Federal Independent Agencies
Here's a look at documents from federal independent agencies
Featured Stories
Smithsonian American Women's History Museum Launches Augmented-Reality Experience on National Mall Celebrating Five Trailblazers
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Smithsonian Institution issued the following news release:
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Smithsonian American Women's History Museum Launches Augmented-Reality Experience on National Mall Celebrating Five Trailblazers
Innovative Technology Brings New Voices to the Mall, Commemorating the Nation's 250th Anniversary; Access the Experience Now at unhidden-heroines.com
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The Smithsonian American Women's History Museum today launched "Unhidden Heroines," an augmented-reality experience on the National Mall that brings to life the stories of five women who helped shape American history. The immersive
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Smithsonian Institution issued the following news release:
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Smithsonian American Women's History Museum Launches Augmented-Reality Experience on National Mall Celebrating Five Trailblazers
Innovative Technology Brings New Voices to the Mall, Commemorating the Nation's 250th Anniversary; Access the Experience Now at unhidden-heroines.com
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The Smithsonian American Women's History Museum today launched "Unhidden Heroines," an augmented-reality experience on the National Mall that brings to life the stories of five women who helped shape American history. The immersiveexperience is now available for visitors on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and accessible remotely nationwide from any smartphone or tablet through Saturday, Dec. 31, at unhidden-heroines.com. "Unhidden Heroines" is part of the Smithsonian Institution's programming for the nation's 250th anniversary.
With several key monuments, memorials and statues, the National Mall is one of the country's most symbolic spaces for remembering and learning about American history. "Unhidden Heroines" adds the stories of five American women to this historic landscape.
"'Unhidden Heroines' imagines landmarks dedicated to women's history in the heart of our nation, celebrating the unsung achievements of five remarkable American women on the National Mall and beyond," said Melanie Adams, interim director of the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum.
The five women highlighted are:
* Polly Cooper, an Oneida woman pivotal to the success of Washington's Continental Army, at the Washington Monument.
* Julia Ward Howe, creator of a rallying cry, "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," for the Union cause during the Civil War, at the Lincoln Memorial.
* Dorothy Height, a civil and women rights activist known as the "Godmother of the Civil Rights Movement," at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.
* Elizebeth Smith Friedman, a cryptanalyst central to cracking Nazi code during World War II, at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial.
* Mary Katharine Goddard, the printer who published the first signed copy of the Declaration of Independence, at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
"Unhidden Heroines" uses AR technology and interactive storytelling to connect the histories of these women to iconic monuments on the National Mall, memorializing their accomplishments during pivotal moments in the nation's history. Through geolocation and custom 3D models, audiences of all ages are invited to step into their world and encounter the stories of these "Unhidden Heroines" as if told firsthand.
"This experience is truly representative of our museum's mission to expand the story of America through the often-untold accounts and accomplishments of women and a prime example of how we are prioritizing innovative programming," Adams said. "We hope witnessing the transformative contributions of these women in a place of such significance will inspire all Americans to envision the powerful stories the museum will tell in this same space, as we progress toward opening our permanent home on the National Mall."
Visitors to the National Mall can enjoy "Unhidden Heroines" by scanning a QR code on their smartphones or tablets and holding them up to each monument for the stories to appear on screen. Audiences can also explore the experience remotely from any location using the QR code or URL. The "Unhidden Heroines" digital experience was developed by the award-winning creative agency Goodby Silverstein & Partners, with the women illustrated by Believe and the full AR experience built and designed in 3D by Current Studios.
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About the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum
The Smithsonian American Women's History Museum expands the story of America through the often-untold accounts and accomplishments of women--individually and collectively--to better understand our past and inspire our future. Through new scholarship, innovative exhibitions and online experiences, storytelling and participation, the museum inspires the next generation. The legislation creating the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum passed Dec. 27, 2020, and the museum is working with Congress to finalize a site for the physical building on the National Mall, even as it continues to advance history, education and scholarship.
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Original text here: https://www.si.edu/newsdesk/releases/smithsonian-american-womens-history-museum-launches-augmented-reality-experience
IDB Group Approves Uruguay Country Strategy 2026-2030
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Group Approves Uruguay Country Strategy 2026-2030
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) approved the Country Strategy (CS) for Uruguay for 2026-2030, a plan developed jointly with the Government of Uruguay that envisages investments of US$4.2 billion and seeks to consolidate the country as a hub for innovation and a benchmark for security, building on its stability and institutional and macroeconomic strength.
Under this new agenda, the IDB will allocate US$2.7 billion to
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Group Approves Uruguay Country Strategy 2026-2030
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) approved the Country Strategy (CS) for Uruguay for 2026-2030, a plan developed jointly with the Government of Uruguay that envisages investments of US$4.2 billion and seeks to consolidate the country as a hub for innovation and a benchmark for security, building on its stability and institutional and macroeconomic strength.
Under this new agenda, the IDB will allocate US$2.7 billion tosupport public sector initiatives, while IDB Invest, the private sector institution of the IDB Group, will allocate US$1.5 billion to strengthen business investment. IDB Lab, the Group's innovation and venture arm, will continue to promote the entrepreneurial ecosystem and early-stage investment.
"The 2026-2030 Country Strategy expands its scope through public-private solutions, strategic partnerships, and innovative financial mechanisms, while maintaining IDB Group's historic hallmark: being the country's leading multilateral partner through strategic support, high technical value, and alignment with national priorities, generating scalable learning for the region," said Luiz Ros, IDB Group Representative in Uruguay.
Within the framework of the IDBStrategy+, the pillars of the new Country Strategy for Uruguay over the next four years are:
* Innovation and business climate: The new roadmap aims to stimulate productive modernization, private investment in R&D, and trade openness by strengthening innovation initiatives, promoting digitalization and agricultural productivity, and leveraging the advantages of new trade agreements. Under this objective, the CS seeks to improve the business climate, promote competition, deepen capital markets, and expand access to financing, particularly for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. The venture capital industry will also be promoted to channel financing and strategic support to technology-based ventures, through IDB Lab and the IDB. At the regional level, the IDB Group will strengthen capacities in artificial intelligence and high-performance computing (HPC). In addition, the plan will modernize public finances, contributing to greater macroeconomic stability. In this way, the CS aims to encourage investment and generate new growth opportunities.
* Security and well-being: The strategy will prioritize citizen security through the modernization of justice and security systems and the strengthening of childhood and youth policies, especially for the most vulnerable groups, by expanding educational opportunities and designing more targeted social policies.
* Mobility and basic services: The new agenda aims to achieve more efficient, accessible, sustainable, and equitable mobility, with a focus on the public transportation system in the Montevideo metropolitan area. Likewise, the plan seeks to improve urban development and ensure access to housing, develop efficient and resilient infrastructure, guarantee universal and safe access to basic services such as drinking water, and expand energy infrastructure.
The document deepens the strategic relationship between Uruguay and the IDB Group and will be implemented through a multisectoral and synergistic programmatic approach using the full range of available instruments, including regional initiatives such as South Connection and the Alliance for Security, Justice, and Development. The IDB will also provide financial and technical cooperation to strengthen engagement with the OECD and to support the ratification and implementation of trade agreements.
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About the IDB Group
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) is the leading source of financing and knowledge for improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. It comprises the IDB, which works with the region's public sector and enables the private sector; IDB Invest, which directly supports private companies and projects; and IDB Lab, which spurs entrepreneurial innovation.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/idb-group-approves-uruguay-country-strategy-2026-2030
Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco Provides Update on Interim President, CEO
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank System Office of Finance issued the following news release on June 18, 2026:
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Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco Provides Update on Interim President and Chief Executive Officer
The Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLBank) of San Francisco announced today that interim President and Chief Executive Officer Winthrop Watson has informed its board of directors (Board) that he is willing to continue to serve as interim President and Chief Executive Officer on an indefinite basis.
The FHLBank of San Francisco announced Mr. Watson's appointment
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WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank System Office of Finance issued the following news release on June 18, 2026:
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Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco Provides Update on Interim President and Chief Executive Officer
The Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLBank) of San Francisco announced today that interim President and Chief Executive Officer Winthrop Watson has informed its board of directors (Board) that he is willing to continue to serve as interim President and Chief Executive Officer on an indefinite basis.
The FHLBank of San Francisco announced Mr. Watson's appointmentto the interim role on January 8, 2026, while the Board continued its search for a permanent President and Chief Executive Officer. In light of today's announcement and taking into account Mr. Watson's demonstrated leadership and strategic vision and his extensive prior experience as a chief executive officer of an FHLBank, the Board is no longer at this time pursuing candidates for the permanent President and Chief Executive Officer position.
For additional information, please review the FHLBank of San Francisco's Form 8-K filing on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission website, www.sec.gov.
The FHLBanks have delivered innovation and service to the U.S. housing market since 1932, and currently have approximately 6,300 members serving all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. Please contact Tom Heinle at (703) 467-3646 or theinle@fhlb-of.com for additional information.
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Original text here: https://fhlb-of.com/ofweb_userWeb/resources/PR2026-0618-PressRelease1.pdf
IDB Group Approves Uruguay Country Strategy 2026-2030
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Group Approves Uruguay Country Strategy 2026-2030
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) approved the Country Strategy (CS) for Uruguay for 2026-2030, a plan developed jointly with the Government of Uruguay that envisages investments of US$4.2 billion and seeks to consolidate the country as a hub for innovation and a benchmark for security, building on its stability and institutional and macroeconomic strength.
Under this new agenda, the IDB will allocate US$2.7 billion to
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 19 -- The Inter-American Development Bank issued the following news release:
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IDB Group Approves Uruguay Country Strategy 2026-2030
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) approved the Country Strategy (CS) for Uruguay for 2026-2030, a plan developed jointly with the Government of Uruguay that envisages investments of US$4.2 billion and seeks to consolidate the country as a hub for innovation and a benchmark for security, building on its stability and institutional and macroeconomic strength.
Under this new agenda, the IDB will allocate US$2.7 billion tosupport public sector initiatives, while IDB Invest, the private sector institution of the IDB Group, will allocate US$1.5 billion to strengthen business investment. IDB Lab, the Group's innovation and venture arm, will continue to promote the entrepreneurial ecosystem and early-stage investment.
"The 2026-2030 Country Strategy expands its scope through public-private solutions, strategic partnerships, and innovative financial mechanisms, while maintaining IDB Group's historic hallmark: being the country's leading multilateral partner through strategic support, high technical value, and alignment with national priorities, generating scalable learning for the region," said Luiz Ros, IDB Group Representative in Uruguay.
Within the framework of the IDBStrategy+, the pillars of the new Country Strategy for Uruguay over the next four years are:
* Innovation and business climate: The new roadmap aims to stimulate productive modernization, private investment in R&D, and trade openness by strengthening innovation initiatives, promoting digitalization and agricultural productivity, and leveraging the advantages of new trade agreements. Under this objective, the CS seeks to improve the business climate, promote competition, deepen capital markets, and expand access to financing, particularly for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. The venture capital industry will also be promoted to channel financing and strategic support to technology-based ventures, through IDB Lab and the IDB. At the regional level, the IDB Group will strengthen capacities in artificial intelligence and high-performance computing (HPC). In addition, the plan will modernize public finances, contributing to greater macroeconomic stability. In this way, the CS aims to encourage investment and generate new growth opportunities.
* Security and well-being: The strategy will prioritize citizen security through the modernization of justice and security systems and the strengthening of childhood and youth policies, especially for the most vulnerable groups, by expanding educational opportunities and designing more targeted social policies.
* Mobility and basic services: The new agenda aims to achieve more efficient, accessible, sustainable, and equitable mobility, with a focus on the public transportation system in the Montevideo metropolitan area. Likewise, the plan seeks to improve urban development and ensure access to housing, develop efficient and resilient infrastructure, guarantee universal and safe access to basic services such as drinking water, and expand energy infrastructure.
The document deepens the strategic relationship between Uruguay and the IDB Group and will be implemented through a multisectoral and synergistic programmatic approach using the full range of available instruments, including regional initiatives such as South Connection and the Alliance for Security, Justice, and Development. The IDB will also provide financial and technical cooperation to strengthen engagement with the OECD and to support the ratification and implementation of trade agreements.
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About the IDB Group
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) is the leading source of financing and knowledge for improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. It comprises the IDB, which works with the region's public sector and enables the private sector; IDB Invest, which directly supports private companies and projects; and IDB Lab, which spurs entrepreneurial innovation.
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Original text here: https://www.iadb.org/en/news/idb-group-approves-uruguay-country-strategy-2026-2030
SBA Approves Siemens Financial Services as 7(a) Lender
WASHINGTON, June 18 -- The Small Business Administration issued the following news release on June 17, 2026:
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SBA Approves Siemens Financial Services as 7(a) Lender
Siemens is One of 16 Non-Bank Lenders Amid Return to Industrialization, First Industrial Technology Company to Secure SBLC License
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Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that Siemens Small Business Lending, Inc. (SSBL), owned by Siemens Financial Services Inc. (SFS), the U.S. financing arm of global technology leader Siemens, has been awarded a Small Business Lending Company (SBLC) license, making
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WASHINGTON, June 18 -- The Small Business Administration issued the following news release on June 17, 2026:
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SBA Approves Siemens Financial Services as 7(a) Lender
Siemens is One of 16 Non-Bank Lenders Amid Return to Industrialization, First Industrial Technology Company to Secure SBLC License
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Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that Siemens Small Business Lending, Inc. (SSBL), owned by Siemens Financial Services Inc. (SFS), the U.S. financing arm of global technology leader Siemens, has been awarded a Small Business Lending Company (SBLC) license, makingit one of only 16 approved non-bank SBA lenders nationwide. As the first industrial technology company to become an SBLC lender, SSBL will originate 7(a) Loans and prioritize lending to small businesses in key industries including manufacturing, energy, healthcare, logistics, and technology.
"Demand for capital is rising amid President Trump's America First economy and a return to industrial strength, as more small businesses seek growth funding to expand, hire, and invest in technology, which is one reason why private-sector lenders like Siemens Financial Services are stepping up to meet the need," said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. "Amid record business formations taking place in America, we're excited to welcome Siemens Financial Services to our network of lenders, especially with its strong commitment to prioritize funding for critical industries, from manufacturing and energy to advanced technology."
"Through financing, technology, and partnership, SSBL's SBA 7(a) loan capability will allow us to help small businesses gain access to capital and adopt industrial AI and other advanced technologies," said Doug Maher, CEO, Siemens Financial Services, Inc. "Based on a unique combination of financial expertise, risk management and industry know-how, SFS provides tailored financing solutions - including equipment leasing and working capital products, project and structured financing, asset-based lending, and equity investments - and enables access to Siemens' technology and deep vertical know-how supporting customer growth and innovation. For more than a decade, SFS has supported small and medium-sized businesses in scaling and expanding through automation and digitalization in factories, buildings, grids, and transportation systems."
The approval reflects broader momentum within SBA lending programs as demand for capital is being met with growing participation from private-sector lenders. In Fiscal Year 2025, the agency guaranteed a record $45 billion in capital to 85,000 small businesses through its 7(a) and 504 loan programs, leveraging a network of over 4,300 lenders. Amid President Trump's pro-growth economy, the 7(a) program continues to attract institutions with the scale, expertise, and long-term commitment to support America's job creators.
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About the 7(a) Loan Program
The 7(a) loan program is SBA's flagship program, a public-private partnership which offers government-guaranteed loans to help small businesses finance equipment purchases, real estate acquisition, working capital (including revolving credit lines), and business expansion.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.sba.gov/article/2026/06/17/sba-approves-siemens-financial-services-7a-lender
GSA Selling Former Somerville, NJ Depot, Delivering Taxpayer Value
WASHINGTON, June 18 -- The General Services Administration issued the following news release:
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GSA Selling Former Somerville, NJ Depot, Delivering Taxpayer Value
SOMERVILLE, N.J. - Today, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced the upcoming auction of the Somerville Depot in New Jersey. The Depot is a 810,000-square-foot office and warehouse complex located in central New Jersey.
"GSA is focused on delivering value for the American taxpayer," said GSA Administrator Edward C. Forst. "By strategically offloading long-term liabilities, we are executing on President Trump's
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WASHINGTON, June 18 -- The General Services Administration issued the following news release:
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GSA Selling Former Somerville, NJ Depot, Delivering Taxpayer Value
SOMERVILLE, N.J. - Today, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced the upcoming auction of the Somerville Depot in New Jersey. The Depot is a 810,000-square-foot office and warehouse complex located in central New Jersey.
"GSA is focused on delivering value for the American taxpayer," said GSA Administrator Edward C. Forst. "By strategically offloading long-term liabilities, we are executing on President Trump'sdirective to shrink the federal real estate portfolio to a stronger core."
The Somerville Depot sits at the heart of Somerset County's industrial and logistics network in New Jersey, benefiting from excellent access to major regional transportation routes. The site's substantial scale and established infrastructure create an exceptional opportunity for strategic reinvestment in this well-established location.
All interested parties are strongly urged to thoroughly read the official Invitation for Bids (IFB) document for complete auction details including terms, conditions, detailed property information, and bidding procedures.
GSA remains committed to solving long-term problems that exist in the federal portfolio of assets, reducing waste, and delivering long-term value to the American people.
About GSA: GSA provides centralized procurement and shared services for the federal government. GSA manages a nationwide real estate portfolio of approximately 360 million rentable square feet, oversees more than $126 billion in products and services via federal contracts, and delivers technology services to millions of people across dozens of federal agencies. GSA's mission is to deliver exceptional customer experience and value in real estate, acquisition, and technology services to the government and the American people. For more information, visit GSA.gov and follow us at @USGSA
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Original text here: https://www.gsa.gov/about-gsa/newsroom/news-releases/gsa-selling-former-somerville-nj-depot-delivering-taxpayer-value-06182026
EPA Announces $25.5 million to Address Wastewater Challenges in Rural, Small, and Tribal Communities
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Announces $25.5 million to Address Wastewater Challenges in Rural, Small, and Tribal Communities
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WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $25.5 million in grant funding for technical assistance providers to help small, rural, and Tribal communities address wastewater infrastructure challenges to protect human health and comply with the Clean Water Act. The work performed under this grant program will advance the Trump EPA's Real Water
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WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Announces $25.5 million to Address Wastewater Challenges in Rural, Small, and Tribal Communities
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WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $25.5 million in grant funding for technical assistance providers to help small, rural, and Tribal communities address wastewater infrastructure challenges to protect human health and comply with the Clean Water Act. The work performed under this grant program will advance the Trump EPA's Real WaterTechnical Assistance (RealWaterTA) initiative launched earlier this year to align all technical assistance for wastewater systems with tried-and-true services, such as engineering and design expertise, operational support, workforce development, and financial management. EPA is accepting applications from water technical assistance providers until August 14.
"The Trump Administration sees rural America as the backbone of this great nation and is committed to supporting these communities by strengthening vital water infrastructure," said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer. "That's why we are using our RealWaterTA initiative to support water systems using proven, best-practice approaches that will most effectively address local needs. This $25.5 million in new funding will accelerate progress and deliver real results."
The goals of RealWaterTA focus on human health and compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act. It also prioritizes accountability for technical assistance providers and real-world results. This initiative is benefiting Americans nationwide, especially in Tribal communities and rural areas where small systems face unique financial and operational challenges, including aging infrastructure, workforce shortages, increasing costs, and declining rate bases. EPA's grant funding will be used to assess communities' most pressing challenges, including supporting water quality compliance issues; providing training on water infrastructure and management best practices; helping communities navigate the federal funding application process, and investing in reliable infrastructure solutions.
The Rural, Small, and Tribal Technical Assistance providers help these communities access resources to support infrastructure improvements. These providers also support rural, small, and Tribal wastewater treatment systems - centralized and decentralized - to build technical, managerial, and financial capacity to operate their systems and maintain compliance.
EPA is accepting applications until August 14, 2026. Learn more about the Rural, Small, and Tribal Wastewater Technical Assistance Grant Program and how to apply.
Background
The Rural, Small and Tribal Clean Water Technical Assistance Grant Program was established by the America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. One of EPA's Real Water Technical Assistance initiatives, the program aims to provide technical assistance to improve small wastewater system operations and management practices, making them more sustainable and resilient, and supporting EPA's mission to protect public health and the environment. To date, the program has awarded over $102 million.
Learn more about EPA's Real Water Technical Assistance efforts.
Learn more about the tools, training, and resources for small, rural, Tribal wastewater systems.
Communities can request assistance by visiting the agency's Real Water Technical Assistance webpage.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-255-million-address-wastewater-challenges-rural-small-and-tribal
2026 National Teacher of the Year To Headline Smithsonian's National Education Summit
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Smithsonian Institution Office of the Under Secretary for Education issued the following news release on June 15, 2026:
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2026 National Teacher of the Year To Headline Smithsonian's National Education Summit
The Smithsonian has expanded programming for its 2026 National Education Summit, adding new sessions and keynote speaker Leon Smith, the 2026 National Teacher of the Year. The three-day event will take place Tuesday, July 14, through Thursday, July 16, in Washington, D.C., and online.
Smith, who also was named the 2025 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year, teaches
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WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Smithsonian Institution Office of the Under Secretary for Education issued the following news release on June 15, 2026:
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2026 National Teacher of the Year To Headline Smithsonian's National Education Summit
The Smithsonian has expanded programming for its 2026 National Education Summit, adding new sessions and keynote speaker Leon Smith, the 2026 National Teacher of the Year. The three-day event will take place Tuesday, July 14, through Thursday, July 16, in Washington, D.C., and online.
Smith, who also was named the 2025 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year, teachesAP U.S. history and AP African American studies at Haverford High School in Havertown, Pennsylvania. He will deliver the keynote session "Unlocking the Potential in Every Student." Known for his emphasis on critical thinking, civic engagement and elevating student voices, Smith brings a dynamic classroom tested perspective on how young people learn and lead. The keynote will be presented in person at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington and livestreamed for online participants.
New Sessions Added
In a year marking the nation's 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this year's theme, "Together We Thrive: Towards a More Perfect Union," invites educators to reflect on our shared history and envision the future we aim to build together. The summit provides participants with access to Smithsonian resources and tools, actionable teaching and learning strategies, and a unique opportunity to network with educators across a wide range of learning environments. With educators registered from all 50 states, the Smithsonian is expanding its offerings to meet the growing interest.
Summit Schedule
Tuesday, July 14; 3 p.m.-3:50 p.m. online; Wednesday, July 15; 1 p.m.-1:50 p.m. in person
We the Teachers: New Resources for Civic Education
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
Previously offered online only, this session will now be available online July 14 and in person July 15. Participants will explore a suite of civic education resources, including activities, lesson plans, research guides and case studies designed to support civic understanding.
Wednesday, July 15; 1 p.m.-2 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.-3:15 p.m.
Inspire and Inquire with Student Programs
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
Educators from the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery will share strategies for connecting artworks and portraits to meaningful discussions across subject areas. Sessions will be led by experienced facilitators from both museums.
Thursday, July 16; 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
iPuro Ritmo! Teaching History Through Objects
Smithsonian's National Museum of American History
Previously offered only in the afternoon, the Smithsonian will also host a morning in-gallery session at the National Museum of the American Latino's Molina Gallery. The sessions include a guided tour of the new museum's "iPuro Ritmo! The Musical Journey of Salsa" exhibition, plus a chance to engage in a hands-on object-biography activity led by the museum's education and programming staff, highlighting how to narrate an object's life story, historical context and significance as a primary source.
The expanded lineup provides educators across schools, libraries and museums with more opportunities to engage with Smithsonian collections, content and expertise and to network with peers from across the country. Each session emphasizes practical, ready-to-use strategies and digital resources to support teaching and learning.
Featured Online Sessions
This year's summit offers four curated session tracks designed to help educators bring history, civic dialogue and the arts to life. As previously announced, the "Placing History in Context" track features standout online sessions Tuesday, July 14, including:
* History that Speaks: From Stories to Power, starting at noon, highlights engaging and meaningful ways to use oral history interviews from the new Smithsonian American Women's History Museum's collection as learning tools.
* Beyond the Visit: Smithsonian Digital Tools, starting at 1 p.m., spotlights cutting-edge digital resources for 3D object exploration and surfacing community stories.
* 250 Years: Local Stories, National Narratives, starting at 2 p.m., connects postal history as an entry point for conversations about American identity, regional diversity and what it means to be part of a nation.
* We the Teachers: New Resources for Civic Education, starting at 3 p.m., brings together a spectrum of program models from across the Smithsonian to engage students in civic dialogue.
The Smithsonian invites educators, librarians, museum professionals and community partners to participate in this national convening during a historic anniversary year. For full session details and free registration, visit the National Education Summit website.
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About the Smithsonian Institution's Office of the Under Secretary for Education
The Smithsonian Institution's Office of the Under Secretary for Education (OUSE) advances the Smithsonian's mission to increase and diffuse knowledge through educational leadership, research and collaboration. OUSE works across the Smithsonian's museums, research centers and programs to develop and share high-quality educational resources, professional learning opportunities and partnerships that support teaching and learning nationwide. Through its work, OUSE helps connect learners of all ages to the Smithsonian's collections, scholarship and expertise.
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Original text here: https://www.si.edu/newsdesk/releases/2026-national-teacher-year-headline-smithsonians-national-education-summit
EPA New England Celebrates Major Cleanup Milestone at Raymark Superfund Site
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA New England Celebrates Major Cleanup Milestone at Raymark Superfund Site
STRATFORD, CONN. - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency celebrated a major cleanup milestone at the Raymark Superfund Site in Stratford, Connecticut. EPA Regional Administrator Mark Sanborn was joined by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, Stratford Mayor David Chess, Emma Cimino Deputy Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and Mark Anderson and Dean Brammer of the U.S. Army
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WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA New England Celebrates Major Cleanup Milestone at Raymark Superfund Site
STRATFORD, CONN. - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency celebrated a major cleanup milestone at the Raymark Superfund Site in Stratford, Connecticut. EPA Regional Administrator Mark Sanborn was joined by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, Stratford Mayor David Chess, Emma Cimino Deputy Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and Mark Anderson and Dean Brammer of the U.S. ArmyCorps of Engineers.
The Raymark Industries, Inc. site is one of EPA's most complex Superfund sites in New England, occupying hundreds of acres across Stratford. Because of this complexity, the site was divided into nine separate units, known as Operable Units, with different investigations and remedies. The event marked the completion of Operable Unit 4 (OU4), formerly the Raybestos Memorial Ballfield, which has transformed a former disposal site into a safe, usable property.
The project involved removing contaminated soil from throughout Stratford and consolidating it within an existing containment area, where it is safely secured beneath an 11-acre multi-layer capping system. This investment not only addressed environmental risks, but also enabled future redevelopment of the site, creating economic opportunities for the community.
"The completion of this cleanup marks an important milestone in protecting human health and the environment while supporting economic growth in Stratford," said EPA New England Regional Administrator Mark Sanborn. "This work reflects our agency's commitment to restoring contaminated properties, supporting community revitalization, and ensuring a safer future for residents."
As part of EPA's recently announced Superfunds Solutions initiative, which focuses on accelerated cleanups nationwide at sites like Raymark, EPA is emphasizing swift clean up decisions, modernized tools, and strengthened cooperative federalism to deliver maximum human health and environmental protections.
Following the event, officials and media representatives toured the ongoing Operable Unit 5 (OU5) Shore Road cleanup project along the Housatonic River. An excellent reflection of the Superfund Solutions initiative's goals, OU5 has demonstrated enhanced project management by streamlining the design phase and accelerating the reduction of risks to human health and the environment.
Background
The 34-acre Raymark Industries, Inc. site in Stratford, Connecticut, hosted brake, clutch, and friction product manufacturing from 1919 until operations ceased in 1989. The site was added to the National Priorities List (NPL) in 1995. Contamination in area soil, sediment, surface water and groundwater primarily consisted of polychlorinated biphenyls, volatile organic compounds, asbestos, lead, copper, and about a dozen other chemical compounds known to be carcinogenic or otherwise toxic to human health and the environment. Raymark manufacturing waste was used as fill on-site and was later disposed of across Stratford at 46 residential properties, as well as numerous commercial, recreational, and municipal locations. Several nearby wetlands along the Housatonic River were also filled with this waste. The site is being addressed by area or Operable Unit.
The OU4 site is north of the former Raymark facility, bordered by residential, commercial, and industrial properties, as well as the Contract Plating Brownfields site. Historically, the area served as a gravel pit before being used as a disposal area for industrial waste. Remediation activities for OU4 began in 2020.
In June 2026, EPA announced the Superfund Solutions initiative, a nationwide effort to accelerate the cleanups of contaminated sites on the Superfund NPL. EPA will minimize challenges and improve the Superfund program through enhanced project management, deploying tools and authorities earlier, and applying smarter science for smarter outcomes. A renewed focus on the agency's core mission of protecting human health and the environment and effective use of resources will result in significant progress at Superfund sites.
For More information:
EPA's Raymark Industries, Inc. Superfund Site webpage (https://cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/cursites/csitinfo.cfm?id=0100094).
EPA's Superfund Solutions Initiative webpage (https://www.epa.gov/superfund/superfund-solutions-initiative).
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-new-england-celebrates-major-cleanup-milestone-raymark-superfund-site
EPA Deputy Administrator Fotouhi Tours Key Community Sites in Seattle, Washington
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Deputy Administrator Fotouhi Tours Key Community Sites in Seattle, Washington
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Seattle, Washington - Earlier this week, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi marked his one-year anniversary of serving in the agency by touring key community sites in Seattle, Washington. Over the course of the two days, Deputy Administrator Fotouhi, alongside EPA Regional Administrator Emma Pokon, toured multiple EPA cleanup projects to learn about the progress being
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, June 17 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Deputy Administrator Fotouhi Tours Key Community Sites in Seattle, Washington
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Seattle, Washington - Earlier this week, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi marked his one-year anniversary of serving in the agency by touring key community sites in Seattle, Washington. Over the course of the two days, Deputy Administrator Fotouhi, alongside EPA Regional Administrator Emma Pokon, toured multiple EPA cleanup projects to learn about the progress beingmade to turn the once industrial sites into productive areas for the community.
"Over the last year, I have had the honor to work alongside the dedicated men and women of the Trump EPA to put human health and the environment at the forefront of every action. From what I saw in Seattle, it is evident that the work being done by EPA Region 10 across Washington State is playing a key role in advancing this effort," said EPA Deputy Administrator Fotouhi. "Through cooperative federalism, EPA is not only turning old industrial sites into productive community areas but also building a foundation for future economic development. The agency will continue to work with the communities of Seattle to support clean air, land, and water for all."
"Since day one, Region 10 has been working tirelessly to achieve measured results across Washington, and the region. Community members understand their unique needs, and it is through partnering with them that we are able to achieve the best results possible," said EPA Regional Administrator Pokon. "We are proud of the work we are doing to return our communities to wholeness, and Power the Great American Comeback."
Deputy Administrator Fotouhi's first cleanup stop was a visit to the Duwamish River People's Park and Shoreline Habitat. Serving as an important place for community fishing, EPA is working to restore the river back to a state that will allow community members to eat the local fish again. Later, Deputy Administrator Fotouhi toured the Wyckoff Eagle Harbor Superfund site on Bainbridge Island, which will be turned into a community park following cleanup. EPA is continuing to make progress on the permitter wall and is moving forward with remediation and designs for the beach. He also met with staff at EPA's Manchester Environmental Laboratory who are using gold standard science to test different samples from both the nearby sites and across the country.
Deputy Administrator Fotouhi also met with several EPA staff members during his time in Seattle, including members of the agency's emergency response teams, Office of Applied Science and Environmental Solutions, and EPA Region 10's Seattle Office. In each meeting, he discussed new innovative ways to help accomplish President Trump's agenda and fulfill the agency's core mission. He toured Region 10's enhanced air monitoring vehicle and received an update from the EPA team that responded to the recent tank collapse in Longview, Washington.
Deputy Administrator Fotouhi attended the grand opening of the Seattle Soccer House, one of the FIFA World Cup's fan sites. EPA is coordinating with FIFA 2026, U.S. host cities, and local organizing committees to enhance environmental stewardship and sustainability practices for fans, athletes, and communities. This includes supporting the reduction of food waste from FIFA venues through the agency's Feed It Onward initiative. While at the fan site, Deputy Administrator Fotouhi heard about the partnerships the Seattle Soccer House has made with local shelters to donate leftover food.
Finally, he met with leadership of the Georgetown Wet Weather Station, operated by the largest clean water utility in Washington State. The station is a recipient of an EPA Water Infrastructure and Finance Innovation Act loan, which is being used to help with 14 major projects. They discussed ways to support continued clean water for King County, while maintaining more affordable utility costs for families in the area.
Background
On June 3, 2026, EPA announced the agency's new forward-looking Superfund Solutions initiative to accelerate cleanups of more than 1,340 Superfund sites on the Superfund National Priorities List. Through this long-term initiative, EPA will roll out key, gold-standard of science investments to cut red tape, make swift clean up decisions, modernize tools, and increase cooperative federalism to deliver maximum human health and environmental protections.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-deputy-administrator-fotouhi-tours-key-community-sites-seattle-washington
