Featured Stories
2026 HFA European Congress to Showcase New Research Shaping the Future of Fitness
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Aug. 15 -- The Health and Fitness Association (formerly the International Health Racquet and Sportsclub Association) issued the following news release:
* * *
2026 HFA European Congress to Showcase New Research Shaping the Future of Fitness
Industry executives from Armah Sports, David Lloyd Leisure, Third Space, Total Fitness, and more will take the stage in London this September for the event put on by the Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA).
-
Attendees at the 2026 HFA European Congress will get an exclusive look at new research and insights shaping the future
... Show Full Article
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Aug. 15 -- The Health and Fitness Association (formerly the International Health Racquet and Sportsclub Association) issued the following news release:
* * *
2026 HFA European Congress to Showcase New Research Shaping the Future of Fitness
Industry executives from Armah Sports, David Lloyd Leisure, Third Space, Total Fitness, and more will take the stage in London this September for the event put on by the Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA).
-
Attendees at the 2026 HFA European Congress will get an exclusive look at new research and insights shaping the futureof the fitness industry, including the 2026 HFA Global Report, new findings on GLP-1s and exercise, and a preview of the industry's largest global retention study.
Taking place September 24-26 at London Stadium in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and presented in partnership with ukactive and hosted locally by EVOLVE founder David Minton, the Congress will bring together senior executives, researchers, healthcare leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across Europe and beyond for two days of education, connection, and insights.
"This year's program reflects the incredible evolution of our industry," said Greta Wagner, interim president and CEO of the Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA). "We're bringing together leaders from fitness, healthcare, technology, research, and business who are tackling the biggest opportunities facing our industry today--from AI and healthcare integration to leadership development and global market growth. These conversations will give attendees practical insights they can immediately apply while helping shape the future of our industry together."
As part of the event, HFA will unveil the 2026 HFA Global Report, providing new data and analysis on more than 30 commercial fitness markets worldwide. Attendees will also hear the latest thinking on GLP-1s and exercise, get a preview of HFA's forthcoming Global Retention Benchmark Report, and explore new insights and research on the UK market.
The Congress features two keynote presentations. Keepme.ai Founder and CEO Ian Mullane will present an inside look at how AI agents are transforming the operations of one of the world's fastest-growing gym businesses and allowing employees to spend more time with members. His keynote is sponsored by Keepme.ai.
Alistair Brownlee, two-time Olympic triathlon champion, entrepreneur, and investor, will offer the second keynote, sharing what separates organizations that keep pace from those that shape the future, and why leadership, adaptability, and a winning mindset will define the next era of the fitness industry.
Beyond the keynote stage, attendees will hear from an accomplished lineup of executives and thought leaders representing some of the fitness, wellness, healthcare, and business sectors' most influential organizations, including David Lloyd Leisure, Fitness First, Lift Brands EMEA, NRG Gym Limited, Obesity Coaching Academy, Retention Guru, the Royal College of General Practitioners, Third Space Group, Urban Gym Group, and more.
Other highlights of this year's Congress include:
* A panel featuring executives from leading European operators sharing lessons on entrepreneurship, investment, and organizational growth.
* Networking opportunities at the Opening Reception.
* A new Women's Networking Summit, hosted in conjunction with The Collective.
* The Sponsor Marketplace where some of the industry's top suppliers are available for one-on-one conversations.
* Two options for guided tours of some of London's most innovative health clubs and fitness studios. Tours occur on September 26 for an additional fee.
View the full conference agenda here (https://hub.healthandfitness.org/european-congress-schedule?utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--mP0eANltltqe_JyLBYA_LwYAUee7Q6X-Zbq9W9SIw5rDz1y02jqLcOAeSvsiGqMuuD4rl), and learn more about this year's speakers here.
Register here (https://mcibrussels-pco.swoogo.com/hfa2026?utm_campaign=24509784-26EC&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--mP0eANltltqe_JyLBYA_LwYAUee7Q6X-Zbq9W9SIw5rDz1y02jqLcOAeSvsiGqMuuD4rl).
Sponsors of the event are Keepme.ai, Matrix, Wellhub, Kisi, Urban Sports Club, Balanced Body, Gantner, TaylorMadeDesigns, Geometrik, and PerfectGym.
* * *
About the Health & Fitness Association
The Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA), a global community of industry leaders, is the only worldwide trade association providing a unified voice for the community of leaders who operate health and fitness facilities, offer professional guidance on physical activity, and provide the tools and equipment to do so to the millions of fitness facility members who understand that exercise improves their physical and mental health. Through advocacy, education, and research, the association speaks to opportunities, challenges, and changes that are moving the industry into a new era.
Founded in 1981, the association publishes a monthly magazine, Health & Fitness Business, and operates The HFA Show tab, the HFA European Congress, and the Fly-In and Advocacy Summit. The association also partners on events around the world, including Fitness Brasil, ChinaFit, and Wellness & Fitness LATAM. Follow the Health & Fitness Association on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTubeopens .
* * *
Original text here: https://www.healthandfitness.org/2026-hfa-european-congress-to-showcase-new-research-shaping-the-future-of-fitness/
[Category: Health Care]
Nuclear Energy Institute Issues Commentary: Culture and Climate Converge at U.S. WIN
WASHINGTON, Aug. 14 -- The Nuclear Energy Institute issued the following commentary on Aug. 13, 2026, by Lucas Johnson, digital content and communications manager:
* * *
Culture and Climate Converge at U.S. WIN
Every year since 1999, folks from all over the nuclear energy industry converge for the U.S. Women in Nuclear (WIN) National Conference. It's one of the best weeks of the year, and that's not even because it's where folks from all over the country end up singing karaoke together. It's because it is where we highlight the important work being done by women in this industry as well as bring
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Aug. 14 -- The Nuclear Energy Institute issued the following commentary on Aug. 13, 2026, by Lucas Johnson, digital content and communications manager:
* * *
Culture and Climate Converge at U.S. WIN
Every year since 1999, folks from all over the nuclear energy industry converge for the U.S. Women in Nuclear (WIN) National Conference. It's one of the best weeks of the year, and that's not even because it's where folks from all over the country end up singing karaoke together. It's because it is where we highlight the important work being done by women in this industry as well as bringtogether the industry's leaders, thinkers, and doers to accelerate careers, expand networks, and shape the future of nuclear energy. The conference is put on every year by U.S. WIN, whose mission is to position the United States for the future of nuclear energy and technology.
This year the conference was in Seattle, WA! While Seattle is thought of as always cloudy and rainy, it was sunny all week. The smell of wildfire smoke lingering in the air outside was an interesting backdrop for this conference as it set the constant reminder that we are in the middle of a climate crisis. With the global temperature on the rise and longer dry periods in many parts of the world, forest fires have become significantly more common and more dangerous across the globe. That's why nuclear energy and its place in the clean energy transition are so important--which makes the work of Women in Nuclear all the more necessary.
If you're wondering about what happened at the conference itself, the answer is: A LOT! The opening plenary discussed the strategic partnership behind the Cascade Advanced Energy Facility. This was important scene setting, as we learned about how the host state was moving towards their clean energy future. From there, sessions covered anything and everything. There were culture tracks, professional development tracks, and so much more.
An important part of the culture tracks was a session exploring how Indigenous values can shape a more just and sustainable energy future. Centered on the principles of reciprocity, Tribal sovereignty, and Seven Generation thinking, the discussion highlighted the intentional role that nuclear energy can play in supporting resilient communities while honoring cultural stewardship of the land. Native Nuclear partnered with WIN to bring local Indigenous elders, students, and artisans into the conference to share their knowledge and inspire connections.
Ironically, the timing of this conference dovetailed nicely with recent conversations around nuclear energy in the Pacific Northwest. First Nations in British Columbia have been studying nuclear technologies as they think about the best ways to provide clean and reliable energy to their lands.
WIN isn't just a fun acronym or an opportunity to hang out with fun folks for a week, it's a way for us to learn and grow. Hope to see even more folks at the conference next year. And if you want to learn more about U.S. WIN the organization, you should check out their website!
* * *
Original text here: https://www.nei.org/news/culture-and-climate-converge-at-us-win
[Category: Energy]
National Marine Manufacturers Association: Access to Public Waterways Benefits Boaters, Businesses and Communities
CHICAGO, Illinois, Aug. 14 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
* * *
Access to Public Waterways Benefits Boaters, Businesses and Communities
*
With the summer boating season in full swing, NMMA continues to underscore the importance of preserving public water access for wakesurfing and other forms of responsible on-water recreation.
Access matters to the communities and businesses that depend on recreational boating. Across the country, boating drives economic activity for manufacturers, dealers, marinas, service providers,
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, Aug. 14 [Category: Business] -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association posted the following news release:
* * *
Access to Public Waterways Benefits Boaters, Businesses and Communities
*
With the summer boating season in full swing, NMMA continues to underscore the importance of preserving public water access for wakesurfing and other forms of responsible on-water recreation.
Access matters to the communities and businesses that depend on recreational boating. Across the country, boating drives economic activity for manufacturers, dealers, marinas, service providers,tourism businesses and waterfront communities. Together, these businesses contribute $230 billion in annual economic impact and support 812,558 jobs nationwide. During the summer months, access to public lakes and rivers is particularly important to small businesses and local economies that benefit from strong participation in outdoor recreation.
Wakesurfing is a family-friendly, multigenerational activity that brings people together on the water. Typically enjoyed at speeds of 10-12 mph, the sport is accessible across ages and skill levels, offering families another way to experience boating and water sports together.
NMMA supports practical, science-informed policies that preserve public water access while promoting safe, responsible boating. Statewide regulations informed by research, paired with robust boater education, can address concerns while allowing wakesurfers and other waterway users to safely enjoy shared waters. NMMA also supports the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators' recommendation that wakesurfing occur at least 200 feet from shore. Commonsense operating practices-including maintaining appropriate distances, minimizing repetitive passes and respecting other waterway users-can help promote safety and responsible boating.
Public water access is about more than any one activity. Balanced policies help ensure America's waterways remain open for recreation while sustaining the businesses and communities connected to recreational boating.
NMMA will continue working with policymakers, boating safety experts and industry stakeholders to advance education-first, research-informed policies that preserve access and promote safe, responsible recreation for current and future generations.
***
Original text here: https://www.nmma.org/press/article/25600
NAIFA Past President Nelson to Receive the Life Insurance Industry's Highest Honor
FALLS CHURCH, Virginia, Aug. 14 [Category: Insurance] -- The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors issued the following news release:
* * *
NAIFA Past President Robert M. Nelson to Receive the Life Insurance Industry's Highest Honor
*
Robert M. Nelson, CLU, LUTCF, FSS, of Omaha, Nebraska, has been selected as the 2026 John Newton Russell Memorial Award recipient. The award is the highest honor accorded by the insurance industry to a living individual who has rendered outstanding services to the institution of life insurance and will be presented to Nelson at NAIFA's Belong
... Show Full Article
FALLS CHURCH, Virginia, Aug. 14 [Category: Insurance] -- The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors issued the following news release:
* * *
NAIFA Past President Robert M. Nelson to Receive the Life Insurance Industry's Highest Honor
*
Robert M. Nelson, CLU, LUTCF, FSS, of Omaha, Nebraska, has been selected as the 2026 John Newton Russell Memorial Award recipient. The award is the highest honor accorded by the insurance industry to a living individual who has rendered outstanding services to the institution of life insurance and will be presented to Nelson at NAIFA's BelongAwards Celebration on November 9 in Las Vegas.
Nelson entered the insurance business in 1973 and joined the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), then known as NALU, the same year. He served NAIFA in leadership positions on the local, state, and national levels and was NAIFA's National President during the 2001-2002 association year. The September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States occurred during the annual conference when Nelson was elected NAIFA President, and he provided steady and calm leadership while attendees were stranded far from home. Nelson's credibility was increased by his Navy Intelligence career spanning 27 years, with four years of active duty service and 23 years in the Navy reserves. Nelson retired as a Navy Captain.
"It is fitting that Bob Nelson is joining the ranks of John Newton Russell Memorial Award honorees," said NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE. "His service to NAIFA and dedication to financial success of his clients for more than 50 years is awe-inspiring. Whether in his capacity as a volunteer leader or financial professional, Bob has dedicated his life to ensuring the success and wellbeing of others. He epitomizes, at the highest level, the great work being done by NAIFA members and servant-leaders."
In 1993 Nelson chaired a national task force to reform sales illustrations. Over three years, he testified 13 times at regulatory meetings and in front of the U.S. Senate, resulting in all 50 states changing their laws and adopting the joint task force's major recommendations, including improved consumer reporting.
Nelson is an accomplished speaker on agent productivity and developed a "20-point day" system that he has presented to tens of thousands of agents in all 50 states and overseas. He has personally mentored dozens of agents and advisors through his association with the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT). In his career Nelson has written over $1 billion worth of individual life insurance in addition to building a full- service financial services firm, Nelson Murphy Insurance & Investments, LLC.
Nelson has received numerous awards throughout his career, including NAIFA-Omaha Agent of the Year (1991), NAIFA-Omaha Hall of Fame (2003), NAIFA-Nebraska's Distinguished Service Lifetime Achievement Award (2004), and induction into the NAIFA-National Hall of Fame (2025). Nelson was the founding President of his Rotary Club almost 50 years ago and was the first recipient of Northwest Omaha's Distinguished Rotarian Award. In 2017, Nelson was inducted into his high school Hall of Fame (Omaha North High School).
Nelson served as a founding member on the Board and Executive Committee of the Omaha First Responder's Foundation. He created a scholarship program for high school seniors with parents who are first responders and personally raised over $750,000 to endow it.
"Bob Nelson provided leadership that guided NAIFA through times that were difficult not just for our association, but for our profession and the entire nation," said Bryon Holz, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, CASL, LACP, Chair of the John Newton Russell Memorial Award Selection Committee. "Nelson always focused on improving our industry and the success of his fellow financial professions. He did this by serving as an expert speaker, trusted mentor, and influential political advocate. On behalf of the award selection committee, congratulations, Bob, on this much deserved honor."
John Henry Russell created the John Newton Russell Memorial Award in 1942 as a tribute to his father, an influential leader in the life insurance industry and an early advocate of agent education. John Newton Russell served as NAIFA (then NALU) president from 1916 to 1917 and was a contributing founder of LIMRA International, The American College, and the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) designation.
***
Original text here: https://at.naifa.org/naifa-past-president-robert-m.-nelson-to-receive-the-life-insurance-industrys-highest-honor?hsLang=en
ICYMI: AIA's Eric Fanning Joins NewsNation to Discuss Munitions Production
ARLINGTON, Virginia, Aug. 14 [Category: Aerospace] -- The Aerospace Industries Association posted the following news release:
* * *
ICYMI: AIA's Eric Fanning Joins NewsNation to Discuss Munitions Production
*
Arlington, Va. - In case you missed it, AIA President and CEO Eric Fanning joined NewsNation's Alicia Nieves on The Hill with Blake Burman to discuss reports of munitions shortages amid the conflict in Iran, Deputy Secretary Feinberg's memo to industry urging a ramp-up in weapons production, and budget uncertainty on Capitol Hill.
Fanning underscored the importance of fully funding the
... Show Full Article
ARLINGTON, Virginia, Aug. 14 [Category: Aerospace] -- The Aerospace Industries Association posted the following news release:
* * *
ICYMI: AIA's Eric Fanning Joins NewsNation to Discuss Munitions Production
*
Arlington, Va. - In case you missed it, AIA President and CEO Eric Fanning joined NewsNation's Alicia Nieves on The Hill with Blake Burman to discuss reports of munitions shortages amid the conflict in Iran, Deputy Secretary Feinberg's memo to industry urging a ramp-up in weapons production, and budget uncertainty on Capitol Hill.
Fanning underscored the importance of fully funding thegovernment and not relying on continuing resolutions to build capacity and expand production, calling it the most "critical element" of being able to deliver for the warfighter.
"The most critical element of that is the U.S. defense budget. And we're about to have our 15th year out of 16 where we start a fiscal year without a defense budget."
Fanning also emphasized that industry is continuing to invest, despite headwinds on Capitol Hill, which is resulting in quicker deliveries.
"Industry is investing. Capital expenditure investments have gone up year over year in a pretty remarkable way, and timelines are shortening."
Finally, Fanning called on the need for both new and legacy systems to help the United States maintain our asymmetric advantage over our adversaries.
"The answer is almost always both. We need the legacy systems. They're proven. They do a good job, but we always need to be investing in what's next."
You can watch the full interview here.
***
Original text here: https://www.aia-aerospace.org/news/icymi-aias-eric-fanning-joins-newsnation-to-discuss-munitions-production/
BSA Calls for Workable, Risk-Based AI Rules in California
WASHINGTON, Aug. 14 -- The Business Software Alliance issued the following news release:
* * *
BSA Calls for Workable, Risk-Based AI Rules in California
BSA Head of US State Government Relations David London issued the following statement after the California State Legislature's appropriations committees advanced SB 813, AB 1405, AB 1609, and SB 947 out of suspense files:
BSA supports strong, risk-based AI governance that protects people and gives companies clear, workable obligations.
SB 813 and AB 1405 put the cart before the horse by creating a California-specific AI auditing and standards
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, Aug. 14 -- The Business Software Alliance issued the following news release:
* * *
BSA Calls for Workable, Risk-Based AI Rules in California
BSA Head of US State Government Relations David London issued the following statement after the California State Legislature's appropriations committees advanced SB 813, AB 1405, AB 1609, and SB 947 out of suspense files:
BSA supports strong, risk-based AI governance that protects people and gives companies clear, workable obligations.
SB 813 and AB 1405 put the cart before the horse by creating a California-specific AI auditing and standardsregime before the infrastructure needed to support it exists. AI standards are still developing through national and international efforts, and California should build on that work rather than create a separate regime that adds fragmentation.
BSA also opposes AB 1609 on AI call centers and SB 947 on AI employment decisions, both of which would impose additional California-specific requirements that risk creating unnecessary complexity for businesses developing and deploying AI responsibly.
AI transparency requirements must be workable. California should focus on proven, risk-based accountability measures and reject SB 813 and AB 1405 in favor of clear, interoperable rules that protect consumers and reflect the distinct roles of AI developers and deployers.
* * *
ABOUT BSA
The Business Software Alliance (www.bsa.org) is the global trade association of the enterprise software industry, representing companies that are leaders in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, quantum, and other breakthrough technologies. We work in over 20 markets in the US, Europe, and Asia, advocating for policies that build trust in technology so that every industry sector and the public can benefit from innovation.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.bsa.org/news-events/news/bsa-calls-for-workable-risk-based-ai-rules-in-california
[Category: Business]
ACA Connects Applauds FCC Report on Competitive Broadband Marketplace
PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania, Aug. 14 [Category: Telecommunications] -- ACA Connects (America's Communications Association) posted the following news release:
* * *
ACA Connects Applauds FCC Report on Competitive Broadband Marketplace
*
August 14, 2026-In response to the FCC today releasing its annual Section 706 Report that found there is "intense competition benefitting consumers" in the communications marketplace, America's Communications Association issued the following statement.
"Today's 706 report confirms what independent operators already know - the broadband marketplace is highly competitive,
... Show Full Article
PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania, Aug. 14 [Category: Telecommunications] -- ACA Connects (America's Communications Association) posted the following news release:
* * *
ACA Connects Applauds FCC Report on Competitive Broadband Marketplace
*
August 14, 2026-In response to the FCC today releasing its annual Section 706 Report that found there is "intense competition benefitting consumers" in the communications marketplace, America's Communications Association issued the following statement.
"Today's 706 report confirms what independent operators already know - the broadband marketplace is highly competitive,provides enormous value to consumers, and is rapidly expanding to unserved and underserved communities thanks to billions in private investment," said Grant Spellmeyer, President and CEO of America's Communications Association. "A balanced regulatory regime is critical to this success. By adopting permitting reform and other regulatory updates that streamline deployment, the FCC can empower providers to continue meeting the communications needs of tens of millions of Americans."
Related Filing:
FCC Comments re Office of Economics and Analytics Seeks Comment on the State of Competition in the Communications Marketplace
America's Communications Association (ACA Connects) is a trade organization representing approximately 500 small and medium-sized, independent companies that provide high-speed internet, video, phone, and mobile services covering 29 million households. ACA Connects members operate in every state, providing advanced communications to connect homes, companies, main street, schools, hospitals and more. America's economic prosperity in smaller communities and rural areas depends on the growth and success of independent operators, who believe a connected nation is a prosperous nation. For more information, visit www.acaconnects.org.
***
Original text here: https://acaconnects.org/press-releases/aca-connects-applauds-fcc-report-on-competitive-broadband-marketplace/
