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It's National Heat Awareness Day - Our #Experts are Here to Help
As global temperatures continue to rise, Heat Awareness is becoming an increasingly critical issue that affects public health, safety, and infrastructure. This topic is not only newsworthy due to its immediate impact on communities but also because of its connection to broader issues such as climate change, urban planning, and health equity. The importance of Heat Awareness spans across various sectors, providing numerous story angles for journalists to explore: The health risks associated with extreme heat and strategies for prevention and protection The role of urban planning and green infrastructure in mitigating heat island effects The impact of heatwaves on vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and low-income communities Technological and innovative solutions for cooling cities and enhancing public resilience The intersection of climate change policies and heat management strategies Public awareness campaigns and community initiatives to promote heat safety As we enter the warmer months, journalists have an opportunity to delve into these multifaceted narratives, highlighting the urgent need for Heat Awareness and the collaborative efforts required to safeguard communities against the growing threat of extreme heat. Connect with an Expert about Heat Awareness: Douglas J. Casa, Ph.D. CEO-Korey Stringer Institute, Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor, Department of Kinesiology · University of Connecticut Mariana Brussoni Associate Professor · University of British Columbia Paul Gordon, Ph.D. Professor of Health, Human Performance and Recreation · Baylor University Dave Hubbard Founder · America's Fitness Coach® To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Photo Credit: Ibrahim Rifath
Aston University hosts event to foster innovation in crisis and disaster research
The two-day conference brought together academics and policy experts Its aim was to strengthen crisis and disaster research cooperation between institutions in Taiwan and Nepal with Hounslow Borough Council and Birmingham City Council The event laid the groundwork for ongoing cooperation and knowledge exchange in disaster management. Aston University has welcomed a delegation of global disaster management experts to a two-day conference aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in crisis and disaster research. The event held at Conference Aston from 12 to 14 May 2024 brought together leading academics, policy experts and industry professionals, with a particular focus on strengthening cooperation between institutions in Taiwan and Nepal together with Hounslow Borough Council and Birmingham City Council. Since mid-2019, a concerted effort has been underway to harness innovative technologies for geoclimatic hazards monitoring in Nepal, the Philippines and Bhutan. Supported by the National Science and Technology Center for Disaster Reduction in Taiwan, this initiative has seen meaningful partnerships between British and Taiwanese stakeholders, driving advancements in real-time data capture for earthquake activity, rainfall patterns and wind dynamics crucial for effective crisis and disaster governance. Dr Komal Aryal, a lecturer in crisis and disaster management at Aston University, said: “I was wonderful to welcome such esteemed experts and colleagues to campus for this important event. “Sharing success stories and addressing implementation challenges to emerging technologies in local crisis and disaster management is vital in strengthening digital research infrastructure and networks at the grassroots level in countries like Nepal, Bhutan, the Philippines and other Himalayan regions. “The event served as a nexus for fostering partnerships among academia, policymakers, industries, emergency services and humanitarian volunteers across the UK, Nepal and Taiwan. “These collaborations are essential for driving impactful solutions and strategies in disaster management.” Professor Zoe Radnor, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the College of Business and Social Sciences at Aston University, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who attended this important event around disaster management. “It was wonderful to see the renewed commitment to enhancing crisis and disaster research cooperation which are integral to developing comprehensive and sustainable disaster response frameworks. “I am delighted to see draft plans produced for future joint collaborative activities, laying the groundwork for ongoing cooperation and knowledge exchange in disaster management.” Rev. Weilien Lin, programme secretary, Church and Society Committee, the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, said: “This conference marks a significant step forward in our collective efforts to enhance global resilience to disasters. “By bringing together diverse expertise and fostering meaningful partnerships, we are better equipped to address the complex challenges posed by natural and man-made crises.” Professor Yie-Ru, from Chiu Tzu Chi University, Taiwan, said: “Aston University and Tzu Chi universities have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate more closely in addressing disaster and crisis management studies not only in Taiwan and the United Kingdom but also abroad. “This partnership marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to enhancing global preparedness and response to emergencies, fostering cooperation and knowledge exchange across borders.” Mayor Narulal Chaudhary, general secretary of Municipal Association of Nepal elected mayor of Ghorahi Sub Metropolitan City, said: “This relationship with Aston University stands as a testament to how collaboration can foster disaster resilience and fortify crisis management efforts, especially in regions like the Himalayas in South Asia where vulnerability to natural disasters like earthquakes is significant. “As someone elected as the mayor of Ghorahi Sub Metropolitan City, a region highly susceptible to earthquakes, I believe that such collaborations are crucial in equipping communities with the knowledge and resources needed to mitigate risks and respond effectively in times of crises.”
The anniversary of the State of Israel's declaration of independence holds profound significance, symbolizing the realization of a long-held dream for the Jewish people and reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. This event matters to the public as it commemorates the birth of a nation and underscores enduring themes of identity, self-determination, and resilience. As journalists consider coverage of this milestone, there are several compelling story angles to explore, appealing to a broad audience: The historical context and significance of Israel's declaration of independence Personal narratives and experiences of individuals involved in the establishment of the state Political and diplomatic implications of Israel's independence for the region and beyond Social and cultural developments in Israeli society since its inception Challenges and achievements in Israel's journey as a modern nation-state Reflections on the ongoing quest for peace and coexistence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict As we commemorate the 76th anniversary of Israel's declaration of independence, journalists have an opportunity to delve into these multifaceted narratives, shedding light on the complexities and enduring impact of this historic event. Connect with an Expert about the 76th anniversary of Israel's declaration of independence: Robert Rabil, Ph.D. Professor · Florida Atlantic University Jeremy Pressman, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Political Science, Director of Middle East Studies · University of Connecticut David Mednicoff Department Chair and Associate Professor of Middle Eastern Studies and Public Policy · University of Massachusetts Amherst Jennifer Hansen-Glucklich Associate Professor of German · University of Mary Washington To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Photo Credit: Taylor Brandon
Today is Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) - Our history #experts are here to help with your stories
Victory in Europe Day marks a monumental moment in human history, signifying the end of World War II in Europe and the dawn of a new era of peace and reconstruction. This event matters to the public as it commemorates the sacrifices made by millions and celebrates the triumph of freedom over tyranny. VE Day offers a plethora of compelling story angles that resonate with a broad audience: The human stories behind the victory: tales of courage, resilience, and sacrifice The significance of VE Day in shaping post-war geopolitics and international relations Commemorative events and ceremonies honoring veterans and their legacies Reflections on the lessons learned from World War II and their relevance today The cultural impact of VE Day on art, literature, and popular culture Continuing efforts for reconciliation and remembrance across generations As we mark Victory in Europe Day, journalists have an opportunity to delve into these rich narratives, shedding light on the enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation and the ongoing quest for peace and freedom worldwide. Connect with an Expert about WWII and Victory in Europe Day (VE Day): Colin Rafferty Associate Professor · University of Mary Washington Patrick Jung, Ph.D. Professor · Milwaukee School of Engineering Marc Gallicchio, PhD Professor and Mary M. Birle Chair in History | College of Liberal Arts and Sciences · Villanova University Kara Dixon Vuic LCpl. Benjamin W. Schmidt Professor of War, Conflict, and Society in 20th-Century America · Texas Christian University Stephen Sloan, B.B.A., M.A., PhD. Director of Institute for Oral History, Associate Professor of History · Baylor University To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Photo Credit: Galt Museum & Archives
#ExpertSpotlight: 10th anniversary of Flint, MI, water crisis beginning
The 10th anniversary of the Flint, MI water crisis marks a pivotal moment in environmental justice and public health awareness. This event matters deeply to the public as it sheds light on systemic failures in infrastructure management, government accountability, and the disproportionate impacts of environmental hazards on marginalized communities. Here are several sub-topics that could be of interest to a broad audience: Health Impacts and Long-term Consequences: Explore the lingering health effects on residents exposed to lead-contaminated water, including neurological disorders, developmental delays, and mental health challenges. Government Response and Accountability: Investigate the role of local, state, and federal authorities in addressing the crisis, including accountability measures taken against officials responsible for the negligence and mismanagement. Community Resilience and Activism: Highlight the resilience of Flint residents and grassroots organizations in advocating for clean water access, demanding justice, and implementing community-led solutions. Infrastructure Challenges Nationwide: Examine the broader implications of Flint's water crisis on infrastructure investment, maintenance, and regulation across the United States, particularly in aging urban areas. Policy Reforms and Prevention Efforts: Discuss policy reforms enacted post-crisis to prevent similar incidents, such as improvements in water quality testing, infrastructure upgrades, and measures to ensure environmental justice. Legacy of Environmental Injustice: Analyze the broader socio-economic factors contributing to environmental injustices like the Flint water crisis, including racial disparities in access to clean water and the intersectionality of poverty and environmental hazards. This anniversary presents an opportunity for journalists to revisit the ongoing repercussions of the Flint water crisis, amplify the voices of affected communities, and advocate for sustainable solutions to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Connect with an Expert about the Flint, MI water crisis: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Gerald Kauffman Project Director, Water Resources Center, Institute for Public Administration; Assistant Professor, Biden School of Public Policy and Administration · University of Delaware Viviane Yargeau Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering · McGill University Jared L. Cohon University Professor · Carnegie Mellon University Joe Brown Assistant Professor, Environmental Engineering · Georgia Tech - COE For journalists with questions or looking to cover the streaming wars, here is a select list of experts. Photo Credit: Bruno Guerrero
America's Most Endangered Rivers | Media Advisory
Every year, the release of America's Most Endangered Rivers List serves as a critical wake-up call, drawing attention to the urgent need to protect our nation's waterways and the communities that depend on them. As threats to our rivers continue to escalate due to pollution, overdevelopment, and climate change, this annual report highlights the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems for current and future generations. Here are key story angles for journalists to explore: Environmental impacts of river degradation: Investigating the consequences of pollution, habitat destruction, and water scarcity on wildlife and local communities. Economic implications of river conservation: Analyzing the economic benefits of healthy rivers for industries such as tourism, agriculture, and recreation. Community activism and river conservation efforts: Showcasing grassroots initiatives and advocacy campaigns aimed at protecting and restoring endangered rivers. Government policies and river management: Assessing the effectiveness of current regulations and resource management strategies in safeguarding our waterways. Indigenous perspectives on river stewardship: Highlighting indigenous knowledge and traditional practices related to river conservation and sustainability. Climate change and the future of America's rivers: Exploring how rising temperatures and extreme weather events are exacerbating threats to river health and resilience. Connect with an Expert about Jackie Robinson For journalists with questions or looking to cover todays' release of America's Most Endangered Rivers List, here is a select list of experts. To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Colin J. Gleason Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering · University of Massachusetts Amherst Alan Clarke Hydrological Services Leader · Global Water Experts Michael C. Slattery Professor, Department Chair and Director of the Institute for Environmental Studies · Texas Christian University AJ Reisinger Assistant Professor · University of Florida Photo Credit: Dan Cardoza
Major League Baseball celebrates Jackie Robinson Day | Media Advisory
Today professional baseball commemorate Jackie Robinson Day, where the league, players and fans across the world not only honor a baseball legend but also celebrate a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice. This day marks Robinson's historic debut in Major League Baseball on April 15, 1947, breaking the sport's color barrier and paving the way for future generations. Beyond its significance in sports history, Jackie Robinson Day serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of one individual's courage and determination in challenging systemic racism. Key story angles for journalists to explore include: Legacy of Jackie Robinson: Reflecting on his contributions to sports and civil rights activism. Continuing fight for racial equality in sports: Examining current initiatives and challenges in promoting diversity and inclusion. Impact of Robinson's legacy beyond baseball: Exploring his influence on other fields such as business, politics, and social activism. Diversity in Major League Baseball today: Assessing progress and remaining barriers for minority players and personnel. Educational initiatives inspired by Jackie Robinson: Highlighting programs that use his legacy to teach lessons of tolerance, resilience, and leadership. Intersection of sports and social justice: Investigating how athletes and sports organizations continue to advocate for change on and off the field. Connect with an Expert about Jackie Robinson For journalists with questions or looking to cover the history of Jackie Robinson and how he changed the game, here is a select list of experts. To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Curt Smith Senior Lecturer · University of Rochester Christopher Philips Associate Professor · Carnegie Mellon University Michael Lewis Professor of Marketing· Emory University, Goizueta Business School Mark Feinsand Sports Reporter · New York Daily News Photo Credit: The New York Public Library
Stress Awareness Month | Media Advisory
In today's fast-paced world, stress has become a ubiquitous companion, impacting individuals across all walks of life. Stress Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of mental well-being and the need to address stress-related issues in our society. This event matters to the public as it sheds light on the prevalence of stress, its detrimental effects on health and productivity, and the strategies available to cope with it effectively. Key story angles that may interest a broad audience include: The science behind stress: Exploring the physiological and psychological mechanisms of stress and its effects on the body and mind. Coping strategies and resilience: Highlighting various techniques individuals can employ to manage stress, including mindfulness, exercise, and seeking social support. Stress in the workplace: Investigating the impact of work-related stress on employee well-being and productivity, along with initiatives by companies to create healthier work environments. Stress among different demographics: Examining how stress manifests differently across age groups, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, and cultures. Innovations in stress management: Covering emerging technologies and therapies aimed at reducing stress levels and improving mental health outcomes. Policy and advocacy: Discussing the role of governments and organizations in implementing policies and programs to alleviate stress and promote mental wellness. Connect with an Expert on Stress For journalists with questions or looking to cover Stress, its causes and how it impacts people, here is a select list of experts on stress. To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Claire Wheeler Instructor · Portland State University David Creswell Professor · Carnegie Mellon University Julian Ford, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Psychiatry · University of Connecticut Annie T. Ginty, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Psychology & Neuroscience · Baylor University Rosalie Moscoe Owner, Spleaker, Registered Nutritional Consultant · Health in Harmony Photo Credit: Luis Villasmil
Ask the Expert: What is the impact of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on the supply chain?
Early in the morning on March 26, 2024 a super freighter lost complete power and struck a support column on the Interstate 695 (I-695) resulting in catastrophic collapse of the bridge. This will limit shipping until salvage and cleanup operations are completed. The shutting down of the port will have a direct impact on the economy of Baltimore at a rate of over $200 million of cargo passing through the port every day. Dr. David Rollins, a supply chain expert and an assistant professor in the Rader School of Business at Milwaukee School of Engineering, provides insight into the industrial, consumer and fiscal impact of the Key Bridge collapse. "The port’s major exports are coal, automobiles, and light trucks, while it imports goods like sugar, cars, light trucks, heavy farm and construction machinery, minerals, and fertilizer. The shipping methods employed by the port of Baltimore include containerized units, break bulking, and roll-on roll-off for automobiles, trucks, and machinery. "The impact on the global supply chains will be negligible from the standpoint that the ports of Philadelphia and Norfolk are poised to accept international shipping vessels and have the capacity for the extra traffic. The supply chain for coal and automobiles will be disrupted in the short term as the traffic of both international cargo ships and railcars will be rerouted to the other ports. Materials loaded on ships scheduled to depart after March 26th will likely be held until the salvage and cleanup are completed. However, if a customer needs expediting services, materials may be shipped through air cargo or rerouted to another port for shipment. "A supply chain requires three elements to be successful: The logistics and transportation of physical goods, which is a short-term issue for Baltimore. An information channel, if executed properly supply chain and logistics managers shipping through the Port of Baltimore have rerouted goods to either Norfolk, VA or Philadelphia, PA, the two closest ports. The transfer of funds for both goods and services, which has a limited impact on the supply chain compared to the potential impact on the city of Baltimore’s economy. "Prior to COVID-19, the information exchange part of supply chains was mostly overlooked. Improved communication will help render the bridge collapse a minor issue in the global supply chain. "One domestic issue will be the time and distance between the seaports and the supplier’s location or the destination of the products. From the Midwest, the largest source of automobile suppliers, rail shipping requires extra lead time but will keep transportation costs low. If producers ship via truck, the increase in mileage to the closest port, Philadelphia, is 56 miles resulting in an increase in fuel cost per shipment of approximately $34.461. "The Key Bridge incident will result in the rerouting of traffic via Interstate 95 (I-95) through Baltimore. I-95, which travels through the Fort McHenry tunnel to downtown Baltimore will be highly congested during commuting times resulting in slower deliveries. Interstate 895 (I-895), traveling through the Harbor tunnel, also provides another. Both routes will only add a couple of miles for goods movement. Hazardous material trucking will not be allowed through the tunnels and will be required to take I-695 around the west and north side of the city. This route is 14 miles longer than the Francis Scott bridge route. "Typically, semis get around 6.5 miles per gallon of diesel fuel2. Increasing the costs for the logistics and trucking companies. Based on the load capacity of a semi-trailer at 48,000 pounds, the increase in fuel expenditures will have a negligible effect on the cost to consumers. "The resilience of the supply chain has improved in the past couple of years due to lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. The extent to which supply chain managers have grown and adopted changes will determine the ultimate effect the Francis Scott Key Bridge had on the supply chain." Dr. Rollis is available to speak with media about the impact the Key Bridge collapse will have on the supply chain. Simply click on his icon below to arrange an interview. ### 1Estimated fuel costs based on mileage from Chicago to the port with an estimated truck mileage of 6.5 per gallon at a price of $4.00 per gallon. 2Motorask.com, supported by the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The BTS did not have data after 2021, but the website Motorask.com used the higher mileage which is used in the calculation.
What Happened to Haiti to Make it a Perpetual Failed State? | Media Advisory
Haiti's prolonged struggle with political instability, economic hardship, and natural disasters raises critical questions about international aid, governance, and the path to sustainable development. This topic is not just newsworthy for its historical complexity but also for its implications on human rights, regional stability, and global efforts to address poverty and inequality. Haiti's story prompts a deeper examination of: The impact of foreign intervention and aid Political corruption and its effects on governance Economic policies and their role in sustainable development Social movements and the fight for democracy Environmental degradation and resilience Connect with an Expert about What Happened to Haiti to Make it a Perpetual Failed State? For journalists seeking research or insights for their coverage about the ongoing crisis in Haiti, here is a select list of experts from our database. To search our full list of experts, visit www.expertfile.com Ken Keen Associate Professor in the Practice of Organization & Management; Associate Dean for Leadership; Lieutenant General, USA (Retired) – Emory University, Goizueta Business Robert Fuller, M.D., FACEP UConn Health Chairman of Emergency Medicine – University of Connecticut Benjamin Hebblethwaite Associate Professor in the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures – University of Florida Paul Kramer Associate Professor of History – Vanderbilt University Photo credit: Heather Suggitt