Featured Stories
VHB Leads Landscape Renovation at Historic Birdwood Mansion
WATERTOWN, Massachusetts, Aug. 24 [Category: BizEngineering] -- Vanasse Hangen Brustlin Inc., a provider of transportation planning, engineering, design, land development and environmental services, posted the following news:
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VHB Leads Landscape Renovation at Historic Birdwood Mansion
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Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Birdwood Mansion has reopened following a comprehensive renovation that blends modern hospitality with the preservation of one of Charlottesville's most historic properties. Owned by the UVA Foundation, the estate welcomed guests in April 2026 and
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WATERTOWN, Massachusetts, Aug. 24 [Category: BizEngineering] -- Vanasse Hangen Brustlin Inc., a provider of transportation planning, engineering, design, land development and environmental services, posted the following news:
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VHB Leads Landscape Renovation at Historic Birdwood Mansion
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Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Birdwood Mansion has reopened following a comprehensive renovation that blends modern hospitality with the preservation of one of Charlottesville's most historic properties. Owned by the UVA Foundation, the estate welcomed guests in April 2026 andnow offers four guest rooms and suites, three private cottages, and gathering spaces for events and overnight stays.
VHB collaborated with Glave & Holmes Architecture, Charlottesville Aquatics, and Lee Building Company as the general contractor to help transform the historic estate into a destination for lodging, events, and recreation. Working together, the project team balanced preservation objectives with modern amenities that enhance the guest experience while respecting the property's historic character.
The landscape design carefully balanced preservation with enhancement. VHB designed a private heated pool in the location of a former historic pool, created lawn spaces for weddings and events, and incorporated historic sculptures into formal garden areas. The team also preserved defining landscape features, including mature trees and 150-year-old boxwoods that have shaped the property's character for generations.
Drawing from the property's history, the design team selected materials, plantings, pathways, and site features that complement the mansion and surrounding landscape. Native and adaptive plant species were used throughout the gardens to create a timeless setting that reflects the heritage of the estate while welcoming today's visitors.
"The landscape surrounding Birdwood Mansion is just as important to its story as the architecture itself," said Phillip Merritt, PLA, Landscape Architect at VHB. "By studying the site's history and preserving key features, we were able to thoughtfully introduce new spaces that complement the estate and contribute to its next chapter."
The project reflects VHB's continued partnership with the University of Virginia and the UVA Foundation, helping preserve places that connect people to Virginia's history while creating memorable experiences for future visitors.
Learn more about VHB's landscape architecture services and our work creating meaningful places that balance preservation, stewardship, and visitor experience.
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Original text here: https://www.vhb.com/news/birdwood-mansion-historic-landscape-renovation/
Next Phase of Jamestown Resiliency Efforts Underway
WATERTOWN, Massachusetts, Aug. 24 [Category: BizEngineering] -- Vanasse Hangen Brustlin Inc., a provider of transportation planning, engineering, design, land development and environmental services, posted the following news:
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Next Phase of Jamestown Resiliency Efforts Underway
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As flooding continues to threaten historic and cultural resources, the next phase of resiliency work at Jamestown Island is helping protect one of the nation's most significant archaeological sites for future generations.
VHB has supported Preservation Virginia (PV) for nearly two decades, working closely with
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WATERTOWN, Massachusetts, Aug. 24 [Category: BizEngineering] -- Vanasse Hangen Brustlin Inc., a provider of transportation planning, engineering, design, land development and environmental services, posted the following news:
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Next Phase of Jamestown Resiliency Efforts Underway
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As flooding continues to threaten historic and cultural resources, the next phase of resiliency work at Jamestown Island is helping protect one of the nation's most significant archaeological sites for future generations.
VHB has supported Preservation Virginia (PV) for nearly two decades, working closely witharchaeologists and historians to develop designs that protect and enhance the sensitive landscape. Most recently, VHB worked alongside PV to develop the Jamestown Resiliency Plan, which established a long-term strategy for addressing flooding, sea level rise, and other climate-related risks to the archaeological features, cultural heritage, and visitor experience across the site. VHB recently joined Preservation Virginia and the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation to kick off the next phase of the Jamestown Resiliency initiative.
This next phase focuses on advancing design efforts and working collaboratively with Preservation Virginia to develop flood protection measures that help safeguard archaeological, cultural, and historic resources while blending with the island's native landscape.
"Jamestown presents a unique opportunity to advance climate resilience and historic preservation together," said Peyton Ackerman, Landscape Designer at VHB. "As we move into the design phase, we're working closely with Preservation Virginia to develop solutions that protect invaluable cultural and archaeological resources while respecting the character of the landscape and enhancing the visitor experience."
The work reflects a multidisciplinary approach that combines landscape architecture, resiliency planning, and cultural resource preservation. By reducing flood risks while enhancing opportunities for interpretation and visitor engagement, the project supports both the protection of Jamestown's resources and the experience of those who come to learn from its history.
Learn more about VHB's approach to resiliency planning and design and how we're helping communities protect critical cultural and environmental resources.
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Original text here: https://www.vhb.com/news/jamestown-island-resiliency-next-phase/
Walmart Energizes 100th Store With EV Fast Charging in Monument, CO
BENTONVILLE, Arkansas, Aug. 22 -- Walmart issued the following news:
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Walmart Energizes 100th Store with EV Fast Charging in Monument, CO
Walmart celebrated the opening of its 100th company-owned and operated electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging site at the Walmart Supercenter located at 16218 Jackson Creek Parkway in Monument, CO.
Walmart is building its network around a simple goal: bring fast, dependable charging to the places customers already shop, at prices they can count on. Walmart EV Chargers are now available at 100 stores across 20 states.
"By expanding EV fast charging at Walmart
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BENTONVILLE, Arkansas, Aug. 22 -- Walmart issued the following news:
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Walmart Energizes 100th Store with EV Fast Charging in Monument, CO
Walmart celebrated the opening of its 100th company-owned and operated electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging site at the Walmart Supercenter located at 16218 Jackson Creek Parkway in Monument, CO.
Walmart is building its network around a simple goal: bring fast, dependable charging to the places customers already shop, at prices they can count on. Walmart EV Chargers are now available at 100 stores across 20 states.
"By expanding EV fast charging at Walmartlocations across the country, we're giving drivers a dependable way to charge while they're in the store," said Shayne Wahlmeier, Senior Vice President, Walmart Energy. "Reaching 100 sites is an important milestone, and our broad footprint positions us to make EV charging more accessible for communities while expanding the ways we serve our customers."
A Charging Experience Built Around the Customer
Walmart's network is designed around the customer. Charging stalls are located steps from the store, and the charging experience is integrated into the Walmart app, making it easy for customers to charge while they shop.
Most Walmart EV charging locations feature 8 to 16 fast-charging stalls, with chargers capable of delivering up to 400 kW of power. With both CCS and NACS connectors, the network is compatible with most EVs on the road today, allowing many customers to add meaningful range during a typical shopping trip.
"When a customer pulls into a Walmart to charge, we want the experience to feel as reliable and effortless as the rest of their shopping trip," said Adam Happel, General Manager, Walmart Retail EV Charging. "We're proud to reach 100 sites, but our focus remains on building a network customers can count on every time they charge with us."
Walmart+ members receive discounted charging rates for additional savings. Customers can start and pay for charging sessions through the Walmart app, with additional payment options planned as the network expands.
What's Next
Walmart will continue expanding its network in markets where customers need greater access to convenient, dependable fast charging, working closely with local utilities and partners to bring new sites online. Customers can find current and upcoming EV charging locations on the Walmart EV Charging website and in the Walmart app. Open locations are also available on major mapping platforms including Apple Maps, Google Maps, PlugShare, Chargehub, and Chargeway.
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About Walmart
Walmart Inc. (Nasdaq: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better - anytime and anywhere - in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 280 million customers and members visit more than 10,900 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2026 revenue of $713 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart, on X (formerly known as Twitter) at twitter.com/walmart, and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/walmart.
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Original text here: https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2026/08/21/walmart-energizes-100th-store-with-ev-fast-charging-in-monument-co
[Category: BizConsumer Services]
UCLA Health: E. Dale Abel, MD, Awarded Jamaica's Order of Distinction, Commander Class
LOS ANGELES, California, Aug. 22 -- The UCLA Health issued the following news release:
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E. Dale Abel, MD, awarded Jamaica's Order of Distinction, Commander Class
E. Dale Abel, MD, chair and executive medical director of the Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, has been awarded the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander (CD) by the Government of Jamaica, one of the nation's highest honors. Dr. Abel was recognized for his outstanding contributions to medicine, specifically in the field of endocrinology.
"Throughout its history, following independence
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LOS ANGELES, California, Aug. 22 -- The UCLA Health issued the following news release:
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E. Dale Abel, MD, awarded Jamaica's Order of Distinction, Commander Class
E. Dale Abel, MD, chair and executive medical director of the Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, has been awarded the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Commander (CD) by the Government of Jamaica, one of the nation's highest honors. Dr. Abel was recognized for his outstanding contributions to medicine, specifically in the field of endocrinology.
"Throughout its history, following independencefrom the United Kingdom, the Government of Jamaica has chosen to honor a small number of its citizens each year with National Honours," Dr Abel said. "Growing up, each year we would look at the newspaper on Independence Day to see the list of Jamaican luminaries whose contributions to our country and the world would be recognized in this way. These included some familiar names in arts and sports, such as Usain Bolt and Rita Marley.
"Thus, when I woke up on Aug. 6 to receive numerous text messages of congratulations, I was initially unsure what was happening until I looked at the online version of the local paper and saw the article."
The award was announced as part of Jamaica's 2026 National Honours and Awards and will be formally conferred in October during National Heroes Day celebrations. The distinction honors Jamaicans whose achievements have made a significant impact across medicine, education, public service, business, culture, and community development.
Dr. Abel is recognized as a leader in endocrine and metabolic research. His laboratory has advanced the work of identifying factors that contribute to an increased risk of heart failure in people with diabetes and obesity - as well as shedding light on metabolic and mitochondrial mechanisms that are responsible for the cardiovascular complications of diabetes.
An internationally recognized physician-scientist, academic leader and mentor, Dr. Abel is known for his research, mentorship of future physicians and physician-scientists and his commitment to advancing patient care. The award celebrates not only Dr. Abel's scientific and clinical accomplishments, but also his enduring contributions to health and medicine that have benefited communities in Jamaica and around the world.
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Original text here: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/release/e-dale-abel-md-awarded-jamaicas-order-distinction-commander
[Category: Medical]
Ropes and Gray: In Law360, Attorneys Examine What Amazon vs. Perplexity Decision Means for Agentic AI and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Aug. 22 -- Ropes and Gray, a law firm, issued the following news:
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In Law360, Attorneys Examine What Amazon v. Perplexity Decision Means for Agentic AI and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act
In a Law360 article, attorneys examined what the Amazon v. Perplexity decision means for agentic AI and the federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA). The decision addresses a question of first impression: whether an AI agent that assists a user in navigating a website constitutes unauthorized access under the CFAA.
The court held that, on the facts presented, it does not, because
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BOSTON, Massachusetts, Aug. 22 -- Ropes and Gray, a law firm, issued the following news:
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In Law360, Attorneys Examine What Amazon v. Perplexity Decision Means for Agentic AI and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act
In a Law360 article, attorneys examined what the Amazon v. Perplexity decision means for agentic AI and the federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA). The decision addresses a question of first impression: whether an AI agent that assists a user in navigating a website constitutes unauthorized access under the CFAA.
The court held that, on the facts presented, it does not, becauseit is the user, not the AI tool, who accesses the website for purposes of the statute.
The authors note that the decision underscores that system architecture, specifically whether the user's device or the AI itself communicates with third-party servers, may be a critical factor in determining CFAA exposure. Under this interpretation, the statute offers limited protection against unwanted agentic AI interactions, leaving businesses to rely primarily on contractual terms and technical safeguards.
The article summarizes the practical implications of the decision for AI developers and deployers, as well as for businesses whose platforms or data may be implicated by AI-driven interactions.
The article was authored by partner Regina Sam Penti, co-lead of the firm's artificial intelligence industry group, and IP transactions associates Sabrina Kim and Chloe Meyers.
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Original text here: https://www.ropesgray.com/en/news-and-events/news/2026/08/in-law360-attorneys-examine-what-amazon-v-perplexity-decision-means-for-agentic-ai-and-the-computer
[Category: BizLaw/Legal]
Faegre Drinker Issues Commentary: DC Circuit Upholds EPA's PFAS Hazardous Substance Designations Under CERCLA - What In-House Counsel Need to Know
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, Aug. 22 -- Faegre Drinker Biddle and Reath, a law firm, issued the following commentary on Aug. 21, 2026, by partners Bonnie Allyn Barnett and Leigh Bausinger and associates Amani B. Khoury and Amy L. Waite:
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DC Circuit Upholds EPA's PFAS Hazardous Substance Designations under CERCLA: What In-House Counsel Need to Know
Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America v. EPA, No. 24-1193
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On August 18, 2026, the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit issued its decision in Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America v. EPA, No. 24-1193, denying all petitions
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MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, Aug. 22 -- Faegre Drinker Biddle and Reath, a law firm, issued the following commentary on Aug. 21, 2026, by partners Bonnie Allyn Barnett and Leigh Bausinger and associates Amani B. Khoury and Amy L. Waite:
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DC Circuit Upholds EPA's PFAS Hazardous Substance Designations under CERCLA: What In-House Counsel Need to Know
Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America v. EPA, No. 24-1193
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On August 18, 2026, the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit issued its decision in Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America v. EPA, No. 24-1193, denying all petitionsto overturn EPA's 2024 designations of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) -- two of the most common so-called "forever chemicals" -- as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).
Writing for the court, Judge Millett rejected challenges from seven major industry groups on statutory interpretation, procedural, and arbitrary-and-capricious grounds, finding that EPA acted within its authority, provided adequate notice-and-comment opportunities, and reasonably weighed costs and benefits.
Why This Matters for Companies
The decision cements the legal foundation for CERCLA's expanded reach over PFOA and PFOS, triggering immediate compliance obligations such as required release reporting.
More significantly, the designations open the door to EPA-compelled cleanups and cost-recovery enforcement actions against potentially responsible parties -- including manufacturers, transporters, waste handlers, and current or former facility operators -- under CERCLA's strict, joint-and-several liability framework.
Key Takeaways for In-House Counsel
Companies should immediately assess their PFAS exposure across operations, supply chains, and real estate portfolios. Those in manufacturing, waste management, construction, and recycling are particularly at risk, as the court acknowledged these industries historically used PFOA- and PFOS-containing products.
While the court noted CERCLA's multiple procedural safeguards and liability defenses -- including "de minimis" contributor protections and innocent landowner defenses -- in-house teams should not treat those as guarantees against liability.
Counsel should review existing environmental indemnities, insurance coverage, M&A representations, and disclosure obligations in light of this ruling, and prepare for potential contribution claims from co-located responsible parties at contaminated sites.
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The material contained in this communication is informational, general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. The material contained in this communication should not be relied upon or used without consulting a lawyer to consider your specific circumstances. This communication was published on the date specified and may not include any changes in the topics, laws, rules or regulations covered. Receipt of this communication does not establish an attorney-client relationship. In some jurisdictions, this communication may be considered attorney advertising.
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Meet the Authors
Bonnie Allyn Barnett
Partner
Philadelphia
+1 215 988 2916
bonnie.barnett@faegredrinker.com
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Leigh Bausinger
Partner
Philadelphia
+1 215 988 2725
leigh.bausinger@faegredrinker.com
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Amani B. Khoury
Associate
Indianapolis
+1 317 237 1484
amani.khoury@faegredrinker.com
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Amy L. Waite
Associate
Indianapolis
+1 317 237 8211
amy.waite@faegredrinker.com
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Original text here: https://www.faegredrinker.com/en/insights/publications/2026/8/dc-circuit-upholds-epas-pfas-hazardous-substance-designations-under-cercla-what-in-house-counsel-need-to-know
[Category: BizLaw/Legal]
ComEd Sending More Than 60 Employees to Assist NIPSCO with Restoration Work
CHICAGO, Illinois, Aug. 22 [Category: BizEnergy] -- ComEd, a subsidiary of Exelon, issued the following news release:
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ComEd Sending More Than 60 Employees to Assist NIPSCO with Restoration Work
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Following the restoration of more than 410,000 customers after multiple rounds of severe weather in northern Illinois, ComEd is deploying more than 60 of its own employees to northwest Indiana to help NIPSCO complete restoration for its customers. More than 374,000 NIPSCO customers were initially impacted by the severe weather that moved through the area, and more than 30,000 remain without power.
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, Aug. 22 [Category: BizEnergy] -- ComEd, a subsidiary of Exelon, issued the following news release:
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ComEd Sending More Than 60 Employees to Assist NIPSCO with Restoration Work
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Following the restoration of more than 410,000 customers after multiple rounds of severe weather in northern Illinois, ComEd is deploying more than 60 of its own employees to northwest Indiana to help NIPSCO complete restoration for its customers. More than 374,000 NIPSCO customers were initially impacted by the severe weather that moved through the area, and more than 30,000 remain without power.ComEd employees departed for Indiana on Aug. 22 and will remain in the area as long as they are needed.
Severe weather, including three tornadoes, thunderstorms and straight-line winds of more than 100 MPH moved through the NIPSCO territory on Aug. 11. It was the most impactful storm event in NIPSCO history. Working around the clock since the storms hit, NIPSCO crews have restored power to more than 340,000 customers - more than 90 percent of those affected - while rebuilding large sections of the electric system that were destroyed by the storms. The ComEd employees will join that effort as NIPSCO works to restore the remaining customers, many of whom were impacted by the most extensive damage.
"We are glad to be helping our neighbors in northwest Indiana with the final push in their restoration efforts to restore the more than 30,000 customers still without power," said David Perez, ComEd's executive vice president and COO. "NIPSCO crews have made tremendous progress under extremely difficult conditions, and we have coordinated closely with them to understand where our people can make the biggest difference. Our thoughts are with the customers and families affected by these storms, and we are committed to supporting restoration efforts so power can be safely restored as quickly as possible."
ComEd employees and contractors have responded to utilities around the country to assist in restoring power after significant weather events, part of a long-standing mutual assistance network that allows utilities to share resources when storms cause widespread damage.
"We are grateful for the assistance we received last week to restore our own customers," said Perez. "As we continue to see more frequent instances of extreme weather, we stand ready to pay that forward and send our own crews to help other utilities in need."
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Original text here: https://www.comed.com/news/news-releases/2026-08-22a
