Targeted News Service

Wash. State Commerce Dept.: Weatherization Program Brings Warmth and Comfort to a Benton County Home

OLYMPIA, Washington, Sept. 4 -- The Washington State Department of Commerce issued the following news:

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Weatherization program brings warmth and comfort to a Benton County home

For years, Trecia Sarte struggled to keep her Pasco home warm during the winter.

Her manufactured home, built in 1967, had no insulation under the floor, and there were several broken windows and doors that wouldn't stay closed. The central gas furnace was nearly five decades old and no longer worked. Without reliable heat, Trecia had been using window and wall-mounted air conditioners and space heaters to heat ... Show Full Article

Va. Health Dept. Backs Trusted Vaccine Recommendations for Respiratory Virus Season

RICHMOND, Virginia, Sept. 4 -- The Virginia Department of Health issued the following news release:

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Virginia Department of Health Backs Trusted Vaccine Recommendations for Respiratory Virus Season

With respiratory virus season approaching, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) endorses recently released vaccine recommendations from leading medical associations. VDH recommends that children and adults are vaccinated in accordance with the 2026-2027 respiratory vaccination recommendations (https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/respiratory-virus-immunization-recommendations.pdf) from the ... Show Full Article RICHMOND, Virginia, Sept. 4 -- The Virginia Department of Health issued the following news release: * * * Virginia Department of Health Backs Trusted Vaccine Recommendations for Respiratory Virus Season With respiratory virus season approaching, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) endorses recently released vaccine recommendations from leading medical associations. VDH recommends that children and adults are vaccinated in accordance with the 2026-2027 respiratory vaccination recommendations (https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/respiratory-virus-immunization-recommendations.pdf) from theAmerican Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA). VDH encourages healthcare providers to draw on their clinical training and professional judgment, along with the latest evidence and scientific information, when talking with patients, parents, and caregivers.

These respiratory virus vaccines are FDA-approved, but availability may vary as ordering and distribution continue. VDH recommends checking with your healthcare provider in the coming weeks for vaccine availability in your area.

Clinicians and the public can access these recommendations at the VDH website (https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/respiratory-diseases-in-virginia/) or at a new digital resource hub (https://www.ama-assn.org/amaone/vaccine-recommendations) developed by the American Medical Association (AMA) in collaboration with the Vaccine Integrity Project (VIP). The resource helps patients and healthcare providers by consolidating scientific, evidence-based vaccination recommendations for the upcoming respiratory virus season.

"Respiratory viruses like flu, COVID-19, and RSV account for tens of thousands of visits to urgent care and emergency rooms in Virginia each year," said State Health Commissioner Dr. Cameron Webb. "While these viruses can affect anyone, they can be especially serious for older adults, people living with chronic conditions, and those who cannot be vaccinated, including our youngest infants. The best way to protect yourself and those around you is to stay up to date on recommended vaccinations. VDH encourages Virginians to talk with their healthcare provider about which vaccines are recommended for them."

If you have questions about vaccines or vaccine-preventable diseases, please talk to a healthcare provider or contact your local health department for more information.

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Original text here: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/news/public-relations-contacts/2026-news-releases/virginia-department-of-health-backs-trusted-vaccine-recommendations-for-respiratory-virus-season/

Va. A.G. Jones Awards More Than $800,000 for Families Following Historic Victory in Fair Housing Case

RICHMOND, Virginia, Sept. 4 -- Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones issued the following news release on Sept. 3, 2026:

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Attorney General Jones Awards More Than $800,000 for Families Following Historic Victory in Fair Housing Case

Attorney General Jones announced today that after securing a historic victory in a fair housing case involving racial discrimination, his office has successfully collected and returned more than $800,000 to the Virginians impacted by the discriminatory practices. On Wednesday, September 2, 2026, Attorney General Jay Jones presented the Mills and Smith families ... Show Full Article RICHMOND, Virginia, Sept. 4 -- Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones issued the following news release on Sept. 3, 2026: * * * Attorney General Jones Awards More Than $800,000 for Families Following Historic Victory in Fair Housing Case Attorney General Jones announced today that after securing a historic victory in a fair housing case involving racial discrimination, his office has successfully collected and returned more than $800,000 to the Virginians impacted by the discriminatory practices. On Wednesday, September 2, 2026, Attorney General Jay Jones presented the Mills and Smith familiestheir payouts of more than $400,000, which is the largest payout to individual complainants in the history of the Virginia Fair Housing Office and Office of the Attorney General.

The case concluded in February 2025 when a jury found that the defendant and owner of Lazy Cove Campground, Regina Turner, discriminated against two families by evicting them upon learning that one of the campers was Black. After failing to comply with multiple court orders and refusing to pay the damages, the Office of the Attorney General initiated special auction proceedings for Ms. Turner's properties in order to obtain the funding for the court-ordered damages. On August 12, 2026, Regina Turner was also ordered to serve 30 days in jail at a contempt hearing where she was escorted out of the courthouse in handcuffs for failing to comply with the orders.

"Every Virginian deserves access to safe and affordable housing, and they deserve to be treated fairly and with dignity. This case and the egregious discriminatory actions endured by the Mills and Smith families are heart wrenching and unacceptable," said Attorney General Jones. "I am proud to bring much overdue and deserved relief, and I want to thank the public servants in both the Virginia Fair Housing Office and the Office of the Attorney General whose dedication and tenacity brought this precedent-setting conclusion into reality after six arduous years."

"These successful outcomes underscore the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation's commitment to enforcing fair housing protections and holding accountable those who engage in housing discrimination in Virginia," said Liz Hayes, Director of the Virginia Fair Housing Office. "Most importantly, these cases demonstrate that individuals who experience discrimination can seek justice and meaningful remedies. The substantial awards secured for these families make clear that housing discrimination has serious consequences and that every Virginian deserves a fair and equal opportunity to access housing."

The 18-acres of waterfront on a peninsula in Smith Mountain Lake, which was foreclosed on to collect on the jury's verdict, was sold for $1,045,000.00. Each family received $417,287.67, which is the full amount, with interest, that a jury awarded them at the end of the trial.

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Original text here: https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/3111-attorney-general-jones-awards-more-than-800-000-for-families-following-historic-victory-in-fair-housing-case

Ohio State Auditor Faber Announces Auditor of State Award Recipients

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Sept. 4 -- Ohio State Auditor Keith Faber issued the following news release:

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Auditor Faber Announces Auditor of State Award Recipients

Auditor of State Keith Faber is pleased to announce that the following entities received Auditor of State Awards in July for their clean audit reports:

* City of Geneva (Ashtabula County)

* Midwest Pool Risk Management Agency (Auglaize County)

* Butler County Finance Authority (Butler County)

* Carroll County (Carroll County)

* Delaware County Land Reutilization Corp. (Delaware County)

* Powell Community Infrastructure Financing Authority ... Show Full Article

NJ Department of Labor Launches Back-to-School Campaign: "School's Back, Slow Down in the Zone -- Get Kids & Guards Safely Home"

TRENTON, New Jersey, Sept. 4 -- The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development issued the following news release:

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NJ Department of Labor Launches Back-to-School Campaign: "School's Back, Slow Down in the Zone -- Get Kids & Guards Safely Home"

As students head back to school, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) is launching a new campaign to better protect crossing guards with a clear message to Garden State drivers: "School's Back, Slow Down in the Zone -- Get Kids & Guards Safely Home."

NJDOL's Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health ... Show Full Article

Minn. Gov. Walz Appoints John Bowen to Minnesota Court of Appeals

ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Sept. 4 -- Gov. Tim Walz, D-Minnesota, issued the following news release:

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Governor Walz appoints John Bowen to Minnesota Court of Appeals

Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of John Bowen to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Bowen will fill the vacancy that will occur upon the retirement of Judge Michelle Larkin. This seat is designated for a resident of the Sixth Congressional District.

"Judge Bowen is going to be a thoughtful leader and brilliant jurist on the Court of Appeals," said Governor Walz. "Smart, compassionate, and grounded, he is not only ... Show Full Article ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Sept. 4 -- Gov. Tim Walz, D-Minnesota, issued the following news release: * * * Governor Walz appoints John Bowen to Minnesota Court of Appeals Governor Tim Walz today announced the appointment of John Bowen to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Bowen will fill the vacancy that will occur upon the retirement of Judge Michelle Larkin. This seat is designated for a resident of the Sixth Congressional District. "Judge Bowen is going to be a thoughtful leader and brilliant jurist on the Court of Appeals," said Governor Walz. "Smart, compassionate, and grounded, he is not onlyan excellent fit for this bench, but also exemplifies a Minnesotan deeply committed to the fair and impartial administration of justice, the rule of law, and the integrity of our judicial system"

"Judge Bowen's appointment to the Court of Appeals is a win for all Minnesotans," said Justice Anne McKeig, Minnesota Supreme Court justice. "Judge Bowen brings with him a deep and broad practical experience in criminal, civil, juvenile, and appellate advocacy, paired with leadership in problem-solving courts and justice system committees. Everyone who has had the pleasure of knowing Judge Bowen agrees that he is thoughtful, kind, and humble--all qualities people want in a judge."

"We enthusiastically applaud Judge Bowen's appointment," said Delmar Flynn, President of the Minnesota Hispanic Bar Association. "Every person who enters his courtroom knows they will be treated with dignity and respect. He has a demonstrated, consistent track record of intellectual rigor, independence, and an unwavering commitment to working with Minnesota's most vulnerable populations."

"We are thrilled to hear about Judge Bowen's elevation to the Court of Appeals," said Eleanor Frisch, President of the Minnesota Disability Bar Association. "Judge Bowen has dedicated his entire career to public service, with a consistent emphasis on equal access and understanding the lived experiences of disadvantaged Minnesotans, including those with disabilities. We have no doubt that he will continue this important work in his role on the Court of Appeals."

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About John Bowen:

John Bowen is a judge in the Tenth Judicial District, chambered in Wright County. Bowen serves as the presiding judge of the Wright County Treatment Court and as a delegate to the Minnesota District Judges Association. He previously served as the assistant civil division chief in the Wright County Attorney's Office, where he represented the Wright County Board of Commissioners and all Wright County departments. At Wright County, he chaired the Wright County Safe Harbor Team and was a member of the Wright County Safe Schools initiative. Bowen also served as an assistant county attorney in the Pine County Attorney's Office and a law clerk to the Honorable Margaret Shaw Johnson of the Third Judicial District. His community involvement includes judging mock trial and speech. Bowen is also a member of the Buffalo Community Orchestra and the Reasonable Doubts. He earned his B.A. from St. Olaf College and J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law.

For more information about the judicial selection process, please visit the Governor's Judicial Appointments webpage (https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fmn.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fadministration%2Fjudicialappointments%2F/1/010101a068a56abf-1338c398-7e3a-44d3-b98c-fbab26c03d1b-000000/vym8JeHM9GyoAFa5Iyax7mp7XPY0qE1XKagpKJyUwoc=452).

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Original text here: https://mn.gov/governor/newsroom/press-releases/#/detail/appId/1/id/767076

Del. Gov. Meyer Signed Public Education Funding Commission Bill, Funding $100 Million to Delaware Public Schools

DOVER, Delaware, Sept. 4 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on Sept. 2, 2026:

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Governor Meyer Signed Public Education Funding Commission Bill, Funding $100 Million to Delaware Public Schools

WILMINGTON, Del. - Today, Governor Matt Meyer celebrated two Public Education Funding Commission (PEFC) bills aimed at improving equity, flexibility, transparency, adequacy, and accountability for Delaware Public Schools.

The two bills were signed into law on June 30, 2026. SB 302 acknowledges and authorizes the Delaware Department of Education to adopt the hybrid school ... Show Full Article DOVER, Delaware, Sept. 4 -- Gov. Matt Meyer, D-Delaware, issued the following news release on Sept. 2, 2026: * * * Governor Meyer Signed Public Education Funding Commission Bill, Funding $100 Million to Delaware Public Schools WILMINGTON, Del. - Today, Governor Matt Meyer celebrated two Public Education Funding Commission (PEFC) bills aimed at improving equity, flexibility, transparency, adequacy, and accountability for Delaware Public Schools. The two bills were signed into law on June 30, 2026. SB 302 acknowledges and authorizes the Delaware Department of Education to adopt the hybrid schoolfunding formula recommended by the PEFC, and modernizes the funding formula, moving Delaware to a more student-centered, needs-based structure. The companion bill, SB 303, ensures accountability and implementation by codifying the PEFC into law.

Together, these bills make Delaware's commitment to its children real, measurable, and enforceable, and they represent the most significant transformation of Delaware's public school funding system in a generation.

"Today, we're giving the teachers, counselors, and school administrators the resources to match their faith in kids across our state," said Governor Matt Meyer. "Delaware is telling every child: we see you, we believe in you, and your future is worth investing in. And today we move forward with a system that finally asks the right question: not where a child lives, but what that child needs to succeed."

The public bill ceremony was held at Harlan Elementary School, the school Governor Meyer attended as a child growing up in Wilmington. The school was constructed in 1932 and is led by Principal Tracey Roberts, who noted during her remarks that students, parents, and the community will soon see the impact of this legislation, and that lawmakers, educational leaders, and advocates across Delaware are looking forward to seeing its positive impact and changes to come from the Department of Education.

"Passing this legislation is an important milestone, but laws alone do not improve outcomes for students," said Secretary of Education Cindy Marten. "The work ahead is implementation. Senate Bill 302 helps create the pathway for a new funding framework, and Senate Bill 303 helps ensure the ongoing public process, transparency, and accountability needed to get this right. This is not a finish line or a victory lap. It is the beginning of the next phase of a shared civic project: working with districts and charters, educators, families, students, communities, legislators, and the Governor's Office to make sure these changes reach classrooms, support the students who need it most, and strengthen public education across Delaware."

Legislators connected with diverse families across the state to better understand how the funding should be best allocated to ensure all communities have access to quality education and schools as they prepare for tests, graduation, secondary education, and employment.

"The evidence is clear: states that spend more per pupil and target more funds towards low-income and multilingual learners have better overall outcomes when it comes to testing, graduation rates, employment rates, and many other key indicators of success," said Sen. Laura Sturgeon, chair of the Public Education Funding Commission. "I'm grateful to our Governor, our Secretary of Education and other members of the PEFC, my colleagues in the legislature and the countless other educators, advocates, parents, and students who have helped us get to this point."

Helen Anderson, an educator, PEFC member and longtime advocate, noted the generational impact this legislation will have. Anderson stated, "What we do for children today will matter to the adult of tomorrow."

That impact extends beyond the classroom to the funding structures that make it possible. "The way we fund our schools affects far more than what happens in the classroom, it impacts the resources available to students, the support educators can provide, and the opportunities that help shape a child's future. That is why getting this right matters so much," said Rep. Kim Williams, Chair of the House Education Committee and House sponsor of SB 302 and SB 303. "The bills signed into law today are the biggest step Delaware has taken in years to create a more modern and equitable approach to education funding and I look forward to seeing their impact on our students and school communities."

The Delaware Department of Education has already begun implementation of the PEFC legislation.

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Original text here: https://news.delaware.gov/2026/09/02/governor-meyer-signed-public-education-funding-commission-bill-funding-100-million-to-delaware-public-schools/

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