Tag: PR Newswire

NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The United Nations Global Compact wrapped its 2025 Leaders Summit today, convening business, Government and civil society to accelerate credible action on the Ten Principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at a pivotal 25-year milestone for the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. The Summit took place during High-level Week of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA80) with programming centered on practical tools, networking and peer learning as part of the activities of UN Global Compact Hub, a dedicated space for participant-only events and networking.

This year’s Summit featured opening reflections on “25 Years of the UN Global Compact,” followed by plenaries and hands-on breakout sessions spanning sustainable finance, next-generation sustainability reporting and the business case for resilience and growth in uncertain markets. The day closed with remarks from UN Global Compact CEO and Executive Director Sanda Ojiambo and a keynote from actor and author Rainn Wilson.

Among highlighted speakers were leaders from IKEA (Ingka Group), the Global Reporting Initiative, L’Oréal Group, Fujitsu, City Developments, Acciona, Novonesis, Schneider Electric, Neoenergia, Tesco, Singaland Asetama, Hermes and others — underscoring the breadth of sectors engaged in translating principles into performance.

Highlights of Leaders Summit 2025 included a dedicated session examining how companies can use converging standards and the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) to turn sustainability reporting into decision-useful insights; dialogues exploring innovations in sustainable finance to crowd in private capital at scale; sessions on “selling sustainability” focused on credible KPIs and an SDG Innovation pitch showcasing solutions from companies across regions and sectors.

Commenting on the day, Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, said: “Twenty-five years on, the UN Global Compact remains a trusted bridge between business and the United Nations. This year’s Leaders Summit was designed to help companies move from commitment to concrete results — faster. At the UN Global Compact we equip our participants with clearer pathways, mobilize coalitions to remove system-level barriers, and show — through data and real-world examples — how responsible business delivers value for people, the planet and performance.”

The Leaders Summit 2025 was held following a board meeting of the UN Global Compact, chaired by the UN Secretary-General, in which its 2026-2030 strategy was approved, charting the next phase of the initiative’s evolution — prioritizing three shifts: equipping companies with a tailored, digitally enabled learning journey (including a modernized Communication on Progress); catalyzing collective action across four impact areas (climate & nature, decent work & living wages, gender equality and sustainable finance); and strengthening the evidence base through platforms such as the Forward Faster Initiative and the CFO Coalition for the SDGs — delivered through Regional Hubs and Country Networks to convert the Ten Principles into comparable, credible results by 2030.

Notes to Editors

About the UN Global Compact
The ambition of the UN Global Compact is to accelerate and scale the global collective impact of business by upholding the Ten Principles and delivering the SDGs through accountable companies and ecosystems that enable change. With more than 20,000 participating companies, 5 Regional Hubs, 64 Country Networks covering 85 countries and 9 Country Managers establishing Networks in 16 other countries, the UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative — one Global Compact uniting business for a better world. For more information, follow @globalcompact on social media and visit our website at unglobalcompact.org.

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SOURCE United Nations Global Compact

ATLANTA, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Georgia Power has announced the open comment period for its 2025 Request for Proposals (RFP) for Energy Storage System (ESS) resources. Approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) as a part of the company’s 2022 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), this RFP provides a competitive solicitation for Georgia Power to procure 500 MW of ESS. The company prefers the procured resources to be online by no later than the end of 2031.

The RFP, administered by independent evaluator Ascend Analytics on behalf of Georgia Power, will solicit:

• Standalone ESS with grid charging capability; and
• ESS with Renewable Resource (new or existing) and grid charging capability

The procurement target capacity is 500 megawatts (MW), with a required storage discharge duration of at least two hours. 

Interested participants are required to register through the Ascend Analytics Power Procurement platform where they will be invited to attend an RFP Bidder’s Conference, either in person or via a virtual option, on Sept. 29, 2025. Participants should visit the independent evaluator website for additional details of the RFP and Solicitation Schedule.

All proposals and communication must be submitted through the Ascend Analytics Power Procurement platform. Georgia Power will not accept submissions or inquiries by phone, email or mail for the program.

To learn more about how Georgia Power is meeting the needs of customers through a diverse, balanced energy portfolio and the IRP process, visit GeorgiaPower.com.

About Georgia Power 
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power offers rates below the national average, focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

About Ascend Analytics
Ascend Analytics is the leading provider of market intelligence and analytics solutions for the power industry. The company’s offerings enable decision makers in power supply, procurement, and investment markets to plan, operate, monetize, and manage risk for renewable energy and storage assets. From real-time to 30-year horizons, their forecasts and insights are at the foundation of over $50 billion in project financing assessments. Ascend provides energy market stakeholders with the clarity and confidence to successfully navigate the rapidly shifting energy landscape.

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SOURCE Georgia Power

FREDERICK, Md., Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sophie and Madigan’s Playground is honored to announce a generous $4,000 donation from the William E. Cross Foundation. This gift continues a longstanding tradition of giving that began in 2013, with the Foundation’s total support now reaching $59,000.

The William E. Cross Foundation has been a steadfast partner in helping bring to life Sophie and Madigan’s Playground — a one-of-a-kind, inclusive space designed to celebrate Sophie and Madigan’s unique personalities and to help families of every ability play, learn, and create lifelong memories together. Their ongoing commitment reflects not only a belief in the mission of the playground but also a deep investment in creating lasting opportunities for children and families in Frederick and beyond.

“Thanks to the William E. Cross Foundation’s incredible generosity over more than a decade, we are able to continue to honor our girls and our mission creating opportunities for all families to play learn and create lifelong memories.” said Chrissi Lillard, co-founder of Sophie and Madigan’s Playground.

Sophie and Madigan’s Playground is in the final stretch of fundraising for the third and final phase, themed “Off to Neverland,” which will expand the playground with even more inclusive features and imaginative design elements, ensuring children of all abilities can share in the magic.

For more information about Sophie and Madigan’s Playground or to join the effort, please visit sophieandmadigansplayground.com.

Our Mission 
To honor the lives of Sophie and Madigan Lillard by building a memorial playground and providing opportunities for children and their families to play, learn, and create lifelong memories together, and in ways that reflect the beautiful personalities and spirits of these two sisters.

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SOURCE Sophie and Madigan’s Playground

FREDERICK, Md., Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sophie and Madigan’s Playground is honored to announce a generous $4,000 donation from the William E. Cross Foundation. This gift continues a longstanding tradition of giving that began in 2013, with the Foundation’s total support now reaching $59,000.

The William E. Cross Foundation has been a steadfast partner in helping bring to life Sophie and Madigan’s Playground — a one-of-a-kind, inclusive space designed to celebrate Sophie and Madigan’s unique personalities and to help families of every ability play, learn, and create lifelong memories together. Their ongoing commitment reflects not only a belief in the mission of the playground but also a deep investment in creating lasting opportunities for children and families in Frederick and beyond.

“Thanks to the William E. Cross Foundation’s incredible generosity over more than a decade, we are able to continue to honor our girls and our mission creating opportunities for all families to play learn and create lifelong memories.” said Chrissi Lillard, co-founder of Sophie and Madigan’s Playground.

Sophie and Madigan’s Playground is in the final stretch of fundraising for the third and final phase, themed “Off to Neverland,” which will expand the playground with even more inclusive features and imaginative design elements, ensuring children of all abilities can share in the magic.

For more information about Sophie and Madigan’s Playground or to join the effort, please visit sophieandmadigansplayground.com.

Our Mission 
To honor the lives of Sophie and Madigan Lillard by building a memorial playground and providing opportunities for children and their families to play, learn, and create lifelong memories together, and in ways that reflect the beautiful personalities and spirits of these two sisters.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/william-e-cross-foundation-contributes-4-000-to-sophie-and-madigans-playground-bringing-total-support-to-59-000-since-2013–302564475.html

SOURCE Sophie and Madigan’s Playground

NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a groundbreaking decision, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan has denied the federal government’s motion for summary judgment seeking dismissal of claims brought by Flint children and families under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). The Court held that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can and must be held accountable for its negligence during the Flint Water Crisis. Napoli Shkolnik represents Flint families in this litigation.

The Court found that there is sufficient evidence to hold the government liable under the Good Samaritan doctrine, which holds that an entity is responsible for harm caused by its negligent actions, even if those actions were undertaken voluntarily. This ruling is a crucial step forward for the residents of Flint seeking justice and accountability.

The Court’s opinion highlighted the EPA’s failure to effectively utilize its authority under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to intervene and protect Flint residents, despite having knowledge of the severe risks posed by the contaminated water. Judge Parker’s decision underscored the EPA’s negligent undertakings, including its failure to properly oversee the water system, communicate clearly and effectively with state officials and residents and act in a timely manner to address the growing public health crisis. This ruling reaffirms the principle that the government can be held accountable for its actions and inactions when they result in harm to the public. It paves the way for the plaintiffs to continue their pursuit of justice and fair compensation for the injuries and damages suffered.

“This ruling is a major victory in the fight for justice for Flint’s children and families,” said Paul J. Napoli, partner at Napoli Shkolnik PLLC, who represents the Burgess family and other Flint plaintiffs. “For too long, the government has tried to evade responsibility for turning a blind eye to poisoned water flowing into homes, schools and businesses. Today, the Court reaffirmed that no one, not even the federal government, is above the law when it comes to protecting the health and lives of American families.”

The Court rejected the U.S. government’s arguments that it was immune from suit under technical FTCA exceptions, ruling instead that the EPA undertook clear responsibilities to oversee water safety in Flint and failed those duties, with devastating consequences. This decision ensures that Flint residents will have their day in court to hold the government accountable for the catastrophic failures that sickened thousands, especially children.

“This case is about more than Flint, it is about ensuring federal agencies cannot abandon communities in crisis without consequence,” Napoli added. “The people of Flint have waited over a decade for accountability. This decision puts us one step closer to delivering justice, truth and compensation for the victims of this man-made disaster.”

About Napoli Shkolnik PLLC
Napoli Shkolnik is a leading national plaintiffs’ law firm, representing communities and individuals across the country in high-stakes litigation involving environmental contamination, public health crises, and corporate misconduct. The firm has played a central role in landmark cases including the Flint Water Crisis, PFAS “forever chemicals” litigation, the nationwide opioid epidemic, and 9/11 first responder claims.

Media Contact:
PANBlast for Napoli Shkolnik
napoli@panblastpr.com

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SOURCE Napoli Shkolnik

21 N.J. food banks and pantries benefit from $2.5 million six-state program

HOLMDEL, N.J., Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The FirstEnergy Foundation is supporting local communities as part of its Hunger Action Month initiative – awarding $600,000 in grants to 21 New Jersey food banks and pantries. In total, the initiative is granting $2.5 million to 104 hunger relief organizations across New Jersey, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Virginia, marking the Foundation’s largest hunger-relief investment to date.

The foundation’s grants will provide approximately two million meals to families in communities served by Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L).

Tackling A Growing Hunger Epidemic

Food insecurity is a growing crisis across the U.S., according to Feeding America and the USDA. Over one million people – 11.7% of the population – in New Jersey face food insecurity due to rising prices, climate-related disruptions and supply chain vulnerabilities.

Doug Mokoid, FirstEnergy’s President of New Jersey: “The FirstEnergy Foundation is serving up can-do energy – collaborating with vital local organizations to reduce hunger and increase the availability of healthy, nutritious meals during Hunger Action Month. Food means more than just nourishment – it’s a source of comfort that brings people together and strengthens bonds with a community. Our JCP&L employees are helping fight hunger year-round by volunteering and hosting food drives, reinforcing the importance of that connection.”

Feeding the Community

Foodbanks receiving grants include:

• Bradley Food Pantry (Neptune City, Monmouth County) – $15,000.
• Catholic Charities’ Hope House (Dover, Morris County) – $15,000.
• Community Foodbank of N.J. (Hillside, Union County) – $25,000.
• Community of Hope Ministries/Churches United for People (Spotswood, Middlesex County) – $10,000.
• Dermer Dreams (Fair Haven, Monmouth County) – $2,500.
• Feeding Middlesex County (Edison, Middlesex County) – $15,000.
• Foodbank Network of Somerset County (Bound Brook, Somerset County) – $25,000.
• Fulfill (Neptune, Monmouth County) – $75,000.
• Hands of Hope (Edison, Middlesex County) – $15,000.
• Interfaith Food Pantry Network (Morris Plains, Morris County) – $75,000.
• Jersey Shore Dream Center (Neptune City, Monmouth County) – $15,000.
• JFCSMC Nourish Pantry (Asbury Park, Monmouth County) – $7,500.
• Lacey Township Food Bank (Forked River, Ocean County) – $15,000.
• Lunch Break (Red Bank, Monmouth County) – $50,000.
• Mercy Center (Asbury Park, Monmouth County) – $50,000.
• NORWESCAP (Phillipsburg, Warren County) – $75,000.
• Project Self-Sufficiency (Newton, Sussex County) – $10,000.
• Rise (Hightstown, Monmouth County) – $50,000.
• Somebody C.A.R.E.S. Inc., Home to the Joel E. Perlmutter Memorial Food Pantry (Whiting, Ocean County) – $10,000.
• Spring Street Community Development (Morristown, Morris County) – $20,000.
• Trinity Center for the Community (Asbury Park, Monmouth County) – $25,000

Volunteering to Combat Hunger

In addition to grant funding, FirstEnergy demonstrates its commitment to community support by empowering employees with dedicated volunteer time-off (VTO) hours. This initiative enables JCP&L employees to provide hands-on, boots-on-the-ground assistance to local nonprofits. In 2024 alone, FirstEnergy employees contributed more than 26,000 volunteer hours across the company’s service territory – supporting causes such as local food banks, pantries and other vital community organizations.

History of Support

The FirstEnergy Foundation and FirstEnergy employees have been fighting food insecurity for over two decades. Since 2021, FirstEnergy employees have donated $650,000 directly to organizations focused on fighting hunger and improving nutrition. Nearly $7 million has been raised by employees over the past 23 years through the annual Harvest for Hunger campaign.

Last year, the FirstEnergy Foundation donated nearly $800,000 to hunger-related initiatives. 

How to Apply for a FirstEnergy Foundation Grant in New Jersey 

The FirstEnergy Foundation provides support to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits that serve and meet the critical needs of our customers in communities served by JCP&L and FirstEnergy’s electric operating companies and in areas where the company conducts business. Combined with the Hunger Action Month grants, the foundation has distributed more than $4 million in community support across FirstEnergy’s service area to date in 2025.

The FirstEnergy Foundation does not accept unsolicited grant applications. To inquire about grant opportunities, contact Alix Hayes, Community Involvement Consultant at ahayes@firstenergycorp.com.

JCP&L serves 1.2 million customers in the counties of Burlington, Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren. Follow JCP&L on X @JCP_L, on Facebook at facebook.com/JCPandL or online at jcp-l.com.

FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE) is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its electric distribution companies form one of the nation’s largest investor-owned electric systems, serving more than six million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York. The company’s transmission subsidiaries operate approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Follow FirstEnergy on X @FirstEnergyCorp or online at firstenergycorp.com.

Editor’s Note: Photos of JCP&L employees volunteering at recipient food banks and of organizations receiving their grants can be viewed/downloaded on FirstEnergy’s Flickr channel. 

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SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp.

Sam’s Club funding supports the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ)’s work to expand hiring and workforce policy reform

WASHINGTON, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ), an award-winning nonprofit that partners with companies to expand employment opportunities for often-overlooked talent pools, announces a transformative $1.5 million grant from Sam’s Club to scale their employer-focused hiring programs and other efforts to strengthen the workforce.

Every year, millions of talented individuals are locked out of the workforce due to outdated corporate hiring practices and restrictive workforce policies, including opportunity youth — young people not currently working or in school — and veterans with criminal records. Their exclusion not only limits economic mobility but also increases their risk of costly justice system involvement.

With an estimated 15.8 million veterans and over 4 million opportunity youth in the United States, the potential for life-changing impact is significant. This new investment will allow RBIJ to reach more employers, helping them build effective talent pipelines and advocate for policy reforms that unlock career pathways for these candidates and help deflect them from the justice system.

“At Sam’s Club, we believe opportunity should be accessible to everyone. Through our partnership with RBIJ, we’re helping employers tap into overlooked talent pools and advance hiring practices that strengthen businesses and communities. This investment builds on our commitment to fuel futures and unlock career pathways for those who too often face barriers to employment,“ said Claire MacIntyre, SVP and Chief People Officer, Sam’s Club.

Starting in 2022, Walmart.org — the philanthropic arm of Sam’s Club’s parent company, Walmart — invested in RBIJ to launch Unlock Potential, a first-of-its-kind hiring program designed to increase career opportunities for opportunity youth. Over two years, the program empowered 12 major employers — including Walmart, Sam’s Club and Delta Air Lines — to develop talent pipelines for this population.

Now, with renewed support from Sam’s Club, RBIJ will adapt its learnings into practical, replicable tools and action opportunities that the broader business community can use to launch similar hiring initiatives. This includes the development of employer trainings, resources such as the new Employer Guide for Hiring Opportunity Youth, in addition to timely opportunities for companies to advocate in support of policy reforms that reduce employment barriers.

These efforts aim to highlight roadblocks to work, often rooted in circumstance and limited opportunity — not choice — and to advance solutions that benefit us all. Research shows that many opportunity youth need additional resources and support to successfully enter the workforce and build sustainable careers. Similarly, many veterans face a range of obstacles upon returning home, from mental and physical health challenges related to their service to housing instability.

“RBIJ is on a mission to help businesses build a more vibrant workforce,” said Maha Jweied, CEO of RBIJ. “With the support of Sam’s Club, we’ll equip even more employers to take action, build successful hiring programs, and ultimately help thousands of opportunity youth and veterans access meaningful employment and avoid contact with the justice system.”

To learn more about this initiative, visit rbij.org/unlock-talent

About the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice. The Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ) is an award-winning international nonprofit that empowers companies to champion policy reforms and hiring solutions that promote public safety, deliver justice, and strengthen communities.

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SOURCE The Responsible Business Initiative for Justice

NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For over six years, Easy Spirit has supported the fight against breast cancer—an ongoing commitment to the women who inspire the brand every day. Through its partnership with Shoes for a Cure (formerly known as Shoes on Sale), which has raised nearly $65 million to date, Easy Spirit has helped turn footwear donations into critical funding for leading breast cancer research organizations across the U.S.

This October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Easy Spirit continues this meaningful partnership through a special footwear collaboration that blends style, comfort, and impact. The brand is proud to introduce the limited-edition Move for Pink Maelie Sneaker ($99), featuring Easy Spirit’s signature EMOVE technology for all-day support and cushioning. Easy Spirit is committed to supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month and will donate a minimum of $25,000 to advance Dr. Lisa Newman’s groundbreaking breast cancer research and her life-saving work through Shoes for a Cure. Additionally, the limited-edition Maelie Sneaker is part of the ongoing Denise Austin Collection.  

“I’m deeply honored to be part of an initiative that’s so close to my heart,” says brand ambassador and Fitness expert, Denise Austin. “I move for my niece, a breast cancer survivor, and for the millions of others impacted by this disease. I’ve always been a fierce advocate for movement—not only for its physical benefits but for the emotional strength it builds. Regular movement can help reduce the risk of breast cancer and ease the side effects of treatment, including fatigue and depression.”

Easy Spirit spokesperson, Denise Austin will lead a special workout event at the Pledge for Pink gathering in Greenwich, Connecticut, to help raise awareness and inspire action October 1^st to kick off breast cancer awareness month.

“For over six years, our Easy Spirit Move For Pink program has supported a cause that truly resonates with our community,” says Shanya Perera, SVP of Marketing at Marc Fisher Footwear. “We believe movement goes beyond the physical—it strengthens both body and mind, builds connection, and empowers us to support others every step of the way. We’re proud to stand behind Denise Austin’s mission to champion wellness and to support Dr. Newman’s vital research, which addresses healthcare disparities impacting African American and other underserved communities through this footwear collaboration.” 

“Shoes for a Cure helps fund education and patient navigation services through my Breast Programs in New York, as well as in regions across Africa where we’re leading groundbreaking genetic research,” says Dr. Lisa Newman. “I’m incredibly grateful for every dollar raised and every pair of shoes purchased—each one represents a meaningful step forward in our mission to support breast cancer patients and work toward the eradication of this disease.

The limited edition, Maelie sneaker will be available starting October 1, 2025, on EasySpirit.com. Every purchase contributes to life-saving research, helping fuel progress toward a cure.

ABOUT EASY SPIRIT
Easy Spirit has built a legacy around creating simple solutions for women, evolving alongside their needs over 35 years. More than just shoes, the brand is committed to helping women feel confident, comfortable, and empowered every day. Easy Spirit continues to design footwear and experiences that make life easier, because anything is possible when you’re comfortable.

ABOUT MARC FISHER FOOTWEAR COMPANY
Founded in 2005, Marc Fisher Footwear Company is a leading privately held multi-brand footwear company in the U.S., with expertise in design, sales, sourcing, distribution, and marketing. Its portfolio includes Easy Spirit, Calvin Klein, Nine West, EARTH, Tommy Hilfiger, Kenneth Cole, Hunter, Rockport, Cobb Hill, Dunham, GUESS, G by Guess, Bandolino, indigo rd., UNISA, and the namesake brands Marc Fisher and Marc Fisher LTD. The company’s brands are sold worldwide through wholesale, specialty, and e-commerce channels.

ABOUT FFCF
The Fashion Footwear Charitable Foundation supports research and education programs to fight breast cancer. Funds donated from “Shoes for a Cure” are distributed to leading institutions for breast cancer research and education across the United States.

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SOURCE Easy Spirit

Ribbon-cutting ceremony with representation from state officials and agricultural leaders marks a new era for dual-purpose land use, combining clean energy production with active farming.

MONTGOMERY, N.Y., Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lightstar Renewables LLC celebrated a major milestone in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy with the successful ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Plains Road agrivoltaics project. The groundbreaking initiative, launched at the DiMartino Farm in Montgomery, New York, drew significant attention from state officials, agricultural leaders, and local media, and other local faming families marking a new chapter in dual-purpose land use that benefits both farming and clean energy production.

Representing Assembly Member Brian Maher, whose legislative support was instrumental in the project’s development, was his Chief of Staff, Meghan Hurlburt. She stood alongside representatives from American Farmland Trust (AFT) and Iain Ward, Farmer, Founder, and CEO of Solar Agricultural Services, Inc. (SolAg). Together, they joined local farmers, community members, and regional media outlets who had gathered to witness the commissioning of New York’s first agrivoltaics installation.

In a message crafted especially for the event, Assembly Member Brian Maher said, “Today marks a turning point for sustainable development in New York. The Plains Road project demonstrates how we can honor our agricultural heritage while meeting our clean energy goals. This is the kind of innovative thinking we need to build a resilient future for rural communities.” 

Linda Garrett, New York & New Jersey Regional Director at American Farmland Trust, praised the project’s alignment with AFT’s Smart Solar principles. “Lightstar has created a model that truly puts farmers first. This project shows how solar development can strengthen rather than compromise agricultural operations,” she said. 

The ceremony highlighted the unique design features that allow hay planting and harvesting equipment to operate seamlessly around the solar installation. The project will also add two acres of vegetable production, providing opportunities for new entry farmers while generating enough clean energy to power 466 homes annually. 

Local farmer participants expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential to enhance farm viability. Iain Ward of SolAg emphasized the agricultural benefits: “This project proves that agrivoltaics can deliver real value to working farms. We’re not just installing solar panels – we’re creating new opportunities for agricultural innovation.” 

Lucy Bullock-Sieger, Chief Strategy Officer at Lightstar, called on other communities to explore similar initiatives. “Plains Road is just the beginning. We encourage municipalities and farmers across New York and beyond to consider how agrivoltaics can serve their unique needs and contribute to a more sustainable future.” 

About Lightstar Renewables LLC
Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Boston, Lightstar Renewables leads the industry in community solar development, creating clean energy solutions that benefit people, landowners, communities, and the planet. With over 1 gigawatt of projects completed or in development, Lightstar prioritizes sustainable development and long-term partnerships.

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SOURCE Lightstar Renewables, LLC

The pair is delivering field meals to the people who keep us all going—and helping fight hunger with Feeding America along the way.

MOLINE, Ill., Sept. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — What happens when a pro quarterback and a 10-year-old tractor expert try to cook a meal for America’s farmers? Spoiler: they’re better off in the field than in the kitchen—just watch the chaos unfold.

John Deere is bringing together two familiar faces—quarterback Brock Purdy, a farmer by marriage, and internet sensation Jackson Laux (@justajacksonthing), the brand’s first-ever chief tractor kid. Together, they’re making field meals—the kind of meal that shows up when farmers are too far from the house and too deep into their work to stop.

Farmers are never off the clock—they constantly race it. In fact, many farmers pull 12- to 20-hour days, seven days a week during harvest. Safe to say they’ve earned a hot meal and a high five.

“It’s not every day a pro quarterback walks into your shop with a meal,” said Tim Couser, an Iowa farmer visited by Brock and Jackson. “Seeing their genuine interest in our operation and gratitude for what we do was an unexpected but welcome break.”

In the weeks ahead, John Deere will deliver field meals to farmers working long hours in the thick of fall harvest. To further honor the work of farmers and help fight hunger nationwide, the company is also donating over 250,000 meals to Feeding America.

John Deere has long-championed food security and the people at the heart of it. In 2024, John Deere donated $6.6M to Feeding America and for years has partnered with food banks and organizations like The Farmlink Project to support those who grow, harvest, and help deliver food to tables across the country.

“At the end of the day, this is about showing up for the ones who show up for all of us,” said Jen Hartmann, global director of corporate reputation and brand marketing at John Deere. “Donating to Feeding America and delivering homecooked meals in the middle of a long day are simple gestures, but it’s our way of recognizing the people whose hard work puts food on all of our tables.”

Follow Brock and Jackson’s journey on TikTok and Instagram @JohnDeere.

About Deere & Company
It doesn’t matter if you’ve never driven a tractor, mowed a lawn, or operated a dozer. With John Deere’s role in helping produce food, fiber, fuel, and infrastructure, we work for every single person on the planet. It all started nearly 200 years ago with a steel plow. Today, John Deere drives innovation in agriculture, construction, forestry, turf, power systems, and more.

For more information on Deere & Company, visit us at www.deere.com/en/news/.

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SOURCE John Deere Company