News from Around the Web: Dec. 29 - Jan. 2

📰 In this week’s industry news, brands are kicking off 2026 with fresh PR and marketing resolutions, a Fast Company piece highlights the growing push to rebuild audience trust, and a longtime NFL communications leader receives a major honor. There’s also movement in the dental marketing world as agencies roll out upgraded tools to help practices get noticed. Catch those stories and more below.

Media Company Unveils 10 New Year’s Resolutions to Level Up Marketing and PR in 2026 – As brands reflect on what worked (and didn’t work) last year, industry experts say the new year is the right opportunity to rethink marketing and public relations strategies. AZ Big Media explores everything from improving visibility on generative AI platforms to investing in authentic storytelling and long-term brand trust. PR leaders across Arizona share practical resolutions that they say will help businesses adapt, stand out and build momentum in 2026. Hear from CEOs and PR leaders here.

Why Trust Will Be the Most Valuable Currency for Communicators in 2026 – As skepticism becomes the default mindset for audiences, trust is no longer assumed — it’s earned, says Martha Marchesi, CEO of JK Design. In a piece published in Fast Company, she highlights new research showing growing doubt toward business leaders, pushing communicators to rely less on polish and more on proof, consistency and transparency. Credibility has become a measurable business asset. Read the full story.

Former NFL PR Executive Scott Berchtold Honored by Pro Football Hall of Fame – Scott Berchtold, the former vice president of communications for the Buffalo Bills, is being recognized for a five-decade career in NFL public relations as part of the Awards of Excellence’s fifth class. Berchtold spent 34 years with the Bills and worked 32 Super Bowls, including 12 as an NFL-selected PR captain overseeing media operations. The honor spotlights behind-the-scenes leaders who helped shape the game. Find out more.

Ortho Marketing Expands Dental SEO and Social Media Services to Reach Dentists Nationwide – Ortho Marketing has enhanced its dental SEO and social media marketing services, designed to help dentists nationwide increase visibility, rank higher on Google and drive more patient appointments. The agency’s all‑in‑one platform, SmileHub, centralizes lead management and patient communication for a more streamlined approach to growth. The firm says dentists can request a digital review or consultation today. This news was published in MarCom World, part of Affinity Group Publishing.

Online Reviews Shape Consumer Trust and Purchases – A new survey from Goodfirms finds that 91% of consumers trust online reviews more than traditional marketing, with half reading reviews before making a purchase. Verified and video reviews are increasingly influential, while negative feedback can hurt conversions. Businesses plan to invest more in review management and reputation platforms in 2026. Explore Goodfirms’ review tools or submit your own review today. This press release was published in MarCom Europe, part of Affinity Group Publishing.

Fort Smith Police Communications Transition to New Center – The Fort Smith Police Department’s Communications Unit has moved to the new River Valley Communications Center in Arkansas. Chief Danny Baker called the transition an “historic milestone” for public safety, with Dr. Wes Milam taking over leadership. The center will oversee emergency communications for Fort Smith and Sebastian County, maintaining high standards for telecommunicators. Learn more about the center and its public safety initiatives.

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