Featured Stories
Wash. State Commerce Dept. Awards $1 Million to Encourage Innovative Business and Manufacturing Expansion
OLYMPIA, Washington, Aug. 22 -- The Washington State Department of Commerce issued the following news:
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Commerce awards $1 million to encourage innovative business and manufacturing expansion
Third round of Evergreen Manufacturing grants support growth in key industries
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The Washington State Department of Commerce announced $1 million in grant funding to seven businesses and organizations to accelerate manufacturing expansion, creating workforce development and economic opportunities across the state.
The grants include $150,000 awards to four businesses and $130,000 awards to three
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OLYMPIA, Washington, Aug. 22 -- The Washington State Department of Commerce issued the following news:
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Commerce awards $1 million to encourage innovative business and manufacturing expansion
Third round of Evergreen Manufacturing grants support growth in key industries
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The Washington State Department of Commerce announced $1 million in grant funding to seven businesses and organizations to accelerate manufacturing expansion, creating workforce development and economic opportunities across the state.
The grants include $150,000 awards to four businesses and $130,000 awards to threeindustry cluster organizations.
"Washington offers manufacturers a strong culture of innovation and a highly skilled workforce," said Commerce Interim Director Sarah Clifthorne. "These investments build on those advantages, helping businesses grow and compete while expanding opportunities in rural and underserved communities."
The funding is from the Evergreen Manufacturing Growth Grants program, which supports projects that increase manufacturing and research and development jobs through investments in business expansion, technology advancement, workforce development and industry collaboration.
"These grants help Washington businesses expand, create living-wage jobs and strengthen local economies," said Andrea Chartock, assistant director of Commerce's Office of Economic Development and Competitiveness. "This round includes projects in communities that don't always have access to the same investment opportunities as larger markets."
Business expansion projects
Atlas Technologies (Jefferson County): Funding will support the expansion of the company's existing manufacturing facility at the Glen Cove Industrial Park, including increased production capacity, improved workflow, and lean manufacturing implementation. The project is expected to generate $1.6 million in capital investment and create high-wage manufacturing jobs in Jefferson County over the next three to five years. The project will also continue Atlas' participation in machinist apprenticeship through AJAC and support additional workforce pipeline development.
"This grant comes to us at just the right time," said Jed Bothell, owner of Atlas Technologies. "We've increased customer count and production volume to the point that we just don't fit in our current space. The grant money will allow Atlas to increase innovation, expand production, and grow our team, thus supporting more family-wage manufacturing jobs in our small, rural community.
Custom Source Woodworking (Lewis County): For expansion to the City of Chehalis, grant funding will support market analysis and workforce development initiatives to recruit and train new manufacturing employees over three years. The project also anticipates approximately $4.9 million in capital investment, including building acquisition and improvements.
Agpro Marketing & Manufacturing (Whitman County): Grant funding will support infrastructure improvements at a new facility at the Port of Wilma as the company continues to scale its Washington operations. The project is expected to generate rural manufacturing jobs with wages above the county average. Capital investment includes $2.2 million in facility purchase and an additional $80,000 in infrastructure investments.
Thompson Metal Fab and Panthalassa (Clark County): The companies are collaborating on next-generation prototypes and preparing for scaled production of an offshore energy platform designed to power AI inference at sea. Grant funding will support facility expansion and infrastructure improvements needed to install and operate specialized fabrication equipment at the Vancouver facility. The project is estimated to generate living-wage jobs over three years and $800,000 in capital investment.
Innovation Cluster awards
VERTical Innovation Cluster (Tri-Cities): Grant funding will support a site and market analysis, investment readiness for a proposed large-scale advanced manufacturing facility in the Tri-Cities, and the development of a Washington Supplier Ecosystem Connectivity Program. The project anticipates supporting manufacturing jobs among partner organizations and participating suppliers over the next one to three years.
"This investment impacts much more than a single project," said Executive Director Rick Heath. "It supports a connected statewide innovation ecosystem, with the Advanced Technology at Large Scale (ATLAS) PM-HIP initiative serving as a catalyst for advanced manufacturing growth. We're honored to work alongside our project partners and the Department of Commerce to help make that vision a reality."
Natural Resources Innovations Center (Olympic Peninsula): The project will support efforts to reactivate and modernize an existing cogeneration facility at a former 72-acre industrial waterfront site in Port Angeles. Grant funding will support engineering, permitting, and facility upgrades necessary to resume operations. The repurposed facility is expected to create jobs while using significant quantities of regional wood fiber feedstock. The project includes $22.4 million in matching investments from partners including private businesses, the Makah Tribe, and the Center for Sustainable Infrastructure.
Space Northwest (Greater Seattle): The organization's proposed project will support efforts to strengthen Washington's commercial space industry through research, workforce development, and expanded operational capacity. Activities will include a comprehensive study of Washington's space industry ecosystem and development and delivery of curriculum-based workforce programming. Space Northwest will leverage $100,000 in committed funding and support new jobs across participating companies and project participants within three years.
Supporting Washington manufacturing
The Evergreen Manufacturing Growth Grants help Washington businesses and industry organizations expand manufacturing capacity, develop skilled workers, and strengthen industry networks that support economic growth in communities across the state.
The program invests in projects that advance manufacturing growth in Washington's key industries, including business expansion, workforce development, technology adoption, and industry collaboration.
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Original text here: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/commerce-awards-1-million-to-encourage-innovative-business-and-manufacturing-expansion/
Pa. Conservation & Natural Resources Dept. Honors Rangers, Civilian Who Helped Save Mountain Biker's Life at Swatara State Park
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Aug. 22 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources issued the following news on Aug. 21, 2026:
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Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Honors Rangers, Civilian Who Helped Save Mountain Biker's Life at Swatara State Park
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Ranger Ellen Secor and Ranger Emily McCoy, along with civilian Sean Nam, each received Secretarial Citations acknowledging their quick action during a cardiac emergency that helped save a fellow park visitor's life.
DCNR rangers
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Aug. 22 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources issued the following news on Aug. 21, 2026:
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Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Honors Rangers, Civilian Who Helped Save Mountain Biker's Life at Swatara State Park
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Ranger Ellen Secor and Ranger Emily McCoy, along with civilian Sean Nam, each received Secretarial Citations acknowledging their quick action during a cardiac emergency that helped save a fellow park visitor's life.
DCNR rangersare sworn law enforcement officers trained in emergency response, public safety, and protecting the Commonwealth's 125 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forestland, which are free and open to the public every day.
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Quick action by two Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) rangers and a trained paramedic helped save the life of a mountain biker who suffered sudden cardiac arrest at Swatara State Park this spring. Today, DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn recognized Ranger Ellen Secor, Ranger Emily McCoy, and civilian Sean Nam for their lifesaving response.
"Ranger Ellen Secor, Ranger Emily McCoy, and Sean Nam demonstrated extraordinary bravery, quick thinking, and professionalism during a life-threatening emergency," said Secretary Dunn. "DCNR rangers are sworn law enforcement officers who play a critical role in public safety across Pennsylvania's state parks and forests. Their dedication, training, and readiness allow millions of people to enjoy our public lands with confidence. We are deeply grateful for the actions taken that day and for the commitment each of them brings to serving the people of the Commonwealth."
In May, Sean Nam and his friend Bill Blandford were mountain biking on the trails at Swatara State Park when Blandford suffered sudden cardiac arrest. Nam, a trained paramedic, immediately recognized the severity of the emergency. He called 911 to activate the emergency response and began chest compressions, providing essential care until DCNR rangers arrived.
Ranger Ellen Secor and Ranger Emily McCoy responded quickly to the scene with an automated external defibrillator (AED). Upon arrival, they continued cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and administered defibrillations while coordinating with additional emergency medical personnel. Their professionalism, calm under pressure, and rapid assessment were critical in providing Blandford the chance to survive this life-threatening event. Blandford was transported to Lancaster General Hospital, where he received further treatment.
"This story is a powerful reminder that saving a life doesn't happen in just one place -- it happens in a chain of quick decisions and skilled hands, from the trailside to the treatment room," said Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health CEO Michael Barber. "We're proud of the exceptional care our Heart and Vascular Institute team provided, and just as proud to stand alongside the DCNR rangers and the bystander whose fast action gave Mr. Blandford a fighting chance before he ever reached our doors."
Both rangers received Secretarial Citations acknowledging their dedication, readiness, and commitment to public safety. Nam received a citation recognizing his bravery, quick thinking, and decisive action. The DCNR Ceremonial Unit participated in the ceremony.
Bill Blandford, who attended the event, shared his gratitude for the efforts that saved his life. "Thank you to Sean, Ellen, Emily, and all of the first responders who literally got me out of the woods and saved my life," said Blandford.
DCNR rangers serve as sworn law enforcement officers responsible for protecting Pennsylvania's state parks and forests, ensuring public safety, and supporting outdoor recreation. There are 232 DCNR rangers statewide who play a vital role in protecting public lands, educating visitors, and ensuring safe and welcoming outdoor spaces for all. To prepare for this work, ranger trainees complete a 19 week academy focused on visitor services, educational programming, equipment use, and law enforcement training, including enforcement of park rules and Pennsylvania law. This level of preparation ensures DCNR rangers are fully equipped to protect public lands and support safe, high quality outdoor experiences for all visitors.
Pennsylvania state parks are equipped with AEDs to support emergency response, with devices located at all staffed state parks and in every State Park Officer vehicle. In addition, DCNR staff are trained in first aid and CPR, a requirement for all DCNR rangers, managers, resource rangers, and educators, strengthening emergency readiness across the state.
Swatara State Park covers more than 3,500 acres in Lebanon and Schuylkill counties and offers visitors a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and paddling. The park's mix of forest, fields, and scenic waterways makes it a popular destination for both day use visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/newsroom/dcnr-honors-rangers--civilian-who-helped-save-mountain-biker-s-l
Nev. Gov. Lombardo Issues Letter to Rep. Titus
CARSON CITY, Nevada, Aug. 22 (TNSletter) -- Gov. Joe Lombardo, R-Nevada, issued the following letter to Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nevada:
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Here is the text of the letter:
August 14, 2026
The Honorable Dina Titus
Member of Congress
U.S. House of Representatives
2370 Rayburn House Office Bldg.
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Congresswoman Titus:
Thank you for taking the time to write about your concerns. I am encouraged to see that you and I agree that a responsible and balanced approach to land management that meets the needs of Nevada's communities is necessary. As you are aware I have vocally
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CARSON CITY, Nevada, Aug. 22 (TNSletter) -- Gov. Joe Lombardo, R-Nevada, issued the following letter to Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nevada:
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Here is the text of the letter:
August 14, 2026
The Honorable Dina Titus
Member of Congress
U.S. House of Representatives
2370 Rayburn House Office Bldg.
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Congresswoman Titus:
Thank you for taking the time to write about your concerns. I am encouraged to see that you and I agree that a responsible and balanced approach to land management that meets the needs of Nevada's communities is necessary. As you are aware I have vocallysupported community-driven, community-specific, and Nevada-led solutions for the management, access and when appropriate, disposal of federal lands across our state.
I also welcome the opportunity to clarify the uses and limitations of some of the abatements our state offers. Abatements are an effective tool for attracting job creating projects that strengthen and diversify Nevada's economy. Under my administration, various abated projects across many sectors have contributed to the record setting growth of high wage jobs for hard working Nevadans, including more than 3,000 construction jobs.
The Renewable Energy Tax Abatement (RETA) is clearly defined in statute under NRS 701A, and as the name would suggest, has applicability limited to approved renewable energy projects meeting certain statutory criteria. Since the RETA in question, which was approved in 2024 by the Governor's Office of Energy, is for a solar generation and storage project on land leased from Boulder City it would not be transferable to a data center, regardless of its location on federal land or land leased from Boulder City. Data center abatements are governed by NRS 360.754, administered by the Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED) and, importantly, cannot be awarded in conjunction with a RETA.
Regardless of the administrative office, abatements of any kind follow a thorough process of application and review which includes public reporting and multiple opportunities for public input. Abatements, whether for renewable energy or more general partial abatements governed by GOED, are also subject to timelines and requirements that require public reporting and accountability for jobs created both temporarily and permanently for Nevada residents, dollars invested, and benefits provided. All these conditions must be met to maintain eligibility for abated taxes, and the State maintains strong claw back provisions to recover abated dollars from projects which are not in compliance.
As you are aware, processes at the state and local levels in Nevada have a high degree transparency and offer significant opportunities for public participation and feedback. We also understand that Townsite Solar II is making an effort to address concerns regarding water, power noise and heat. Additionally, the proponents have stated that the plans for the data center on land leased from Boulder City are on hold, pending the results of a November ballot initiative regarding data center development in the city.
In the case of federal lands being leased, the processes for feedback, approvals and permitting are all governed under the Federal Lands Public Management Act (FLPMA). While my administration has remained active in partnering with Nevada's federal delegation on public lands related bills, and will continue to advocate for the benefit of all Nevadans, the authority to amend FLPMA requirements, timelines and public engagement thresholds lies with Congress.
It has also come to our attention that prior to sending me a letter, neither you nor your office interacted directly with the project proponent. As trusted public officials, we must engage on a meaningful level with all sides of matters, such as this, and ensure that public discourse, no matter how well-intended, does not allow for the proliferation and dissemination of misinformation.
Thank you, again, for taking the time to reach out on this important issue, and I hope we can work together in the most informed manner to support reasonable, predictable, and efficient processes for land disposal under appropriate circumstances. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my policy team with any further questions you may have.
Sincerely,
Joe Lombardo, Governor of Nevada
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Original text and footnotes here: https://www.gov.nv.gov/siteassets/content/newsroom/prs/2026/governor-lombardo-letter-to-rep.-titus.pdf
News Release here: https://www.gov.nv.gov/press-releases/governor-lombardo-responds-to-rep.-titus-letter-on-boulder-city-data-center
N.J. A.G. Davenport Co-Leads Fight to Protect Law Enforcement Funding
TRENTON, New Jersey, Aug. 22 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on Aug. 21, 2026:
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AG Davenport Co-Leads Fight to Protect Law Enforcement Funding
Multistate Coalition Sues Trump Administration for Illegal Conditions on Law Enforcement Grants
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Today, Attorney General Jennifer Davenport co-led a coalition of 22 attorneys general and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in filing an updated and amended lawsuit challenging the federal government's imposition of illegal immigration-enforcement conditions on Congressionally-authorized public safety
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TRENTON, New Jersey, Aug. 22 -- New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport issued the following news release on Aug. 21, 2026:
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AG Davenport Co-Leads Fight to Protect Law Enforcement Funding
Multistate Coalition Sues Trump Administration for Illegal Conditions on Law Enforcement Grants
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Today, Attorney General Jennifer Davenport co-led a coalition of 22 attorneys general and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in filing an updated and amended lawsuit challenging the federal government's imposition of illegal immigration-enforcement conditions on Congressionally-authorized public safetygrants, including grants intended to keep law enforcement officers safe and fight crime.
"This is an outrageous maneuver that uses our dedicated law enforcement personnel as pawns in a political game," said Attorney General Davenport. "This administration is holding up funding that helps pay for protective equipment for law enforcement, fight drug trafficking, enforce Megan's Law, and find violent criminals. We will not let this administration attach illegal conditions to essential federal funding - funding that New Jerseyans send to Washington, D.C., through our tax dollars."
Last year, the Trump Administration, disregarding the clear letter of the law and intent of Congress, declared that states will be unable to access Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) funds unless they agree to the Administration's extreme immigration demands. The multistate coalition succeeded in getting the federal government to remove those conditions on over $1.3 billion of VOCA funds.
However, this year, the U.S. Department of Justice (USDOJ) has applied these illegal conditions to new grants, including funds dedicated to law enforcement and juvenile justice.
Among the affected programs is the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Formula Grants (known as the Byrne JAG Program). The Byrne JAG Program was named after a rookie New York City Police Department officer who was ambushed in his patrol car while protecting a witness in a drug case in 1988. For decades, regardless of which political party held power, the Byrne JAG Program has been the leading federal source of criminal justice funding to state and local governments.
In New Jersey, law enforcement agencies have received over $21 million from Byrne JAG funds through the State from FY 2019 to FY 2024. Beyond just the Byrne JAG program, this action also impacts funding for crisis intervention and youth justice programs.
Civil immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and not a state government responsibility. The Trump Administration's unlawful attempts to coerce states into doing their bidding conflict with core principles of American governance - the separation of powers and federalism. The Administration's actions violate the Administrative Procedures Act and the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution in multiple ways.
As such, Attorney General Davenport and the coalition are requesting that the court declare the Trump Administration's actions unlawful and permanently enjoin any implementation or enforcement of these illegal conditions.
Attorney General Davenport is represented in this matter by Deputy Attorneys General Bassam F. Gergi, Nathaniel F. Rubin, Phoenix N. Meyers, Sarah Nealon, and Surinder K. Aggarwal, under the supervision of Assistant Attorney General Mayur P. Saxena, Deputy Solicitor General Shankar Duraiswamy, and Solicitor General Jeremy M. Feigenbaum.
In addition to New Jersey, this lawsuit is being co-led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, and Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha. It is joined by the Attorneys General of Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia, as well as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Amended and Supplemental Complaint (http://www.njoag.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2026-0821_52-First-Amended-and-Supplemental-Complaint.pdf)
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Original text here: https://www.njoag.gov/ag-davenport-co-leads-fight-to-protect-law-enforcement-funding/
N.C. Labor Commissioner Announces Zero Fatalities in North Carolina's Mining Industry in the Last Year
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Aug. 22 -- The North Carolina Department of Labor issued the following news release on Aug. 21, 2026:
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Labor Commissioner announces zero fatalities in North Carolina's mining industry in the last year.
North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley today announced that no fatal injuries were reported among the state's mine and quarry workers during the 2025-2026 state fiscal year, marking a significant achievement for workplace safety across the industry.
The industry's nonfatal injury rate also remained below the national average. North Carolina recorded 1.33 injuries
... Show Full Article
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Aug. 22 -- The North Carolina Department of Labor issued the following news release on Aug. 21, 2026:
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Labor Commissioner announces zero fatalities in North Carolina's mining industry in the last year.
North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley today announced that no fatal injuries were reported among the state's mine and quarry workers during the 2025-2026 state fiscal year, marking a significant achievement for workplace safety across the industry.
The industry's nonfatal injury rate also remained below the national average. North Carolina recorded 1.33 injuriesper 200,000 employee-hours, compared with the national average of 1.62 for the same period.
"Zero fatalities is the most important result we can report," Farley said. "Every worker deserves to return home safely at the end of the day. This achievement reflects the shared commitment of employers, workers, and safety professionals across North Carolina's mining industry. Although there is always more work to do, these results show what can be accomplished when safety remains the top priority."
The North Carolina Department of Labor's Mine and Quarry Bureau supports mine and quarry safety throughout the year by providing training, technical assistance, on-site consultations, and first aid and CPR instruction.
North Carolina has 243 active or intermittent mine sites. The bureau works closely with mine operators and contractors to identify hazards, strengthen workplace safety programs, and help employers comply with state and federal safety standards.
"This milestone represents workers returning home safely to their families," Farley said. "We will continue working with employers and workers across the state to build on that success."
For more information about North Carolina's mine and quarry safety programs, visit www.labor.nc.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.labor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/08/21/labor-commissioner-announces-zero-fatalities-north-carolinas-mining-industry-last-year
IEDA Board Approves Assistance for Two Manufacturers, Two Quality-of-life Projects and Three Strategic Infrastructure Projects
DES MOINES, Iowa, Aug. 22 -- The Iowa Economic Development Authority issued the following news on Aug. 21, 2026:
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IEDA Board approves assistance for two manufacturers, two quality-of-life projects and three strategic infrastructure projects
Today, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Board approved tax credits for two manufacturing companies, which will assist in the creation of 98 jobs and result in $57.2 million in new capital investment for the state. These projects are located in Clinton and Waverly. The board also approved Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) grants for
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DES MOINES, Iowa, Aug. 22 -- The Iowa Economic Development Authority issued the following news on Aug. 21, 2026:
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IEDA Board approves assistance for two manufacturers, two quality-of-life projects and three strategic infrastructure projects
Today, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Board approved tax credits for two manufacturing companies, which will assist in the creation of 98 jobs and result in $57.2 million in new capital investment for the state. These projects are located in Clinton and Waverly. The board also approved Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) grants forprojects in Forest City and Larchwood, as well as Strategic Infrastructure Program grants for three university-led projects that will strengthen Iowa's advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defense innovation ecosystem.
ADM to expand precision fermentation capabilities in Clinton
Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) is a global food processing and commodities trading company that produces food, feed and industrial products from agricultural commodities. ADM plans to convert an underutilized 463,503-square-foot fermentation facility at its Clinton complex into a precision fermentation facility, expanding the site's ability to produce additional high-value biobased products. The project includes new processing equipment for separation, purification, drying and packaging, as well as upgrades to existing fermentation equipment, piping and supporting systems to enable large-scale production of proteins and enzymes. The $55.5 million capital investment is expected to create 53 jobs incented at a qualifying wage of $23.57 per hour. The board awarded $2.23 million in tax credits through the Business Incentives for Growth (BIG) program.
Impact CNC to expand manufacturing operations in Waverly
Headquartered in Indiana, Impact CNC, LLC is a precision machining manufacturer serving original equipment manufacturers across multiple industries. Following its July merger with Waverly-based GMT, LLC, the company plans to install new manufacturing equipment to increase production capacity and support growth. The $1.7 million capital investment includes two vertical lathes, leak-testing equipment and assembly equipment, as well as computer hardware and software. The project is expected to create 45 jobs incented at a qualifying wage of $28.52 per hour. The board awarded $61,260 in tax credits through the BIG program.
CAT grants awarded to two projects
Friends of Bear Creek and the City of Forest City were awarded $705,000 to replace the clubhouse at Bear Creek Golf Course with a new 12,000-square-foot, two-level facility featuring a full-service restaurant and bar, indoor golf simulators and public gathering space. The facility will provide a year-round destination for recreation, dining and events, attracting visitors for leagues, tournaments, community gatherings and corporate outings. The total project cost is $2.35 million.
The City of Larchwood was awarded $1 million to construct an 18,825-square-foot, fully handicap-accessible community center to replace the city's aging recreation center. The new facility will provide the community of fewer than 1,000 residents with modern space for recreation, youth programs, tournaments, craft fairs and other events. Amenities will include a multiuse gymnasium, a walking track, fitness and aerobics rooms, a kitchen and a community room, positioning Larchwood to host regional activities and attract visitors from nearby Minnesota and South Dakota. The total project cost is $4.13 million.
The CAT program provides financial assistance to communities for the construction of recreational, cultural, educational or entertainment facilities that enhance the quality of life in Iowa. Award recommendations for these funds are made by the CAT Review Committee to the IEDA Board for approval.
Strategic Infrastructure Program grants awarded to three university-led projects
The University of Iowa was awarded $1,738,190 through the Strategic Infrastructure Program for its Protostudios 2.0 initiative. The project will expand the university's advanced manufacturing and prototyping capabilities through new equipment and infrastructure investments that support entrepreneurs, startups, researchers and manufacturers across Iowa. The upgrades are designed to strengthen workforce development, accelerate product development and commercialization, and ensure Iowa remains competitive in advanced manufacturing and medical technology industries.
The University of Iowa also was awarded $900,000 through the Strategic Infrastructure Program for the Operator Performance Lab Aerospace Economic Growth Initiative. The project will add a second operational flight-test aircraft, establish classified research capabilities and create secure operational infrastructure to strengthen Iowa's aerospace and defense ecosystem. The investment is expected to attract additional federal research dollars, expand workforce opportunities and position Iowa as a destination for advanced aerospace and defense innovation.
The University of Northern Iowa was awarded $970,000 through the Strategic Infrastructure Program for its Foundry 4.0 Center. The funding will support the acquisition of Industry 4.0 manufacturing technologies and equipment aimed at modernizing foundry operations and advancing smart manufacturing across Iowa. The project will enhance workforce training, strengthen participation in defense supply chains and create a statewide technology-transfer platform that helps Iowa manufacturers remain globally competitive.
The Strategic Infrastructure Program supports projects that develop commonly utilized assets with the goal of providing a competitive advantage to one or more private sector entities or that create necessary physical infrastructure in the state, and such projects are not adequately provided by the public or private sectors. Award recommendations for these funds are made by an internal and external review committee and presented to the IEDA Board for approval.
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Original text here: https://opportunityiowa.gov/press-release/2026-08-21/ieda-board-approves-assistance-two-manufacturers-two-quality-life-projects-and-three-strategic
Colo. Supreme Court Announces Incoming Chief Justice
DENVER, Colorado, Aug. 22 -- The Colorado Supreme Court issued the following news release on Aug. 21, 2026:
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Supreme Court Announces Incoming Chief Justice
Today, Chief Justice Monica Marquez announced that Supreme Court Justice William Hood was selected by his fellow justices to serve as the next chief justice beginning in August 2027, when Chief Justice Marquez's term concludes.
The chief justice serves a three-year rotating term, established by a unanimous vote of the court in 2020 to replace indefinite terms. The incoming chief justice completes a one-year intensive onboarding process,
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DENVER, Colorado, Aug. 22 -- The Colorado Supreme Court issued the following news release on Aug. 21, 2026:
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Supreme Court Announces Incoming Chief Justice
Today, Chief Justice Monica Marquez announced that Supreme Court Justice William Hood was selected by his fellow justices to serve as the next chief justice beginning in August 2027, when Chief Justice Marquez's term concludes.
The chief justice serves a three-year rotating term, established by a unanimous vote of the court in 2020 to replace indefinite terms. The incoming chief justice completes a one-year intensive onboarding process,mentoring under the current chief justice to learn the administrative role as the state judicial branch's top executive, overseeing the 23 judicial districts, in addition to the regular duties of a justice on the Colorado Supreme Court. The new chief justice is sworn in at the end of the outgoing chief justice's term.
"Justice Hood brings deep experience, steady judgment, and a genuine commitment to the people we serve," said Chief Justice Monica M. Marquez. "I've had the privilege of working alongside him for many years, and I know he will approach this role with the integrity and thoughtfulness it demands. I look forward to supporting him throughout his onboarding year and ensuring a smooth transition for the branch."
Justice William Hood said, "I am honored by the confidence my colleagues have placed in me. Our judicial branch is filled with dedicated professionals who work every day to deliver justice for the people of Colorado, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to support that work in this new role. I appreciate Chief Justice Marquez's leadership and her willingness to guide me through the year ahead as I prepare for this transition."
Justice William Hood was sworn in as a member of the Colorado Supreme Court on January 13, 2014, following seven years as a judge on the Denver District Court. In 2014, the Colorado Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers gave him its Distinguished Jurist Award. In 2011, he received the Denver Bar Association's (DBA's) Judicial Excellence Award.
Before moving to the bench, Justice Hood was a litigation partner at Isaacson Rosenbaum P.C. in Denver and served as a prosecutor for 10 years in Colorado's 18th Judicial District (encompassing, at the time, Arapahoe, Douglas, Lincoln, and Elbert Counties). At different times, he was a chief trial deputy and the chief appellate deputy.
In 1990, Justice Hood graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law, where he was a member of the Virginia Law Review. In 1985, he received his B.A. magna cum laude, with honors, in International Relations from Syracuse University and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa.
Justice Hood is a member of the American, Colorado, and Denver Bar Associations. He is a fellow emeritus of the American and Colorado Bar Foundations. He has served as a member of the Executive Council of the CBA and the Board of Trustees for the DBA. He is a 2007 (inaugural class) graduate of the CBA's leadership training program (COBALT). He has also taught several courses related to advocacy as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Denver, Sturm College of Law.
The Colorado Supreme Court is the state's court of last resort. Its decisions are binding on all other Colorado state courts. Under the Colorado Constitution, the Chief Justice serves as the executive head of the Colorado Judicial Department, comprising the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals and the state's district and county courts and probation. The Judicial Department employs over 4,000 court and probation employees, including 343 justices, judges, and magistrates.
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Original text here: https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/media/press-release/supreme-court-announces-incoming-chief-justice?topic=76&wrapped=true
