Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
SEMA SHOWCASES AFTERMARKET INNOVATION IN ONE-OFF ACURA MDX TYPE S CONCEPT
DIAMOND BAR, California, April 18 -- The Specialty Equipment Market Association issued the following news release:
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SEMA SHOWCASES AFTERMARKET INNOVATION IN ONE-OFF ACURA MDX TYPE S CONCEPT
Overland Concept from the SEMA Garage to debut at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
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The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), in collaboration with Acura, today revealed a one-of-one 2026 Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept, showcasing how modern OEM platforms can be thoughtfully reimagined through purposeful aftermarket upgrades to support off-road and overland adventure - without sacrificing
... Show Full Article
DIAMOND BAR, California, April 18 -- The Specialty Equipment Market Association issued the following news release:
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SEMA SHOWCASES AFTERMARKET INNOVATION IN ONE-OFF ACURA MDX TYPE S CONCEPT
Overland Concept from the SEMA Garage to debut at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
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The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), in collaboration with Acura, today revealed a one-of-one 2026 Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept, showcasing how modern OEM platforms can be thoughtfully reimagined through purposeful aftermarket upgrades to support off-road and overland adventure - without sacrificingdaily comfort and refinement.
Designed and built at the SEMA Garage in Los Angeles, the MDX Type S Overland Concept showcases the innovation and technical expertise of SEMA-member companies. By pairing Acura's high-performance SUV architecture with cutting-edge aftermarket components, the build demonstrates a growing shift in the enthusiast market: the desire for "go anywhere" capability without sacrificing refined "daily driver" performance.
"This project is a perfect example of SEMA's mission in action -- bringing OEMs and the aftermarket together to explore what's possible," said Luis Morales, SEMA's Director of Vehicle Technology & Product Development. "The 2026 Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept shows how the aftermarket can responsibly and creatively expand vehicle capability while retaining the refinement and performance consumers expect from a premium OEM."
Redefining the Modern Adventure Vehicle
Built on the performance-focused foundation of the 2026 Acura MDX Type S, the vehicle was transformed into an adventure-ready, overland-capable concept through the integration of off-road wheels and tires, functional lighting, cargo solutions, and camping equipment. The build is intended as a design and engineering exercise -- not a production vehicle -- to inspire enthusiasts and demonstrate fitment, function, and integration across a modern OEM platform.
Multiple SEMA-member aftermarket brands contributed components to the project, including:
* Baja Designs - XL Linkable Light Bar and Squadron Pro Ditch Lights
* Black Rhino - Voll Wheels (18x8.5 ET25)
* Falken - WildPeak A/T4W Tires (275/65R18)
* Inspired Overland - Overland Stargazer Duo Rooftop Tent
* NoLo Designs - Ditch Light Brackets
* Prinsu - Roof Rack
* RiG'd - UltraSwing Spare Tire Carrier
Each component was selected to support off-road durability, overland utility, and cohesive visual integration -- illustrating how aftermarket innovation can extend vehicle capability beyond its original design intent.
Built at the SEMA Garage
The vehicle was assembled at the SEMA Garage-Los Angeles, SEMA's OEM-agnostic facility dedicated to aftermarket testing, product development, and advanced vehicle technology. The Garage provided the tools, expertise, and environment necessary to develop and validate aftermarket solutions on the MDX Type S platform.
"Builds like this help SEMA and our members better understand new vehicle platforms and develop real-world solutions," said Morales. "It benefits the aftermarket, OEMs, and ultimately the enthusiast."
Public Debut at California's 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach
The 2026 Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept will make its public debut in the Acura display at the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, where attendees will have the opportunity to see the one-off build up close.
The SEMA Show: Where Aftermarket Trends Take Shape
At the 2025 SEMA Show, one standout trend was the growing number of performance-focused vehicles being outfitted for off-road and adventure use -- a signal that enthusiasts increasingly want builds that don't fit neatly into a single category. While the MDX Type S isn't a supercar, this concept reflects the same go-anywhere mindset, translated into a premium SUV platform that many enthusiasts can realistically picture using every day.
Registration for the 2026 SEMA Show opens May 4, 2026. The Show remains the place where the industry gathers to spot what's next across trucks, SUVs, off-road, performance, and lifestyle-driven builds.
For more information on SEMA, the SEMA Garage, and OEM partnership programs, visit www.sema.org. For more information on the SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.
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ABOUT SEMA
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun, and even like new again. Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy, and more. The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nev., and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates nearly $53 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit www.sema.org.
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Original text here: https://www.sema.org/news-media/press-release/sema-showcases-aftermarket-innovation-one-acura-mdx-type-s-concept
[Category: Industrial Materials]
Reclaiming 299 Acres of Wisconsin Savanna: The Driftless and Central Sand Hills Oak Savanna Restoration Project
EDGEFIELD, South Carolina, April 18 -- The National Wild Turkey Federation issued the following news release:
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Reclaiming 299 Acres of Wisconsin Savanna: The Driftless and Central Sand Hills Oak Savanna Restoration Project
In the world of conservation, thinking big across the entire habitat is key. Wildlife does not recognize property lines, and habitat fragmentation is one of the greatest threats to the long-term health of our native species. To truly support the wild turkey, restoration must happen at a landscape scale, bridging the gap between the public and private lands that comprise
... Show Full Article
EDGEFIELD, South Carolina, April 18 -- The National Wild Turkey Federation issued the following news release:
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Reclaiming 299 Acres of Wisconsin Savanna: The Driftless and Central Sand Hills Oak Savanna Restoration Project
In the world of conservation, thinking big across the entire habitat is key. Wildlife does not recognize property lines, and habitat fragmentation is one of the greatest threats to the long-term health of our native species. To truly support the wild turkey, restoration must happen at a landscape scale, bridging the gap between the public and private lands that comprisethem. This philosophy was the driving force behind the Driftless and Central Sand Hills Oak Savanna Restoration, a massive effort that spans 299 acres across some of Wisconsin's most iconic landscapes in Vernon, Grant and Columbia counties.
By looking at the landscape as a whole, the NWTF and several partners focused on creating a connected corridor of high-quality habitat. The project targets five distinct sites -- ranging from state natural areas to heritage trail grounds and private farms -- all of which were suffering from a common ailment: the loss of the historic oak savanna.
The Problem
Historically, southern Wisconsin was defined by its oak savannas and open prairies. These were fire-adapted systems where massive, open-grown oaks and hickories provided acorns and hickory nuts as a food source for many species.The wide spacing between trees allowed sunlight to hit the forest floor, fueling a layer of native grasses and forbs. For a wild turkey, this is the gold standard of habitat. The canopy provides roosting and winter mast, while the ground cover supports the insects that are essential for turkey poults during the brood-rearing season.
However, over the last century, these systems have been in decline. Decades of fire suppression and the introduction of aggressive invasive species turned these open savannas into dense "green walls." Invasive species like buckthorn, honeysuckle and black locust began to take over, joined by trees like maples and eastern red cedars that were never meant to be so abundant in a savanna system. As the canopy closed, the sunlight disappeared, and diverse ground cover was minimal. The result was a landscape that was difficult for turkeys to navigate and nearly devoid of the food and cover they need to thrive.
This degradation didn't just affect game birds. These habitats are now among the rarest plant communities in the world. The decline of the savanna has threatened a diverse group of flora and fauna, including 15 species of greatest conservation need, as identified by the USFWS. The Karner blue butterfly, the rusty patched bumble bee, the red-headed woodpeckerand several species of bats all rely on the open structure of a healthy oak woodland or prairie to survive. The restoration activities are aimed at benefiting all native wildlife species.
The Strategy: A Collaborative Financial Model
Success on this scale requires more than just labor; it requires a strategic financial partnership. The project carried a total cost of $205,530, a figure that reflects the intensive nature of restoration work. To meet this need, the project utilized a collaborative match requirement. While the Wisconsin NWTF State Chapter provided $15,000 through its Super Fund, that investment acted as the catalyst to unlock over $190,000 in matching funds and in-kind services.
The partner list for this effort is a testament to the broad support for Wisconsin's hunting heritage. Contributors include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, the Golden Sands Resource Conservation and Development Council, the Ice Age Trail Alliance, and several private landowners. By pooling resources, these organizations were able to achieve a level of restoration that none could have accomplished alone.
"The NWTF is grateful to have such a diverse array of partners in Wisconsin who not only manage public lands, but who areable to achieve a lot of great habitat work on private lands," said Clayton Lenk, NWTF district biologist. "These projects and partnerships not only benefit the resource but the entire landscape and communities where these projects occur."
A general timeline of project activities is as follows:
Phase One: Invasive Woody Brush and Tree Removal
The restoration began in the fall and winter of 2025. This phase was focused on "the heavy lifting," the mechanical removal of the invasive green wall of woody brush and trees. Work was split across 242 public acres and 57 private acres. The public efforts were focused on two high-profile locations: the Tunnelville Cliffs State Natural Area along the Kickapoo River and the Historic Indian Agency House at Fort Winnebago.
Crews utilized forestry mowers and hand-cutting teams to target woody invasive species. By identifying the most productive oaks and hickories and removing the competing maples, hackberries and cedars around them, the heritage trees can expand their crowns. This directly increases the amount of sunlight hitting the forest floor and ensures the long-term survival of the mast-producing trees that turkeys rely on during the harsh Wisconsin winters.
Phase Two: Native Oak Savanna and Prairie Seed Planting
With the invasive brush cleared and the canopy opened, the second phase focused on the ground layer. In Columbia County, 57 acres of the project were targeted for complete prairie and savanna restoration. This required thorough herbicide treatments to eliminate weeds and expose bare soil.
Following site preparation, the sites that required a full reseeding were seeded with diverse native seed mixes to fully restore prairie and oak savanna habitat, providing ample brooding areas for wild turkeys and other wildlife. The sites were planted via winter broadcast seeding, which allows seed to naturally experience a season of cold stratification, a required component for many native species to germinate.
Phase Three: Prescribed Burning
Fire is the most efficient tool for maintaining an open understory. It kills woody resprouts, clears dead leaves and recycles nutrients back into the soil to fuel the next generation of native growth. By clearing the initial brush, the NWTF and its partners are making it possible for fire to be reintroduced safely and effectively.
Prescribed burning will be conducted in the fall of 2026 and the spring of 2027 in accordance with written burn plans emphasizing safety, while also maximizing the desired burn objectives written in the plan. Burns will be conducted by trained volunteers, local municipal firefighters or trained and insured contractors.
Phase Four: Follow-Up Invasive Species Control
Invasive species control focuses on protecting the restored habitat through strategic management of invasive and undesirable vegetation. By reducing competition from herbaceous weeds, these efforts allow native plant communities to thrive, providing critical brood cover, insect-rich foraging areas and improved travel corridors for wild turkeys. A targeted mix of mechanical and herbicidetreatments will be implemented as needed to address varying site conditions. This phase, scheduled for spring and fall 2026,ensures the project delivers lasting wildlife benefits.
Long-Term Commitment
Restoration is never a "one and done" process. In a fire-adapted system like an oak savanna, the work has just begun once the brush is cut. To ensure these 299 acres do not revert to a tangled thicket of invasives, a long-term management plan was established for every site.
Any project through the USFWS PFW program enters into a 10-year agreement, where landowners must commit to maintaining the project to the best of their ability. These actions will include maintenance mowing, prescribed burning, follow-up spot herbicide treatment and continued monitoring and will be conducted by each property's respective landowner with guidance from USFWS staff.
A recent study conducted by the USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program showed that 95% of surveyed landowners kept their conservation project in place after their initialagreement expired, continuing to maintain their restored and enhanced projects.
Additionally, the two properties open for public access as part of the Driftless and Central Sand Hills Oak Savanna Restoration project have additional protections and management plans in place. Tunnelville Cliffs SNA is protected by a permanent conservation easement and benefits from a robust team of staff, volunteers and partners with the Mississippi Valley Conservancy who regularly conduct management activities on their lands. Historic Indian Agency House is protected by a 100-year conservation easement with Groundswell Conservancy, which also has a dedicated team of volunteers who help support land management efforts.
The Final Result: A Stronger Hunting Heritage
All five proposed projects were designed to restore and enhance habitat for wild turkeys, as well as support Wisconsin's strong outdoor recreation and hunting legacy by providing habitat resources for other game and non-game wildlife that rely on imperiled oak-savanna and prairie ecosystems. The completion of these projects in February 2026 marks a major milestone for Wisconsin's Driftless Area. Today, sites like the Tunnelville Cliffs SNA remain open to the public for hunting, fishing and hiking, now with higher-quality habitat than they have seen in decades. The Historic Indian Agency House continues to provide miles of trails for the public to connect with nature, bolstered by the 1,200-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
By working across both public and private lands, the NWTF and its partners have ensured that the landscape is more resilient. The 299 acres of improved habitat now serve as a blueprint for how diverse organizations can come together to save an imperiled ecosystem.
"When restoring or actively managing native habitat, not limited to oak savannas, patience and persistence are critical," said Jacob Hernandez, USFWS private lands biologist. "The outcomes of intensive labor and often substantial financial investment rarely occur overnight. Ecological responses to management actions frequentlyrequire years before measurable or desired conditions are observed. It is important to remember that even though it takes time, the results are worth it when you see native wildlife thrive in high quality native habitat."
As the native grasses begin to take root and the oaks are finally able to spread their branches, the legacy of this project will be felt for generations. It is a testament to what is possible when conservationists think big, act locally and work together.
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Original text here: https://www.nwtf.org/content-hub/reclaiming-299-acres-of-wisconsin-savanna-the-driftless-and-central-sand-hills-oak-savanna-restorations-project
[Category: Animals]
Nurses Urge California Assembly to Advance CalCare
OAKLAND, California, April 18 -- The California Nurses Association issued the following news release:
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Nurses urge California Assembly to advance CalCare
CNA learned that the Assembly does not expect to refer A.B. 1900 to a hearing, halting its advancement in the legislature
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California Nurses Association (CNA) members urge the California State Assembly to advance A.B. 1900, the California Guaranteed Health Care for All Act, also known as CalCare, at a time when health care is needed more urgently than ever before. The failure to advance A.B. 1900 shows a lack of leadership and a capitulation
... Show Full Article
OAKLAND, California, April 18 -- The California Nurses Association issued the following news release:
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Nurses urge California Assembly to advance CalCare
CNA learned that the Assembly does not expect to refer A.B. 1900 to a hearing, halting its advancement in the legislature
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California Nurses Association (CNA) members urge the California State Assembly to advance A.B. 1900, the California Guaranteed Health Care for All Act, also known as CalCare, at a time when health care is needed more urgently than ever before. The failure to advance A.B. 1900 shows a lack of leadership and a capitulationto corporate health care interests. CalCare is a comprehensive, high-quality single-payer program that would be many Californians' only lifeline for care. Nurses remain relentless in their pursuit to guarantee health care as a human right in the state.
"We condemn this disgraceful move by the California State Assembly to stop CalCare from moving forward in the legislature," said CNA Executive Director Puneet Maharaj. "Nurses know that Californians desperately need guaranteed health care. We have fought for decades to ensure that health care is a human right, regardless of patients' ability to pay.
"Any delay in CalCare directly impacts the health of Californians," continued Maharaj. "We can't wait for the disastrous impacts of H.R. 1 or for more people to die. NOW is the time to pass CalCare. Our legislators still have time to do the right thing."
CalCare was reintroduced in the Assembly on Feb. 12, 2026. A recent poll conducted by David Binder Research found that nearly two-thirds of California voters want to see transformational changes, not minor reforms, to California's broken health care system. Uncertainty and anxiety about health care costs have been rising - exacerbated by unprecedented trillion-dollar cuts at the federal level - with more than 40 percent of voters saying it's become harder to afford health care in the past several years. The poll also shows that more than three-quarters of Democrats are more likely to support a candidate for governor if they were to run on creating a single-payer system.
California's union nurses, represented by CNA, are committed to continuing to lead the organizing to build the grassroots movement necessary to win support for and pass CalCare. More than 300 organizations have endorsed CalCare, including the California Federation of Labor Unions, ACLU California Action, California Faculty Association, California Federation of Teachers, California School Employees Association, California Teachers Association,, California Working Families Party, The Arc of California, University Professional and Technical Employees, and United Auto Workers (Region 6). Hundreds of patients and community activists have already filled four town halls earlier this year to learn about CalCare. Supporters have held drop-in actions at nearly 100 district offices in support of CalCare and dialed some 20,000 Californians to drive more than 750 calls to the Capitol. At the California Democratic Party's Convention in February, several hundred people rallied for the passage of CalCare.
Nurses are grateful to the 25 legislators who are joint authors or coauthors of CalCare. A.B. 1900's joint authors are Assemblymembers Ash Kalra, Isaac Bryan, Alex Lee, Liz Ortega, and Chris Rogers. The bill's principal coauthors are Assemblymembers Damon Connolly, Sade Elhawary, and Nick Schultz and Senator Lena Gonzalez and Senate Pro Tem Emeritus Mike McGuire. The coauthors include Assemblymembers Dawn Addis, Robert Garcia, Matt Haney, John Harabedian, Corey Jackson, Tina McKinnor, Celeste Rodriguez, LaShae Sharp-Collins, and Rick Chavez Zbur and Senators Josh Becker, Dave Cortese, John Laird, Sasha Renee Perez, Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, and Scott Wiener. Nurses are also deeply appreciative of the ongoing efforts of Assemblymember Mia Bonta, Chair of the Assembly Health Committee, to pass CalCare.
Nurses are calling on the California legislature to do the right thing and refer CalCare to committee before the deadline.
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California Nurses Association/National Nurses United is the largest and fastest-growing union and professional association of registered nurses in the nation with more than 100,000 members in more than 200 facilities throughout California and more than 225,000 RNs nationwide.
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Original text here: https://www.nationalnursesunited.org/press/nurses-urge-california-assembly-to-advance-calcare
[Category: Nursing]
Long-term Use of Immunotherapy May Be Safe for Patients With Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, April 18 [Category: Medical] -- The American Association for Cancer Research posted the following news release:
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Long-term Use of Immunotherapy May Be Safe for Patients With Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma
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SAN DIEGO - Long-term adverse events were rare and manageable among patients with alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS), which primarily affects adolescents and young adults, who received immunotherapy beyond the standard two years, according to results from a phase II clinical trial presented at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting
... Show Full Article
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, April 18 [Category: Medical] -- The American Association for Cancer Research posted the following news release:
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Long-term Use of Immunotherapy May Be Safe for Patients With Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma
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SAN DIEGO - Long-term adverse events were rare and manageable among patients with alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS), which primarily affects adolescents and young adults, who received immunotherapy beyond the standard two years, according to results from a phase II clinical trial presented at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting2026, held April 17-22.
Results from this study were simultaneously published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
For most cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors, the recommendation is to stop treatment after two years based on the duration of treatment established in early trials, as well as additional evidence indicating two years may offer sufficient benefit in lung cancer and melanoma. However, there has been a lack of clinical data on the long-term use of immune checkpoint inhibitors to treat ASPS, an ultra-rare cancer with incidence rates highest among 15- to 35-year-olds, explained Alice P. Chen, MD, head of the Developmental Therapeutics Clinic in the Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In December 2022, the immune checkpoint inhibitor atezolizumab (Tecentriq) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for patients 2 and older with ASPS, based on early results from an ongoing phase II trial being conducted by Chen and her colleagues. At the time of approval, 42% of the 49 patients had a duration of response lasting 12 months or more.
"Because many patients experienced durable responses and remained on immunotherapy for several years, we wanted to understand the potential long-term effects of this treatment, particularly for adolescents and young adults with ASPS who may receive immunotherapy for extended periods," Chen said. "Studying the risk of late adverse events during and following prolonged treatment helps ensure that these therapies remain safe for this young patient population."
As of June 2025, Chen and colleagues had enrolled 54 patients in the trial with the duration of atezolizumab response ranging between 10 and 69 months. Patients older than 2 received 1,200 mg of atezolizumab every three weeks or a pediatric dose of 15 mg/kg up to 1,200 mg. If disease progressed, adult patients were given the option to receive the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor bevacizumab (Avastin) in combination with atezolizumab. Patients were assessed for adverse events every three weeks using version 5 of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE). Seventeen patients-between the ages of 11 and 56 with a median age of 29-received either atezolizumab (12 patients) or atezolizumab followed by atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (five patients) for more than two years.
"Because ASPS is an ultra-rare cancer, studies in this population are necessarily small," Chen explained. "For the long-term analysis, these 17 patients provided valuable insight into the safety of long-term atezolizumab therapy."
Of the 17 patients, three experienced treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) that were grade 2 or 3, which are considered to be moderate to severe symptoms that are not immediately life-threatening and do not require hospitalization. One patient who was receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab experienced grade 3 aspartate aminotransferase (AST), which can be a sign of liver damage; another patient who was receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab experienced grade 2 hypertension-or high blood pressure-and grade 2 proteinuria, which can be a sign of kidney damage; and one patient who was receiving atezolizumab monotherapy experienced grade 2 pruritus, which is an itchy feeling causing one to scratch their skin.
"Among patients who received immunotherapy for longer than two years, we did not observe evidence of increased toxicity and this finding held even among patients treated for more than five years," Chen said. "This is especially important for adolescents and young adults with ASPS, who may live for many years with metastatic disease."
Chen added that none of the atezolizumab-related TRAEs resulted in individuals discontinuing with the study and all of the symptoms were eventually resolved. The pruritus was treated with topical and oral medication, the increased AST resolved after a dose reduction of bevacizumab, and the hypertension resolved after treatment with hypertension medication.
"Importantly, we did not observe the late TRAEs sometimes seen with long-term use of immunotherapy for other cancers, such as lung cancer," Chen added. "This may be related to the younger age of the patients or the unique biology of ASPS. With the approval of atezolizumab for this indication in multiple countries, real-world data will also play an important role in understanding the long-term effects of immunotherapy in this patient population."
Limitations of this study include the size of the patient population. The trial protocol allowed patients to take an atezolizumab drug holiday after two years of progression-free treatment, which further
reduced the number of patients who were treated beyond two years.
This study was supported by federal funding from the NCI and NIH and was partly supported by Genentech Inc., which provided the drug and funding. The NCI has a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Genentech and AstraZeneca. Chen declares no conflicts of interest.
The contributions of the NIH authors were made as part of their official duties as NIH federal employees, are in compliance with agency policy requirements, and are considered Works of the United States Government. However, the findings and conclusions presented at this meeting are those of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the NIH or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nor does mention of commercial products imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
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Original text here: https://www.aacr.org/about-the-aacr/newsroom/news-releases/long-term-use-of-immunotherapy-may-be-safe-for-patients-with-alveolar-soft-part-sarcoma/
Hawaiian Airlines Pilots Union Elects Leadership Team
MCLEAN, Virginia, April 18 -- The Air Line Pilots Association International issued the following news release:
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Hawaiian Airlines Pilots Union Elects Leadership Team
HONOLULU, Hawaii -- Earlier this week, the Hawaiian Airlines Master Executive Council (MEC) of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l (ALPA) elected its officers for a two-year term starting May 6, 2026. Capt. Larry Payne was unanimously re-elected to his fourth consecutive term as MEC chair. Capt. John Crabbe was unanimously elected as vice chair, and Capt. Mathias Lundblad was unanimously re-elected for his second consecutive
... Show Full Article
MCLEAN, Virginia, April 18 -- The Air Line Pilots Association International issued the following news release:
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Hawaiian Airlines Pilots Union Elects Leadership Team
HONOLULU, Hawaii -- Earlier this week, the Hawaiian Airlines Master Executive Council (MEC) of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l (ALPA) elected its officers for a two-year term starting May 6, 2026. Capt. Larry Payne was unanimously re-elected to his fourth consecutive term as MEC chair. Capt. John Crabbe was unanimously elected as vice chair, and Capt. Mathias Lundblad was unanimously re-elected for his second consecutiveterm as secretary-treasurer.
These officers will represent more than 1,200 Hawaiian pilots during a period of significant change, including the final stages of negotiating a Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA) with Alaska Airlines management.
"It's an honor to represent Hawaiian pilots during this critical period, and I'm grateful for the continued trust of our pilot group," said Capt. Payne, HAL MEC chair. "As JCBA negotiations continue, we remain committed to working collaboratively with the Alaska pilots to secure a strong agreement that reflects the values and priorities of both pilot groups."
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Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents more than 80,000 pilots at 42 U.S. and Canadian airlines.
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Original text here: https://www.alpa.org/press-room/2026/04/hawaiian-airlines-pilots-union-elects-leadership-team
[Category: Transportation]
Frost & Sullivan Celebrates Industry Leaders at the 2026 Best Practices Recognition Gala
SAN ANTONIO, Texas, April 18 -- Frost and Sullivan, a provider of market research and analysis, growth strategy consulting and corporate training services, posted the following news release:
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Frost & Sullivan Celebrates Industry Leaders at the 2026 Best Practices Recognition Gala
Recognizing companies for excellence, innovation, and business impact
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Industry trailblazers convened in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for the 2026 Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Gala, held at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. The event brought together leading organizations from across industries to celebrate
... Show Full Article
SAN ANTONIO, Texas, April 18 -- Frost and Sullivan, a provider of market research and analysis, growth strategy consulting and corporate training services, posted the following news release:
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Frost & Sullivan Celebrates Industry Leaders at the 2026 Best Practices Recognition Gala
Recognizing companies for excellence, innovation, and business impact
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Industry trailblazers convened in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for the 2026 Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Gala, held at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. The event brought together leading organizations from across industries to celebrateoutstanding business achievements and recognize some of the most innovative and successful companies shaping the future of their fields.
"Frost & Sullivan presents its Best Practices Recognitions to organizations that exemplify industry leadership and inspire sustainable growth. These companies demonstrate a strong ability to anticipate emerging trends and deliver differentiated solutions that set new benchmarks in their markets," said Roger Fristad, Global Senior Director of Transformational Growth at Frost & Sullivan. "We congratulate all of this year's recipients on their outstanding performance and believe their achievements will continue to inspire innovation and excellence across the industry."
The following organizations have been honored with Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Recognitions:
Aeris
2025 Global IoT Connectivity Management Platform Competitive Strategy Leadership
This company has established itself as a transformative force in the IoT connectivity market, backed by nearly three decades of expertise and continued innovation. By expanding into cybersecurity, advanced billing, and value-added services, the company has strengthened its position as a trusted long-term partner.
Learn more about Aeris (https://www.aeris.com/)
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NSFocus
2025 Global AI Driven Security Operations Competitive Strategy Leadership
They stand out for their precision-driven, customer-centric approach to advancing AI-powered security operations. Backed by global reach, strong customer satisfaction, and continuous innovation, they deliver scalable, intelligent, and cost-efficient protection.
Learn more about NSFocus (https://nsfocusglobal.com/)
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Heidi Health
2026 North American Artificial Intelligence Medical Scribe Technology Innovation Leadership
This recipient is tackling the administrative burden head-on with an AI-powered care platform that streamlines documentation. Heidi Health has evolved into a global solution, returning over 18 million clinical hours to healthcare teams across 116 countries.
Learn more about Heidi Health (https://www.heidihealth.com/en-us)
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Beep
2025 North American Autonomous Shuttles Technology Innovation Leadership
This company has successfully scaled from pilot programs to city-level deployment. By enabling efficient fleet management across diverse environments, the company has proven autonomous mobility is a sustainable and integral part of modern transit.
Learn more about Beep (https://ridebeep.com/)
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Haber
2025 Global Industrial AI Technology Innovation Leadership
In industrial automation, Haber bridges the gap between monitoring and action with Elixa.ai, enabling real-time, closed-loop process control. Operating across 100 global sites, the platform has delivered over $300 million in annual savings while significantly reducing water usage.
Learn more about Haber (https://haberwater.com/)
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TailorMed
2025 North American Healthcare Financial Navigation Solutions Technology Innovation Leadership
They are addressing the disconnect between healthcare and financial access by building the largest medication affordability network in the United States. Integrated with electronic health records, their platform connects hospitals, clinics, and life sciences leaders to identify and support patients in real time.
Learn more about TailorMed (https://tailormed.co/)
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SharpenCX
2026 North American Cloud Contact Center Customer Value Leadership
The company stands out in the North American cloud contact center market with a disciplined, customer-centric approach and a modern, unified architecture. Its strong customer retention, deep vertical expertise, and expanding partner ecosystem reinforce its position as a trusted partner in digital transformation.
Learn more about SharpenCX (https://sharpencx.com/)
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Bioiberica
2025 European Innovative Collagen Solutions New Product Innovation
This company has set a new benchmark in the European joint health market with pharmaceutical-grade precision, specializing in native type II collagen effective at just 40 milligrams per day. With rigorous quality standards and clinical validation, it delivers the transparency and performance demanded by today's health-conscious consumers.
Learn more about Bioberica (https://www.bioiberica.com/en)
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TP
2026 Indian Customer Experience Management Services Company of the Year
Honored for redefining customer experience through a powerful combination of advanced technology and human expertise. By integrating AI, analytics, automation, and cloud into a unified model, it delivers seamless, personalized interactions at global scale.
Learn more about TP (https://www.tp.com/en-us/)
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Aankhen
2026 Global Tariff Management Solutions Company of the Year
Through its fiChains technology, the company replaces static spreadsheets with real-time, computable, and verifiable pricing at the SKU level. They have pioneered a way to propagate negotiated prices to assembly lines worldwide in near-real-time, ensuring that every SKU is computable, repeatable, and verifiable.
Learn more about Aankhen (https://aankhen.com/)
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Cari-ai
2025 Latin American Intelligent Virtual Agent Company of the Year
For over a decade, the company has transformed legacy systems into seamless omnichannel journeys, delivering impactful results across healthcare and financial services. With strong growth, high customer satisfaction, and a leading presence in Latin America, it stands out for its commitment to innovation and customer well-being.
Learn more about Cari-ai (https://cariai.com/)
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Fleetworthy
2025 North American CV Compliance, Safety, and Toll Management Company of the Year
By uniting three industry powerhouses into a single, cohesive ecosystem, they have created the only complete technology suite for fleet safety, compliance, and toll management in North America.
Learn more about Fleetworthy (https://fleetworthy.com/)
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Geotab
2025 North American Commercial Vehicle Fleet Management Company of the Year
For 25 years, it has set the standard for innovation, processing over 100 billion data points daily and pioneering AI-driven fleet solutions. With unmatched scale, strong partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability, it continues to shape the future of mobility.
Learn more about Geotab (https://www.geotab.com/)
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Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Recognition
Frost & Sullivan's Best Practices Recognitions honor companies across regional and global markets that exhibit exceptional achievement and consistent excellence in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer experience, and strategic product development. Each recognition is the result of a rigorous analytical process in which Frost & Sullivan industry experts benchmark performance through comprehensive interviews, deep-dive analysis, and extensive secondary research. The goal is to identify true best-in-class organizations that are driving transformative growth and setting new industry standards.
Contact us: Start the discussion.
For further information about Frost & Sullivan's Best Practices Program, please contact Lindsey Whitaker at Lindsey.Whitaker@frost.com.
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Original text here: https://www.frost.com/news/press-releases/frost-sullivan-celebrates-industry-leaders-at-the-2026-best-practices-recognition-gala/
[Category: BizConsulting]
American Academy of Neurology: Two Scientists to Receive 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, April 18 -- The American Academy of Neurology issued the following news release:
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Two scientists to receive 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health
American Academy of Neurology and American Heart Association award $150,000 scholarships to researchers from Maryland and Michigan
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DALLAS and MINNEAPOLIS -- The American Academy of Neurology and the American Heart Association have awarded the 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health to two neuroscientists, Sarah Kettlety, Ph.D., of Baltimore, Maryland, and Cali McEntee, Ph.D., of Ann Arbor, Michigan.
... Show Full Article
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, April 18 -- The American Academy of Neurology issued the following news release:
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Two scientists to receive 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health
American Academy of Neurology and American Heart Association award $150,000 scholarships to researchers from Maryland and Michigan
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DALLAS and MINNEAPOLIS -- The American Academy of Neurology and the American Heart Association have awarded the 2026 Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health to two neuroscientists, Sarah Kettlety, Ph.D., of Baltimore, Maryland, and Cali McEntee, Ph.D., of Ann Arbor, Michigan.Each will receive a $150,000 two-year scholarship to support continuing scientific research in brain health. This is the third year this scholarship has been awarded.
The Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships in Brain Health, also known as the Sacco Scholars program, are made possible by a generous bequest to the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), the world's largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals, and the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health for all, from the late Ralph L. Sacco, M.D., M.S., FAAN, FAHA. Sacco was the only neurologist to have served as president of both organizations. He passed away in 2023 from a brain tumor.
"As we learn more about the importance of the cognitive and physical aspects of the heart-brain connection, it's critical to grow the body of evidence that can help us reduce risk and improve health," said Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, executive director of the Katz Institute for Women's Health and senior vice president of women's health at Northwell Health in New York City. "We look forward to seeing the work of these two scholars as these research projects build upon Dr. Sacco's decades of work in saving and improving lives."
"Dr. Ralph Sacco inspired many physicians and researchers through his remarkable career, and his legacy lives on through the Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships in Brain Health," said American Academy of Neurology President Natalia S. Rost, M.D., M.P.H., FAAN, FAHA. "This program that supports talented researchers in advancing preventive neurology is a testament to his generosity in mentorship and passion for science. We are thrilled to welcome two new researchers to the Sacco Scholars community -- a growing group of researchers whose valuable work brings us closer to achieving the future of brain health for all."
Kettlety is a postdoctoral researcher at Kennedy Krieger Institute and at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. She is being awarded the scholarship to study the impact of childhood concussions on long-term health. Specifically, she will look at how a child's heart rate changes when they exercise after a concussion. These heart-rate responses can follow different patterns, and those patterns may give clues about whether the nervous system -- which controls things like heart rate and breathing -- isn't working quite right after the injury. One of the patterns researchers see may signal a problem with this automatic nervous system. Kids who show this pattern could be more likely to have concussion symptoms that last longer than usual. The goal of Kettlety's study is to find out whether these heart-rate patterns can help doctors predict which young patients will have a slower recovery. If doctors can identify those patients early, they may be able to offer more customized treatments to help them recover more quickly and fully.
McEntee is a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor. Her research project will look at the connection between exercise and brain health. As people get older, it's common for the brain to change, which can make learning and memory harder. Scientists know that exercise helps keep the brain healthy and can improve memory, but they don't fully understand why it works. McEntee is looking at small substances that the body releases during exercise, called exerkines. These tiny messengers are released from muscles and fat when we move, and they may travel to the brain and help it work better. She wants to determine which of these substances are most important and how they help the brain stay sharp as we age. By understanding this, McEntee hopes to find new ways to protect and improve brain health -- not only for older adults, but also for people with conditions like diabetes or obesity, and even for people who can't exercise due to illness or disability. The goal is to help everyone maintain better brain health throughout their lives.
"Robust research funding is critically important to support innovative ideas that can lead to scientific breakthroughs in prevention, diagnosis, and treatments for a variety of conditions," said American Academy of Neurology Chief Executive Officer Mary E. Post, M.B.A., CAE. "With this collaborative partnership through the Sacco Scholars program, and the American Academy of Neurology's Brain Health Initiative, we are committed to improving lives and making a meaningful impact on the landscape of brain health."
"Dr. Ralph Sacco was the first neurologist to ever serve as the volunteer president of the American Heart Association and he was a dedicated volunteer for more than 20 years as a champion for our work in recognizing the importance of brain health," said Nancy Brown, the American Heart Association's chief executive officer. "He spent much of his life mentoring young scientists just like the recipients of this year's scholarships. More importantly, he was a dear friend and I am so proud to see his lifesaving legacy live on to continue influencing the growing body of scientific research into the connection of heart and brain health."
Kettlety and McEntee begin their two-year research projects on July 1, 2026.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
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About the American Academy of Neurology
The American Academy of Neurology is the leading voice in brain health. As the world's largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals with more than 44,000 members, the AAN provides access to the latest news, science and research affecting neurology for patients, caregivers, physicians and professionals alike. The AAN's mission is to enhance member career fulfillment and promote brain health for all. A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, care and treatment of brain, spinal cord and nervous system diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, concussion, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, headache and migraine.
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Original text here: https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/Home/PressRelease/5334
[Category: Medical]
