Spong founder Doug Spong to step down
Spong’s president emeritus and founder Doug Spong plans to depart the firm at the end of the year. His move comes one month after 10-year Spong veteran Julie Batliner was upped from MD to president at the firm. Spong celebrated its 25th anniversary this year.
University of Chicago cancels Monday classes after FBI warning
After being informed by the FBI that an unknown individual posted an online threat of gun violence against the University of Chicago, classes at the school were cancelled on Monday. University president Robert Zimmer told the campus community about the threat via email on Sunday. His email was also posted on the school’s website and the university tweeted about the incident, linking to Zimmer’s letter.
Amazon releases drone video starring Jeremy Clarkson
Amazon posted a video to its site on Sunday about its delivery drone service, featuring former BBC Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson. In the video, after a bulldog destroys a soccer shoe in the "not too distant future," a family quickly orders a new pair of shoes via drone. Amazon is seeking to win public support for its drone project and overcome regulatory hurdles in the US and elsewhere.
Clinton unveils new jobs agenda
Hillary Clinton proposed a $275 billion infrastructure plan on Sunday, falling short of the $1 trillion pledged by Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders to rebuild the nation's crumbling bridges, ports, highways, and airports. Clinton aims to use national programs to boost the middle class without alienating independent voters more concerned with upping the federal deficit.
P&G is reassessing PR work for baby, feminine care brands
Procter & Gamble is reviewing its PR, marketing, and media requirements for its baby and feminine care segment, along with a number of its other businesses globally. Procter & Gamble's move comes after a company spokesperson told PRWeek in August it is slashing the number of agencies it works with globally in PR, advertising, and marketing by 40% to improve spending efficiency across the business.
PRWeek to honor masters of the PR industry
Next week, PRWeek is inducting a new class of inspiring leaders into the Hall of Fame, recognizing six masters of PR and the profound impact they have made on the comms industry. PRWeek’s Hall of Fame debuted two years ago to recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to the development of the communications industry. Information on this year’s inductees can be found here.
