Here are some top headlines in industry news that you should know about:
Google Ads to Block Unverified Phone Numbers in Message Assets – Starting August 1, Google Ads will no longer allow advertisers to create new message assets using unverified phone numbers. Existing message assets with unverified numbers will stop serving on September 1, according to updated enforcement of Google’s Destination Requirements policy. Advertisers must verify their phone numbers to avoid disruptions. Read the article here. The story was published in Global Advertising News, part of Affinity Group Publishing.
Dawning Public Relations Expands Services to Vineyards and Luxury Hotels – Dawning Public Relations is now offering specialized PR support for vineyards and luxury hotels. The agency’s expanded services include DIY PR, community relations, and tailored campaigns designed to boost brand visibility and audience engagement. The move reflects Dawning’s focus on helping clients grow through strategic, story-driven communications. Read more.
X Hires Third U.S. PR Lead in Under a Year – Elon Musk’s X has appointed Rosemarie Esposito as its new head of U.S. public relations, marking the third person in the role in less than a year, according to Axios. The company also hired Victoria Gillespie to lead media strategy outside the U.S., despite its ongoing tensions with the press and advertisers. Both hires come as X continues to dismiss traditional PR while rebuilding its communications team. Find out more.
LIT Advertising Awards Announces Season 1 Winners for 2025 – The LIT Advertising Awards, a new global program honoring creatives, has revealed its first-ever winners. Organized by the International Awards Associate (IAA), the competition drew entries from over 20 countries, highlighting bold, strategic work across advertising, video, digital, and more. Judged by a global panel of experts, winners included campaigns from Munchkin Inc., FAT Brands, and agencies representing brands like Vivo, HSBC, and China Eastern Airlines. This press release was distributed through Asia Media News, part of Affinity Group Publishing.
USF’s ‘Be Bold’ Campaign Wins Platinum Hermes Award – The University of South Florida’s “Be Bold” campaign has earned top honors at the 2025 Hermes Creative Awards, winning platinum in the Strategic Campaigns category. The refreshed, video-first campaign highlights authentic stories from students, faculty, and staff. The recognition places USF among thousands of global entries celebrating creative excellence in media and marketing. Explore more here.
Amy Krouse Marks 10 Years as Communications Lead at ASLRRA – The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) is celebrating Senior Vice President of Communications Amy Krouse for a decade of service. Known as the voice behind much of the association’s public messaging, Krouse has helped elevate the short line rail industry through strategic storytelling, advocacy, and outreach. Learn more about her.
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