USA Wheelchair Rugby Announce World Championship Roster
Fri, Aug 07, 2026 15:36 EDT
USA Wheelchair Rugby (USAWR) is excited to announce the 12-person roster that will represent the United States at the 2026 World Wheelchair Rugby (WWR) World Championships in São Paulo, Brazil. The team, comprised of the top wheelchair rugby athletes from around the country, will travel to Brazil to compete against the 11 other top-ranked wheelchair rugby teams in the world August 17-23. Sarah Adam (Naperville, Illinois) Chuck Aoki (Minneapolis, Minnesota) Travis Baker (Hamilton, Ohio) Clay Brackett (Birmingham, Alabama) Chris Fleace (Tucson, Arizona) Lee Fredette (East Moriches, New York) Brad Hudspeth (Stillwell, Kansas) Mandy Marchiano (Colonial Heights, Virginia) Josh O'Neill (Colorado Springs, Colorado) Alex Pabon (Guayama, Puerto Rico) Kory Puderbaugh (Boise, Idaho) Mason Symons (Hershey, Pennsylvania) The group represents a solid mix of seasoned veterans and newer athletes, a combination of experience that head coach Joe Delagrave believes could be the secret to the U.S. team's success. "We couldn't be more excited about this group of athletes named to our 2026 World Championship team," said Delagrave. "This roster is a unique blend of battle-tested veterans who've been on the world stage before, alongside seven athletes who will experience their first world championship. I've watched this group grow together, and I trust what they bring: heart, tenacity and a refusal to back down from anyone on the world stage." This will mark USAWR's ninth world championship appearance, having competed in every tournament since its inception in 1995. While USAWR is the only team to medal at every world championship and holds the record for the most gold medals (4), the team has not seen the top of the podium since their gold medal run in 2010 - a streak they're hoping to break in Brazil. USA Wheelchair Rugby will compete in Group A against Canada, New Zealand, Netherlands, Brazil and reigning world champions Australia. Fans can tune in to cheer on the team on World Wheelchair Rugby's YouTube . Netherlands vs. USA: Tuesday, August 18 at 9:30 a.m. CT New Zealand vs. USA: Tuesday, August 18 at 5 p.m. CT Canada vs. USA: Wednesday, August 19 at 3:30 p.m. CT Australia vs. USA: Thursday, August 20 at 9:30 a.m. CT Brazil vs. USA: Thursday, August 20 at 5:30 p.m. CT Crossover play, Quarterfinals and Semifinals: Friday, August 21, and Saturday, August 22 Medal matches: Sunday, August 23
Center for Person-Centered Care Launches to Help Patients, Providers, and Payers Make Informed Healthcare Decisions
Fri, Aug 07, 2026 13:25 EDT
The Center for Person-Centered Care, a program of the Wellness, Workplaces, and Communities Initiative (WWCI), today announced its official launch, introducing a new initiative dedicated to helping patients and families, healthcare providers, and payers put person-centered care into everyday practice, guided by a simple premise: healthcare for people who live in the real world, not in a medical chart. Despite widespread recognition of its importance, person-centered care is not consistently implemented across the healthcare system. Too often, healthcare decisions are made without fully accounting for patients' goals, priorities, resources, and the realities of their daily lives. Launching during National Health Center Week, the Center is introducing person-centeredcare.org, a free website featuring the following: Downloadable guides that help people prepare for healthcare, navigate insurance, and make informed decisions. Interactive self-assessments for patients, providers, and payers. Educational resources, including visual tools, that explain person-centered care in clear, practical language. "Healthcare doesn't end when people leave the clinic. Too often, decisions are made without considering whether care is realistic, accessible, or sustainable once people return to their daily lives," said Cynthia Overton, PhD, Executive Director of the Center for Person-Centered Care. "The Center helps bring together clinical expertise with what matters most to patients: their goals, priorities, and life circumstances. Bridging those perspectives leads to more informed decisions and care that better aligns with people's lives." Grounded in the principle that healthcare must reflect people's real lives, not just what appears in a medical chart, the Center translates person-centered care from an abstract concept into practical tools and everyday actions. The Center builds on Dr. Overton's work as an author, educator, and strategist focused on person-centered care, including her book Clear Cane Chronicles: Shaping the Future of Healthcare Through Person-Centered Care . To learn more and access the Center's free resources, visit person-centeredcare.org .
Ian Gillan- 'Va Va Vroom' Fact Of The Day!
Fri, Aug 07, 2026 04:31 EDT
Nobody gonna take my car, I'm gonna race it to the ground And nobody gonna beat my car, it's gonna break the speed of sound Ooh, it's a killing machine It's got everything Like a driving power, big fat tyres and everything I love it, and I need it, I bleed it Yeah, it's a wild hurricane Alright, hold tight, I'm a highway star" "Highway Star" by Deep Purple
SGS Highlights Montenegro's New Framework Regulation for Food Contact Materials
Fri, Aug 07, 2026 04:16 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 106.26, highlighting Montenegro's new framework regulation for food contact materials (FCMs) and articles. The legislation aligns the country's regulatory framework more closely with EU requirements. In June 2026, Montenegro issued the Regulation on Materials and Articles Intended to Come into Contact with Food (Official Gazette of Montenegro No. 91/2026). The Framework Regulation transposes European Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004 on food contact materials and articles into Montenegro's domestic law. The regulation establishes general safety requirements for FCMs and articles, including active and intelligent materials and articles, and requires products to be manufactured in accordance with good manufacturing practice (GMP) requirements. It also provides for specific measures that may apply to a range of material categories, including plastics, paper and board, metals and alloys, ceramics, glass, rubber, silicones, printing inks, textiles, wood and other food contact materials. Requirements may include authorized substance lists, migration limits, purity criteria, testing methods, traceability provisions, labeling requirements and declarations of compliance. Stakeholders throughout the food contact materials supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in Montenegro, may be affected by the new requirements and should review their compliance obligations. The Framework Regulation became effective on July 7, 2026, and repealed Montenegro's previous regulation on materials and articles intended to come into contact with food. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory developments that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 106.26 contains additional information on the framework regulation, its key requirements and the food contact material categories that may be subject to specific measures. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 106.26 for more details. SGS food contact material services SGS's technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's food contact material services . SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Montenegro Issues New Framework Regulation for Food Contact Materials SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information, contact: Dr. Hingwo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852-2774-7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Southern Careers Institute Hosts "Future Ready Fest: Back to Basics" Community Open House at Austin Main Campus
Thu, Aug 06, 2026 13:43 EDT
AUSTIN, Texas - Southern Careers Institute (SCI) is inviting the Austin community to its Future Ready Fest: Back to Basics community open house on Wednesday, August 19, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Austin Main Campus , located at 1701 W. Ben White Blvd., Austin, TX 78704 . This free, family-friendly event is designed to introduce prospective students, families, and community members to career training opportunities through interactive experiences and hands-on demonstrations. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the campus, meet instructors, connect with local employers and industry partners, and learn more about programs designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in today's workforce. Guests can explore: Live demonstrations in Electrical Technician, Welding, HVAC, Medical Assistant, and CDL Training programs Campus tours and opportunities to meet instructors Network with local employers and industry partners. Free tacos Kona Ice Live DJ entertainment Explore scholarship opportunities for recent high school graduates who qualify. Everyone is welcome! This community event is open to the public and welcomes attendees of all ages. Attendees will have the chance to explore classrooms and training labs, ask questions about career training programs, and experience the hands-on learning environment at SCI. For more information about the event or Southern Careers Institute's programs, call (844) 783-6569 or visit scitexas.edu . *While supplies last. Media Contact: Alyssa Luna Community Reputation & Social Media Strategist Southern Careers Institute alyssa.luna@scitexas.edu About Southern Careers Institute Founded in 1960, Southern Careers Institute (SCI) has been dedicated to empowering Texas students through career-focused education. With eight campuses conveniently located in Austin, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Pharr, San Antonio North, San Antonio South, and Waco, SCI offers a diverse array of programs designed to prepare students for successful careers and meaningful community contributions. Our training programs encompass various fields, including Business, Beauty, Allied Health, Technology, and Trades, with options for hybrid and online learning to accommodate different learning styles. Please note that not all programs are available at every campus. The Southern Careers Institute Austin Main campus is located at 1701 W Ben White Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704. Phone: 512-432-1400 Website: scitexas.edu
SGS Highlights Brazil's New Legislation Establishing Stricter Lead Limits for Paints
Thu, Aug 06, 2026 11:22 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 105.26, highlighting Brazil's new legislation establishing stricter limits for lead in paints and similar surface coating materials. In June 2026, Brazil published Law No. 15.441 of June 26, 2026, introducing new requirements for lead in paints and similar surface coating materials. Under the new law, paints and similar surface coating materials will generally be subject to a lead limit of less than 90 ppm, measured by the weight of the dry paint film or total non-volatile content of the paint. Certain industrial and marine paints, including antifouling paints containing copper oxide-based biocides and anti-corrosive paints containing zinc powder, are subject to a separate limit of less than 600 ppm. The legislation repeals Brazil's previous law on lead in paints (Law No. 11.762 of August 1, 2008) and will apply from June 29, 2027. Products manufactured, imported or in the process of being imported prior to that date are exempt from the new requirements. Stakeholders throughout the paints and surface coating materials supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in Brazil, may be affected by the new requirements and should review their compliance obligations. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory developments that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 105.26 contains additional information on the legislation, applicable lead limits, exemptions and implementation timelines. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 105.26 for more details. SGS chemical testing SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Brazil Issues New Legislation for Lead in Paints SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information contact: Dr. Hingwo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Connectivity & Products Tel: 852 2774 7420 Lara Gallego Packaging Regulations Consultant - Mercosur/Brazil Tel: +5511941780564 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
SGS Summarizes European Commission's 2025 Report on Food Contact Material Notifications
Thu, Aug 06, 2026 11:05 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 104.26, summarizing key findings from the European Commission's 2025 Annual Report: Alert & Cooperation Network (ACN), which provides an overview and analysis of information exchanged between EU Member States on official controls relating to food contact material (FCM) and articles. The report highlights 250 FCM notifications in 2025, with FCMs accounting for 2.8% of all ACN notifications. The majority of FCM notifications were associated with potential health risks, while a smaller proportion related to possible fraud concerns. It also identifies key areas of concern, including migration-related hazards, traceability defects, labeling deficiencies, material deterioration, unauthorized use of materials or ingredients, and the presence or migration of metals and other chemical substances. Stakeholders across the FCMs supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers operating in the EU market, may be interested in the trends and compliance issues outlined in the report. SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory developments and market surveillance activities that could impact their business. SafeGuardS 104.26 contains further information on the report's findings, including the most frequently reported product categories, chemicals associated with migration notifications and other compliance concerns identified through official controls. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the original SafeGuardS 104.26 for more details. SGS food contact material services SGS's technical experts have extensive experience of testing materials and articles in contact with food. They can ensure that your products meet the appropriate regulations for food contact materials and pave the way for compliance. SGS offers the full range of testing, including migration tests, along with expert advice on emerging regulations, compliance issues and documentation review. In the end, it's only trusted because it's tested. Learn more about SGS's food contact material services. SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full European Commission Publishes 2025 Report on Food Contact Material Notifications SafeGuardS. Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. For further information contact: Dr. Hingwo Tsang Global Information and Innovation Manager Tel: +852-2774-7420 Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
Johnson Pope Advises Longstanding Client Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry in Strategic Partnership with Sage Dental
Thu, Aug 06, 2026 06:51 EDT
Johnson, Pope, Bokor, Ruppel & Burns, LLP is pleased to announce its representation of longtime client Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry in its strategic partnership with Sage Dental , one of the Southeast's leading dental service organizations. The transaction includes the acquisition of nine of Dr. Monticciolo's twelve offices in the Tampa Bay area. The Johnson Pope transaction team was led by Michael Magidson , with support from Adam Kravatz on the business sale and healthcare transaction matters and Chris White on real estate matters related to the assignment of leases for each of the nine acquired locations. Johnson Pope's relationship with Dr. Vincent Monticciolo and Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry spans more than a decade. During that time, the firm has served as a trusted legal advisor, supporting the practice's growth through dental practice acquisitions, commercial real estate transactions, lease matters, estate planning, and strategic business planning. By leveraging the firm's multidisciplinary capabilities, Johnson Pope has provided comprehensive counsel tailored to the organization's evolving needs as it expanded throughout the Tampa Bay region. "This transaction represents the culmination of many years of partnership and collaboration," said Mike Magidson , partner at Johnson Pope. "We have been fortunate to work alongside Dr. Monticciolo and his team as they built one of the premier dental practices in the Tampa Bay community. Helping support this next phase of growth is a privilege and reflects the value of having trusted advisors who understand a client's business over the long term." The partnership with Sage Dental provides Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry with access to additional resources , technology, and operational support while allowing the practice's legacy of providing high-quality dental care to continue. Johnson Pope regularly represents healthcare providers, dental practices, physician groups, and other healthcare organizations throughout Florida in mergers and acquisitions, practice transitions, regulatory matters, real estate transactions, succession planning, and general business operations.
Workplace Health Back in Political Spotlight as Pallet Truck Shop Urges Businesses Not to Overlook Risks
Thu, Aug 06, 2026 06:15 EDT
Renewed political scrutiny of workplace health is prompting businesses to take a fresh look at how they protect employees on the warehouse floor. A recent Westminster debate has put the enforcement of workplace health protections firmly back on the political agenda, reflecting growing concern about how effectively risks are being managed across UK workplaces. While the debate focused on a specific area of occupational health, Pallet Truck Shop believes it also signals a general move towards greater scrutiny of workplace safety standards. For warehouses, distribution centres and manufacturing sites, that means everyday manual handling practices are likely to come under increasing focus. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), manual handling remains one of the leading causes of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, resulting in millions of working days lost each year through injuries affecting the back, shoulders and upper limbs. Pallet Truck Shop, the UK's largest supplier of pallet and sack trucks, says that although employers often associate compliance with training programmes and written procedures the equipment workers use every day plays an equally important role in reducing physical strain. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Pallet Truck Shop, said, "When workplace health moves higher up the political agenda, businesses naturally start reviewing where their biggest risks sit. "Manual handling is one of those areas that can become so familiar it's easy to overlook, but it's part of almost every warehouse operation. The right equipment won't replace good training or safe working practices, but it makes those practices much easier to follow consistently. "Too often, businesses only review their handling equipment after an injury, a near miss or an inspection. A better approach is to ask whether operators are having to work harder than they should in the first place. Well-designed pallet trucks , stackers or table trucks that are appropriate for the loads and environment can significantly reduce unnecessary effort over the course of every single working day." To find out more about Pallet Truck Shop, visit: www.pallettruckshop.co.uk .
Tioxide Launches Second Recruitment Phase as Greatham Restart Plans Gather Pace
Thu, Aug 06, 2026 03:57 EDT
Titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) pigment production is on track to return to Teesside later this month as Tioxide launches the second phase of its recruitment programme ahead of the restart of operations at its Greatham facility in Hartlepool. Since its establishment in April, Tioxide has recruited more than 60 employees in just 12 weeks, filling the majority of the 70 positions announced following LB Group's acquisition of the Greatham site and its associated TiO 2 pigment assets. The appointments, spanning finance, business services and operations, have increased the company's current workforce to more than 200 employees. Recruitment at Greatham has focused on production, engineering and technical specialists who will support activities across both the black end and finishing plant. The company has also expanded teams at its research and development centre in Wynyard and its head office in Stockton-on-Tees. Building on this progress, Tioxide has today launched the second phase of its recruitment programme to support the transition as Greatham moves towards full production capability. Around 60 additional roles will be created as the company prepares to bring its second line into operation, taking the total number of positions announced since April to 130. Karen Askwith, Managing Director at Tioxide, said: "The response to our recruitment campaign has been extremely encouraging and reflects the confidence people have in the long-term future of Tioxide. "We have been particularly pleased to see experienced people, who previously worked at our locations, choosing to join us, bringing invaluable operational knowledge and expertise. Alongside these individuals, we are attracting other talented new recruits whose skills, energy and fresh perspectives will play an important role in shaping the next chapter of our business. "Restarting a manufacturing operation of this scale is a major undertaking, and we are continuing to make excellent progress. As we move through the commissioning phase, our focus remains on achieving a safe and successful restart. Subject to the successful completion of key commissioning milestones, we expect single-stream production to resume in August. "Bringing TiO 2 pigment manufacturing back to Teesside is incredibly important for our business and for the region. We are proud to be creating high-quality jobs and supporting the local economy and are looking forward to supplying premium products to customers around the world." For more information on the career opportunities at Tioxide and to register interest, visit: tioxide.com/careers (ends)
New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies to Hold Business Meetings in Rochester and New Rochelle
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 17:56 EDT
Commission to Convene at Two Locations on August 14 The New York State Community Commission on Reparations Remedies (NYSCCRR) will hold public business meetings on Friday, August 14, 2026 , at Connected Communities Neighborhood Hub in Rochester and The Lincoln Park Conservancy's History & Culture Center in New Rochelle. The business meetings are open to the public, and community members are welcome to attend and observe the proceedings. The agenda will include updates on the Commission's ongoing work, communications strategy, community outreach efforts, and next steps in advancing reparative justice across New York State. Following the formal meeting, commissioners will be available for questions and conversation. EVENT DETAILS WHO: Open to the public WHAT: NYSCCRR Business Meeting - featuring updates on the Commission's ongoing work and next steps to advance reparative justice across New York State WHEN: Friday, August 14, 2026 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. WHERE: Connected Communities Neighborhood Hub (Auditorium) 616 North Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14609 The Lincoln Park Conservancy's History & Culture Center 389 Huguenot St, New Rochelle, NY 10801 Parking: On-site and nearby street parking available Rochester Location: [Click to get directions] New Rochelle Location: [Click to get directions] Watch Online: Streaming link will be available at www.ny.gov/reparations The primary focus of business meetings is to address the internal business of the Commission, including discussions, decision-making, planning by Commissioners, and voting on resolutions as necessary. A quorum of at least five commissioners must be present to hold any votes. These meetings are open to the public; however, because they are devoted primarily to Commission business, time for receiving public comment may be limited to a short period at the end of the meeting. Business meetings will be livestreamed, and video recordings will be available on the Commission's website for later viewing. The NYSCCRR continues its statewide work studying the economic, social, and political impacts of slavery and systemic racism in New York State. Additional public hearings and business meetings are scheduled throughout 2026. HOW TO FOLLOW THE COMMISSION'S WORK Community members can learn more at ny.gov/reparations. While these specific business meetings are centered on internal operations, those wishing to provide formal input may submit written or audio testimony via email to ReparationsCommission@reparations.ny.gov or leave a voicemail by calling 518-473-3997. To learn more about the Commission, access past hearing materials, or follow NYSCCRR updates, visit: ny.gov/reparations Stay up to date and view past hearings: Visit the NYSCCRR website About the NYS Community Commission on Reparations Remedies (NYSCCRR): The NYSCCRR is dedicated to engaging New Yorkers statewide in addressing the legacies of slavery and systemic discrimination. Through community engagement and rigorous research, the Commission strives to develop meaningful, actionable recommendations for reparative policies that foster justice and equity across New York State.
American Marketing Association Releases New Report: The AMA State of Marketing Careers Report
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 14:13 EDT
Navigating the Era of AI Agents The American Marketing Association (AMA) released today its 2026 State of Marketing Careers Report , a comprehensive analysis detailing how artificial intelligence is fundamentally restructuring marketing jobs, required skill sets, and team frameworks. The report provides an in-depth look at how marketing jobs, skills, and teams are shifting in the age of AI agents. This new report highlights a critical juncture for the profession: while AI is streamlining operational tasks, it is simultaneously creating a "mismatch" between what marketers perceive as important and what the market reality demands. "The signals are there, and the data in this report makes them hard to ignore," said Bennie F. Johnson, CEO of the AMA . "The gap between what marketers think matters and what the evidence says is one of the most striking findings in this research." Key Findings Include: The role of the marketer is shifting from manual execution, such as writing content or managing social media, to orchestration. AI now handles the execution-heavy tasks, while humans are responsible for setting parameters, maintaining quality standards and making judgment calls. As AI enables smaller teams to achieve more, the demand for hyper-specialized roles is compressing in favor of AI-powered generalists who can oversee multiple facets of marketing. The report identifies a concerning trend of marketers rating human skills like adaptability, collaboration, and critical thinking as less important in 2026 than they did in 2025, despite these being the very capabilities AI cannot replace. While marketing jobs have seen a recent dip compared to pre-pandemic levels, demand for senior leadership and strategic roles remains steady, suggesting organizations are prioritizing decision-makers over operational staff. "This is not a report to add to the noise of AI, but to give marketers and marketing leaders the specific insights, honest assessments, and practical guidance they need to move forward with clarity," added Johnson . To provide professionals with a clear roadmap for career longevity, the report introduces the AI Disruption Map, which evaluates core marketing capabilities using Stanford University's Human Agency Scale (HAS). This spectrum ranges from H1 (fully automatable by AI) to H5 (requiring continuous human involvement). The analysis reveals that rules-based, repetitive disciplines like email marketing, SEO, and paid media face the highest disruption. To counter this, the report outlines a practical blueprint for how workers can proactively build and protect their skills. Rather than relying on traditional one-and-done degrees, professionals are urged to treat their development as an ongoing work-in-progress, focusing on a portfolio of demonstrable skills and expertise. By mastering H3 collaboration zones like content making and data storytelling, where human-AI partnerships actively outperform either party working alone, marketers can build strategic fluidity required to remain indispensable. Highlighting the remarkable depth of this research, the study represents a comprehensive mixed methods analysis that synthesizes survey data from over 1,400 marketing practitioners, interviews with thought leaders in the field, and secondary market data. Far from a superficial industry overview, the report functions as a practical guide for an industry currently operating under heavy ambiguity.The 2026 AMA State of Marketing Report equips professionals with the market insights and foresight needed to navigate a shifting field, and gives teams practical steps they can take to close the AI adoption gap and stay ahead in their industry and in their careers. The full 2026 State of Marketing Careers report is available at ama.org . ### About the American Marketing Association (AMA) As the leading global professional marketing association, the AMA is the essential community for marketers. From students and practitioners to executives and academics, we aim to elevate the profession, deepen knowledge, and make a lasting impact. The AMA is home to five premiere scholarly journals including: Journal of Marketing , Journal of Marketing Research , Journal of Public Policy and Marketing , Journal of International Marketing , and Journal of Interactive Marketing . Our industry-leading training events and conferences define future forward practices, while our professional development and PCM® professional certification advance knowledge. With 70 chapters and a presence on 350 college campuses across North America, the AMA fosters a vibrant community of marketers. The association's philanthropic arm, the AMA's Foundation , is inspiring a more diverse industry and ensuring marketing research impacts public good. AMA views marketing as the activity, set of institutions, and processes for creating, communicating, delivering, and exchanging offerings that have value for customers, clients, partners, and society at large. You can learn more about AMA's learning programs and certifications, conferences and events, and scholarly journals at AMA.org . ###
NEW ARRIVALS, NEW BEGINNINGS: MORE THAN 30 ANIMALS FIND HOPE AT TORONTO HUMANE SOCIETY
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 13:18 EDT
TORONTO, ON. - August 5, 2026 - More than 30 dogs and cats have arrived at Toronto Humane Society this summer through transfers from partner shelters, with more expected in the coming weeks as the organization continues to work with shelter partners to help animals in need. Through Pledge for Paws , Toronto Humane Society is raising funds to provide the medical care, shelter, enrichment and behavioural support these animals need as they begin their next chapter. As communities continue to respond to this summer's wildfires, Toronto Humane Society also stands ready to assist shelter partners with additional animal transfers should the need arise. The campaign culminates at Paws in the Park Presented by Amazon , Toronto Humane Society's largest event of the year, taking place Saturday, August 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 11 River Street. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet some of the newest transferred dogs, cats and small animals looking for loving families. "Every shelter transfer is a new beginning," said Melissa Shupak, Director of Animal Sheltering at Toronto Humane Society. "Thanks to the generosity of our community through Pledge for Paws, we're able to welcome more animals from partner shelters, provide the care they need, and prepare them for adoption. As needs evolve across the province and beyond, we're also ready to support our shelter partners whenever additional help is needed." Among this year's Pledge for Paws ambassadors are four animals whose stories represent the many pets arriving at Toronto Humane Society this summer:
Summerfield starts work on new homes in Keinton Mandeville, Somerset
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 10:56 EDT
South West housebuilder Summerfield Homes has broken ground on Well Stone, an exclusive development of seven houses and two bungalows off Queen Street in the sought-after south Somerset village of Keinton Mandeville. Situated between Somerton and Castle Cary, Keinton Mandeville is a thriving village with Roman origins and a rich heritage linked to its Blue Lias stone quarries. Today, it offers a well-regarded primary school, family-run pub and village convenience store, making it an attractive location for families, professionals and those looking to enjoy a village lifestyle. Designed to complement their surroundings, the new two, three and four-bedroom homes combine contemporary architecture with traditional craftsmanship and will be finished with natural stone, reflecting the character and heritage of the local area while delivering lasting quality. The development has been designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating the latest energy efficient technology. Every home will benefit from solar panels, electric car charging points, off-road parking, a garage and a private garden, helping homeowners reduce their environmental impact while enjoying lower energy costs. Marking the start of construction, Summerfield Homes Construction Manager Mark Woodland said: "We are delighted to be bringing new Summerfield homes to the highly desirable village of Keinton Mandeville. Well Stone has been carefully designed to reflect the character of its surroundings while providing high quality, energy efficient homes for modern living." "We look forward to becoming part of the local community over the coming months as the development progresses and to welcoming the first residents to Well Stone."
Unseen consequence of the Iran War - transformer risk
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 10:20 EDT
The war in Iran, and delays in the Strait of Hormuz, have impacted a wide variety of supply chains, but one of the less publicized consequences has been a significant reduction in the global availability of helium. Helium performs a vital role in many industrial and medical applications, but it is also utilized by the laboratories that conduct routine spot-checks on power transformers. Lack of helium or raised prices could therefore impact transformer reliability, but in the following article JP Pouttu, Director Power Business at Vaisala , explains why a lack of helium is not the real problem; it's the reliance on spot-checking rather than continuous monitoring , that raises transformer risk. Background On March 2, 2026, Iranian drones struck Qatar's Ras Laffan industrial complex. QatarEnergy declared force majeure and halted LNG production, and with it, helium extraction. Qatar supplies roughly a third of the world's helium. The strike damaged around 17 percent of Qatar's total LNG capacity, and repairs could take up to five years. The Strait of Hormuz closure compounded the disruption in an unexpected way: cryogenic containers already filled with helium and ready to ship were stranded. The price response was immediate. Spot prices rose from around $500 per thousand cubic feet to $1,000-1,200 within weeks, roughly doubling. Contract prices have risen up to 40 percent. In a prolonged disruption scenario, analysts project prices could exceed $2,000. Supply is expected to remain approximately 15 percent short* of demand through 2027, with some analysts predicting up to 30 percent if disruptions persist. This is already being called Helium Shortage 5.0: the fifth major supply crisis in two decades, and the first to combine a production stoppage, a logistics blockade, and an active armed conflict with no clear end-date. Coverage has focused on the expected casualties. South Korea sourced nearly 65 percent of its helium from Qatar in 2025 and produces around two-thirds of the world's memory chips: Samsung, SK Hynix, and TSMC are all exposed. MRI machines require around 1,500 litres of liquid helium to operate, with no alternative cooling method available. Hard drive manufacturers Micron, Seagate, and Western Digital have reported 20-30 percent price increases on their 2026 production allocations. One downstream effect has gone largely unreported: dissolved gas analysis (DGA) for power transformers. What is at stake DGA monitoring rests on a straightforward observation: the majority of power transformer faults do not happen without warning. They announce themselves in advance - as gases that dissolve into insulating oil over weeks or months before an acute failure occurs. Gas chromatography-based DGA, both in laboratory and field-deployed form, uses helium as the carrier gas. Laboratory DGA services now require regular supplies of lab-grade helium, which has become harder to source and significantly more expensive over the past eighteen months. Why monitoring isn't optional: the lesson from Heathrow On the night of March 20, 2025, a transformer fire at the North Hyde substation in West London shut down Heathrow Airport for nearly 18 hours. More than 1,300 flights were cancelled. Around 290,000 passengers were disrupted. Some 67,000 homes and businesses lost power. The airport, which handles £190 billion of UK air cargo annually, was effectively offline for a day because a single transformer failed. The incident was, in the words of the UK Energy Secretary, "catastrophic" and "unprecedented." The NESO investigation found that the 57-year-old substation lacked adequate fire separation between transformers, meaning when one failed, it took the backup with it. Resilience had been assumed. It had not been verified. The Heathrow case illustrates why condition monitoring is not a budget line to optimize. It is the early warning system that sits between an ageing asset and an uncontrolled failure. A transformer that sends advance signals - through dissolved gas patterns that DGA captures - is one that gives operators time to act. A transformer that fails silently, or whose monitoring has lapsed, does not. This is not a hypothetical risk. Power transformer lead times never fully recovered from the post-pandemic supply chain disruption, and they are now under fresh pressure from surging demand driven by data centers, EV infrastructure, and grid expansion. The IEA warned in early 2025 that it now takes up to four years to secure large power transformers. There is no rapid replacement market. The stakes are worth stating plainly. Electricity is not a commodity. It is the substrate that everything else runs on. Essential services rely on a stable and reliable supply of electricity - hospitals, intensive care units, traffic management, rail networks, heating systems, water treatment, food/beverage cold chains, communication networks, datacenters etc. None of this functions without a stable grid. And the grid depends on transformers that, in many cases, were built in the 1960s and 1970s and have no immediate replacement waiting in a warehouse. When a critical transformer goes down unexpectedly, the consequences cascade, exactly as they did at Heathrow. The hidden cost is not in the helium bottle Rising helium costs show up on invoices, but that is not the most significant risk. The more significant risk lies with lengthening periods between monitoring. The value of online DGA monitoring is not what it measures when everything is fine. It is that it catches changes early, when maintenance can be planned and controlled. An unplanned transformer failure is an entirely different event: lost production, emergency procurement, potential collateral equipment damage, insurance excess, and regulatory attention. If helium supply constraints force monitoring gaps, the line-item price increase is no longer the most interesting number on the page. The risk-weighted cost of operating without visibility is. What are the options going forward? Wait it out. Absorb the increased cost and hope the market eases. This can be defensible where online DGA is one layer within a broader laboratory-based condition monitoring program. Switch carrier gas in the lab. Hydrogen is the most discussed laboratory alternative for gas chromatography. For field-deployed online monitors, the transition introduces its own complications: safety requirements, on-site generation or storage, and a new consumable supply chain to manage. A workable option for some labs; an awkward one for most field installations. Reconsider the underlying measurement technology. Infrared light based NDIR measurement technology requires no carrier gas at all. It is a physically different approach that has been in commercial field use for over a decade. Vaisala's field-deployed NDIR monitoring solution has been operating for over a decade across 70 countries, from arctic substations to tropical grid infrastructure. It is no longer an emerging alternative. It is a proven one. The right answer depends on fleet size, asset criticality, and how deeply the current monitoring architecture is built around helium-dependent measurement services. Questions worth addressing now Helium price increases have not yet landed on every operational budget. Three questions are worth addressing before they do: How exposed is your current DGA approach to carrier gas supply chain disruption? What is the real cost of a missed alarm on your most critical assets? When the next technology refresh comes, how does helium dependence factor into the evaluation criteria? Heathrow was a case study in what happens when resilience is assumed rather than maintained. The helium crisis is a slow-moving version of the same problem: a supply chain dependency, largely invisible until it isn't, sitting inside the monitoring architecture that critical infrastructure depends on. The helium crisis will ease eventually. The more durable question is whether helium-dependent monitoring still earns its place. Summary The Iran War has highlighted a risk in the helium supply chain, which therefore represents a risk to transformer spot-checking procedures. However, more importantly, the bigger picture is that this situation has served to highlight the level of entrained risk that exist in procedures that, by definition, allow risk to accumulate between spot-checks. Spot-sampling creates gaps in transformer condition visibility. Continuous online monitoring eliminates that gap entirely, with no carrier gas, no delivery schedules and no lab backlogs. The helium shortage makes that gap visible. It was always there. ENDS Words: 1335 About the author: JP Pouttu is Director of Vaisala's Power Business Line, which develops helium-free, infrared-based online DGA continuous monitors for power transformer operators.
American Marketing Association Releases New Report: The AMA State of Marketing Careers Report
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 09:07 EDT
American Marketing Association Releases New Report: The AMA State of Marketing Careers Report Navigating the Era of AI Agents Chicago, IL -The American Marketing Association (AMA) released today its 2026 State of Marketing Careers Report , a comprehensive analysis detailing how artificial intelligence is fundamentally restructuring marketing jobs, required skill sets, and team frameworks. The report provides an in-depth look at how marketing jobs, skills, and teams are shifting in the age of AI agents. This new report highlights a critical juncture for the profession: while AI is streamlining operational tasks, it is simultaneously creating a "mismatch" between what marketers perceive as important and what the market reality demands. "The signals are there, and the data in this report makes them hard to ignore," said Bennie F. Johnson, CEO of the AMA . "The gap between what marketers think matters and what the evidence says is one of the most striking findings in this research." Key Findings Include: The role of the marketer is shifting from manual execution, such as writing content or managing social media, to orchestration. AI now handles the execution-heavy tasks, while humans are responsible for setting parameters, maintaining quality standards and making judgment calls. As AI enables smaller teams to achieve more, the demand for hyper-specialized roles is compressing in favor of AI-powered generalists who can oversee multiple facets of marketing. The report identifies a concerning trend of marketers rating human skills like adaptability, collaboration, and critical thinking as less important in 2026 than they did in 2025, despite these being the very capabilities AI cannot replace. While marketing jobs have seen a recent dip compared to pre-pandemic levels, demand for senior leadership and strategic roles remains steady, suggesting organizations are prioritizing decision-makers over operational staff. "This is not a report to add to the noise of AI, but to give marketers and marketing leaders the specific insights, honest assessments, and practical guidance they need to move forward with clarity," added Johnson . To provide professionals with a clear roadmap for career longevity, the report introduces the AI Disruption Map, which evaluates core marketing capabilities using Stanford University's Human Agency Scale (HAS). This spectrum ranges from H1 (fully automatable by AI) to H5 (requiring continuous human involvement). The analysis reveals that rules-based, repetitive disciplines like email marketing, SEO, and paid media face the highest disruption. To counter this, the report outlines a practical blueprint for how workers can proactively build and protect their skills. Rather than relying on traditional one-and-done degrees, professionals are urged to treat their development as an ongoing work-in-progress, focusing on a portfolio of demonstrable skills and expertise. By mastering H3 collaboration zones like content making and data storytelling, where human-AI partnerships actively outperform either party working alone, marketers can build strategic fluidity required to remain indispensable. Highlighting the remarkable depth of this research, the study represents a comprehensive mixed methods analysis that synthesizes survey data from over 1,400 marketing practitioners, interviews with thought leaders in the field, and secondary market data. Far from a superficial industry overview, the report functions as a practical guide for an industry currently operating under heavy ambiguity.The 2026 AMA State of Marketing Report equips professionals with the market insights and foresight needed to navigate a shifting field, and gives teams practical steps they can take to close the AI adoption gap and stay ahead in their industry and in their careers. The full 2026 State of Marketing Careers report is available at ama.org . ### CONTACT: Amy Gwiazdowski VP, Communications American Marketing Association agwiazdowski@ama.org
Tioxide launches second recruitment phase as Greatham restart plans gather pace
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 07:11 EDT
Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) pigment production is on track to return to Teesside later this month as Tioxide launches the second phase of its recruitment programme ahead of the restart of operations at its Greatham facility in Hartlepool. Since its establishment in April, Tioxide has recruited more than 60 employees in just 12 weeks, filling the majority of the 70 positions announced following LB Group's acquisition of the Greatham site and its associated TiO₂ pigment assets. The appointments, spanning finance, business services and operations, have increased the company's current workforce to more than 200 employees. Recruitment at Greatham has focused on production, engineering and technical specialists who will support activities across both the black end and finishing plant. The company has also expanded teams at its research and development centre in Wynyard and it s head office in Stockton-on-Tees. Building on this progress, Tioxide has today launched the second phase of its recruitment programme to support the transition as Greatham moves towards full production capability. Around 60 additional roles will be created as the company prepares to bring its second line into operation, taking the total number of positions announced since April to 130. Karen Askwith, Managing Director at Tioxide, said: "The response to our recruitment campaign has been extremely encouraging and reflects the confidence people have in the long - term future of Tioxide. "We have been particularly pleased to see experienced people, who previously worked at our locations, choosing to join us , bringing invaluable operational knowledge and expertise. Alongside these individuals, we are attracting other talented new recruits whose skills, energy and fresh perspectives will play an important role in shaping the next chapter of our business. "Restarting a manufacturing operation of this scale is a major undertaking, and we are continuing to make excellent progress. As we move through the commissioning phase, our focus remains on achieving a safe and successful restart. Subject to the successful completion of key commissioning milestones, we expect single-stream production to resume in August. "Bringing TiO₂ pigment manufacturing back to Teesside is incredibly important for our business and for the region. We are proud to be creating high - quality jobs and supporting the local economy and are looking forward to supplying premium products to customers around the world." For more information on the career opportunities at Tioxide and to register interest, visit tioxide.com/careers
FRACTURED HEALER Trauma, resilience, and the courage to rebuild
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 06:46 EDT
From childhood cross‑country races to pounding the roads as an adult, Liz has always run. It is the one constant she can control-the place where breath, movement, and memory come together. In Fractured Healer , Cheshire-based physiotherapist and author Dr Chris Norris explores how running becomes not just exercise, but a means of recovery. Liz is a successful surgeon with a carefully guarded personal life. When she is forced to confront a traumatic event from a university party twenty years earlier, the emotional distance she has maintained through discipline and achievement begins to unravel. She learns that self-healing like running, requires persistence, and the courage to keep going. Blending love, regret, humour, and the loneliness of midlife, Fractured Healer tells a deeply human story of self‑empowerment. Liz's relationships highlight how guilt and silence shape identity, and how recovery is rarely a straight path. Rather than a hospital‑based medical novel, Fractured Healer focuses on emotional reconstruction: rebuilding self‑esteem and learning to live with vulnerability. Drawing on over forty years as a physiotherapist, teacher, and author of fourteen non-fiction books, Norris brings subtle medical insight and psychological realism to the narrative. Key themes include: Running as a metaphor for healing and reclaiming control Emotional realism with flawed, deeply relatable characters The psychological impact of trauma and its aftermath Rebuilding identity with hope, humour, and connection "Having spent forty years treating people and seeing remarkable results when they draw on their inner strength, I wanted to tell a story about resilience," says Dr Chris Norris . "Each of us is knocked down by life-but we can get back up again." Publication details ISBN: 9781836283416 Paperback: £12.99 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fractured-Healer-Chris-Norris/dp/1836283415 https://www.waterstones.com/book/fractured-healer/chris-norris/9781836283416 https://chrisnorrisauthor.co.uk/
Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Risk Puts Warehouse Charging Practices Under the Spotlight
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 06:05 EDT
UK warehouses using electric handling equipment are being urged to review their battery charging procedures and ensure they are complying with manufacturer guidelines following new figures showing lithium-ion battery fires are becoming an increasingly frequent challenge for fire and rescue services. According to new research published by insurer QBE, UK fire brigades now attend a lithium-ion battery fire approximately every five hours. The data also shows that recorded incidents have increased by 147% since 2022, prompting growing attention from insurers and safety professionals alike. While much of the public focus has centred on e-bikes and e-scooters, Pallet Trucks UK says the findings are a timely reminder that businesses using battery-powered warehouse equipment should also ensure they are following good charging and maintenance practices. Electric pallet trucks , stackers and lift tables have become increasingly popular as warehouses look to reduce operator fatigue, improve efficiency and lower maintenance requirements compared with older technologies. Modern lithium battery systems also offer faster charging, longer service life and reduced upkeep. However, like any industrial battery system, they require appropriate handling and storage. Pallet Trucks UK says businesses should ensure batteries are charged using the correct manufacturer-approved chargers, in well-ventilated areas that are free from combustible materials. Batteries should be inspected regularly for signs of damage, overheating or swelling, while charging points should remain unobstructed and included within routine safety inspections. Staff should also receive basic training on safe charging procedures and know how to respond if a battery shows signs of failure. Phil Chesworth, Managing Director at Pallet Trucks UK, said, "Electric pallet trucks have transformed material handling for many businesses and, when used correctly, lithium battery technology is both reliable and extremely effective. The important thing is recognising that batteries are an industrial asset which deserves the same level of attention as any other piece of warehouse equipment. "Most battery-related incidents can be significantly reduced through straightforward precautions such as using the correct charger, avoiding damaged batteries, keeping charging areas tidy and following the manufacturer's guidance. Good housekeeping isn't just about protecting equipment and staff; it can also demonstrate to insurers that sensible risk management procedures are in place." The increasing adoption of electric handling equipment should not be seen as a cause for concern, but rather as an opportunity to strengthen warehouse safety procedures as technology evolves. For more information, please visit: www.pallettrucksuk.co.uk .
SGS to Host Webinar on Driving Decarbonization and ESG Performance in Softlines Supply Chains Through Life Cycle Assessment and Product Environmental Footprint
Wed, Aug 05, 2026 04:10 EDT
SGS, the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company, is pleased to host a complimentary webinar, 'Driving Decarbonization and ESG Performance in Softlines Supply Chains Through Life Cycle Assessment and Product Environmental Footprint,' on August 26, 2026. As an industry known for its resource-intensive nature, the textile and footwear sector is under increasing pressure to improve supply chain transparency and sustainability. Regulators, brands, investors and consumers are placing greater emphasis on credible environmental performance data, lower-carbon products and responsible supply chain practices. Life cycle assessment (LCA) and the EU's Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) framework are explored in this webinar. As essential tools for measuring, verifying and communicating product-level environmental performance, they can assist companies in navigating shifting obligations and competitive markets, providing credible, data-driven solutions. The webinar will provide practical insights into regulatory, brand and market expectations, enabling a greater understanding of how to meet sustainability mandates, support decarbonization initiatives and differentiate products through LCA and PEF. This event is aimed at softlines brands, manufacturers, suppliers and sales and client-facing teams seeking to understand how LCA and PEF services can help navigate evolving regulatory requirements, meet brand sustainability mandates and differentiate products in an increasingly carbon-conscious marketplace. This event takes place on August 26, 2026, with a one-hour session at 10:00 am repeated at 4:30 pm (Central European Summer Time). Stakeholders interested in learning how LCA and PEF can support supply chain decarbonization and ESG performance are invited to register for this webinar. IMPACT NOW for sustainability Our sustainability impact services support the softlines industry in meeting environmental goals and regulatory demands. Through the IMPACT Now for sustainability initiative, we offer targeted solutions, such as PFAS testing, under four key pillars: climate, circularity, nature and ESG assurance. These services help softlines businesses reduce risk, enhance compliance and drive sustainable innovation. Learn more about IMPACT NOW for sustainability .
