sHq_LoGiNz – Page 2

South Mountain Creamery Expands Holiday Turkey Donation Drive to Feed Families Across the Mid-Atlantic

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

Creamery to double donations made during Black Friday–Cyber Monday weekend

MIDDLETOWN, Md., Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — South Mountain Creamery (SMC), a family-owned and operated farm and creamery based in Middletown, Maryland, is kicking off its annual Holiday Turkey Donation Drive – aiming to provide 600 farm-fresh turkeys to families in need across Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina.

To maximize community impact this season, SMC is raising the bar. Their goal has grown from 500 donated turkeys in 2024 to 600 in 2025. Every donation made between Black Friday and Cyber Monday (November 28–December 1) will be matched by the creamery, doubling the impact and ensuring more families have a hearty meal on their table this holiday season.

Donations will be distributed through trusted community partners, including:

Maryland

Schools in the Area
Frederick Rescue Mission
Maryland Food Bank
Martha’s Table

Virginia

Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore

North Carolina

Good News/Buenas Nuevas International Ministry

“Our annual Thanksgiving drive is one of our favorite traditions,” said Tony Brusco, CEO of South Mountain Creamery. “It’s a way for us—and our customers—to share good food and goodwill. We believe that everyone deserves to sit down to a nourishing meal with family and friends during the holidays.”

Customers can contribute in several ways:

Current home delivery customers can add a donation turkey to any South Mountain Creamery home delivery order.
Visit one of South Mountain Creamery’s retail locations, or the Baltimore 32nd Street Farmers Market, to purchase a donation turkey in person.

Turkeys for the donation drive are sourced from Sensenig Turkey Farm in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania—a family-run farm dedicated to raising quality, humanely-raised poultry with care. This partnership ensures that every donation simultaneously strengthens the local farming community. For SMC, community support extends to both the families receiving a nourishing holiday meal and the farm families producing it.

In addition to supporting local food banks, South Mountain Creamery also provides each employee with a complimentary Thanksgiving turkey as a gesture of gratitude for their hard work throughout the year.

“Community has always been at the heart of what we do,” said Brusco. “From our team members to our customers to the families receiving these donations, we’re all connected. This drive is a reflection of that shared commitment to care for one another.”

SMC is accepting Turkey Donations now through November 30, 2025. In addition to fresh turkeys, customers can also pre-order chef-prepared sides, fresh-baked desserts, and classic holiday favorites for their own holiday meals through South Mountain Creamery’s online shop.

For more information or to donate, visit www.southmountaincreamery.com.

About South Mountain Creamery
South Mountain Creamery is Maryland’s first on-the-farm dairy processing plant starting operation in 2001. They own and farm roughly 3,000 acres in Frederick County where they milk around 600 dairy cows including Holstein and Jersey breeds. South Mountain Creamery provides a home delivery service consisting of an online farmers market that delivers to nearly 10,000 customers across Maryland, DC, Northern and Southeast Virginia, and parts of West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and North Carolina. You can also find South Mountain Creamery products in over 1000 stores from Vermont to the Carolinas.

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SOURCE South Mountain Creamery

INTERGENERATIONAL DUO THE 456 RELEASES DEBUT EP LIFE ON THE HEAD OF A PIN, FEATURING DAVE EGGAR

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

NYC-based Grammy-Nominee David Wolfert and Canadian Singer-Songwriter Natasha Alexandra (NLX) Blend Indie Folk and Personal Vulnerability on Emotional New Work

NEW YORK, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — THE 456, the compelling transatlantic duo comprised of New York’s David Wolfert (a Grammy and Emmy-nominated composer/producer) and Hamilton, Ontario’s Natasha Alexandra (NLX), today release their EP Life On The Head Of A Pin. The five-song collection is a sonic statement shaped by the aftermath of profound personal heartbreak, offering listeners a journey from emotional catastrophe to grounded hope.

The collaboration, which began serendipitously 15 years ago at The Living Room in Manhattan, sees the “creative odd couple” operating across THE 456 miles that separate their home studios. Wolfert, whose songwriting credits include icons like Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton, and Cher, joins forces with Alexandra, whose honest, raw lyrical style anchors the project’s emotional depth.

Life On The Head Of A Pin
explores themes of love, heartbreak, vulnerability, and the decision to move forward after a crisis. As Alexandra notes, “The wonderful thing about writing from the heart is once you get over feeling too vulnerable, you begin to realize how many of us are balancing Life On The Head Of A Pin. It’s when we share our own truth that we create connections and bridges to a kinder, more grounded place.”

The EP is a masterclass in production, crafted at Wolfert’s New York studio. It features Alexandra on vocals and piano, Wolfert on guitar, bass, and programming, with the notable addition of world-renowned cellist Dave Eggar, famous for his work on Paul Simon’s projects and Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida.”

Track-By-Track Emotional Journey

The new record takes the listener on a full-circle emotional journey across its five tracks:

‘

GROUND

‘ sets the tone as the lead single, deceptively simple at first, it builds into a powerful sonic statement about finding stability.
‘

TORNADO

‘ is the steady calm in the eye of the storm. The song, which lends its core lyric to the album’s title, explores the idea that “getting swept up in a tornado isn’t such a bad idea” compared to the mess of trying to piece things back together.
‘

HONEST

‘ takes no prisoners, articulating the difficult truths often left unsaid in the aftermath of a relationship.
‘LOST ME IN YOU’ serves as the reflective last dance.
‘SAD SONG’ ties the collection off with a playful ribbon, concluding the emotional narrative.

EP Release Live Performance

THE 456 will celebrate the EP release with a launch show next week.

EP Release Show: Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Pete’s Candy Store, Brooklyn, NY.

About THE 456

THE 456 is the collaboration between David Wolfert (NYC) and Natasha Alexandra (Hamilton, ON). Wolfert’s extensive production and composition career includes collaborations with Rod Stewart, Bette Midler, Elton John, and Aretha Franklin. Alexandra (NLX) has been noted for her honest songwriting, with her music featured on ABC’s “Brothers & Sisters.” Their partnership, defined by their mutual respect for emotional honesty and dedication to crafting enduring songs, has resulted in two select bodies of work over 15 years: the 2021 album Simple Songs and the new EP, Life On The Head Of A Pin.

Connect with THE 456

Website: https://www.the456music.com
Linktree (All Social/Streaming): https://linktr.ee/The456
Instagram: @The456Music
Spotify: The 456 Artist Page Link

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SOURCE THE 456

Keysight Named One of the 100 Best Corporate Citizens of 2025!

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

by Marwa Fatnassi, CSR Disclosure and Storytelling Manager

I’m excited to share a moment of pride and purpose: Keysight Technologies has been ranked #10 overall on 3BL’s 2025 100 Best Corporate Citizens list, and #4 in the Technology Hardware & Equipment industry!

This marks Keysight’s third consecutive year on the list – an achievement that reflects the company’s unwavering dedication to responsible innovation, inclusive growth, and sustainable impact. The 100 Best Corporate Citizens ranking, developed by 3BL in partnership with ISS, evaluates the 1,000 largest publicly traded US companies across 219 metrics spanning seven foundational pillars.

For me, being part of a company recognized among the top corporate citizens is deeply empowering. It’s a testament to the values we live by: integrity, responsibility, and purpose, and a reminder that the work we do every day contributes to something far greater than ourselves.

A Purpose-Driven Journey

Keysight’s continued rise in the rankings is not just about numbers – it’s about living our company values and leading with intention. Here are some examples of actions that support company’s citizenship efforts.

Empowering People to Thrive

When people are empowered, organizations flourish. Keysight cultivates a workplace where respect, growth, and ethical responsibility are at the heart of everything we do. This year, the company made a remarkable leap in the Employees pillar – from #46 to #10 – by expanding employee network groups to foster opportunities for all, enhancing flexible work arrangements to support well-being, and investing in continuous learning and career development.

Accelerating Climate Leadership

Keysight continues to help shape a sustainable future through action and transparent accountability. Our climate strategy is rooted in science, innovation, and a deep sense of responsibility. We’ve implemented energy efficiency initiatives across our global sites, maintained rigorous reporting on scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, and finalized a 39 MW virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) that is projected to generate enough renewable electricity to match 100% of our electricity consumption in our U.S. and Canada operations. These efforts are part of our broader commitment to achieving net zero emissions in company operations by 2040 and contributing to a more sustainable planet.

Creating Impact That Lasts

We believe in the power of education, technology, and community engagement to uplift lives and inspire future changemakers. Our social impact efforts are designed to create ripple effects that extend far beyond our business. In fiscal year 2024, Keysight invested over $295 million in community programs, STEM education, and university partnerships, including reaching 4.4 million students worldwide with hands-on learning opportunities. Our employees also contributed 1,225 volunteer hours, demonstrating our culture of service and our belief that giving back is essential to building a more resilient society.

Why This Recognition Matters

Being named one of the 100 Best Corporate Citizens is more than an honor, it’s a celebration of Keysight’s values in action.

I’m honored to work at a company recognized as a Best Corporate Citizen and am even more inspired to help keep pushing boundaries, raising standards, and creating a future that’s resilient, regenerative, and prosperous.

To learn more about the methodology behind the ranking, visit Home – 3BL

To learn more about CSR Performances, visit Corporate Social Responsibility | Keysight

African Fashion Foundation launches Its 2025 African Fashion Futures Incubator to accelerate the future of Africa’s Creative Economy

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

ACCRA, Ghana, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The African Fashion Foundation (AFF) has officially launched the second cohort of its African Fashion Futures Incubator (AFFI-II’25), an initiative designed to accelerate the growth of Africa’s creative economy by equipping emerging and established designers with the resources to scale sustainable enterprises.

Guided by AFF’s mission to nurture Africa’s creative ecosystem, AFFI-II’25 provides financial, advisory, marketing, and logistical support, while fostering cultural exchange, peer learning, and business development. Designers in the programme will showcase their collections at international platforms including ASOHOM and The Industry Retreat in October, LA Fashion Week, Ivory Coast in December, and London Fashion Week in February 2026 in partnership with Medusa Fashion House.

The incubator is delivered through the Impact Fund for African Creatives (IFFAC), supported by Annan Capital Partners (ACP), and benefits from strategic partnerships such as the Digital Fashion Academy (DFA), which offers digital and e-commerce education tailored to the fashion and luxury sector.

This year’s cohort features 15 designers from across Africa, including:

African Yuva (Kenya)

Afrowema (Kenya)

Bloombyedzi (Ghana)

Complex Department (Ghana)

February by Serwaa (Ghana)

Izubaa (Rwanda)

Izulu (Kenya)

Kezem (Rwanda)

Kondo (Togo)

Lines by Chaab (Nigeria)

Maison Inkindi (Rwanda)

Matheo (Rwanda)

Native1018 (Rwanda)

Quinstree (Sierra Leone)

Victoria Grace (Benin).

Roberta Annan

, Founder of AFF, emphasized that the incubator is “shaping resilient enterprises that can drive long-term value for Africa’s creative economy,” positioning AFF as a convener of ecosystem players and a promoter of collaboration between African and global stakeholders.

“Through education and digital innovation, our partnership with AFFI empowers young entrepreneurs to shape Africa’s fashion future and connect with global best practices.” Enrico

Fantaguzzi, CEO and Founder of the Digital Fashion Academy.

“Our partnership with the African Fashion Foundation at London Fashion Week 2026 celebrates diversity and creativity, showcasing African talent on a global stage where heritage meets innovation.” Sonal Jindal, Founder, Medusa Fashion House.

“It has been my pleasure to photograph the amazingly creative group of designers that AFF
supports from across Africa. Their diverse and innovative designs are a testament to the
creativity that Africa brings to the global fashion industry.” Robert Owen-Jones.

“The African Fashion Foundation is creating powerful platforms that showcase Africa’s rich creative traditions to the world, fostering collaboration across the arts and advancing the continent’s creative ecosystem.” Malaika Uwamahoro

“African fashion is a vehicle for sustainability and impact, creating jobs, protecting the environment, and shaping a global industry rooted in responsibility and culture. At the UN Global Compact Network Ghana, we believe advancing sustainability in African fashion means advancing jobs, protecting our environment, and shaping a globalindustry that reflects our values.” Tolu Kweku Lacroix- Executive Director, UN Global Compact

Launched at the #ACEL2025 forum in Kigali, AFFI-II’25 reflects AFF’s role in spotlighting African talent while advancing collaboration, investment, and cultural dialogue within the continent’s broader creative economy.

Learn more:

africanfashionfoundation.org

Find out more: https://africanfashionfoundation.org/
Joel-karl@africanfashionfoundation.org
anna.ayemene@africanfashionfoundation.org

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2810344/AFF_Roberta_Annan.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2810345/AFF_Fifteen_designers.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2810442/African_Fashion_AFF.jpg

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SOURCE African Fashion Foundation (AFF)

Miami Beach Honored with Multiple 2025 Magellan Travel Weekly Awards

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

Gold and Silver Recognitions Celebrate the City’s Ongoing Excellence in Marketing, Social Media, and Destination Branding

MIAMI BEACH, Fla., Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority is proud to announce its recognition with five prestigious honors at the 2025 Magellan Travel Weekly Awards, earning four Gold Awards and one Silver Award across key categories. These accolades underscore Miami Beach’s ongoing commitment to executing integrated marketing strategies that elevate the destination’s global profile through creative storytelling, strategic partnerships, and impactful communications.

Over the past year, Miami Beach has continued to evolve its destination marketing approach through multi-channel campaigns and collaborations with leading national media outlets, including Vogue, Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, Saks Fifth Avenue, Today Show,The Knot, and others. These partnerships have amplified Miami Beach’s message to discerning travelers seeking culture, style, and authenticity.

In tandem, the city has partnered with top social content creators to develop dynamic, relatable storytelling that showcases the many sides of Miami Beach — from its iconic art and architecture to its thriving LGBTQ+ community, luxurious accommodations, and world-renowned beaches.

“Our marketing success reflects the power of integration — uniting traditional media, digital storytelling, and influencer collaborations to present Miami Beach as a destination with depth, diversity, and soul,” said Peggy Benua, Chairwoman, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority. “These recognitions affirm the strength of our creative approach and our commitment to engaging audiences in fresh and meaningful ways.”

The 2025 Magellan Travel Weekly Award Wins Include:

GOLD – Destination Marketing: Social Media Campaign for Destinations

Experience Miami Beach – The Art of Miami Beach and Stylish Stays Campaigns
Two integrated campaigns, The Art of Miami Beach and a Stylish Stays on Miami Beach tapped into new verticals in the realms of art and fashion, expanding the social footprint and opportunity for Miami Beach to connect with prospective visitors. These themes were featured on social channels, in direct emails through marquee partner channels and through static outdoor creative installed in high-traffic areas including Port Miami with QR codes to connect to social and visible social handles to follow.
GOLD – United States: Overall Destinations – Beaches for Destinations

Miami Beach – The World’s Most Iconic Beach Destination
Few destinations evoke the energy, beauty, and cultural richness of Miami Beach. With seven miles of unspoiled shoreline, turquoise Atlantic waters, and a seamless blend of natural beauty and architectural charm, Miami Beach has long been a global magnet for beach lovers, celebrities, and cultural travelers alike.
GOLD – United States: Overall Destinations – LGBTQ+ Destination for Destinations

Miami Beach – A Year-Round Icon of LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Celebration
In Miami Beach, pride isn’t seasonal—it’s woven into the city’s identity. From sun-soaked days to neon-lit nights, and from yoga mats to drag brunches, every visitor is welcomed with open arms. It’s more than a vacation—it’s a celebration of being exactly who you are, no matter who you love. The city is deeply engaged with the LGBTQ+ community year-round. The Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority routinely host LGBTQ+ media and influencers to experience the destination firsthand and share authentic stories globally, reinforcing Miami Beach’s reputation as a safe, celebratory destination for all.
GOLD – Destination Marketing: Advertising/Marketing Campaign for Destinations

The Art + Style of Miami Beach Campaign
In the past year, Miami Beach has doubled down on Art + Style to position the destination amongst key audiences. Under the Experience Miami Beach umbrella, integrated campaigns including direct emails, banner ads, social media content, print ads and out of home advertising raised overall awareness of the destination with a concentration on art + style, two segments that resonate across all target segmentations.
SILVER – United States: Overall Destinations – Honeymoon Destination for Destinations

Miami Beach – No. 1 Honeymoon Destination in the U.S.
In 2025, Miami Beach claimed the top spot as the No. 1 Honeymoon Destination in the U.S., according to a nationwide study by Upgraded Points that evaluated 75+ destinations across 15 categories including romantic lodging, activities, and affordability. With a top score of 71.4 out of 100, Miami Beach surpassed classic honeymoon locales like Lake Tahoe and Hawaii by offering a perfect blend of effortless romance, cultural vibrancy, and value.

What sets Miami Beach apart is its inclusivity, accessibility, and diversity of experiences. Whether couples seek boutique sophistication, beachside luxury, or adventure-filled days, Miami Beach delivers.

“We’re honored to be recognized by our peers and fellow travel professionals who comprise the Magellan Awards judging committee,” adds Grisette Roque Marcos, Executive Director, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority. “This recognition celebrates the creativity and collaboration that continue to position Miami Beach as one of the world’s most desirable and inclusive destinations.”

The Magellan Travel Weekly Awards celebrate the best in travel across hospitality, destinations, airlines, and cruise industries. Judged by top travel experts and editors, the awards recognize excellence and innovation in travel marketing and branding worldwide.

These recognitions are on the heels of the launch of the new www.experiencemiamibeach.com web site developed by the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority. The new site experience, now live, includes tailored guides, the latest deals and offerings from destination hotels and restaurants and travel-planning tools to make visiting Miami Beach even easier.

For more information on Miami Beach and upcoming destination initiatives, visit the newly-launched www.experiencemiamibeach.com and follow @ExperienceMiamiBeach Instagram.

For media inquiries, please contact mbvca@privatelabel-marketing.com.

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SOURCE Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority

LRS CEO Matt Spencer Named One of the Nation’s “Best and Brightest CEOs” by the National Association for Business Resources

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

ROSEMONT, Ill., Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LRS is proud to announce that Chief Executive Officer Matt Spencer has been recognized as one of the “Best and Brightest CEOs in the Nation” by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR). This distinguished honor celebrates exceptional leaders across the country who demonstrate excellence in leadership, innovation, and organizational performance.

Spencer was selected following a rigorous evaluation of his leadership and business achievements across multiple categories, including customer relationships, brand trust, financial growth, strategic planning, and people and process management. The recognition reflects his role in guiding LRS through a period of rapid growth, operational transformation, and industry leadership.

“This recognition is a reflection of the entire LRS team and the work we do every day to serve our customers, support our communities, and build a more sustainable future,” said Matt Spencer, CEO of LRS. “I am incredibly proud of how far we have come together and even more excited for what is ahead as we continue to lead with purpose and integrity.”

Under Spencer’s leadership, LRS has become one of the fastest-growing independent waste and recycling companies in North America. His strategic vision has driven significant investments in sustainability, digital transformation, and operational excellence, earning national recognition for innovation and environmental stewardship, including the Exchange Material Recovery Facility being named the Recycling Facility of the Year in 2025.

“Matt’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping LRS into what it is today,” said Robert Rustman, VP of Human Resources at LRS. “He leads with conviction and humility, always putting people, service, and sustainability at the center of every decision.”

The “Best and Brightest CEOs” program honors executives who exemplify excellence in both business strategy and culture, setting a benchmark for leadership across industries. The full list of honorees will be featured in the January/February 2026 issue of Corp! Magazine.

About LRS

LRS is among the nation’s leading independent waste diversion, recycling and portable services providers. Since 2013, LRS has specialized in delivering an exceptional customer experience for millions of residential and commercial customers across seven states: Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Kansas, Arkansas. Diversified and growing, LRS also offers affordable roll-off container services, C&D recycling and portable restroom rentals. LRS owns and operates more than 70 facilities and thrives on the passion of nearly 2,300 full-time employees. LRS has earned numerous accolades for its success, including being named in Crain’s Chicago Business’ Fast 50, NABR’s Best and Brightest lists across the Midwest, and receiving the NWRA Facility of the Year award for its newest MRF, The Exchange. The company provides safe, innovative, sustainability-driven services to clean and beautify the cities, neighborhoods, and communities it serves. To learn more visit www.LRSrecycles.com

MEDIA CONTACT:
Michelle Sklodowski
msklowdowski@lrsrecycles.com

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SOURCE LRS

Action Against Hunger Warns of Humanitarian Catastrophe in El Fasher

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

Published by Action Against Hunger.

Contact media@actionagainsthunger.org for inquiries.

October 31, 2025 /3BL/ – Violence has drastically escalated in El Fasher, North Darfur in recent days. Hundreds of thousands of civilians and local responders who remain trapped in the city face heightened protection risks and increasingly limited access to lifesaving assistance. Those who attempt to flee to neighboring areas such as Tawila face perilous journeys: civilians have reportedly been detained and attacked while attempting to flee and along routes to safe locations. Many displaced persons arriving in Tawila are dehydrated, malnourished, injured, and traumatized. The likelihood of sexual violence against women and girls remains extremely high.

Samy Guessabi, the Country Director of Action Against Hunger Sudan, said: “The scale of displacement, protection risks, and humanitarian needs in El Fasher and neighboring areas is massive. All parties to the conflict must respect their obligations to protect civilians. It is imperative to secure protection and safe passage for civilians, scaled-up funding, and sustained access.”

Action Against Hunger is finalizing preparations to deploy two mobile health and nutrition clinics in Tawila. Action Against Hunger teams are also preparing to launch activities to address the acute gender-based violence (GBV) risks faced by displaced populations, including prevention, case referral, and community engagement and awareness-raising through community-based protection networks (CBPNs).

Action Against Hunger urgently calls upon the international community to urgently increase diplomatic efforts to ensure the protection of civilians remaining in El Fasher and safe passage for civilians fleeing, the protection of humanitarian responders, and sustained humanitarian access to El Fasher and surrounding areas. Action Against Hunger also calls upon donors to scale up flexible funding to expand critical humanitarian operations and support local responders.

***

Action Against Hunger leads the global movement to end hunger. We innovate solutions, advocate for change, and reach 26.5 million people every year with proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. As a nonprofit that works across over 55 countries, our 8,500+ dedicated staff members partner with communities to address the root causes of hunger, including climate change, conflict, inequity, and emergencies. We strive to create a world free from hunger, for everyone, for good.

Aflac Voices — Jamie Lee: Preventing Burnout and a Call to Action for Employers

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

As a senior leader in HR, I’ve spent my career focused on one central truth: Our people are our greatest asset. But today, that asset is under strain. According to the 2025-2026 Aflac WorkForces Report, burnout among American workers has reached a seven-year high, with nearly 3 in 4 employees (72%) reporting moderate to very high stress levels. That’s not just a statistic — it’s a wake-up call.

Burnout isn’t just about long hours or tight deadlines. It’s a complex issue driven by heavy workloads, financial stress, caregiving responsibilities and a growing sense of uncertainty. Gen Z, in particular, is feeling the pressure, with 74% reporting burnout, surpassing millennials (66%).

So, what can we do? Here are five actionable strategies I believe every organization should consider to help create environments where people can thrive, not just survive:

1. Make mental health support visible and intentional.

According to the 2025-2026 Aflac WorkForces Report, only 48% of employees believe their employer genuinely cares about their mental health — a drop from 54% in 2024. That perception gap matters. Employees who feel unsupported are more likely to disengage, burn out or leave. We must build mental health into the fabric of our culture by offering flexible schedules, adequate PTO and access to self-care resources. But it doesn’t stop there — as HR professionals, we should actively remind and encourage employees to take advantage of these programs. And we should empower the people leaders in our organizations with the information they need to point their team members in the right direction.

2. Communicate benefits clearly and often.

We are in the middle of open enrollment season, so it’s a good time to remind ourselves that benefits are only valuable if employees understand and use them. Yet, according to the report, only 42% of employees feel confident in understanding their health insurance policies, and 69% wish their organizations provided more information about their benefits. Let’s rethink how we communicate — using plain language, regular touchpoints and personalized guidance to ensure our teams feel informed and empowered. For example, at my company, we spend the weeks leading up to open enrollment hosting webinars, publishing content and sending internal reminders about the benefits available to employees so that on the first day of open enrollment, they can log in prepared to make any adjustments needed.

3. Address financial fragility head on.

Burnout isn’t just emotional — it’s also financial. More than 44% of employees say they couldn’t afford a $1,000 out-of-pocket medical expense, and 52% report anxiety about health care costs not covered by insurance. This “medanxiety” is especially high among Gen Z and underserved communities. Supplemental insurance can help fill these gaps — only 34% of employers offer it, yet 90% of employees say it’s needed. Employers can also provide financial wellness programs that include budgeting tools, debt management resources and access to financial advisors to help employees feel more in control of their finances, save for medical expenses and, in turn, significantly reduce stress.

4. Foster a culture of belonging.

Here’s one of the most powerful insights from the report: Employees who feel they belong experience significantly less stress (30% vs. 56%) and lower burnout (55% vs. 78%) than those who don’t. Belonging helps boost satisfaction, engagement and retention. It’s not about perks — it’s about purpose, and it starts at the top. When leaders prioritize celebrating and recognizing their workforce, they send the message that they value their employees, not just the work they do for the organization. Hearing from senior leaders about the importance of creating a culture of belonging — and seeing them live that value day to day — is essential in encouraging the broader employee population to do the same. Of course, no organization is perfect, even those that have strong cultures. Instead of striving for perfection, it’s more realistic — and effective — to aim for continuous improvement.

5. Listen, learn and lead with empathy.

Burnout won’t be solved by a single policy or program. It requires ongoing dialogue, data-driven decisions and a willingness to adapt. We must listen to our employees, learn from their experiences and lead with empathy. But that responsibility doesn’t sit solely on HR’s shoulders; we must also equip people leaders with the tools to spot early warning signs — like withdrawal, irritability, decreased productivity — respond with compassion and model vulnerability day to day.

Burnout also more than a personal concern — it’s a business issue. It affects productivity, retention and, ultimately, the bottom line. If we want to build resilient organizations, we must start by caring for the people who make them run.

Let’s commit to creating workplaces where well-being isn’t a buzzword — it’s a priority.

The 15^th annual Aflac WorkForces Report provides insight on the state of the American workplace for both employers and employees. The study captures year-over-year trends, attitudes, needs and experiences in health care and benefits administration in workplaces across our country. It also provides interesting data on health and wellness benefits from the perspectives of both employees and employers. The Aflac WorkForces Report, conducted by Kantar on behalf of Aflac, is the result of a survey of thousands of employers and employees across various industries and business sizes in the U.S. Learn more at Aflac.com/AWR.

Aflac’s family of insurers includes Aflac and/or Aflac New York, and/or Continental American Insurance Company and/or Continental American Life Insurance Company.

Aflac WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

Z2501002

EXP 10/26

The Strange Lives of Nature’s Zombies

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

BETHESDA, Md., October 31, 2025 /3BL/ – What if I told you zombies are real? And no, not the ones you see on movie screens. I’m talking about nature’s zombies, real organisms hijacked and controlled by other living things. This phenomenon, often referred to as parasite manipulation, is found in most ecosystems throughout the world. Parasite manipulation can take shape in many forms, from subtle behavioral changes to dramatic transformations that make the host look and act like something out of a horror film.

In these strange relationships, the “zombie” isn’t dead, at least not yet, but it’s no longer in full control of its own body. Tiny fungi, bacteria, and worms can essentially rewrite the host’s brain, forcing it to behave in ways that benefit the parasite rather than the animal itself. A caterpillar might climb to the tip of a plant, paralyzed by a fungus, only to be consumed from within as the fungus spreads its spores. Crickets can be compelled to jump to their grave, where they are then eaten alive by microscopic puppeteers.

Parasites often produce chemicals that mimic or interfere with their host’s natural hormones and neurotransmitters. The result is a perfectly choreographed takeover. The host becomes a tool, unknowingly carrying out the parasite’s reproductive or survival agenda. Unlike fictional zombies, these manipulations are highly specific. Each parasite knows exactly how to influence its host to maximize its own chance of survival, whether that means altering movement or feeding behavior.

But what does this look like in practice? How does a fungus convince an ant to march to its death, or a parasitic worm drive a cricket to take its own life? Scientists still don’t fully understand how these parasites control their hosts, but their mysteries open the door to the strange world of nature’s real-life zombies.

For instance, the fungus Ophiocordyceps, often dubbed the “zombie-ant fungus”, may appear to be just another harmless organism, but its relationship with ants is nothing short of terrifying. The fungus attaches to the body of an ant, secreting enzymes that dissolve the ant’s tough exoskeleton, allowing the fungus to penetrate and begin the infection. Once an ant is infected, the fungus slowly takes over its central nervous system, manipulating it to leave the safety of its colony and aimlessly climb vegetation. Once high enough, the ant clamps down on a leaf or twig in what scientists call a “death grip,” where it ultimately dies as the fungus eats through its body, releasing spores to infect the next unlucky ant.

Another unsettling example comes from Nematomorph hairworm parasites that live inside grasshoppers and crickets. The worm begins its life in water, hatching as a tiny larva that is ingested by small aquatic organisms like aquatic isopods and amphipods. When a cricket or grasshopper ingests one of these small organisms, the worm enters its body and begins a slow-growing invasion. Over the next few months, the long, thin worm grows inside the insect, preparing for reproduction. When the worm reaches maturity, it releases chemicals that literally rewire the cricket’s brain. The cricket suddenly feels an irresistible urge to jump into water. Once the cricket drowns, the hairworm emerges from the cricket’s body and enters the water to continue its life cycle, leaving the cricket’s body as an empty shell.

The green-banded broodsac flatworm uses an interesting strategy to complete its life cycle. It begins by infecting a snail, its first host, where it eventually moves into the snail’s eye stalks. There, the parasite causes the stalks to swell and pulse with bright green and yellow bands that resemble small caterpillars, an appetizing target for birds. The infection also changes the snail’s behavior. Instead of hiding in the shade, the snail becomes unusually active and crawls into the open during the day, making itself more visible to predators. When a bird eats the infected snail, the flatworm reaches its final host and reproduces inside the bird’s digestive system. In this way, the parasitic flatworm uses the snail as both transportation and bait to attract its intended target.

Unlike the green-banded broodsac, the Glyptapanteles take on a more direct approach. This parasitic wasp is found on every continent except Antarctica and takes manipulation to an entirely new level. It lays its eggs inside the caterpillar of the geometrid moth, where the larvae feed on the host from within. When they are ready to pupate, the larvae consume the host from within and emerge to spin cocoons on surrounding vegetation. Remarkably, the caterpillar doesn’t immediately die. Instead, it undergoes a dramatic behavioral transformation, standing guard over the newly formed pupae. The caterpillar stops moving and feeding, positioning itself close to the pupae, and when threatened, violently swinging its head to deter potential predators. This self-sacrificial behavior significantly reduces predation on the pupae, increasing their survival rates. However, the caterpillar’s fate is sealed; it dies shortly after the wasp larvae emerge as adults, having unwittingly served as a bodyguard.

In observing nature’s zombies, we understand the reality of a world where autonomy is fragile. They’re reminders that in nature, control is an illusion, and every creature, including us, dances to the rhythm of unseen forces.

About Tandem Global

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Yonsei University Study Finds Air Pollution Sharply Raises Workplace Accident Risk

Posted on October 31, 2025 by sHq_LoGiNz

Study finds doubling PM_2.5 linked to 2.6-fold higher accident risk and billions in economic losses

SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Air pollution doesn’t just damage health – it can also make workplaces more dangerous, according to scientists from Yonsei University. Analyzing 5,873 safety liability accidents in China over 20 years, the researchers found that doubling PM_2.5concentrations led to a 2.6-fold increase in accident probability, 37% more deaths, and 51% more casualties. The findings highlight a critical but overlooked dimension of air pollution’s social and economic burden.

Air pollution is widely recognized as a public health hazard, but its role in workplace safety is often underestimated. A new study reveals that polluted air can make industrial accidents both more likely and more severe, adding a hidden layer to their human and economic costs.

The research—led by Dr. Ning Zhang of Yonsei University in South Korea, in collaboration with Dr. Zaikun Hou of Shandong University and Dr. Huan Chen of the University of Cambridge—was published in Energy Economics on September 18, 2025.

Using two decades of accident records from 2000 to 2020, the team matched each incident with local air pollution and weather data. By exploiting thermal inversions—meteorological events that trap pollutants—as an instrumental variable, they established a causal link between fine particulate pollution (PM_2.5) and safety liability accidents.

Their results show that doubling PM_2.5 concentrations is associated with a 2.6-fold increase in accident risk, 37% more fatalities, and 51% more total casualties, with the strongest effects seen in coal mining and construction. These pollution-related accidents were estimated to cost society between USD 4.9 billion and 10.1 billion.

“Our study shows that air pollution can significantly increase the occurrence and severity of safety liability accidents across industries,” said Dr. Zhang. “This finding extends the social cost estimation of air pollution beyond traditional health and productivity losses, revealing a new dimension of its economic burden.”

He added that the results echo a broader trend in research, noting that, “the growing importance of this topic is reflected in recent work—for example, a 2025 Journal of Public Economics article by Victor Lavy and colleagues also finds that air pollution raises workplace accident risks. Together, these studies show that the safety impacts of air pollution are gaining increasing policy attention.”

The study also points to practical steps that companies and governments can take during pollution spikes, such as providing masks and air purifiers, improving ventilation, issuing early safety warnings, rescheduling high-risk work, or temporarily adjusting shifts. The researchers emphasize that greater defensive measures should be implemented during periods of severe air pollution or haze to minimize workplace risks and protect employee health.

Looking ahead, the researchers believe their findings could guide integrated environmental and occupational safety policies. “Over the next five to ten years, our findings could inform policies linking environmental regulation with workplace safety standards—encouraging industries to include air-quality indicators in their risk management and insurance systems,” Dr. Zhang noted. “For ordinary people, such changes would mean safer workplaces, cleaner air, and more resilient communities.”

While acknowledging potential limitations—such as underreported accidents and the focus on short-term exposure—the authors emphasize that their causal evidence, drawn from two decades of data, underscores an urgent need to address air pollution as a workplace safety issue, not just a health problem.

Media Contact:
Jin Young Choi
82-2-2123-2079
403554@email4pr.com

Reference
Title of original paper: Devil particles: Air pollution and safety liability accidents
Journal: Energy Economics
DOI: 10.1016/j.eneco.2025.108894

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SOURCE Yonsei University