Federal Independent Agencies
Here's a look at documents from federal independent agencies
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NASA Pushes Next-Gen Mars Helicopter Rotor Blades Past Mach 1
PASADENA, California, May 8 (TNSres) -- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory issued the following news:
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NASA Pushes Next-Gen Mars Helicopter Rotor Blades Past Mach 1
The faster a Mars helicopter's rotors spin, the heavier the payloads it can transport and the farther it can fly.
The rotor blades that will carry NASA's next-generation helicopters to new Martian heights broke the sound barrier during March tests at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. Data from the tests, which took place in a special chamber that can simulate environmental conditions on the Red Planet, indicate
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PASADENA, California, May 8 (TNSres) -- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory issued the following news:
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NASA Pushes Next-Gen Mars Helicopter Rotor Blades Past Mach 1
The faster a Mars helicopter's rotors spin, the heavier the payloads it can transport and the farther it can fly.
The rotor blades that will carry NASA's next-generation helicopters to new Martian heights broke the sound barrier during March tests at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. Data from the tests, which took place in a special chamber that can simulate environmental conditions on the Red Planet, indicatethat the fastest traveling part of the rotor blade, the tips, can be accelerated beyond Mach 1 without breaking apart. Data gathered from 137 test runs will enable engineers to design aircraft capable of carrying heavier payloads, including science instruments.
"NASA had a great run with the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter, but we are asking these next-generation aircraft to do even more at the Red Planet," said Al Chen, Mars Exploration Program manager at JPL. "That's not an easy ask. While everything about Mars is hard, flying there is just about the hardest thing you can do. That's because its atmosphere is so incredibly thin that it is hard to generate lift, and yet Mars has significant gravity."
Ingenuity, which performed the first powered, controlled flight on another world just over five years ago on April 19, 2021, was a trailblazing technology demonstration that did not carry science instruments. The agency's recently announced SkyFall project and other potential future Mars aircraft will be capable of carrying payloads -- including science instruments and sensors -- to collect data in support of future human and robotic missions, leveraging the advantages that come with low-altitude aerial exploration.
Need for speed
In the fast-moving world of rotors, more thrust comes from a quicker spin or a larger diameter. Although this axiom holds true on Earth, engineers designing aircraft for the Red Planet must be much more aggressive. Because the Mars atmosphere is only 1% as dense as Earth's, maximizing thrust requires pushing blade tips toward the speed of sound to achieve significant lift. While small-diameter rotors on Earth can also rotate at thousands of revolutions per minute, they have more air molecules to push and don't need to approach the sonic edge.
The Ingenuity flight team never allowed the rotational speed of their composite-skinned foam rotors to exceed 2,700 rpm during the helicopter's 72 flights at Mars for two reasons: to avoid the unpredictable physics of the sound barrier and to make sure that an unexpected gust of wind (from a dust devil, for instance) wouldn't send the rotor tips over the sonic edge.
"If Chuck Yeager were here, he'd tell you things can get squirrely around Mach 1," said JPL's Jaakko Karras, the rotor test lead. "With that in mind, we planned Ingenuity's flights to keep the rotor blade tips at Mach 0.7 with no wind so that if we encountered a Martian headwind while in flight, the rotor tips wouldn't go supersonic. But we want more performance from our next-gen Mars aircraft. We needed to know that our rotors could go faster safely."
While Mach 1 on Earth at sea level is approximately 760 mph (1,223 kph), the speed of sound on Mars is significantly slower -- roughly 540 mph (869 kph) -- due to the planet's thin, cold, carbon-dioxide-rich atmosphere.
Blade-proof chamber
To begin evaluating the rotors, which were developed and manufactured by AeroVironment in Simi Valley, California, Karras and his team mounted a three-bladed rotor that could be used in future Mars helicopter designs inside the historic 25-Foot Space Simulator at JPL. They evacuated the air and replaced it with just enough carbon dioxide to match the Martian atmosphere, then blasted the rotor with wind as it spun at increasing speeds.
The test engineers had taken the precaution of lining part of the chamber with sheet metal in case the blades broke apart during the supersonic experiment. From a control room a few yards away from the chamber, the team watched displays showing data and a view inside the chamber as the rpm climbed as high as 3,750. At that rate, the tips were traveling at Mach 0.98. Then the engineers activated a fan inside the chamber that pelted the rotors with headwinds. After each run, they increased in wind velocity for the next run.
The team pushed rotor tip speeds to Mach 1.08, boosting the Mars vehicle's lift capability by 30%. This breakthrough allows future missions to support heavier scientific payloads, including advanced sensors and larger batteries for extended flight.
Next the team tried their luck with the two-bladed SkyFall rotor. Because it is slightly longer than the three-bladed version, only 3,570 rpm was needed to achieve the same near-supersonic speed at the rotor tips prior to introducing the headwinds.
"The successful testing of these rotors was a major step toward proving the feasibility of flight in more demanding environments, which is key for next-gen vehicles," said Shannah Withrow-Maser, an aerodynamicist from NASA's Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley and member of the test team. "We thought we'd be lucky to hit Mach 1.05, and we reached Mach 1.08 on our last runs. We're still digging into the data, and there may be even more thrust on the table. These next-gen helicopters are going to be amazing."
The SkyFall mission design team has incorporated the test team's findings into the performance specifications. Inspired by Ingenuity, the only rotorcraft to fly on another planet to date, SkyFall is designed to carry three next-gen Mars helicopters to the Red Planet in December 2028.
More about NASA's Mars Exploration Program
The faster-than-sound spin test campaign was funded by the agency's Mars Exploration Program in pursuit of maximizing the capability of future aircraft flying at the Red Planet. A division of Caltech in Pasadena, JPL manages the Mars Exploration Program for NASA's Science Mission Directorate in Washington.
For more information about NASA's Mars Exploration Program, visit:
https://science.nasa.gov/mars/
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Original text here: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/nasa-pushes-next-gen-mars-helicopter-rotor-blades-past-mach-1/
FHLBank Chicago and Associated Bank Award $375,000 to Support Emerging Housing Developers
CHICAGO, Illinois, May 8 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, a district bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, issued the following news:
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FHLBank Chicago and Associated Bank Award $375,000 to Support Emerging Housing Developers
To help address the growing need for skilled affordable housing developers, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago), in partnership with member Associated Bank, has awarded $375,000 through its Community First(R) Developer Program (Developer Program) to two nonprofit organizations in Illinois and Wisconsin. The awards come as communities
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CHICAGO, Illinois, May 8 -- The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, a district bank in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, issued the following news:
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FHLBank Chicago and Associated Bank Award $375,000 to Support Emerging Housing Developers
To help address the growing need for skilled affordable housing developers, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago (FHLBank Chicago), in partnership with member Associated Bank, has awarded $375,000 through its Community First(R) Developer Program (Developer Program) to two nonprofit organizations in Illinois and Wisconsin. The awards come as communitiesacross the Midwest face increasing demand for affordable housing alongside a shortage of experienced development professionals. The grants will support paid internships and fellowships that prepare the next generation of professionals to advance affordable housing development in their communities.
"Financing alone does not create affordable housing -- people do," said Katie Naftzger, Senior Vice President and Community Investment Officer at FHLBank Chicago. "By investing in developer organizations, and partnering with members like Associated Bank, we are helping build the talent pipeline needed to deliver affordable housing in communities across our district."
Hispanic Housing Development Corporation and Milwaukee Community Land Trust received grants through Associated Bank to support interns and fellows gaining experience across the affordable housing development process, including planning, financing coordination, construction oversight, and project implementation. These roles will contribute to development efforts across Illinois and Wisconsin, helping expand organizational capacity while preparing emerging professionals to advance affordable housing in their communities.
"This investment allows us to continue preparing future affordable housing professionals while advancing development that benefits our communities," said Tony Hernandez, President and CEO of Hispanic Housing Development Corporation.
Associated Bank has accessed many of FHLBank Chicago's Community Investment programs and uses secured loans, known as advances, to provide liquidity for community lending that supports housing and economic development.
"Our partnership with FHLBank Chicago allows us to support initiatives that strengthen communities and expand access to affordable housing," said Lisa Barwinski, Vice President, Community Accountability Program Manager Senior at Associated Bank. "Programs like the Developer Program help build the pipeline of professionals needed to advance housing development across the communities we serve."
Since launching the Developer Program in 2022, FHLBank Chicago has awarded $12 million to strengthen career pathways and support long-term affordable housing development across its district. Introduced at the recommendation of FHLBank Chicago's Community Investment Advisory Council, the Developer Program reflects FHLBank Chicago's ongoing commitment to supporting affordable housing development through partnerships with member institutions.
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Original text here: https://www.fhlbc.com/news/news-detail/2026/05/07/fhlbank-chicago-and-associated-bank-award--375-000-to-support-emerging-housing-developers
Targeted Sanctions as a Key U.S. Foreign Policy Tool to Promote Religious Freedom
WASHINGTON, May 7 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom issued the following news release on May 6, 2026:
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Targeted Sanctions as a Key U.S. Foreign Policy Tool to Promote Religious Freedom
The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released the following report on targeted sanctions:
Targeted Sanctions in Response to Violations of International Religious Freedom - Targeted sanctions are a vital U.S. foreign policy tool for promoting accountability for violations of religious freedom.
Measures such as denying U.S. visas and freezing U.S.-based
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WASHINGTON, May 7 (TNSrep) -- The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom issued the following news release on May 6, 2026:
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Targeted Sanctions as a Key U.S. Foreign Policy Tool to Promote Religious Freedom
The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) released the following report on targeted sanctions:
Targeted Sanctions in Response to Violations of International Religious Freedom - Targeted sanctions are a vital U.S. foreign policy tool for promoting accountability for violations of religious freedom.
Measures such as denying U.S. visas and freezing U.S.-basedassets aim to influence behavior and demonstrate that the U.S. government will not tolerate such abuses.
In addition to the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998, other laws provide tools to sanction individual perpetrators, including the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act of 2016 and the Immigration and Nationality Act.
This factsheet outlines these relevant authorities and their application in countries such as Afghanistan, China, India, and Nicaragua, examining the role of targeted human rights sanctions within broader U.S. foreign policy efforts to advance religious freedom.
In its 2026 Annual Report (https://www.uscirf.gov/publications/annual-report-chapter-irfa-implementation), USCIRF urged the administration to apply its new global visa restriction policy related to religious freedom violations with a particular focus on countries USCIRF recommends for designation as Countries of Particular Concern (CPCs) and placement on the Special Watch List (SWL).
Given the strength of these tools, USCIRF further recommended the use of targeted sanctions in response to particularly severe or severe religious freedom violations in many of the countries that USCIRF recommends for these designations.
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The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan legislative branch agency established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze, and report on religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion and belief. To interview a Commissioner, please contact USCIRF at media@uscirf.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.uscirf.gov/news-room/releases-statements/targeted-sanctions-key-us-foreign-policy-tool-promote-religious
SBA Announces New $50 Million Grant Opportunity to Support Made in America Manufacturing, Workforce Training
WASHINGTON, May 7 -- The Small Business Administration issued the following news release on May 6, 2026:
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SBA Announces New $50 Million Grant Opportunity to Support Made in America Manufacturing, Workforce Training
Manufacturing in America E2G Grants will fund training for small manufacturers in critical industries
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Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a new funding opportunity offering up to $50 million in grant awards to as many as 10 eligible applicant organizations who will provide training and technical assistance to support small manufacturers in the SBA's
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WASHINGTON, May 7 -- The Small Business Administration issued the following news release on May 6, 2026:
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SBA Announces New $50 Million Grant Opportunity to Support Made in America Manufacturing, Workforce Training
Manufacturing in America E2G Grants will fund training for small manufacturers in critical industries
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Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a new funding opportunity offering up to $50 million in grant awards to as many as 10 eligible applicant organizations who will provide training and technical assistance to support small manufacturers in the SBA'sEmpower to Grow (E2G) Program. The Manufacturing in America E2G Grant Initiative will empower qualified awardees to deliver regional support to small manufacturers in critical industries, in support of the agency's ongoing effort to rebuild domestic supply chains, bring back American jobs, and promote industrial dominance.
"America's reindustrialization is accelerating under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, and the SBA is proud to stand with the small manufacturers driving that resurgence," said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. "As I travel the country and meet with these builders, innovators, and job creators, I've seen firsthand the essential role they play in restoring American industrial strength. Through this targeted initiative, we are equipping them with the resources and workforce support they need to grow, reshore critical supply chains, and help secure America's position as a global manufacturing powerhouse for generations to come."
The SBA's E2G Program is designed to provide eligible U.S. small businesses with free business courses, in-person hands-on training, and one-on-one consulting to support growth, operations, hiring, regulatory compliance, and government contracting competitiveness. The program includes businesses in key industries such as aerospace, ship building, rail equipment, mining, industrial machinery and equipment, construction equipment, metal fabrication, electrical equipment, food processing, medical and precision manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, and robotics.
An eligible applicant for a Manufacturing in America E2G Grant must:
* Be a for-profit or not-for-profit entity (including, but not limited to small businesses, other than small businesses, trade and professional associations, and educational institutions).
* Been in existence continually for at least the past three years.
* Have experience providing technical assistance, tools, or training, etc. relating to small manufacturing businesses on a regional or national basis.
* Demonstrate that it has the capacity to provide hands-on manufacturing-related training and technical assistance to small business concerns.
The deadline to submit proposals electronically via https://www.grants.gov is June 15 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. To learn more about this grant opportunity, visit here. The SBA will host a webinar on the following dates to inform the public about the grants. Registration is required through the link provided:
Monday, May 11, from 2-3:00p.m. EDT
Wednesday, May 27, 2-3:00p.m. EDT
Wednesday, June 3, 2-3:00p.m. EDT
The Manufacturing in America E2G Grant Initiative is the SBA's latest offering to support small manufacturers, who make up 98% of all U.S. manufacturers. The agency announced a new 90% Made in America loan guarantee for small manufacturers and waived loan fees for manufacturing NAICS codes in Fiscal Year 2026, pairing stronger credit support with lower borrowing costs to help manufacturers invest, expand, and grow domestically. The SBA also established the first-ever loan program dedicated to American manufacturers and launched its Make Onshoring Great Again Portal, a free tool connecting small businesses to more than one million domestic suppliers and producers.
To learn more about the manufacturing grants and webinars, visit: Manufacturing Grants. Additional questions or requests for assistance should be submitted via email to e2g@sba.gov.
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About the Empower to Grow Program
The Empower to Grow program, formerly known as 7(j) Management and Technical Assistance program, provides eligible U.S. small businesses with free business courses, tailored training, and one-on-one consulting to support their growth, operations, hiring, regulatory compliance, and government contracting competitiveness. The Empower to Grow program uplifts businesses to be procurement ready for federal, state, and local government contracts. For more questions about the Empower to Grow program, visit: Empower to Grow Program.
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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/2026/05/06/sba-announces-new-50-million-grant-opportunity-support-made-america-manufacturing-workforce-training
National Gallery of Art Wins Seven Webby Awards Following Viral Success of 'Museum Rizzler' Social Media Series
WASHINGTON, May 7 -- The National Gallery of Art issued the following news release dated May 11, 2026:
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National Gallery of Art Wins Seven Webby Awards Following Viral Success of "Museum Rizzler" Social Media Series
Videos featuring curator Alison Luchs describing works of art in Gen Z slang have resonated globally, with over 25M views to date
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The National Gallery of Art has been awarded seven 2026 Webby Awards in recognition of its innovative approach to engaging new audiences through compelling digital content across its social media and website. The National Gallery has won a total
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 7 -- The National Gallery of Art issued the following news release dated May 11, 2026:
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National Gallery of Art Wins Seven Webby Awards Following Viral Success of "Museum Rizzler" Social Media Series
Videos featuring curator Alison Luchs describing works of art in Gen Z slang have resonated globally, with over 25M views to date
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The National Gallery of Art has been awarded seven 2026 Webby Awards in recognition of its innovative approach to engaging new audiences through compelling digital content across its social media and website. The National Gallery has won a totalof 12 Webby Awards since 2022.
Nominated among a range of prominent creators and brands, the museum won awards across these categories:
* "The Museum Rizzler" Series
Webby Award for Best Use of Vertical Video
Webby Award for Best Social Content Series, Arts, Culture, and Lifestyle
* National Gallery of Art Instagram Account
Webby Award for Best Social Media Account, Arts and Culture
People's Voice Award for Best Social Media Account, Arts and Culture
* National Gallery of Art Stories
Webby Award for Best Cultural Blog/Website
People's Voice Award for Best Cultural Blog/Website
* National Gallery of Art Website
People's Voice Award for Best Website or Mobile Site, Cultural Institutions
The National Gallery's digital platforms reach tens of millions of people each year with original content that allows viewers to access the nation's art collection in dynamic ways from afar. A strategy informed by bringing educational content to all Americans led to the viral success of the "Museum Rizzler" social media series in recent months.
It features Alison Luchs, a 77-year-old curator of early European sculpture and deputy head of sculpture and decorative arts, describing lesser-known works from the museum's collection in Gen Z internet slang. Audiences across the globe have watched the six videos over 25 million times.
This effort complements the National Gallery's first "open call," part of the museum's commemoration of America's 250th anniversary. The initiative invites creators from around the country to reimagine works of art from the museum's collection in short-form social media videos. The 50 selected creator videos will be shared within the museum and on the National Gallery's social media platforms.
Play video [link to video not provided by source].
Beyond social media, the National Gallery's website provides additional opportunities to interact with the nation's art collection by way of games, informational stories, and educational resources. The "Stories" section, winner of two Webby Awards, follows artists, communities, and works of art via engaging written and video content. In honor of America's 250th anniversary, the museum has introduced West to East, a web series spanning all digital platforms that introduces compelling stories, photography, and short documentaries exploring how artists across America have been inspired by their communities and the places they call home.
"At the National Gallery, digital outreach is central to our mission to welcome all people to explore art, creativity, and our shared humanity," said Nick Sharp, the National Gallery's chief digital officer. "We are the nation's art museum, but we know many Americans may never visit Washington. Whether you're researching Mary Cassatt on our award-winning website or catching the latest drop from the Museum Rizzler on Instagram, we're bringing the world's greatest works of art directly to audiences across the country. These awards are a testament to our team's great work."
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About The Webby Awards
Hailed as the "Internet's highest honor" by The New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international awards organization honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites and Mobile Sites; Video; Advertising, Media & PR; Apps & Software; Social; Games; Podcasts; Creators and AI. Established in 1996, The Webby Awards received over 13,000 entries from all 50 states and over 70 countries worldwide this year.
About the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art welcomes all people to explore art, creativity, and our shared humanity. Millions of people come through its doors each year--with even more online--making it one of the most visited art museums in the world. The National Gallery's renowned collection includes over 160,000 works of art, from the ancient world to today. Admission to the West and East Buildings, Sculpture Garden, special exhibitions, and public programs is always free.
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Original text here: https://www.nga.gov/press/webby-award-wins
EPA Cleanup Paves the Way for Quarry Lawn Park Reopening in Paterson, New Jersey
WASHINGTON, May 7 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Cleanup Paves the Way for Quarry Lawn Park Reopening in Paterson, New Jersey
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Paterson, N.J. \- Quarry Lawn Park in Paterson, New Jersey, has reopened to the public as a result of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) extensive cleanup work to address asbestos and lead contamination at the former Allied Textile Printing site. This work, which is nearing completion, was carried out in close partnership with the city of Paterson. EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci joined the
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WASHINGTON, May 7 -- The Environmental Protection Agency issued the following news release:
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EPA Cleanup Paves the Way for Quarry Lawn Park Reopening in Paterson, New Jersey
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Paterson, N.J. \- Quarry Lawn Park in Paterson, New Jersey, has reopened to the public as a result of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) extensive cleanup work to address asbestos and lead contamination at the former Allied Textile Printing site. This work, which is nearing completion, was carried out in close partnership with the city of Paterson. EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci joined thecity of Paterson and other officials today to mark the park's reopening after months of coordinated work to remove serious hazards and stabilize the site, allowing the community to regain access to the park ahead of the summer season.
"This work is about getting a secure, usable park back into the hands of the Paterson community," said EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. "In a great example of EPA's work to provide clean land for people and to work cooperatively will all levels of government, EPA worked closely with the city to remove immediate risks so families can return here for recreation while we complete the remaining work."
"The grand opening of the Quarry Lawn and Riverwalk is a meaningful milestone for the City of Paterson and a testament to what strong partnership can achieve," said City of Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh. "We are grateful to the EPA for their thorough work in addressing serious environmental hazards and helping us restore this important community space. As we head into the summer season, we are proud to welcome families into a safer, revitalized park along the Passaic River."
"From mountain to quarry to the engine of Paterson's industrial prime, this land has lived many lives. After forty years of silence following the city's deindustrialization, we are transforming these ruins into a place of respite. This site now stands as a monument to the industry that once hummed along the river, enriching the Great Falls experience for the 250,000 visitors who come here annually to be inspired," said Darren Boch, superintendent, Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park.
EPA began work under its Superfund program at the site in June 2025 to address hazards associated with the former Allied Textile Printing facility, including asbestos-containing materials and lead-contaminated debris. Crews dismantled a deteriorating smokestack brick by brick, removed contaminated soil and debris, and stabilized remaining structures to reduce risk to the surrounding community.
Work also included clearing unstable building sections, securing the site, and preparing areas of the park for safe public use. EPA's work has helped return the property to productive community use.
EPA has now completed the work necessary for the park's safe reopening. Remaining site activities will continue into June and will not affect normal use of the park, though there may be limited, short-term access restrictions in specific areas as work is completed. EPA will continue working collaboratively with the city of Paterson and other parties as we assess other portions of the property.
With the park reopening, residents once again have access to green space along the Passaic River.
Visit the Allied Textile Printing site removal webpage for additional background and site documents.
Follow EPA Region 2 on X Exit EPA's website, Instagram Exit EPA's website, and visit our Facebook Exit EPA's website page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
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Original text here: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-cleanup-paves-way-quarry-lawn-park-reopening-paterson-new-jersey
Amtrak and Away Partner for a More Premium Travel Experience
WASHINGTON, May 7 -- Amtrak (National Railroad Passenger Corp.) issued the following news:
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Amtrak and Away Partner for a More Premium Travel Experience
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The new brand partnership is designed to deliver an increasingly seamless and elevated travel experience - with exclusive access to promotions, products, and more
WASHINGTON - Amtrak and Away, two pioneering brands in travel, have teamed up in advance of the summer season to become each other's official luggage and train travel partners. Amtrak continues to report more riders and revenue than ever before and boasts over 34.5 million
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 7 -- Amtrak (National Railroad Passenger Corp.) issued the following news:
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Amtrak and Away Partner for a More Premium Travel Experience
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The new brand partnership is designed to deliver an increasingly seamless and elevated travel experience - with exclusive access to promotions, products, and more
WASHINGTON - Amtrak and Away, two pioneering brands in travel, have teamed up in advance of the summer season to become each other's official luggage and train travel partners. Amtrak continues to report more riders and revenue than ever before and boasts over 34.5 millioncustomer trips-signaling the continued rise in train travel. The new long-term partnership combines Away's innovative, durable, award-winning luggage with Amtrak's expansive train travel experiences, both designed to make discovery and movement feel frictionless. This collaboration introduces a pipeline of more relevant product innovations, beginning with the Topside Collection, featuring a built-in brake and a top-lid opening designed for the realities of train travel. As an exclusive offer to kick off the partnership, Amtrak customers will receive early access to shop the new collection - marking the start of future product exploration, in-station moments, and disruptive media to come.
"This collaboration brings together two experienced leaders in modern travel, one that moves people forward and one that equips them for the journey ahead," said Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Eliot Hamlisch. "We believe the future of travel is not just about getting there, it's about the experience you have along the way. Together with Away, we aim to redefine what travel looks and feels like on the rails, in our stations, and every mile in between."
"At Away, we're focused on creating travel solutions that meet the real needs of all types of travelers and the ways they move through the world," said Jessica Schinazi, Chief Executive Officer of Away. "With the introduction of Topside, we're beginning to roll out features and innovations designed specifically for the real-world experience of rail travel. Our partnership with Amtrak marks an exciting step in bringing more thoughtful, purpose-built solutions to new audiences and travel moments."
This first of its kind brand partnership embraces Amtrak's modern era of rail, which produced all-time company records in ridership (34.5 million) and revenue ($3.9 billion) last year, and combines it with Away's commitment to travel innovation. As Amtrak's official luggage partner, Away offers smart, right-sized luggage bringing style and ease to the rails -notably its new Topside Collection, which was made for train travel. As Away's official train travel partner, Amtrak provides a rail travel experience for Away customers that's designed for comfort and connection, making it a great alternative to driving or flying.
Away's Topside launches on May 12, introducing new innovations for the brand, including a top lid opening for easy access, a patent-pending wheel brake system, and thoughtful compartmentalization designed for more organized, small-space packing. As Topside suitcases are perfectly suited for train travel, Amtrak customers will receive exclusive access to the Topside Collection via e-mail after booking a First Class Acela trip. Plus, Amtrak's generous baggage policy lets guests bring one personal item, two carry-ons, and two checked bags for free on most routes. As recognized leaders in the travel industry, the Amtrak x Away partnership delivers a more seamless journey - introducing customers to another accessible way of travel as they explore more options beyond flying.
From Tuesday, May 12 to Tuesday, June 23, as an exclusive limited time offer to celebrate the partnership, Acela First Class guests can unlock 15% off their first Away purchase, and Away customers receive 10% off their first Amtrak trip between Tuesday, May 20 and Tuesday, June 23. Both customers will receive an individual promo code or links via email. Terms and conditions apply for both promotions. These savings are available on the following routes: Acela, Northeast Regional, Amtrak Virginia, Downeaster, Lincoln Service, Illini/Saluki, Illinois Zephyr/Carl Sandburg, California Zephyr, Empire Builder, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, Coast Starlight, Texas Eagle, City of New Orleans, Crescent, Cardinal, Lake Shore Limited, Floridian, Palmetto, Silver Meteor, and Capitol Limited.
For route specific details, visit Amtrak.com/Train-Routes
This partnership is launching at an exciting time for Amtrak, as the company leads a new era of passenger rail, investing in modern trains, enhanced stations, new tunnels and bridges, and other critical infrastructure upgrades. This also includes enhancing the customer experience across the country, improving safety and reliability, driving economic development, reducing trip times, expanding capacity, and advancing accessibility.
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Original text here: https://media.amtrak.com/2026/05/amtrak-and-away-partner-for-a-more-premium-travel-experience/
