Compact article outlining the key requirements and business impacts of the EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542. As the regulation introduces more stringent and harmonized requirements for batteries placed on the EU market, manufacturers, importers and suppliers face increasingly complex compliance obligations across the entire battery life cycle. The article explores the transition from the previous directive to a directly applicable regulation, new sustainability and transparency requirements, industry impacts, battery classifications and the evolving compliance landscape. It also highlights how SGS supports organizations through testing, verification, conformity assessment and regulatory compliance services. With obligations being introduced in phases, understanding the regulation and preparing for future requirements will be critical for maintaining EU market access and reducing compliance risk. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the full Consumer Compact article to learn about the requirements of EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542 and discover how SGS can support their battery compliance journey. Riming Wang Chief Scientist on Renewable and Advanced Energy Connectivity and Products Tel: +86 (0)755 25328661 Katy Zheng Business Development Senior Supervisor Connectivity and Products Tel: +86 (0) 755 25328745
bluesign Explores the Impact of the ECGT Directive on Environmental Claims in Textiles and Fashion
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 04:12 EDT
SGS the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, as published a new Consumer Compact article exploring the EU Directive on Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (ECGT) and its implications for environmental claims in the textiles and fashion industry. As EU Member States implement the ECGT Directive, organizations will face stricter requirements governing how environmental and sustainability claims are communicated to consumers. The Directive's requirements will apply from September 27, 2026, marking a significant shift toward greater transparency, substantiation and accountability in consumer-facing communications. The article explains the purpose of the ECGT Directive and its impact on environmental claims, certification schemes and clothing labeling programs. It also explores the new bluepass labeling system and how it differs from the previous bluesign® APPROVED and bluesign® PRODUCT designations. In addition, the article discusses how bluesign®, an SGS company, is aligning its labeling and certification framework with the ECGT Directive, including enhanced governance, verification processes and guidance to support credible and compliant sustainability communications. Stakeholders are encouraged to read the full Consumer Compact article to learn more about the ECGT Directive and how bluesign supports transparent, substantiated and compliant environmental claims in the textiles and fashion industry. For further information, please contact: Barbara Oswald Chief Commercial Officer bluesign Tel: +41 71 272 29 90
Subscription Businesses Are Creating New Reverse Logistics Pressures
Wed, Jul 15, 2026 03:56 EDT
Pallet Truck Shop, the UK's largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, says the continued growth of subscription-based retail models is placing increasing pressure on warehouse operations as pauses, cancellations and returns generate a new wave of reverse logistics activity. The UK's subscription economy is maturing rapidly, and with it comes a wave of pauses, cancellations and returns that is putting new pressure on warehouse operations. Recent figures show that UK shoppers now hold 155 million active subscriptions between them, spending an estimated £26 billion a year - yet nearly 10 million of those subscriptions are thought to be unwanted. Incoming rules under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act are also set to make cancellation easier and give shoppers a fresh 14-day cooling-off right whenever a trial converts to a paid plan or a contract auto-renews. For subscription retailers, that points to a steady rise in reverse logistics activity, as paused boxes, returned items and refunded orders flow back through the same warehouses built for outbound growth. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Truck Shop, said the subscription model has fundamentally changed how goods move through warehouses. "Subscription brands were built for one-way traffic, and most of their warehouse setups still reflect that. What we're seeing now is a steady build-up of reverse flow: pauses, part-returns, swapped items, refunded boxes, all needing to be moved, checked and put away again. "That's a very different pattern of handling to sending out a full pallet of new orders, and it tends to happen in awkward, irregular bursts rather than a predictable rhythm." Without reliable pallet trucks , stackers and table trucks , small disruptions quickly add up and slow down the entire operation. Subscription models are here to stay, but they come with operational consequences that are often underestimated. The more flexible the customer experience becomes, the more movement there is behind the scenes - and warehouses need to be equipped to handle that constant change efficiently. To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
ScribeEMR Showcases AI Scribing and Virtual Coding Advances at FACHC Conference
Tue, Jul 14, 2026 11:31 EDT
ScribeEMR , a leading provider of AI-powered healthcare documentation solutions, virtual scribing, coding and medical office services, as well as revenue cycle management (RCM), will exhibit at the Florida Association of Community Health Centers Annual Conference (FACHC) in Tampa, Florida at the JW Marriott, July 19-22. (Booth 402). The primary mission of FACHC is to enhance access to comprehensive, high-quality services by bringing together agencies, legislators, and key stakeholders who can positively impact healthcare services. "ScribeEMR provides virtual medical documentation and coding solutions to community health centers that maximize reimbursement and reduce physician burnout so healthcare providers to treat more patients during their workday," says ScribeEMR Senior Vice President Terry Ciesla. "We partner with dozens of community health centers, in Florida and nationwide, to mitigate the increasing challenges of clinical documentation, revenue cycle management, denials and maximizing workflows." ScribeEMR offers community health centers a range of clinical documentation options, including professional virtual scribes, ScribeRyte AI ambient documentation and ScribeRyte AI Plus, which combines AI-generated documentation with professional scribe review and support. These flexible service models allow each organization to select the level of technology and human support that best fits its providers, specialties and workflows. CodeEMR, ScribeEMR's medical coding subsidiary, provides the specialty medical coding services needed to address the challenges and requirements faced by community health centers. "CHC medical coding compliance and reimbursement is becoming even more important as a best practice," says Vice President of Coding Business Development Paul Ferrazza. "Our deep expertise in CHC and FQHC medical coding has made a significant difference for healthcare centers providing care to underserved areas." About FACHC Since 1981, the Florida Association of Community Health Centers, Inc. (FACHC) has been the leading state advocate for community-based healthcare programs. Focusing on Florida's Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), the Association plays a vital role in educating federal, state, and local policymakers about healthcare issues and the role health centers play in Florida's healthcare system. The primary mission of FACHC is to enhance access to comprehensive, high-quality services by bringing together agencies, legislators, and key stakeholders who can positively impact healthcare services.
Why We Watch Financial Health, Not Just Loan Volume
Tue, Jul 14, 2026 11:30 EDT
Support that unlocks freedom means something different once you look past the moment a loan is approved. Capital moved and loans closed are the numbers every lender reports. The question we ask next is what happened to the businesses on the other side of it - because in a year when lending across the field has grown more selective, that's the question that actually matters. Beyond the origination number Dollars deployed and loans closed are real measures, and neither is wrong to track. But they were never the actual question. The real test is whether a business is more independent a year after funding than it was the day the loan closed, and volume alone cannot answer that. What counts as ready Financial independence for a small business owner is not the day a loan closes. It's the months afterward: a slow season that stays an inconvenience instead of becoming a crisis, credit that keeps building instead of stalling, an owner who is no longer one bad month from losing what they built. Manny Almonte is one example. His business, Cremosos, now sells in more than 90 retailers across three states - and his credit climbed to 700 with no delinquencies in the time since his loan closed. The tools behind the number We track this using two tools side by side. The first is the FinHealth Score®, a national framework from the Financial Health Network that looks at spending, saving, borrowing, and planning together rather than any single figure. The second is our own Ascendus Borrower Index (ABI), which follows a client's trajectory for years after a loan closes, not just at approval. Nationally, only about 30 percent of Americans are considered financially healthy (Financial Health Network, 2026). For the small business owners we serve, closing that gap is the actual work. Coaching isn't an add-on Capital without coaching is a transaction. Capital with coaching is a trajectory. A loan can solve a cash need in the moment, but it doesn't teach an owner to separate business from personal finances, build credit on purpose, or plan for a slower month before one arrives. That work happens in the coaching relationship that runs alongside the loan, not after it. A borrower who repays on time but never improves the habits that led to the cash crunch hasn't become more independent. They've just borrowed their way through one cycle of it. The case for our partners For funders and partners, this is the case for selective, relationship-driven lending: capital paired with coaching, measured over years, not just at closing. A dollar deployed through a model built around financial health does more than fund one transaction. It funds the habits, the credit history, and the coaching relationship that make the next loan, if there is one, less necessary rather than more likely. That's what support that unlocks freedom means from where our partners sit: not simply funding more, but funding businesses that don't need to come back in crisis. Trusted sources On the research behind how financial health is measured nationally: Financial Health Network On how Ascendus applies financial health measurement at the portfolio level: From Inclusion to Ascension: Why Measuring Financial Health Is Our Compass On the full model behind the FinHealth Score and ABI, stage by stage: The Path to Ascension: The Journey Up
Food Manufacturers Are Holding More Buffer Stock Ahead of Harvest Volatility
Tue, Jul 14, 2026 04:41 EDT
Food processors and manufacturers across the UK are holding significantly more buffer stock this year, as unpredictable harvests and increasingly erratic weather patterns make just-in-time supply chains harder to rely on. A run of unsettled growing seasons, marked by prolonged dry spells followed by sudden heavy rainfall, has left many producers unable to guarantee consistent volumes or delivery windows from their agricultural suppliers. In response, food and drink manufacturers are choosing to build in a safety margin, storing greater quantities of raw ingredients and packaged goods to protect against shortfalls further up the chain. According to Midland Pallet Trucks, these changes translate into more internal movements as pallets are relocated to make room for incoming deliveries, rotated to support stock management or transferred between storage and production areas. "We're hearing the same story from a lot of our customers at the moment," said Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Midland Pallet Trucks. "Nobody wants to be caught short if a harvest underperforms or a delivery gets delayed, so sites are holding more stock than they used to as a matter of course. "That's great for resilience, but it does mean the equipment on the ground needs to be up to the job. A stacker or pallet truck that's only ever handled moderate volumes can suddenly find itself working a much harder shift, and that's when breakdowns and bottlenecks start to appear." He added that businesses should look beyond storage capacity when preparing for seasonal fluctuations. As weather patterns continue to influence agricultural production, buffer stock is likely to remain an important part of supply chain planning. For warehouses supporting the food sector, that means preparing not only for higher inventory levels, but also for the extra handling activity that comes with them. "It's easy to focus on where additional stock will go, but it's equally important to think about how that stock will move," Chesworth said. "If warehouses become more congested or handling routes become less efficient, productivity can quickly suffer. Reliable handling equipment, such as high quality pallet trucks , stacker trucks and lift tables , can play an important role in keeping those operations going smoothly." For more information, visit https://www.midlandpallettrucks.com .
STUDY: Union Contractors Deliver Projects Faster and Control Costs Better than Non-Union Contractors
Mon, Jul 13, 2026 17:06 EDT
A new study analyzing Sacramento County public works projects completed between 2018 and 2022 has found that those led by union-signatory prime contractors were completed as much as 22 days faster and were more than ten times better at controlling costs than those led by non-union contractors. The report was authored by Dr. Larissa Petrucci at NorCal Construction Industry Compliance (NCIC) and Alma College Assistant Economics Professor, Dr. Matthew Hinkel. Read the Report, "Union Contractors and Project Management Outcomes: Cost and Timeliness on Sacramento County Public Works Projects" Drawing from publicly available data on public works projects, researchers analyzed a total of 128 projects, including infrastructure, public buildings, and schools. Each project was covered by the state's prevailing wage law. On 75 (or 59%) of projects, the prime contractor on the project was signatory to a collective bargaining agreement (union). The remaining projects were led by non-union prime contractors. Across all projects, the average starting cost was around $6.5 million. The average final cost stood at $6.75 million, and the average time to completion stood at 274 days.
Taxposium 2026 Opens as NATP Honors Member and Chapter Award Recipients
Mon, Jul 13, 2026 13:45 EDT
The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) today honored its 2026 Member of the Year and Chapter of the Year award recipients during the opening general session of Taxposium 2026 , the association's annual conference for tax professionals. Held July 13-15 at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, Taxposium brings together tax professionals from across the country for three days of education, collaboration and discussion about the future of the profession. Among this year's highest honors, Kathryn Keane, EA , was named NATP's 2026 Member of the Year in recognition of her longstanding commitment to the association, its members and the tax profession. As a chapter leader, former National Board member, educator and mentor, Keane has helped shape the next generation of tax professionals while encouraging others to become more involved in NATP. "The strength of NATP comes from members and volunteers who choose to invest in others," said Scott Artman, CPA, CGMA, CEO of NATP. "Whether through education, mentorship, chapter leadership or sharing their experience, this year's honoree has helped strengthen both our association and the tax profession. We're proud to recognize her contributions and celebrate the impact they've made." "I was overwhelmed and deeply honored. True leadership can often feel lonely and, at times, invisible, so receiving this recognition was incredibly meaningful," said Keane. She credits NATP with supporting her professional growth throughout her career, from preparing for the enrolled agent exam to leadership opportunities, teaching and the lifelong friendships she has built within the association. "Only other tax professionals truly understand what it's like to be in this profession. NATP creates opportunities to build those connections, and those friendships have made all the difference," Keane said. NATP also recognized chapters whose commitment to education, communication, member engagement and volunteer leadership strengthens the association and supports tax professionals across the country. The Texas chapter was named 2026 Chapter of the Year for its exceptional educational programming, networking opportunities, member communication and volunteer engagement. Arizona and New York received second-place honors, while Alabama earned third place. The Chapter of the Year award recognizes chapters that exemplify excellence in member engagement, communication, membership growth and volunteerism while delivering meaningful value to tax professionals throughout their region. The awards were presented during the opening day of Taxposium 2026, where attendees are exploring emerging issues, practical strategies and new perspectives through expert-led education and peer discussion. To speak with someone about NATP's Taxposium event or its awards programs, please contact Samantha Strong or Nancy Kasten .
Five-time Somerset archery champion wins national bronze
Mon, Jul 13, 2026 05:53 EDT
Somerset teenager Liv Morledge has retained her Somerset County Championship title for a fifth consecutive year before winning a national bronze medal at the Archery GB Junior National Outdoor Championships. The achievement continues an impressive rise that has already seen the 17-year-old earn international honours and establish herself as one of the country's most promising young archers. Liv, who shoots for Burnham Company of Archers , was crowned Somerset County Champion earlier this summer after producing a personal best score and finishing as the highest-scoring female recurve archer of the day. The two-day Junior National Outdoor Championships brought together some of the country's most talented young archers, with Liv competing in one of the strongest categories against 22 of the UK's leading Under-18 female recurve archers. After finishing fourth on the opening day, she returned with another outstanding performance to claim bronze on day two, achieving new personal best scores on both days. The latest achievements continue an impressive sporting journey which has already seen Liv win a national silver medal , earn international selection to represent Scotland and be named Sporting Achievement winner at the 2025 Pride of Somerset Youth Awards . Liv Morledge said: "This was one of the toughest competitions I've ever shot. The standard was incredibly high and every arrow mattered, so it was as much a mental challenge as a physical one. To finish fourth and then come back to win a national bronze medal, while shooting personal bests on both days, means so much. I'm proud that all the hard work, training and preparation is paying off, and I'm excited to see what the rest of the season brings." Away from competition, Liv also volunteers with Archery GB's media team , helping to capture photography and video content while supporting the governing body's social media channels at National Tour events. Earlier this year she was part of the media team at the National Tour Stage in Surrey, helping showcase one of the country's premier archery competitions. Behind Liv's success is a team of family, coaches and sponsors who have supported her both on and off the shooting line, helping her develop into one of the country's most promising young archers. Her principal sponsor, DHA Fire Stopping in Weston-super-Mare, has provided vital financial backing to help her travel, train and compete at major events across the UK. She is also supported by Wales Archery and SSA Archery , who provide specialist equipment and technical support. For the past two years, Liv has also been sponsored by Sarah Coward , founder of Your Best Mind Hypnotherapy in Clevedon, who has worked with her to develop the confidence, focus and resilience needed to perform under pressure. Dave Alsop, Director of DHA Fire Stopping, said: "Supporting talented young people like Liv is something we're incredibly proud to do. Her dedication, professionalism and determination are exceptional, and she's a fantastic ambassador not only for archery but for Somerset. It's been a pleasure to watch her progress, and everyone at DHA Fire Stopping is delighted to see her achieving success on the national stage. We look forward to following the next chapter of her journey." Sarah Coward, founder of Your Best Mind Hypnotherapy, said: "At Your Best Mind, we believe success starts with mindset. Over the past two years it has been a privilege to support Liv as she has developed not only as an archer, but as a resilient and very determined young woman. Her commitment, willingness to learn and ability to stay focused under pressure have been inspiring to watch. Her recent achievements are thoroughly deserved, and I am incredibly proud to support her journey. I have no doubt there is much more to come." Liv added: "I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported me on my journey, especially DHA Fire Stopping, Morledge & Co., Wales Archery, SSA Archery and Your Best Mind. Their encouragement and support have helped make opportunities like these possible, and I'm excited to keep pushing myself and seeing what I can achieve next." Liv would also like to thank her coaches, Burnham Company of Archers, Archery GB, the volunteers and event organisers, together with her family and sponsors, whose continued encouragement has helped her achieve another memorable season. With five consecutive Somerset County Championship titles, national medals, international honours and a growing role supporting the sport through her volunteer work with Archery GB, Liv continues to establish herself as one of Somerset's brightest young sporting talents. As she looks ahead to future national and international competitions, there is every indication that her progress will continue.
SGS Laboratory Becomes First TISAX-Approved Service Provider in India
Mon, Jul 13, 2026 04:16 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to announce that its Pune Chakan laboratory has been approved to provide testing services under Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX®). This voluntary standard provides a uniform level of information security for car manufacturers and their supply chains, and the Pune facility is the first in India to be approved as a TISAX assessment service provider. The German automotive industry created the TISAX® standard to offer a consistent benchmark for automotive supply chains, enabling them to demonstrate that specific security benchmarks have been met. The increase in automotive smart technology has led to greater risks to associated data, and TISAX assessment assures the safety and integrity of personal and commercially sensitive data. Compliance with TISAX requirements offers a range of benefits beyond industry recognition, including: Reduced risk and stronger data governance Enhanced credibility through a single, standardized assessment Ability to share results with multiple OEMs via the ENX portal, eliminating duplicate audits, reducing effort and lowering long-term compliance costs Recognition as a preferred supplier in security-critical markets Alignment with OEM prototype protection requirements and global standards, including ISO 27001 and the UK General Data Protection Regulation Access to international markets through improved global compatibility and scalability The Pune laboratory joins a network of TISAX-assessed sites in China and Germany, further strengthening SGS's global TISAX network and expanding service availability for clients in South Asia. This recognition of the Pune laboratory's expertise and experience demonstrates SGS's commitment to ensuring the protection of sensitive customer and prototype data with the highest standards of confidentiality and trust, while expanding global access to reliable automotive testing services. Stakeholders are advised to explore SGS's automotive service .
Albright College launches Applied AI and Analytics Co-Major to prepare students for a data-driven future
Fri, Jul 10, 2026 11:57 EDT
Albright College announces the launch of an Applied AI and Analytics Co-Major through its School of Professional Studies (SPS), a distinctive credential designed to help students across disciplines develop practical skills in artificial intelligence, data analytics, and emerging technology. Artificial intelligence is no longer a niche technical field; it is reshaping how organizations in every industry operate, compete, and serve customers. From healthcare and marketing to criminal justice and human resources, professionals who understand how to work with data, interpret analytical outputs, and apply AI tools thoughtfully are increasingly essential. Yet many adults entering or advancing in the workforce have had little opportunity to build those skills in a structured, applied way. The Applied AI and Analytics Co-Major is Albright's answer to that need. Designed to complement a wide range of bachelor's degrees, the co-major helps students develop the ability to work with data, leverage AI tools, and generate insights that support decision-making across industries. Students learn not only how to use emerging technologies but how to apply them responsibly and effectively in real professional contexts. As a co-major, the credential is structured to integrate with existing degree programs rather than replace them, allowing students to deepen their primary area of study while adding a layer of technological fluency that sets them apart in the job market. The co-major is available to SPS undergraduate students, delivered fully online, and designed to be completed within a standard degree timeline. At $300 per credit, it offers an affordable way to build high-demand skills without extending the time to a degree. Students may also apply prior learning credit toward their overall degree requirements, recognizing the professional experience and expertise they bring to their education. The Applied AI and Analytics Co-Major is the latest addition to Albright's expanding SPS portfolio and reflects the College's commitment to preparing working adults for the workforce of today and tomorrow, through programs that are fully online, flexible, and built to be affordable. "Every professional, in every field, is going to be working alongside AI. The question is whether they understand it well enough to lead with it or whether they're simply reacting to it. This co-major gives our students the skills to be in the former category: to work smarter, make better decisions, and stand out in every room they enter." President Debra M. Townsley, Ph.D., said. Prospective students can learn more about Albright's School of Professional Studies and explore degree programs at albright.edu/sps or by contacting the School of Professional Studies directly. About Albright College Albright College, founded in 1856, is Berks County's oldest institution of higher learning. Located on a 118-acre suburban campus in Reading, Pa., Albright offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a distinctive interdisciplinary focus, including a flexible co-major program that empowers students to build a truly personalized academic experience. The College's mission is to equip students to live their best lives, now and in the future, while serving the broader community through educational outreach and meaningful partnerships. Learn more at albright.edu .
Kodie Bennion Joins Steptoe & Johnson's Growing Dallas Office
Thu, Jul 09, 2026 13:56 EDT
Steptoe & Johnson PLLC is pleased to welcome Kodie Bennion to the Dallas office as Of Counsel in the firm's Litigation department. Bennion is the fifth attorney to join the firm's team in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex this year, following 17 attorney hires in 2025. "Kodie is a strong addition to our growing Dallas team," said Christopher L. Slaughter, CEO of Steptoe & Johnson. "His track record in complex commercial disputes, including RICO claims, and his hands-on approach to protecting clients' business interests will strengthen our ability to serve clients throughout Texas." Bennion focuses his practice on complex commercial litigation and business disputes, serving clients in various sectors such as energy, construction, real estate, private investment, banking, aerospace, franchising, health care, insurance, and agribusiness. His experience includes handling business dissolutions, breach-of-contract cases, fiduciary-duty conflicts, fraud and RICO allegations, trade secret and noncompete lawsuits, patent infringement, and wind rights disputes. Bennion earned his bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University and his law degree from Harvard Law School. He is licensed to practice in Texas.
Shell Shock Technologies Announces .50 BMG NAS3™ Case
Thu, Jul 09, 2026 12:35 EDT
Third-party live-fire testing confirms substantial velocity gains; production is underway with expected availability in August 2026. Shell Shock Technologies , LLC (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, today announced the completion of independent live-fire testing for its .50 BMG NAS 3 ™ case, with results confirming significant velocity and performance advantages over standard brass at standard operating pressures. The .50 BMG NAS 3 case was developed to meet the demanding performance and logistics requirements of military and law enforcement end-users, as well as extreme long-range precision shooters. Production is currently underway, and SST expects the .50 BMG NAS 3 case to be available for purchase on its website in August 2026. Testing was conducted by Vairog US, LLC on March 31, 2026, using a 650-grain Ball projectile, WC860 propellant, and a CCI No.35 primer in a 28-inch barrel. At a 265-grain powder charge and 66,770 PSI, the SST NAS 3 case produced 3,111 feet per second. For reference, standard brass-cased M33 Ball ammunition typically produces approximately 2,910 FPS. Testing was conducted across nine charge weights ranging from 245 to 285 grains, with zero primer or case failures recorded throughout. The velocity advantage is a direct function of NAS 3 case architecture. The SST .50 BMG case features approximately 13.5 percent greater internal capacity than standard brass, roughly 330 grains of case volume, versus ~290 grains, enabling a meaningfully higher powder charge at equivalent pressures. The result is greater muzzle velocity and downrange energy without exceeding the cartridge's standard pressure envelope. Weight reduction is equally significant. At approximately 33.7 grams, the SST .50 BMG NAS 3 case is roughly 40 percent lighter than a comparable brass case (~54.85 grams). Across 1,000 rounds, that translates to approximately 46 pounds of weight savings, a logistics and mobility benefit with direct operational relevance for military and law enforcement personnel managing load weight in the field. This is also a meaningful advantage for long-range competition and precision shooting disciplines where every equipment decision matters. The NAS 3 case's nickel-stainless steel alloy construction also contributes to cleaner extractions, faster cooling versus brass, and corrosion resistance that supports reliable performance under sustained fire and adverse environmental conditions. "The .50 BMG has defined long-range precision and overmatch capability for generations. What we've done with the NAS 3 case is take that proven platform and fundamentally change what it's capable of delivering. Independent testing confirms what our engineering told us: more velocity, less weight, same pressure envelope. For the military and law enforcement operators and long-range precision shooters who depend on this caliber, that's not an incremental improvement. That's a new baseline," said Peter Foss , Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. The .50 BMG NAS 3 case is engineered for professional end-users who require every performance advantage the platform can deliver, and for precision shooters pushing the limits of extreme long-range capability. Keep up with Shell Tech's advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook , Instagram , X (formerly Twitter) , and YouTube .
Steptoe & Johnson Announces New Scholarship in Recognition of Sharon Flanery's Leadership on the WVU Alumni Association
Thu, Jul 09, 2026 09:53 EDT
Steptoe & Johnson congratulates Sharon Flanery , who on June 12 was named Chair of the Board of Directors of the West Virginia University Alumni Association. Flanery previously served as the Vice Chair of the Board and has been an active alumni supporter of WVU since earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1978, becoming the first female graduate of the program. "I'm excited to continue supporting WVU and its mission through service on the WVU Alumni Association," said Flanery. "I look forward to building on the excellent work of my predecessor, Zach Mendelson, and my Steptoe & Johnson colleague and Past Chair, Marilyn McClure-Demers." In recognition of Flanery's leadership as Chair of Steptoe & Johnson's Energy and Natural Resources Department, and her longstanding service to WVU, Steptoe & Johnson is pleased to announce the creation and endowment of the Sharon Flanery Alumni Opportunity Scholarship, which the firm is launching with a contribution of $50,000. Funds generated from this scholarship endowment will provide need-based undergraduate scholarships for students from Harrison County, WV, Flanery's home county, where she was born and graduated from high school. "Sharon is a cherished partner and friend, and a great leader. Her contributions at the firm have been transformational, and we are eager to see what she will accomplish for WVU as Chair of the WVUAA Board," said Christopher Slaughter, CEO of Steptoe & Johnson. "We are so proud of Sharon, and so grateful for her contributions to the firm over the years, that we want to honor her achievements with the creation of this new scholarship." Flanery is a nationally recognized leader in energy and natural resources law. She is the Energy & Natural Resources Department Chair Emeritus at Steptoe & Johnson and serves as the Chair of the Advisory Board for the Institute for Energy Law.
PerkinElmer & Covalent: Advanced Failure Analysis Collaboration
Thu, Jul 09, 2026 09:23 EDT
Collaboration pairs PerkinElmer's ICP-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS technologies with Covalent's failure analysis expertise to help manufacturers pinpoint the root causes of material failure and performance degradation. PerkinElmer and Covalent today announced a strategic collaboration to provide advanced analytical instrumentation and analysis services that address the growing complexity of failure analysis and materials characterization. In the high-stakes fields of advanced electronics, semiconductor manufacturing, energy storage, and other precision-materials industries, identifying the root causes of material failures and performance drops is essential. Component degradation, trace chemical contamination, and structural breakdowns require highly sensitive analytical tools capable of detecting the smallest indicators of a larger problem. Utilizing Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS) and Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), researchers and manufacturers can track down ultra-trace elemental impurities and organic degradation mechanisms. These techniques optimize manufacturing quality control and accelerate root-cause failure analysis. "This is an important partnership to help us better understand the analysis challenges facing the semiconductor, electronics, and battery industries," said Paul Davies, Vice President, North America, PerkinElmer. "Covalent is a well-respected subject matter expert in this space and will be an invaluable voice of the customer, helping us push the boundaries of what ICP-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS, and other technologies in our portfolio are capable of in failure analysis, raw material characterization, and battery lifetime diagnostics." "PerkinElmer has been a trusted leader in analytical science for decades, and we are honored that they chose to partner with us for these critical applications," said Craig Hunter, CEO of Covalent. "As materials systems and product designs become more complex, the ability to combine cutting-edge instrumentation with expert application knowledge is more important than ever. Our partnership with PerkinElmer will help customers gain deeper insight into the mechanisms that drive performance and reliability." PerkinElmer's ICP-MS/MS delivers unmatched sensitivity for ultra-trace chemical analysis of metallic impurities before they deposit on silicon or compound-silicon wafers. The technique can also characterize the corrosion, solder joint deterioration, and migratory short-circuiting that cause modern printed circuit boards and electronic packages to fail. PerkinElmer's LC-MS/MS technology provides electrolyte degradation profiling for battery performance analysis and helps characterize the chemical degradation of coatings and epoxy mold compounds in electronic components. These same capabilities extend to impurity profiling, medical device characterization, and broader precision-materials work where chemical sensitivity is the binding constraint. About PerkinElmer PerkinElmer is a global leader in analytical and testing solutions, pharma specialty services, and omics solutions, serving customers across the life sciences, applied & industrial, and food. Drawing on nearly 90 years of pioneering innovation and engineering expertise, we support the science of our customers with insights of the highest standards of safety, quality and compliance for vital therapeutics, the integrity of the global food chain, the performance and sustainability of critical materials, and the sustainability of our environment. Together with scientists, laboratory and quality leaders, and manufacturing operators worldwide, our 5,500 colleagues in 35 countries empower progress by providing trusted insights and services for a healthier, safer, and more sustainable world. For more information, visit: www.perkinelmer.com About Covalent Covalent is a leading provider of advanced material testing, characterization, and failure analysis services, helping manufacturers, OEMs, and R&D teams turn complex material data into clear, actionable insights. Headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, Covalent operates a 30,000-square-foot laboratory equipped with more than 75 instruments and $25 million in analytical technology, backed by a team of scientists more than 70 percent of whom hold PhDs or advanced degrees. Accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 across more than 60 standardized and proprietary methods, Covalent supports more than 1,500 customers across the semiconductor, electronics, energy, medtech, aerospace, and advanced materials industries. For more information, visit www.covalent.com .
