At the SCSP’s annual AI+Expo, a Task Force on AI and the Future of Work unveiled preliminary findings that can serve as a foundation for further development and inform discussions. The Task Force, a joint effort between SCSP and Nvidia, identified ten aspects of AI’s current and potential impact on work and the economy.

-Rapid advancement. AI is distinct from most prior general-purpose technologies because it extends into certain types of cognitive work by impacting the foundational skills by which tasks are performed.

-Unpredictable transition. Although AI has already shown the potential to simultaneously expand human work and eliminate or transform other jobs, disruption and complications are to be expected during transitions.

-Restructured data collection. New data collection and analytics will be needed to assess the changing skill sets and hiring patterns in the workforce now and in the future.

-Task level impact. Workers need to understand how AI may automate or augment key tasks, and how roles may be reconfigured even without changes in job titles or employment levels.

-Entry level labor. Although the long-term impact on entry-level jobs remains unclear, the increased use of AI for these jobs may affect the traditional pipeline of talent and established pathways for career advancement in certain industries.

-Variable adoption. The degree to which AI is adopted by different sectors and organizations will vary based on several factors including incentives, workflows, and institutional constraints. Therefore, use of AI in certain areas is not inevitable, and may not be consistent.

-Shifting skills. The types of training and roles that will have enduring value in an AI-drive economy include not only new digital and technical skills, but also the enduring human traits of critical thinking, leadership, and adaptability. Additionally, skilled labor is needed for the construction of data centers and other facilities to support AI infrastructure.

-Training shortfalls. Education must be reimagined from a front-loaded learning system to a more flexible model that uses AI as a training tool to hone foundational capabilities and adaptable domain-specific skills.

-Expanding access. AI can be deployed widely to improve worker performance by expanding access to high-productivity tools. The outcomes depend on how AI is used, who benefits from the increased productivity, and how quickly workers can adapt their skill sets and jobs.

-Unifying national action. Ultimately, the speed, scale, and complexity of AI require coordination across institutions—government, industry, and educational—to manage the transition by aligning incentives and investing in workforce development to ensure that the benefits of AI can be broadly shared. “The window for proactive intervention is open,” the authors concluded.

Visit scsp.ai to learn more.

“The Captain's Clue” by Brock Eastman and Shaun Stevenson

In this hilarious action-adventure for Christian kids, the parables of Jesus literally come to life — and Parable Port is in deep water. Anthony and his friends have barely recovered from their last wild adventure when the storm of the century hits town. The rain won’t stop, the waters keep rising, and the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders has gone seriously haywire.

As flooded streets fill with electric eels and homes begin crumbling like sandcastles, Anthony teams up with Grace and Duck to find the mysterious lighthouse keeper, Captain David, who may hold the key to saving the town. Meanwhile, budding podcaster J.R. gets caught up chasing a big story and must decide whether popularity is worth risking real friendships.

Fast-paced, funny and faith-filled, this illustrated middle-grade adventure helps young readers discover what it means to build life on a solid foundation.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/the-captains-clue.

“Ashes of the Republic” by James Chesterton

In this chilling speculative thriller, America in 2046 is a nation transformed by surveillance technology, artificial intelligence and an increasingly authoritarian government. Former engineer Lily Osbourne knows this world better than most: years earlier, she helped create the technology that now monitors citizens, suppresses dissent and keeps those in power firmly in control.

Forced to abandon her former identity after falling out of favor with the ruling Dennison family, Lily discovers firsthand what happens to those who challenge the system. As she watches her inventions weaponized against ordinary people, she is compelled to confront her own role in creating the future she once helped build.

Blending high-stakes suspense with timely questions about power, responsibility and personal freedom, “Ashes of the Republic” is a thought-provoking cautionary tale that feels less like distant science fiction than a warning about the world taking shape around us.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/ashes-of-the-republic.

“The Peace Guidebook: How to Cultivate Hope, Healing, and Harmony for the Good of Humankind” by Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino and Dr. Katie Eastman

In a divided and uncertain world, “The Peace Guidebook” offers a practical path toward personal healing, compassionate leadership and meaningful collective change. Inspired by the global Percolate Peace Project, Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino and Dr. Katie Eastman draw on decades of work helping people navigate grief, transition and transformation to present Ten Principles of Peace for everyday life.

Blending reflection, storytelling and accessible daily practices, the book invites readers to quiet what is unsettled within, move through conflict with courage and grace, lead from a place of love, and build relationships rooted in shared values. The book’s prompts and exercises make the journey interactive, encouraging readers not only to think about peace but to practice it in their homes, workplaces and communities.

Part guidebook, part call to action, “The Peace Guidebook” is a steady companion for anyone seeking a more grounded, purpose-driven life — and a more compassionate world.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/the-peace-guidebook.

“The Alpha Trace” by J. Mayberry

A string of murders. A cryptic symbol. A small town where everyone seems to be hiding something.

True-crime podcaster Elena Coleman has spent years digging into the questions Millbrook Falls wants left alone — a decades-old serial killer known as the Alpha, a suspicious police shooting and the local forces determined to keep both stories quiet. When Elena is found dead in her apartment with the Alpha’s chilling mark left behind, Detective James Rios is pulled into a case that refuses to stay cold.

Then more bodies appear. Each one bears the killer’s signature. Each one pulls Rios deeper into a pattern of violence that grows more disturbing with every turn. To solve it, he must untangle a web of police corruption, family loyalties and evidence that refuses to point in only one direction.

A tense serial murder investigation full of twists and turns, “The Alpha Trace” is a psychological crime thriller where every clue raises new questions — and no one is above suspicion.

Purchase at https://tinyurl.com/the-alpha-trace.

Built around the philosophy “Sleep Better, Live Better,” the Bedsure PureWoven™ collection combines naturally derived bamboo-based materials with practical features that support a more restful sleep environment. The collection reflects a broader consumer shift toward wellness-focused home essentials that prioritize comfort, breathability, and long-term durability.

Cooling Bamboo Bedding Designed for Hot Sleepers

At the center of the collection is the Bedsure PureWoven™ Organically Grown Bamboo Viscose Sheet Set. Crafted from OCS-certified organically grown bamboo viscose, these cooling bed sheets are designed to provide a soft, silky feel while helping regulate temperature throughout the night.

The 300-thread-count sateen weave creates a smooth and breathable sleep surface that feels cool against the skin. Naturally moisture-wicking properties help reduce heat retention and improve airflow, making the sheets an ideal choice for warm weather, hot sleepers, and humid environments.

Additional features include:

• 360-degree elastic fitted sheet design for a secure mattress fit

• Reinforced corner grips to help keep sheets in place overnight

• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification for skin-friendly materials

• Lightweight and breathable fabric construction for enhanced comfort

By combining softness, cooling performance, and thoughtful design, the Bedsure PureWoven™ Organically Grown Bamboo Viscose Sheet Set supports deeper and more consistent rest night after night.

Bedsure 100% Rayon Derived From Bamboo Sheet Set Offers Everyday Comfort

Another standout product in the collection is the  Bedusre 100% Rayon Derived From Bamboo Sheet Set, one of the brand’s most recognized bamboo bedding options.

Known for its silky-soft texture and cool-to-the-touch feel, this bamboo sheet set is designed to deliver dependable comfort in every season. The breathable rayon derived from bamboo material helps improve airflow while maintaining a smooth and lightweight feel.

Practical design elements make the set especially suitable for busy households, including:

• Deep pockets that fit mattresses up to 16 inches thick
• Full elastic band for a secure fit
• Envelope pillowcase closures that help keep pillows neatly in place
• Easy-care fabric designed for convenient maintenance
• Multiple color options to complement a variety of bedroom styles

Its versatile construction makes it a popular option for families, pet-friendly homes, and anyone seeking low-maintenance luxury bedding with cooling benefits.

Serene Blend Sheet Set Combines Bamboo Softness With Cotton Durability

Completing the Bedsure PureWoven™ lineup is the Serene Blend Sheet Set, which combines bamboo-derived rayon with cotton for a balance of softness, breathability, and durability.

This blended fabric construction offers year-round comfort while adding structure and resilience for everyday use. Consumers looking for breathable bedding with a slightly more substantial feel may find the Serene Blend collection especially appealing.

In addition to sheet sets, the Bedsure PureWoven™ collection also includes coordinating duvet cover options designed to create a cohesive and visually calming sleep environment.

                                                                              Bedsure Purewoven™ Bamboo Sheets Featured on Daytime TV

Bedsure Continues Focus on Better Sleep and Modern Home Comfort

Backed by more than five decades of textile expertise, Bedsure continues to develop home essentials that blend comfort, innovation, and functionality. The Bedsure PureWoven™ Bamboo Collection reflects the growing importance consumers place on sleep wellness and high-quality bedding materials that support healthier nightly routines.

For consumers searching for cooling sheets, breathable bamboo bedding, or soft moisture-wicking bed linens, the Bedsure PureWoven™ collection offers a modern sleep solution designed for comfort through the summer season and beyond.

Consumers can explore the full collection by searching for “Bedsure PureWoven Bamboo Sheets” on Amazon.

For working families, summer often means trying to coordinate a complicated mix of half-day camps, extended care options, babysitters, and vacation days all in an attempt to ensure their children have a safe place to be while parents work and spend their days involved in engaging activities that combine fun with learning.

Traditional summer camps frequently run only a few hours each day, and often only for a week or two at a time, leaving families to tackle the challenge of multiple camp registrations across the many weeks of summer, as well as arranging transportation to and from camps and coordinating additional care when their work schedules don’t align with camp schedules. That patchwork approach can quickly become expensive, time-consuming and difficult to manage.

“Parents have enough stress on them; summer shouldn’t add to their plates. The biggest challenge for many families is not finding activities for kids, it’s finding a summer solution that offers flexibility, full-day schedules and engaging activities, preferably in one place” said Michael Barre, Regional Manager for Champions programs in Illinois. “That’s why we expanded our before- and after-school programs to include full-day camp during summer break. We’re able to offer all-day enrichment activities children want to participate in with hours that better align with the workday of their parents.”

Full-day programs like Champions feature rotating weekly themes, hands-on STEM activities, creative arts, outdoor games, literacy experiences, and collaborative projects designed to help children stay active and socially connected while school is out.

Flexibility has become another major factor for families navigating summer schedules.

Programs offering week-by-week registration are especially appealing to parents trying to balance vacations, travel and changing work commitments without paying for unused weeks of camp.

Affordability remains top of mind as well. Child care and camp costs can add up quickly over the summer months, leading many families to seek programs like Champions that accept state or local tuition assistance, as well as employer-sponsored child care savings options and sibling discounts.

More information about Champions’ summer programming is available at DiscoverChampions.com.

Imagine being a young child or teen, suddenly removed from everything familiar and handed a single bag in which to hold your life’s belongings. This is the painful reality for more than 400,000 at-risk children, including those in foster care, in the United States today. That’s why, this National Foster Care Month, Toys for Tots’ Foster Care Program is highlighting the profound impact supporters can have on young people facing the uncertainty of the foster care system.

In 2025, the Program partnered with local organizations nationwide to deliver emotional‑relief packages that included toys, books, backpacks, and educational resources to nearly 375,000 at-risk children, including those in foster care. These items did more than bring temporary comfort; they reassured children that even in moments of upheaval, there is still Room for Joy.

“Our Foster Care Program is about far more than delivering toys or books—it’s about restoring hope, creating moments of stability, and reminding foster children that they truly matter,” said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Because of our donors, we’re able to create real Room for Joy—one transformative gift at a time.”

The generosity of donors extends far beyond the walls of foster homes—it creates lasting, lifechanging impact, as illustrated by the powerful story of United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Taylor Bills.

LCpl Bills grew up surrounded by instability. He moved frequently between parents, watched his siblings move through child protective services, and navigated a childhood shaped by uncertainty. Yet even amid adversity, he discovered moments where there was Room for Joy—often through acts of giving. He volunteered with local foster care organizations and eventually with his local Toys for Tots Chapter, an experience that left a permanent imprint.

LCpl Bills recalls standing in a school gym filled with toys during a Toys for Tots distribution event. As he watched children—many of whom reminded him of himself—walk away smiling with something new to call their own; he felt a deep sense of connection and purpose. “I recognized some of the kids, and being able to watch them receive a gift and respond with a smile was really heartwarming,” LCpl Bills shared.

Determined to change the trajectory of his own life and serve as an example for children facing similar struggles, LCpl Bills enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

This is the power of supporters’ generosity. From a childhood marked by instability to a career serving his country, LCpl Bills found purpose and hope because others stepped forward to help.

“Just because you can't see what's right in front of you today or tomorrow doesn't mean that something good isn't there,” said LCpl Bills. “So don't give up. You are in control of your future, and it's not too late to do something great.”

To learn more about the Marine Toys for Tots Foster Care Program or to donate, visit: https://www.toysfortots.org/programs/foster-children/.

Specifically, scaling of AVs will affect the development of autonomous systems with other industrial applications including industrial robotics, smart infrastructure, and dual-use military systems, and components and cars are increasingly sourced from China, according to the report.

The SCSP’s Tech Scorecard Series, which evaluates national competitiveness across five categories, broke down the current status of the AV industry and where countries stand in the latest report, “The Autonomous Vehicle Crossroads,” with the following results:

Innovation Leadership. In terms of AV, the United States maintains dominance in this area, with cars that set the global gold standard for safety and reliability. The U.S. also maintains a lead in software development, especially in the areas of vision-language-action (VLA) models.

Industrial Capacity. Based on recent data, China dominates the physical layer of AV by maintaining complete control of both the supply chain components and vehicle manufacturing capacity. China also controls approximately 90% of the Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) remote sensing technology used in autonomous vehicles.

Market Ecosystem. The U.S. and China are essentially tied in terms of global funding for AV. Although the U.S. AV industry maintains the largest share, China’s aggressive approach to globalization has fueled growth with mass deployment.

Talent Pipeline. China currently produces significantly more engineering graduates with AV-relevant skills, and is integrating more intelligent vehicle curricula into its university system. The U.S. cannot currently match this focused pipeline and struggles to compete for a limited pool of skilled engineers.

National Leverage. China’s established state support for the AV industry and coordinated regulatory frameworks have promoted faster deployment of AV at scale compared to the U.S., where regulations remain a patchwork, with inconsistent testing and development among states.

To read the full report and take a deeper dive into the U.S.-China strategic competition in autonomous vehicles, visit scsp.ai.

For 2026, forecasters are predicting a relatively active Atlantic hurricane season as Colorado State University anticipates 13 named storms with six expected to become hurricanes. Two hurricanes are expected to reach major hurricane strength of a Category 3 or higher storm, which can result in significant loss of life and damage to property.

During the 2024 season, Hurricanes Milton and Helene caused roughly 9.5 million power outages and over $113 billion in damages. In 2025, though no hurricanes made landfall in the U.S., tropical storms severely impacted homeowners, especially in the Carolinas and along the East Coast.

“Backup power is something people think about in the middle of an outage, but by then, it’s too late,” said Kyle Raabe, President of Home Power Generation at Generac. “You don’t build a plan in the dark. The homeowners who are prepared are the ones who stay safe, comfortable and in control when the grid goes down.”

Experiencing an outage isn’t just a minor inconvenience - it can lead to a host of effects that negatively impact you and your loved ones.  Refrigerators full of food and important medicines could go bad. A home without climate control can quickly reach warm temperatures – especially in the hottest summer months. A lack of an active sump pump could leave basements vulnerable to flooding. For those with health or mobility needs, a loss of power can disrupt critical medical devices, home accessibility equipment and even limit the ability to safely move in or out of the home.

Selecting the Right Source of Backup Power

Generac’s power outage experts want you to know which types of backup power will be a fit for any outage situation you may encounter.

1. Portable Power Stations provide clean, quiet, emission-free power with no fumes or fuel. Simply recharging the unit when power returns keeps the generator prepped and ready for the next outage. They are best used to power smaller, specific devices, such as a kitchen appliance, laptop or phone.

2. Portable Generators come in a variety of options. Smaller units can be paralleled for additional power, and larger units can pair with a manual transfer switch to provide whole home backup. These types of generators must be fueled every 6-12 hours with gasoline or liquid propane. They are also great for additional non-emergency uses such as camping, tailgating and power job sites.

3. Whole Home Generators can provide power to an entire home and automatically kick in when utility power is lost whether you’re home or away. Generac models are offered in 10kW up to 28kW options to fit your home’s specific needs. If you have a Generac, even when you’re not at home you can monitor the generator's performance with Mobile Link from anywhere. No refueling is necessary if you attach the generator to a natural gas line or propane tank.

4. Solar + Storage units charge when solar power is available, and kick in automatically when an outage occurs. This type of system can power your whole home for a shorter duration or select circuits for longer. In addition to outage mitigation, a Solar + Storage unit captures solar and times the grid to use stored power when prices spike to help you reduce your energy costs.

Generac provides a free yearly guide on how you can keep yourself, your home and your family safe during hurricane season. If you’d like to read more on how to be prepared, please visit the Hurricane Preparedness Guide.

All-inclusive, center-based summer camps offer children and families fun summer activities, such as field trips, water activities and sports without the challenge of coordinating multiple camps throughout the summer. Since these camps take place at a child care center, there’s no need for families to ferry children from here to there so they can attend specialty camps: Everything takes place at the same location.

What to look for when comparing summer camp options:

• What’s included in the tuition? At Crème Camp, meals and snacks are included in tuition, as are weekly field trips. This makes summer just that much easier and more enjoyable for children and parents alike.
• Program variety: Look for camps like Crème Camp that have a dedicated camp curriculum as well as weekly camp themes or specialty classes that change regularly throughout the summer, offering children a variety of opportunities for creative exploration and activities that build on the skills they learned during the school year. This will keep students engaged in learning throughout the summer, without feeling like they’re stuck in a classroom.
• Opportunities for outdoor play: Weather permitting, it’s important for children to have daily outdoor playtime. Be sure the summer camps you’re considering have dedicated time throughout the day for children to engage in outdoor activities like water play and group games on sports courts and fields to keep their bodies moving.
• A schedule and logistics that fit your family’s needs: Most center-based summer camps like Crème Camp will have programs for children as young as age four and as old as age 12. That’s in addition to year-round programs for infants-prekindergarten, which means families with multiple children could ditch the dreaded multiple drop-off situation and breeze through summer with a single drop-off and pick-up site for both little ones and older siblings.

Families interested in Crème School’s all-inclusive summer day camp programs can learn more and register their children online.

“Riptide” by Chad Robichaux with Jack Stewart

Still haunted by his former teammate’s betrayal, former Force Recon Marine Foster Quinn is thrust back into the world he thought he left behind. As he hunts down the men pulling the strings of a global conspiracy, Foster must resist the temptation to be swept away by revenge in his search for justice ― especially when the war becomes personal, and he realizes it’s coming to his own turf.

Written by two Armed Forces veterans who bring real-world expertise to their writing, “Riptide” is an exhilarating, ripped-from-the-headlines thriller that blurs the line between duty and revenge ― and leaves no one above suspicion.

“Riptide” is hailed as an “action-paced conspiracy thriller that brims with authenticity” (Mark Greaney) and praised for “its unmatched realism and tactical authenticity” (Nick Freitas).

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4rHt5QJ.

“Should Have Told You Sooner” by Jane Ward

While studying art history in London, Noel Enfield falls deeply for aspiring artist Bryn Jones. Their future seems set — until Bryn leaves for a five-month painting trip through Italy, Noel discovers she is pregnant, and a series of painful misunderstandings leads her to make a life-altering decision.

Thirty years later, Noel returns to London for a museum secondment, determined to prove she has moved on. Instead, she is drawn back into the city’s close-knit art world and the unresolved past she thought she had buried. When she finally learns why Bryn never came back, everything she believed about her choices, her family and her own resilience is shaken.

Praised by Kirkus Reviews as an “artful and affecting novel of loss and reconnection,” “Should Have Told You Sooner” is a moving story of romance, regret and second chances.

For more information and to purchase, visit https://www.janeaward.com/.

“The Heart of Gardening: How to Have a Successful Life Through Sustainable Gardening from a Storyteller’s Perspective” by Rebecca Band

So many people dream about having a garden but hesitate to take that first step. Knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. That’s why organic gardener and horticultural professional Rebecca Band created “The Heart of Gardening,” a simple, gentle guide to help new gardeners find their footing and discover success without relying on chemicals.

Along the way, Band shares personal stories, the reasons behind her methods, and the observations she’s gathered from years of experience. “My hope is that this book will not only offer practical guidance,” writes the author, “but also uplift, entertain, inspire and spark thoughtful reflection for anyone ready to begin their gardening journey.”

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4v123pF.

“Lili y el árbol de los colores mágicos / Lili & the Tree of Magical Colors” by Rosalba Segovia

In this gentle bilingual picture book, Rosalba Segovia introduces readers to Lili, a kindhearted girl whose walk to school becomes an unexpected lesson in friendship, empathy and peace. Along the way, Lili meets a lost turtle, a frightened black cat and an injured iguana, each in need of comfort and help. Together, they follow a fragrant breeze toward a wondrous tree of magical colors — only to discover that the tree grows sad and gray when friends fight.

With soft illustrations and side-by-side Spanish and English storytelling, “Lili & the Tree of Magical Colors” invites young readers to see kindness as something active: listening, helping, forgiving and standing together. As Lili and her friends learn, differences do not have to divide us. When we reach for one another with love and respect, the world becomes brighter, more peaceful and more beautiful. Also available: an accompanying album of songs based on the book.

Purchase the book at https://amzn.to/4d5b2Qk and the accompanying music at https://amzn.to/4uzbwUO.

For too long, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias have been viewed as conditions to address only after symptoms appear. New research is changing that understanding. Findings from the July 2025 U.S. POINTER study demonstrate that lifestyle factors can play a meaningful role in supporting brain health and may help reduce the risk of dementia.

Still, there is a significant gap between awareness and action. While nearly 9 out of 10 people say brain health is important, only 1 in 10 say they know what to do to maintain it, according to the Alzheimer’s Association 2026 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report.

To help close that gap, the Alzheimer’s Association is launching the (re)think your brain initiative, featuring a new “6-Step Challenge” designed to help people begin building everyday habits that support brain health. The (re)think your brain approach provides science-backed guidance people can use right away, translating complex research into practical, everyday actions that fit into daily life. It is designed to engage people earlier when there is greater opportunity to influence long-term brain health and possibly reduce dementia risk over time.

A simple guide to get you started:

1. (re)think your habits: Check your current habits and build a personalized brain health action plan.

2. (re)think your day: Start with one habit and build from there by incorporating everyday changes into your routine.

3. (re)think your movement: Get moving. Regular physical activity supports brain health and overall well-being.

4. (re)think your diet: Eat right. Track what you eat and look for practical ways to improve your nutrition.

5. (re)think your mind: Challenge your brain by learning something new.

6. (re)think what’s next: Continue the journey, monitor your health, and invite a friend to take steps toward better brain health with you.

"People are looking for clear, credible guidance they can trust," said Joanne Pike, DrPH, president and CEO of the Alzheimer's Association. "As a global leader in Alzheimer's and brain health, we have a responsibility to translate the latest science into guidance people can act on, and (re)think your brain is how we're helping people take control of their brain health." 

Find out more and get started today at https://www.rethinkyourbrain.org.

(NewsUSA) -  

Even when life doesn't allow for a perfect eight hours, your eyes don't have to tell the story. Whether you’re navigating a demanding career, the chaos of parenthood, or just staying up too late scrolling, the eyes are always the first to betray our exhaustion. Because the skin around the eye is up to 10x thinner than the rest of the face, it acts as a window into our fatigue. The unfortunate reality? While 80% of us struggle with dark circles, half are unaware of the underlying cause—leaving 50% of people stuck with treatments that simply don't work¹.

Enter RoC Skincare’s Derm Correxion Eye Repair Dark Circle Cream. This isn’t just another tube in your vanity; it’s a high-tech, non-invasive innovation designed to help erase the visible signs of exhaustion and deliver brighter eyes in just minutes. The experience begins the moment it touches your skin: forget messy finger-tapping, as the cooling metal applicator provides an instant ‘cryo-effect.’ It brightens on contact, awakening the delicate eye area before the potent ingredients even begin to sink in.

The Four Shades of Tired (and How to Fix Them)

The genius of this formula lies in its ability to recognize that not all dark circles are the same. It essentially performs a color analysis of your skin with the 4 shades of undereye discoloration, targeting specific tones to neutralize darkness and maximize brightness.

● Grey Tones: RoC’s Patented Clinical Retinol tackles pesky grey tones while simultaneously smoothing lines and wrinkles with a formula 7x more effective than traditional retinol².

● Brown Tones: Niacinamide helps minimize the look of discoloration before becoming visible on the skin's surface.

● Red Tones: Resveratrol calms and soothes the delicate eye area while defending against environmental stressors.

● Blue/Purple Tones: Proxygen revitalizes and energizes the skin for a healthy, vibrant radiance.

The Proof Is In The Mirror

We’ve all heard big promises before, but RoC brought the receipts. In clinical trials, users experienced visibly brighter eyes in just minutes, with 100% of dark circle tones visibly reduced in one week (blue, brown, grey, red).

"The skin around the eyes is the thinnest on the body, making it susceptible to various types of discoloration" says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Trisha Khanna."By combining RoC Patented Clinical Retinol with brightening agents like Niacinamide and Resveratrol, this formula addresses the root causes of dark circles rather than just temporarily covering them. It’s an impressive, non-invasive solution for persistent dark circles."

The Ultimate Prep Step

Think of this as the essential base layer of your skincare routine. Apply to clean skin before even thinking about reaching for concealer. Even better? The cooling metal applicator provides a "spa moment," awakening the eyes and perfectly faking the effect of that elusive eight hours of rest. Pro tip: Keep it in your bag for a midday 'cryo-refresh' whenever that 3 p.m. slump starts to show.

Shop the Secret: Stop hiding behind heavy concealers and start treating the source. If you’re ready to reclaim and fake the look of those eight hours of sleep, you can find RoC’s NEW Derm Correxion Eye Repair Dark Circle Cream on Amazon. Your brightest eyes are just a click away.

¹Mayo clinic, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 

²based on a clinical study comparing RoC retinol to an equal concentration of traditional retinol

SimioAccelerate, introduced in the spring of 2026, was developed by Moore, a leading marketing, data, and fundraising management company, in collaboration with Microsoft. The platform uses signals on proprietary giving collected through SimioCloud, a Moore company.

SimioAccelerate is an AI-powered DaaS fundraising platform designed to accelerate nonprofit growth using proprietary giving signals from SimioCloud. The platform harnesses the power of AI, as AI agents orchestrate, automate and execute the entire process of effective fundraising. Nonprofit organizations provide first-party data to connect with SimioCloud. The platform uses proprietary predictive models to deliver targeted donor insights.

SimioAccelerate then picks up the ball, and translates the information into actionable intelligence that can be used to activate fundraising campaigns. AI-generated campaigns are created with the nonprofits' branding, content, and messaging. Execution is then initiated with email, call scripts, direct mail, and other addressable channels, delivering increased support tailored to a nonprofit’s specific mission.

“Fundraising is entering a new era where data and AI will fundamentally change how generosity is discovered and activated,” said Gretchen Littlefield, CEO of Moore. “SimioAccelerate brings all nonprofits a level of intelligence that has historically only been available to the largest enterprises,” she explained.

SimioCloud has been shown to increase response rates by up to 85%, as well as doubling the number of major donors and increasing average gift amounts by 50% for enterprise clients. The unique data foundation of SimioCloud enables insights beyond what can be achieved through large language models alone, according to experts at the company.

“Technology can help accelerate the incredible work that nonprofit organizations do every day by helping them reach more people, enhance their operations, and build on the impact they are already making in their communities,” said Harpreet Girn, vice president, global scale, Microsoft Elevate, at Microsoft Corp. “Through our collaboration with Moore, SimioAccelerate brings together the scale of Microsoft Azure, the unique data of SimioCloud, and the power of AI to the nonprofit sector, helping these organizations unlock new insights to accelerate their missions,” Girn said.

“SimioAccelerate gives nonprofit organizations the ability to see new opportunities by combining Microsoft’s global cloud and AI capabilities with SimioCloud’s proprietary giving data. This unlocks new giving to accelerate their missions,” Littlefield added.

SimioAccelerate’s free platform is available now. For more information on the product, go to wearemoore.com/simioaccelerate.

The numbers are striking. When asked to list their top three priorities, 87 percent of respondents said the cure rate was their foremost consideration. Close behind, 58 percent prioritized avoiding surgery if possible, while 47 percent emphasized cosmetic outcome. In contrast, fewer than one in five said their doctor's recommendation of surgery versus a nonsurgical treatment mattered most to them.

This marks a notable evolution in the doctor-patient dynamic. Patients are self-educating, often researching options online, and actively participating in, if not driving, their treatment choices.  

The findings underscore the attraction of newer, noninvasive, Medicare-covered options and help to explain why patients every day are rejecting traditional Mohs surgery in favor of GentleCure® Image-Guided SRT.  More and more dermatologists nationwide are offering this option, which involves the use of targeted low-dose radiation guided by real-time ultrasound imaging, and boasts a 99%+ cure rate for early-stage basal and squamous cell carcinomas.

Skeptics suggest that the need for three to four office visits a week for five to six weeks for Image-Guided SRT might deter patients, but the survey tells a different story: Only 18 percent cited convenience as a major factor, compared to the 58 percent who said they’re eager to avoid surgery.

The data poses a direct challenge to the dominance of Mohs surgery. When asked which they would prefer if two treatments offered similar cure rates, a resounding 70 percent chose a nonsurgical option. Only three percent favored surgery, while 26 percent said it would depend on the individual situation.

Patients overwhelmingly want choice. Ninety-six percent said having multiple treatment options available was very or extremely important, and they expressed concern that insurance changes could restrict access to doctor-recommended therapies. Even more emphatically, 97 percent believe patients and their doctors, not government agencies, insurers, professional organizations, or specialists, should decide which options are made available.

A nearly unanimous 99 percent agreed that “doctors and patients should have broad freedom to choose among appropriate treatment options supported by clinical evidence”. Similarly, 99 percent said that patients should have access to both surgical and nonsurgical options when medically appropriate.

These results signal a broader cultural shift in healthcare. Empowered patients value efficacy and quality of life, in this case, preserving appearance and avoiding the scalpel, while demanding autonomy in an era of abundant information. For dermatologists and the broader skin cancer care community, the message is clear: Offering genuine options, including proven noninvasive therapies like GentleCure Image-Guided SRT, isn't just patient-centered care; it's increasingly what informed patients expect and demand.

This month is national Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the perfect time to schedule your annual skin check-up and to remember to limit your sun exposure, use sunscreen daily, wear protective clothing, and avoid indoor tanning beds.

The survey was conducted by SkinCure Oncology. Information is available at GentleCure.com

SambaSafety, a provider of cloud-based driver risk management solutions, outlines the findings in its 2026 Driver Risk Report: Current Trends Shaping Roadway Safety. The report documents a 64% increase in claims severity since 2015, and citing industry research, an 81% rise in thermonuclear verdicts—jury awards exceeding $100 million—in 2024 alone. Commercial underwriting losses approached $4.9 billion that same year, according to data cited in the report.

The data underscores a central tension in the industry: while visibility into driver behavior has never been greater, translating that visibility into sustained risk reduction remains inconsistent.

Risk Behaviors Continue to Drive Losses

The report draws on nearly 50 million motor vehicle records, 28 million telematics events, Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) data, and 13 years of claims analysis. It identifies several long-running behavioral risks that continue to shape commercial fleet performance.

Among the most notable findings:

• Distracted driving violations have increased 31% over two years
• Speeding remains the leading violation, accounting for 36.5% of major violations in 2025.
• Driver fatigue is associated with a 36% higher accident risk
• Excessive speeding is most common on both very short trips (1–5 miles) and long-haul routes exceeding 500 miles
• Large truck fatal crash involvement has risen 42% since 2009
• Out-of-service violations reached 478,683 in 2025, up 6% year over year

While fleets now have broader access to telematics and behavioral data, the persistence of these trends suggests that risk is increasingly driven by habits, fatigue, and operational pressure rather than lack of information alone.

Growing Gap Between Insight and Execution

A key theme emerging from the report is the widening gap between data availability and operational action.

SambaSafety notes that many organizations now have access to advanced analytics and real-time driver monitoring, but struggle to consistently apply insights in day-to-day safety management. This disconnect is particularly evident in coaching, intervention timing, and cross-functional coordination between insurers, fleets, and risk teams.

The report is equally clear on what works. Organizations combining continuous driver monitoring with targeted training have achieved a 77% reduction in violations within 12 months and a 22% reduction in claims frequency — evidence that execution discipline, not data access, is the decisive factor in outcomes.

AI and Automation Move to the Center of Risk Management

In response to ongoing challenges, SambaSafety has expanded its AI-powered capabilities aimed at improving how organizations interpret and act on risk data.

New tools include AI Profile Summary, which consolidates driver data from motor vehicle records, CSA records, telematics, claims, and training into a single risk overview. Risk Insights provides fleet-level scoring and trend analysis to identify the most significant drivers of exposure. Learning Paths structure driver education into sequential programs designed to reduce administrative burden and improve engagement.

The company also introduced SambaSafety Verified, a tiered accreditation program recognizing fleets that actively manage driver risk, along with a Fleet Risk Management Academy offering structured training across safety fundamentals and advanced risk strategy.

Industry Outlook: Collaboration Still the Missing Link

According to SambaSafety CEO Matt Scheuing, progress in technology and data integration is evident, but the industry has yet to fully normalize collaboration around safety performance.

“Three years into this research series, we’ve seen meaningful progress in technology and the connection of safety and risk stakeholders,” Scheuing said. “The dialogue is deeper, the technology stack is more capable, and compliance is being integrated more deeply into safety programs as a measure of program health.”

Still, the report suggests that the next phase of industry improvement will depend less on data availability and more on how effectively organizations embed risk intelligence into everyday decision-making.

The full 2026 Driver Risk Report is available at sambasafety.com.

“L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 42” edited by Jody Lynn Nye

Each year, the L. Ron Hubbard Writers and Illustrators of the Future Contest discovers new voices in science fiction and fantasy — and Volume 42 of its annual anthology showcases its latest award-winning writers and artists. Selected from entries around the world, winning writers and artists are paired together for the project, resulting in illustrated stories that highlight the creative collaboration at the heart of the program.

This year’s collection spans a wide range of speculative storytelling, from explorations of identity and consciousness to mysteries shaped by shifting realities, alongside richly imagined fantasy and darker, more unsettling tales. These are emerging creators at a pivotal moment in their careers, offering fresh perspectives and bold ideas. With contributions from established authors alongside these new talents, “L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 42” serves as both a celebration of this year’s winners and a glimpse of the genre’s evolving future.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4tBqERz.

“The Architect of Deception” by Debbie Baldwin

In Debbie Baldwin’s latest, privilege and power mask a far more dangerous game. Razz James — once destined for Manhattan’s elite circles — has spent six years unraveling in grief after his twin brother’s death. When his best friend receives an invitation to an exclusive secret society, Razz seizes the distraction, volunteering for an initiation challenge that seems reckless but harmless: steal a memento from a billionaire’s fantastical mansion high above the city.

He pulls it off — or so he thinks. When a body surfaces, Razz is thrust into a twisting web of lies, corruption and shifting loyalties, where wealth bends the rules and truth is anything but fixed.

Blending psychological tension with high-society intrigue, Baldwin delivers a layered thriller packed with riddles, red herrings and escalating stakes. As Razz races to uncover the mastermind behind it all, one question drives the suspense: in a world built on deception, who can he trust?

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4elvPQR.

“What the Heart Carries” by Susan Appel

In this emotionally resonant novel inspired by a true story, Susan Appel explores identity, family and the truth that refuses to stay hidden. Stephanie grows up in a loving Brooklyn household, yet a quiet unease about her origins follows her into adulthood. Miles away, Carmine is shaped by instability and loss, driven by a need to understand where he belongs. They are strangers — until a single revelation brings their lives together, exposing a shared past neither knew existed.

Spanning decades and moving between Brooklyn and Florida, “What the Heart Carries” traces the ripple effects of one long-buried secret. As the truth surfaces, both must reckon with what was lost, what remains and what it means to move forward. Appel delivers a heartfelt story of reconciliation, faith and resilience — and the fragile, enduring ties that define family.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4d89Lbb.

“The Overprivileged, Underqualified Manifesto: When Leadership Forgets Competence and the Emotional Cost We All Hide” by Giovi Zaro

Technology and digital transformation leader Giovi Zaro draws on decades inside global organizations to deliver a sharp, unflinching look at why so many workplaces fall short of their promises. Blending firsthand experience with cultural critique, Giovi argues that failure isn’t rooted in technological complexity, but in leadership that prioritizes optics over outcomes.

Written for high performers, new managers and anyone quietly burning out in “successful” environments, the book names the emotional toll of navigating politics, exclusion and performative progress — where integrity is often sidelined and truth goes unspoken.

Yet it’s not purely diagnostic. Giovi points toward a more hopeful path grounded in accountability, humility and honest leadership. Part manifesto, part mirror, this concise work gives language to what many professionals feel but rarely articulate — and challenges readers to rethink what leadership, and work itself, could be.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4cNIkSB.

“The Lost Panel” by Mark Steven Hammond

Among the many treasures of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent, Belgium, is a massive altarpiece painted by the Renaissance artist Jan van Eyck. Its many panels depict biblical figures, saints, martyrs, prophets, clergy and angels gathered around a pastoral scene at the center, where the Lamb of God bleeds into a golden chalice. It’s an awe-inspiring sight — and, as one of the earliest and most influential masterpieces of oil painting, a defining work in Western art. But what many visitors don’t realize is that the altarpiece, at least in part, is a forgery. One of its panels has been missing for nearly a century, replaced by a meticulously crafted replica.

In April 1934, thieves stole the panel known as "The Just Judges," which remains the greatest unsolved art theft in history. Ransom notes followed. To prove their claim, the thieves returned the reverse side — an image of John the Baptist — while the front vanished completely. Weeks later, a dying man claimed he alone knew the panel’s location, leaving behind cryptic instructions. Investigators pursued the clues, but the painting was never found.

This real-world mystery forms the foundation of Mark Steven Hammond’s "The Lost Panel." While theories about its fate have circulated for decades, Hammond asks a more provocative question: what if it was hidden in plain sight?

The novel opens in 15th-century Bruges, where Jan van Eyck is reimagined as a covert operative embedding secrets within his work. This reframes the altarpiece as more than a religious object — it becomes a vessel for hidden knowledge. The story then shifts to the present day, where a group of historians and researchers is drawn into the long-unsolved mystery. At the center is Ryan, an impulsive but driven protagonist, balanced by Sophia, an art historian whose expertise anchors the investigation. Alongside them are Barbara and Matteo, each contributing specialized knowledge as the mystery expands beyond academic curiosity into something far more dangerous.

What begins as research quickly becomes a high-stakes pursuit. The team follows a trail of historical clues, encoded messages and buried secrets stretching across Europe and into the remnants of wartime history. As they draw closer to the truth, they find themselves in a race against unseen adversaries equally determined to uncover — or control — it.

Hammond balances intellectual puzzle-solving with kinetic action, moving from archival discoveries to high-speed chases. At its core is a compelling idea: in art, meaning is not always visible on the surface. Thematically, the book explores the intersection of faith, power and knowledge, raising questions about who controls history and what is allowed to endure. It also examines legacy — how meaning can be embedded, obscured and rediscovered over time.

What ultimately sets "The Lost Panel" apart is its ability to transform a real-world enigma into a compelling narrative. Hammond doesn’t simply revisit the mystery; he reimagines it, suggesting that what was lost may have been hidden for a reason. Some works of art are not meant to be seen, but to be discovered.

Purchase at https://amzn.to/4u3cGYy.

The new report mapped 131 Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) to their closest civilian equivalents to assess the impact of AI on army personnel. Although the sample size was small and based on private sector task classification, the data provide a foundation for further study of AI in the military, the authors wrote.

“AI won’t replace the Army’s people, but it will transform how they work,” the experts emphasized.

Common AI tasks such as gathering information and identifying objects can take on life-or-death importance in a wartime setting, when actions may be simpler and more structured, thus suited to AI, according to the report. For example, infantry officers in peacetime settings currently have approximately 25% of their work affected by AI, mainly related to administrative tasks. By contrast, AI’s wartime applications, estimated at about a third of activity (33%) for infantry include situational awareness, analyzing data, gathering information, and targeted objects or events.

Based on the report, SCSP experts offered four policy priorities to help the U.S. prepare to optimize an AI-enabled military in the future.

-Lethality. Save time by using AI on automation of administrative or routine tasks, and spend it on active training and readiness for warfighting.

-Commercial Alignment. Optimize interactions with private sector counterparts by using AI to align workflows for more efficient commercial research and development, and reserve custom development for unique wartime functions.

-Combat Investment. AI’s greatest potential military application may be in actual wartime use for information gathering, situational awareness, and targeting.

-Retention. Last, but not least, AI has potential to help address the problem of burnout in the military. Company commanders work more than 12 hours a day. Using AI for routine administrative tasks “could transform quality of life for junior officers and their families; a strategic retention tool,” the experts concluded.

Visit scsp.ai to learn more.

This Spring, two powerful forces amplified the mission: the Richard Childress Racing (RCR) team and The Balancing Act, the nationally televised morning show on Lifetime Television, hosted by longtime Toys for Tots advocate Montel Williams. These partnerships underscored one simple truth: Hope is most powerful when it is shared.

On Friday, April 17^th, The Balancing Act aired a dedicated segment on the Marine Toys for Tots Program. During the segment, Marine Toys for Tots President & CEO Lieutenant General Jim Laster, USMC (Retired) joined Montel Williams to discuss how the Program has evolved into a year-round force for good. Their conversation showcased the breadth of Toys for Tots’ programs—all created to support children long after the holidays have passed. Montel’s personal commitment to service, veterans, and uplifting families made this segment especially meaningful and introduced millions of viewers to the heart behind the mission.

“Our segment on The Balancing Act gave us an extraordinary opportunity to show families nationwide that Toys for Tots delivers hope throughout the year,” says LtGen Laster. "Reaching viewers in their homes deepened our ability to connect children with the support and comfort they deserve."

Then, on Sunday, April 19^th, the No. 3 Toys for Tots Chevrolet, driven by Austin Dillon, took to the track in Kansas City as part of the Rev Up for Hope initiative to raise awareness for the Toys for Tots Disaster Response and Recovery Program.

Race weekend represented more than the excitement of competition. Just as Austin Dillon relies on focus and preparation, Toys for Tots maintains year‑round readiness to deliver toys, books, and emotional relief packages to families facing devastating loss—whether from natural disasters, displacement, or financial hardship.

“As Austin Dillon took the track, he carried with him the impact of every donor who believes in our mission. Each lap symbolized the hope we deliver to children facing hardship,” said LtGen Laster. “This partnership with Richard Childress Racing and race day gave us a powerful platform, but it’s the generosity of our supporters that transforms awareness into real, life‑changing help for children.”

By joining forces on the track and on the air, these partnerships help extend Toys for Tots’ impact to more children and families when it matters most. Thanks to the American public’s generosity, Toys for Tots can continue uplifting children across America—one lap, one story, and one act of kindness at a time. Hope doesn’t happen by accident; it happens because people choose to care.

To learn more about the Marine Toys for Tots Program and its year‑round mission, or to donate, visit www.toysfortots.org.

This season, a cross-industry campaign is promoting skin protection from the sun as a public health priority and emphasizes the value of sunscreen as an everyday essential for protecting your health and reducing your risk of skin cancer.

FDA-regulated sunscreens are proven to help prevent sunburn, premature skin aging, and skin cancer when used as directed, but according to The Skin Cancer Foundation, fewer than 14% of Americans report daily sunscreen use. The #WearSunscreen campaign aims to increase that percentage. By reaching consumers across industry, healthcare, and community channels, the campaign encourages people to protect their skin every day, regardless of season, weather, or skin tone.

The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA), and the Health In Hand Foundation, with help from the Melanoma Research Foundation and The Skin Cancer Foundation, are expanding the #WearSunscreen campaign through public service announcements across print, broadcast, and social media.

The campaign messages include testimonials from skin cancer survivors and other skin health advocates and influencers to raise awareness of the need for sun protection and encourage preventive behaviors nationwide.

“While melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, the most common cancer in the U.S., over 90% of melanomas are considered preventable and when detected early, are highly treatable,” said James Merrick, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, the Melanoma Research Foundation. “Embracing sun safe behaviors such as the daily use of sunscreen, agnostic of ethnicity, gender, age and race is critical to decreasing the risk of melanoma incidence. We are pleased to represent the melanoma patient and survivor community and join the collaborative #WearSunscreen campaign to help educate all about the harmful effects of UV rays and amplify the importance of melanoma prevention.”

Consumers are encouraged to use the hashtag #WearSunscreen to share their sun safety habits, highlight why sunscreen matters, and empower others to take simple steps to protect their skin, like using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing. The #WearSunscreen campaign aims to increase public awareness by sharing facts, free resources, and expert advice. Campaign partners are working together to provide tools and information that make it easier for consumers to incorporate sun protection into their daily routines, and by educating them about the wide range of sunscreen formulations designed to meet diverse needs, all supported by rigorous scientific evaluation and oversight.

“Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and nearly one in five Americans will develop it by age 70,” said Mary Leonard, Senior Vice President and Executive Director of CHPA’s Health In Hand Foundation. “Still, daily sun protection is not the norm. Through this campaign, we are working together to change that by providing consumers with clear, trusted information about the wide range of FDA-regulated sunscreen options available, so sun safety becomes an easy, everyday part of protecting health.”

Visit personalcarecouncil.org/sunscreen or healthinhand.org/sunscreen to learn more.

Instead, data support the importance of addressing the often-unrecognized barriers faced by many families, including health challenges, housing instability, transportation logistics, and lack of connection to their school community, as a way to reduce chronic school absenteeism.

To highlight current challenges to school attendance, Concentric Educational Solutions released a white paper, “Redefining the Attendance Paradigm,” which outlined the scope of the problem. In the 2021-2022 school year, 4.7 million students were chronically absent. These rates were nearly double pre-pandemic levels, and affected every demographic group, indicating a long-term problem exacerbated by the short-term pandemic disruption.

“True solutions will come from innovative, compassionate leaders who understand that a story is just as valuable as a number,” said Ivory A. Toldson, Ph.D., Chief of Research at Concentric Educational Solutions and lead author of the paper. The paper “challenges all stakeholders to abandon outdated, punitive measures and embrace human-centered strategies for long-term student success,” Toldson emphasized.

Some of the key takeaway messages of the report include:

-Economic impact. The reduced earning potential caused by chronic absenteeism costs the United States economy billions of dollars, including increased need for social services and reduced workforce readiness.

-Systemic causes. Contrary to popular belief, the main drivers of chronic absenteeism include poverty, housing instability, health issues, and school climate, rather than parental neglect or student defiance.

-Concentric solutions. The Concentric Model, based on a combination of home visits and wraparound support, has demonstrated more success in reducing chronic absenteeism than punitive measures, which have not been shown to improve attendance and disproportionately harm students in poverty and students of color.

Overall, the most successful strategies to combat chronic absenteeism involve engaging families, removing barriers, and building relationships, according to Toldson. Supporting children’s return to school and re-engagement in learning will allow them to find paths to their full potential, he said.

To read the full paper and learn more, visit concentriced.org.