Featured Stories
North Dakota Attorney General Issued an Opinion to VA Dept.
BISMARCK, North Dakota, June 27 -- North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley issued the following opinion:
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The North Dakota Attorney General issued an opinion to the Department of Veterans' Affairs
Request: Kelly Volk requested an opinion from this office under N.D.C.C. Sec. 44-04-21.1 asking whether the North Dakota Department of Veterans' Affairs (Veterans' Affairs) failed to provide requested reports from a database or failed to timely respond to the request for reports, and thereby violated N.D.C.C. Sec. 44-04-18.
CONCLUSIONS
1. Veterans' Affairs complied with N.D.C.C. Sec. 44-04-18
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BISMARCK, North Dakota, June 27 -- North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley issued the following opinion:
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The North Dakota Attorney General issued an opinion to the Department of Veterans' Affairs
Request: Kelly Volk requested an opinion from this office under N.D.C.C. Sec. 44-04-21.1 asking whether the North Dakota Department of Veterans' Affairs (Veterans' Affairs) failed to provide requested reports from a database or failed to timely respond to the request for reports, and thereby violated N.D.C.C. Sec. 44-04-18.
CONCLUSIONS
1. Veterans' Affairs complied with N.D.C.C. Sec. 44-04-18by providing the responsive reports that existed within its custody or possession, and it was not obligated to create reports that did not exist.
2. Veterans' Affairs failed to comply with N.D.C.C. Sec. 44-04-18(8) by failing to provide an acknowledgment of a request and for failing to provide records within a reasonable time.
The existing records have been provided to Ms. Volk. Therefore, there are no further corrective measures to be taken by the Department of Veterans' Affairs.
Link to opinion (https://attorneygeneral.nd.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2026-O-12.pdf)
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Original text here: https://attorneygeneral.nd.gov/the-north-dakota-attorney-general-issued-an-opinion-to-the-department-of-veterans-affairs/
New York Department of State Announces Completion of Enlighten Peekskill, a Series of Public Art Installations Throughout Downtown Peekskill
ALBANY, New York, June 27 -- The New York Department of State issued the following news release on June 26, 2026:
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NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF STATE ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF ENLIGHTEN PEEKSKILL, A SERIES OF PUBLIC ART INSTALLATIONS THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN PEEKSKILL
Part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, Project Features 3 Parts: Illuminate Peekskill, Making Connections, and the Five Arches Mural
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New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley today announced the completion of the Enlighten Peekskill art walk as part of Peekskill's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). Illuminate Peekskill,
... Show Full Article
ALBANY, New York, June 27 -- The New York Department of State issued the following news release on June 26, 2026:
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NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF STATE ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF ENLIGHTEN PEEKSKILL, A SERIES OF PUBLIC ART INSTALLATIONS THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN PEEKSKILL
Part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, Project Features 3 Parts: Illuminate Peekskill, Making Connections, and the Five Arches Mural
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New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley today announced the completion of the Enlighten Peekskill art walk as part of Peekskill's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). Illuminate Peekskill,Making Connections and the Five Arches Mural comprise the one-mile art walk from Metro North to downtown and its waterfront, featuring 12 murals and four sculptures by 46 artists.
"Public art has the power to transform spaces, celebrate local culture and create lasting connections between residents and visitors," said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. "Through the DRI, New York is helping communities like Peekskill invest in projects that reflect their unique character and strengthen their sense of place. The completion of these public art installations enhances Peekskill's vibrant arts scene, beautifies the downtown and helps create a more welcoming and dynamic destination for everyone who lives, works and visits here."
Enlighten Peekskill received $500,000 from the DRI and is sponsored by Hudson Valley MOCA. It encompasses the Illuminate Peekskill installation, which features seven lighted sculptures that connect the train station to the downtown, aimed at encouraging more people to get off the train and visit. It also includes Making Connections, which uses 11 murals to create an engaging cultural and historic experience while connecting visitors and residents from the Peekskill waterfront to the downtown. Lastly, the installations include the Five Arches Mural on the five arches on the Route 9 overpass at South and Requa streets, which represents the five elements of nature: earth, water, fire, metal and wood.
Peekskill was named the Mid-Hudson Downtown Revitalization Initiative winner for the fourth round in 2019. Other DRI winners in the region include Middletown, Kingston, New Rochelle, Haverstraw, Ossining, Port Jervis, White Plains and Poughkeepsie.
In addition to Enlighten Peekskill, the following projects are also funded by the DRI in Peekskill:
* Create a Downtown Civic Hub and Improve the Downtown Public Realm: Create the Peekskill Plaza on S. Division Street by converting two lanes to a pedestrian civic space, redesign Gazebo Plaza as the civic heart of Peekskill, improve streetscapes to enhance pedestrian safety and beautify downtown Peekskill.
* Improve Connections for Pedestrians and Cyclists between the Waterfront and Downtown: Strengthen the connection between the Waterfront and the Downtown Core by improving connectivity and safety for pedestrians and bicyclists on Railroad Avenue, S. Water Street, Central Avenue, and South Street. Components include bike lanes, curb extensions, crosswalks, bioswales, bike racks, LED info signage, street trees, and pedestrian signals.
* Revitalize the Paramount Theater and Develop Space for Peekskill Arts Center: Renovations to the building fac?ade and marquee, improved interior spaces for audience and artists, expanded hospitality programs, and upgraded equipment and utilities. Interior upgrades include lighting and sound equipment, stage rigging, accessible seating, flexible seating, and box office renovations.
* Reconstruct Fleischmann Pier and Improve Charles Point Park as a Premier Waterfront Destination (Complete): Reconstruction of Fleischmann Pier to create a new pier that will support tour boats. The project provided funding for a second phase improvement to include floating docks for smaller vessels and transient boaters, improvements to Charles Point Park, and expanded parking area building.
* Enhance Pugsley Park as a Downtown Attraction (Complete): Improvements to Pugsley Park include creation of new plazas and seating areas, pedestrian-scaled lighting; small-scale play equipment to attract children, trash cans, bike parking, plantings of trees, shrubs, and flowers, and infrastructure to support power hook-ups and watering.
* Enhance Monument Park, a Gateway into Downtown Peekskill: Monument Park would be enhanced by lighting and maintenance improvements to improve the quality of the public space for daily use by residents. The project proposal seeks DRI funding for lighting, landscaping, and LED informational sign at the bus stop.
* Transform the Kiley Youth Center as a New Location of the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester: Renovate the Kiley Youth Center as a new location for the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester. Upgrades include interior/exterior improvements, utilities, and structural repairs providing offices, an art room, computer labs, and cafeteria.
* Create a Marketing and Branding Strategy with Wayfinding Signage: Develop a brand for Peekskill that describes the City's history and culture, create a marketing strategy to communicate the City's brand and attract new residents, businesses, and visitors, and implement components of the marketing strategy with wayfinding signage.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Enlighten Peekskill is a strong example of how investments in arts and culture can support economic growth while celebrating a community's unique identity. By creating new experiences for residents and visitors alike, these installations help drive foot traffic, support local businesses and strengthen Peekskill's appeal as a destination. Projects like this demonstrate how strategic placemaking investments can generate lasting benefits for communities across New York State."
Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Dr. Marsha Gordon and Dr. Kristine Young said, "Enlighten Peekskill showcases the power of public art to bring people together and create a stronger sense of place. By connecting the train station, downtown and waterfront through a series of engaging installations, this project highlights Peekskill's rich artistic identity while encouraging residents and visitors to explore all the city has to offer. The Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council is proud to have supported a project that contributes to the continued revitalization and growth of this vibrant community."
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "The Downtown Revitalization Initiative is helping communities across New York create vibrant, walkable downtowns that attract residents, businesses and visitors alike. Enlighten Peekskill is a creative investment that strengthens connections between the waterfront, train station and downtown while celebrating the city's rich artistic and cultural identity. By transforming public spaces into destinations and enhancing the pedestrian experience, this project helps build the kind of dynamic downtowns that support economic growth and improve quality of life for residents."
New York State Council on the Arts Executive Director Erika Mallin said, "Critical investments in arts and culture spark economic growth, strengthen local businesses, engage residents, and drive tourism. The Enlighten Peekskill art walk will elevate Peekskill's downtown area to a must-see cultural destination in the Mid-Hudson."
State Senator Pete Harckham said, "The arts have long been woven into Peekskill's identity and have played a vital role in the city's renaissance and growth. This project is a fantastic example of government investing in the community while supporting incredibly talented local artists, making Peekskill an even more vibrant and welcoming place for residents and visitors alike."
Assemblymember Dana Levenberg said, "Enlighten Peekskill promotes the kind of engagement that makes a downtown a destination, turning the walk from the train station into an experience that celebrates this community's creativity and history. This art walk will draw visitors in and help to support local businesses, as well as give residents a renewed sense of pride in where they live. Kudos to the City of Peekskill, the Department of State, and everyone who helped bring this vision to life."
City of Peekskill Mayor Vivian McKenzie said, "The completion of Enlighten Peekskill is a powerful reminder of how public art can bring people together, celebrate our community's identity, and transform the way residents and visitors experience our city. From the illuminated sculptures connecting our Metro-North station to downtown, to the murals that showcase our history, culture, and creativity, this project reflects the vibrant artistic spirit that makes Peekskill so special. We are grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul, Secretary of State Walter Mosley, and our partners at Hudson Valley MOCA for recognizing the importance of investing in arts and culture as a catalyst for economic development and community pride. Enlighten Peekskill not only beautifies our city but also strengthens the connection between our downtown and waterfront, supporting local businesses and creating an even more welcoming destination for all who live, work, and visit here."
President & Co-Founder of Hudson Valley MOCA Livia Straus said, "Three entities had a shared vision, to create a walking path through the city of Peekskill using illuminating sculptures that offer an esthetically pleasing and safe nighttime passage from the MTA station to Downtown, marked along the way by murals addressing the history and diversity of the City and the natural beauty of the region. 'Enlighten Peekskill' has brought together artists from across the country, the region and Peekskill itself. These public works, made possible through the foresight and generosity of NYS, Governor Hochul and her administration, are an example of how public art can build pride of place, friendship across ages and an educational platform for many years to come."
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said, "Peekskill is a community with a strong creative and cultural spirit, and the completion of Enlighten Peekskill shows how targeted investments can help strengthen and celebrate that identity. Through New York State's Downtown Revitalization Initiative, vibrant murals and sculptures have transformed public spaces into destinations that celebrate the City's history, diversity and values. Projects like this not only beautify our communities, but also help to attract visitors, support local businesses and create a stronger sense of connection for our residents. I thank Governor Hochul, Secretary Mosley and all of the artists and partners who helped bring this vision to life."
Westchester County Legislator Colin Smith said, "Peekskill's Downtown Revitalization Initiative is a shining example of what can happen when state and local leaders work together with a shared vision for the future. This transformative $10 million investment has strengthened our waterfront, improved parks and public spaces, enhanced pedestrian connectivity, supported local businesses, and created new opportunities for arts, culture, and economic growth throughout the city. These projects are making Peekskill an even more vibrant place to live, work, and visit while building on the community's unique character and rich history. I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul and Secretary of State Walter Mosley for their continued commitment to investing in communities like Peekskill and helping ensure that the Hudson Valley remains a great place for families, businesses, and future generations."
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About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative
The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State, with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative "plan-then-act" strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation. Through nine rounds, the DRI will have awarded a total of $1 billion to 99 communities across every region of the State.
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Original text here: https://dos.ny.gov/news/new-york-department-state-announces-completion-enlighten-peekskill-series-public-art
New Hampshire Insurance Department Issues Consumer Advisory on Alternative Health Plans
CONCORD, New Hampshire, June 27 -- The New Hampshire Department of Insurance issued the following news release:
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New Hampshire Insurance Department Issues Consumer Advisory on Alternative Health Plans
The New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) is alerting Granite Staters to use caution when considering alternatives to traditional major medical coverage, including health care sharing organizations, limited partnership health plans, and limited indemnity plans paired with ancillary benefits.
The NHID has received multiple complaints involving alternative health care products and is warning
... Show Full Article
CONCORD, New Hampshire, June 27 -- The New Hampshire Department of Insurance issued the following news release:
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New Hampshire Insurance Department Issues Consumer Advisory on Alternative Health Plans
The New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) is alerting Granite Staters to use caution when considering alternatives to traditional major medical coverage, including health care sharing organizations, limited partnership health plans, and limited indemnity plans paired with ancillary benefits.
The NHID has received multiple complaints involving alternative health care products and is warningconsumers that some plans may be misrepresented, may operate unlawfully in New Hampshire, or may leave consumers responsible for significant unpaid medical bills.
"As the health insurance market continues to experience volatility nationwide, many consumers are exploring lower-cost coverage alternatives," said Insurance Commissioner D.J. Bettencourt. "Some limited-benefit products serve legitimate needs and may be appropriate depending on an individual's circumstances. Consumers should understand exactly what is covered, what is excluded, and consider whether a product is regulated by the New Hampshire Insurance Department before making a purchasing decision."
Health care sharing organizations share health costs among members on a voluntary basis. Organizations that comply with RSA 126-V are exempt from insurance regulation. Unlike health insurance, these programs generally do not create a legally enforceable obligation to pay covered claims, may have no NHID oversight, and may not offer appeal rights under New Hampshire law.
The NHID is also advising consumers to be cautious of plans marketed through limited partnerships or other multi-level-marketing arrangements. While limited partnerships and employer-sponsored health insurance are legal in New Hampshire, it is not legal to misrepresent a person as having an employment relationship for the purpose of obtaining insurance. Consumers should be wary of any plan that requires them to become an employee or limited partner in an unfamiliar or unaffiliated company.
Consumers should also closely review plans marketed as lower-cost alternatives to Affordable Care Act coverage. Some products combine limited indemnity benefits with ancillary services such as prescription discount cards, gym membership discounts, or medical bill repricing services. Others may be fraudulent schemes offered by companies illegally operating in New Hampshire and selling plans that have not been approved or do not comply with legal requirements.
Limited indemnity benefits may include fixed payments, such as $50 for an appointment or $200 per day of hospitalization. That coverage falls far short of ACA-compliant health insurance and may leave consumers responsible for thousands of dollars in medical bills.
Before purchasing any health plan, consumers should read the plan materials carefully and confirm what is and is not covered.
Legitimate ancillary health insurance products that provide limited benefits are required to include front-page disclaimers stating that the product is not major medical coverage and provides only limited benefits. Consumers should also consider requesting the license number of any insurance agent offering a plan.
"New Hampshire benefits from a competitive insurance marketplace that gives consumers meaningful choices," said Deputy Insurance Commissioner Keith Nyhan. "That marketplace works best when consumers receive clear, accurate information about the products they are purchasing."
Consumers with questions or concerns about a health coverage plan they have purchased or that is being offered to them should contact the NHID Consumer Services Division at 603-271-2261 or consumerservices@ins.nh.gov.
The full consumer advisory can be located at https://www.insurance.nh.gov/news-and-media/blog/consumer-advisory-alternative-health-plans.
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The New Hampshire Insurance Department Can Help
The New Hampshire Insurance Department's mission is to promote and protect the public good by ensuring the existence of a safe and competitive insurance marketplace through the development and enforcement of the insurance laws of the State of New Hampshire. Contact us with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your insurance coverage at 800-852-3416 or 603-271-2261, or by email at consumerservices@ins.nh.gov. For more information, visit https://insurance.nh.gov/.
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Original text here: https://www.insurance.nh.gov/news-and-media/new-hampshire-insurance-department-issues-consumer-advisory-alternative-health-plans
Maine Gov. Mills Radio Address: Fighting the Problem of Elder Abuse
AUGUSTA, Maine, June 27 -- Gov. Janet Mills, D-Maine, issued the following radio address
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Fighting the Problem of Elder Abuse
Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills, and thank you for listening.
You know, the abuse of vulnerable Maine people, especially older adults, is an insidious problem. One in ten older Maine people experience abuse or exploitation, most often committed by someone they actually trust. But only one in 24 cases is actually reported to law enforcement.
Far too often, older adults are alone and isolated, and they depend on only one or two people, sometimes family members,
... Show Full Article
AUGUSTA, Maine, June 27 -- Gov. Janet Mills, D-Maine, issued the following radio address
:
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Fighting the Problem of Elder Abuse
Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills, and thank you for listening.
You know, the abuse of vulnerable Maine people, especially older adults, is an insidious problem. One in ten older Maine people experience abuse or exploitation, most often committed by someone they actually trust. But only one in 24 cases is actually reported to law enforcement.
Far too often, older adults are alone and isolated, and they depend on only one or two people, sometimes family members,for their well-being, and they're hesitant to ask for help. Eradicating abuse is a shared responsibility, and it requires state government, law enforcement, organizations, and financial professionals to work together to protect older adults.
As District Attorney and later as Attorney General, I prosecuted many crimes against older Maine people. And in 2014, I convened a task force to combat financial exploitation of older people. With that, we made changes to judicial case management--so prioritizing these cases--changes to staffing, and changes to specialized training for law enforcement officers, in order to ferret out abuse and investigate it in a more effective and streamlined fashion.
In 2019, as Governor, I signed into law "An Act to Protect Vulnerable Adults from Financial Exploitation," which requires certain professionals who suspect financial exploitation to report those concerns to the Office of Securities or Adult Protective Services. In that same year, I signed an executive order to create the Elder Justice Coordinating Partnership, and in 2022, I created the Cabinet on Aging to make sure that my administration is doing everything we can to break down silos and take every step to protect the dignity, safety, and rights of older Maine people.
Recently, I announced the 2026 Maine Elder Justice Roadmap. That's a report that outlines the progress we've made and which recommends priorities for the next administration through 2028. That progress includes investing $4 million in the budget with the support of the Legislature to reduce abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults and adults with disabilities. That funding is being used to hire more Adult Protective Services staff at the Department of Health and Human Services and to support free legal aid through the Legal Services for Maine Elders Agency.
We also created the first Elder Justice Investigator at the Department of Public Safety, and we added training for law enforcement recruits at the Criminal Justice Academy so that they can all recognize signs of elder abuse. These were all important steps, but with nearly 30% of Maine's population expected to reach the age of 65 or older by 2032, we can do more to prevent exploitation and abuse.
This newest report by the Elder Justice Partnership identifies 13 major priorities for the next administration in order to prevent elder abuse. These include gathering more data on the quality of long-term care settings, so families can make informed choices about the care their loved ones might receive, and it includes training members of the public who interact with older adults to recognize and report signs of abuse. And it includes developing an Elder Justice Officer Certification at the Criminal Justice Academy.
In response to one of the Elder Justice Partnership's recommendations recently, I signed an executive order to allow them to continue their work with the Cabinet on Aging, building on the progress we've made. I also proclaimed June 15th as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Maine.
You know, as the oldest state in the nation, Maine has both a responsibility and an opportunity to lead until we put an end to elder abuse and neglect and financial exploitation. If you have any reason to believe that an older adult in Maine is being abused, neglected, or exploited, please call Adult Protective Services at 1-800-624-8404. That's 1-800-624-8404.
This is Governor Janet Mills, and thank you for listening.
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Original text here: https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/node/3901
MTA Announces Two Modernized Elevators Open at Jackson Hts-Roosevelt Av EFMR Subway Station
NEW YORK, June 27 -- The New York State Metropolitan Transportation Authority issued the following news release on June 26, 2026:
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MTA Announces Two Modernized Elevators Open at Jackson Hts-Roosevelt Av EFMR Subway Station
Elevators Open on Time and on Budget
Accessibility Upgrades Provide Safer and More Reliable Elevator Service
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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced the opening of two modernized elevators serving the Jackson Hts-Roosevelt Av EFMR station in Queens as part of larger accessibility and safety upgrades. The elevators opened on time and on
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, June 27 -- The New York State Metropolitan Transportation Authority issued the following news release on June 26, 2026:
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MTA Announces Two Modernized Elevators Open at Jackson Hts-Roosevelt Av EFMR Subway Station
Elevators Open on Time and on Budget
Accessibility Upgrades Provide Safer and More Reliable Elevator Service
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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) today announced the opening of two modernized elevators serving the Jackson Hts-Roosevelt Av EFMR station in Queens as part of larger accessibility and safety upgrades. The elevators opened on time and onbudget.
The elevators at Jackson Hts-Roosevelt Av provides access from the Manhattan-bound EFMR platform to the EFMR7 mezzanines and from the mezzanine to the Queens-bound EFMR platform. The station serves nearly 40,000 riders every weekday. The elevator design-builder is Forte-Gramercy JV.
"We're modernizing critical infrastructure across our system faster than ever," said MTA Construction and Development President Jamie Torres-Springer. "With new, modern elevators at Jackson Hts-Roosevelt Av, riders at this crucial transit hub are in for a smoother, more reliable ride."
"We are committed to improving accessibility and modernizing elevators for all our riders," said MTA Chief Accessibility Officer Quemuel Arroyo. "New elevators mean fewer unexpected outages and a more reliable commute."
Work involved in the elevator replacement included:
* Full replacement of elevator cab and associated equipment within the cab, shaft, and pit, along with new replaced elevator head house glass and canopy at street level.
* Modifications to the shaft and pit needed to accommodate new equipment. Equipment updates ensure the elevator ride is smoother and the elevator is more reliable in the future.
* Replacement and modernization of all elevator machine room, electrical and mechanical equipment for better and more reliable service.
* Upgrades to the remote monitoring equipment, fire alarm system, intercom system and cameras to enhance security and allow crews to respond more quickly and precisely if an elevator goes out of service.
These upgrades reflect the MTA's broader elevator and escalator modernization program, which is improving reliability across the system faster than ever. So far, in 2026, MTA C&D has completed 15 elevator replacements and has reduced the average elevator replacement timeline by two months--all while actively working on more elevators than ever across the system.
The MTA currently has elevator replacement projects in progress in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan. Details can be found here (https://www.mta.info/project/station-accessibility-upgrades/elevator-replacements).
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Original text here: https://www.mta.info/press-release/mta-announces-two-modernized-elevators-open-jackson-hts-roosevelt-av-efmr-subway
Hybar Raises Financing to Expand in Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas, June 27 -- The Arkansas Economic Development Commission posted the following news from Hybar LLC:
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Hybar Raises Financing to Expand in Arkansas
OSCEOLA, AR. - Hybar LLC announced today that it raised $1.1 billion to expand its technologically advanced, environmentally sustainable scrap metal recycling steel rebar mini mill and position itself for continued growth. Hybar's existing steel rebar mini mill is completing its ninth month of operation following a successful construction effort. Having already established industry standards in terms of product quality and
... Show Full Article
LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas, June 27 -- The Arkansas Economic Development Commission posted the following news from Hybar LLC:
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Hybar Raises Financing to Expand in Arkansas
OSCEOLA, AR. - Hybar LLC announced today that it raised $1.1 billion to expand its technologically advanced, environmentally sustainable scrap metal recycling steel rebar mini mill and position itself for continued growth. Hybar's existing steel rebar mini mill is completing its ninth month of operation following a successful construction effort. Having already established industry standards in terms of product quality andenvironmental sustainability and having generated positive cash flow beginning in its fourth month of operation, Hybar today broke ground on a project that will double its rebar production capacity.
The expansion at Hybar's Osceola, Arkansas facility, will include adding a second steel rebar mini mill that will be supplied by SMS-group, a leading technology supplier to the world's steel industry. After construction completion of its second mini mill, which is expected to take 24 months, Hybar is expected to produce approximately 1.3 million tons of rebar annually, representing just under 13% of the domestic market.
With its first rebar mini mill, Hybar has capitalized on its three direct modes of transportation, barge, rail, and truck, to reach customers throughout the United States. Hybar believes that it is the only rebar producer in the United States capable of offering its customers three direct transportation options.
With Hybar's rebar used throughout the United States in data center projects, medical campus expansions, the energy infrastructure buildout, and the continued repair and upgrading of roads, bridges, and tunnels, Hybar plans to continue to penetrate these markets once the expansion is complete.
Hybar has a special rate power contract with Entergy Arkansas, under which Hybar buys electrical energy. Entergy Arkansas is recognized for having one of the lowest carbon emitting electrical energy generation fleets in the United States. Supplementing the relationship with Entergy, Hybar's sister company, Green & Clean Power LLC, operates the largest industrial behind-the-meter solar and battery storage facility in the United States. The facility is located immediately adjacent to Hybar, and power is fed directly into Hybar's operations. Once the last of the needed certifications are received and the final harmonic tests are completed later this summer, when the sun is shining, Hybar expects to be the only steel producer in North America capable of producing steel using 100% renewable energy.
Following the expansion, Hybar expects to produce close to 5,000 tons of rebar per year per employee, giving Hybar what Hybar believes will be the most productive labor force in the world's steel industry.
When commenting on what distinguishes Hybar from its competitors, Hybar's chief executive officer, Dave Stickler commented, "We have a great site with three modes of transportation; best in class technology; and outstanding highly motivated employees, but what truly differentiates Hybar is our "can-do" "get-in-done" culture. Empowering employees, stripping away bureaucracy, pushing decision making down to the mill floor, and constantly looking for better, faster, more sustainable ways to make steel are the keys to Hybar's success."
"Companies don't make billion-dollar investments where they can't succeed--they invest where they know they can grow," said Governor Sanders. "Hybar's expansion is helping cement Arkansas as a hub for American steel manufacturing while strengthening America's industrial future. We're proud Hybar continues to choose The Natural State."
"Under Dave Stickler's leadership, Hybar has grown rapidly in Arkansas, and we are proud that the company is expanding again in Mississippi County," said Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald. "The steel industry is thriving in northeastern Arkansas, and Hybar has played an important role in growing this industry. We look forward to Hybar's success with its new expansion in Osceola and to the continued growth of Arkansas' steel industry."
"Hybar is a true success story for the steel industry, building state-of-the-art facilities and producing sustainable scrap metal right in northeastern Arkansas," said Clint O'Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. "Dave Stickler and Hybar have steadily invested in Arkansas thanks to our state's infrastructure, workforce, and favorable business climate. We are proud of this continued partnership and look forward to many more years of Hybar's success in Mississippi County."
In support of Hybar's expansion financing, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and TPG Capital BD, LLC served as joint lead bookrunners for a notes offering pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and Truist Securities and Barclays acted as co-managers. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Barclays served as lead underwriters for a municipal bond offering, and Truist Securities, and Crews & Associates acted as co-managers.
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About the Arkansas Economic Development Commission
At AEDC, we know economic advancement doesn't happen by accident. We work strategically with businesses and communities to create strong economic opportunities, making Arkansas the natural choice for success. AEDC is a division of the Arkansas Department of Commerce. To learn more, visit ArkansasEDC.com.
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Original text here: https://www.arkansasedc.com/news-events/newsroom/detail/2026/06/26/hybar-raises-financing-to-expand-in-arkansas
Hutchinson Sealing Systems Welcomed Into Tenn. Environment & Conservation Dept.'s Green Star Partnership
NASHVILLE, Tennessee, June 27 -- The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation issued the following news release:
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Hutchinson Sealing Systems Welcomed Into TDEC'S Green Star Partnership
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has welcomed Hutchinson Sealing Systems of Church Hill as the newest member of the Tennessee Green Star Partnership.
The Tennessee Green Star Partnership is a voluntary environmental leadership program that recognizes manufacturers across the state committed to sustainability and exhibiting continuous improvement in their operations.
... Show Full Article
NASHVILLE, Tennessee, June 27 -- The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation issued the following news release:
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Hutchinson Sealing Systems Welcomed Into TDEC'S Green Star Partnership
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has welcomed Hutchinson Sealing Systems of Church Hill as the newest member of the Tennessee Green Star Partnership.
The Tennessee Green Star Partnership is a voluntary environmental leadership program that recognizes manufacturers across the state committed to sustainability and exhibiting continuous improvement in their operations.The program includes only about 70 facilities statewide, setting a high bar for environmental excellence.
Hutchinson Sealing Systems, a Tier 1 automotive supplier, has been a part of the Tennessee manufacturing community since 1990. The company manufactures sealing systems for several major automotive manufacturers, including Nissan, Daimler, Stellantis, and GM. The company operates a 166,000 square foot production facility that employs approximately 160 people and serves as an important contributor to automaker supply chains.
"Hutchinson Sealing Systems is more than worthy of membership in this exclusive program," said TDEC Commissioner David Salyers. "The company goes above and beyond what would be expected in sustainability, reducing energy demand and involving employees in the process. Its commitment is impressive."
Hutchinson has demonstrated a strong commitment to reducing its environmental footprint through a series of significant sustainability achievements, starting with the attainment of ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 certifications.
To further strengthen energy efficiency, the facility implemented two key measures. A real time compressed air modulation system optimizes compressor performance and reduces energy demand charges, while strategically placed sensors monitor real time consumption of compressed air, natural gas, and electricity. This information is prominently displayed on the production floor in both units and dollars, empowering employees to make informed decisions that improve efficiency. These initiatives, combined with other measures, enabled the facility to meet or surpass its 2025 reduction targets of 5% in electricity, 10% in natural gas, and 30% in water.
In addition to the pollution prevention measures, the facility has expanded its recycling capabilities by establishing outlets for hard to recycle automotive glass and rubber. Hutchinson has also reduced its regulatory impacts by obtaining an industrial stormwater No Exposure Certification in 2021, lowering air emissions to transition from a Title V to a Conditional Major source in 2025 and shifting from a large quantity to a small quantity hazardous waste generator in 2023.
To qualify for membership in the Tennessee Green Star Partnership, manufacturers must operate under ISO 14001 certification or maintain an environmental management system that aligns with ISO 14001 principles. It must also demonstrate a minimum of three consecutive years of exemplary environmental compliance with TDEC, and it must have a clear commitment to continuous operational improvement.
More information on the Tennessee Green Star Partnership can be found online (https://www.tn.gov/content/tn/environment/sustainability/programs/tgsp.html).
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Original text here: https://www.tn.gov/environment/news/2026/6/25/hutchinson-sealing-systems-tdecs-green-star-partnership.html
