NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: Construction of two dormitory buildings for 1,000 people has been completed in Artek

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The construction of two dormitory buildings for 1,000 people has been completed at the Artek International Children’s Center on the territory of the Solnechny camp. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Marat Khusnullin.

    “Today we celebrate a significant event – the 100th anniversary of the legendary Artek. This unique children’s center has been a symbol of a happy childhood for a century, a place where character is tempered, talents are revealed and friendships are born for life. It is especially important for us that in the anniversary year, Artek continues to develop and become even more comfortable for new generations of children. By the anniversary date, we completed the construction of two modern dormitory buildings for 1,000 people – these are spacious premises with well-thought-out infrastructure and recreation areas. Permission for commissioning has already been received. The total area of the two buildings is more than 40 thousand square meters. Particular attention was paid to the improvement of the territory: the embankments were updated, new walking areas and recreation areas were created,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    In addition, each building has a usable roof designed for low-mobility games, daytime gatherings, line-ups and recreation.

    “The construction of social facilities, especially for children, plays a key role in the formation of a healthy and safe childhood. Such facilities create comfortable conditions for children’s recreation and development. They become a place where schoolchildren can find new friends, play sports and develop their creative abilities, which ultimately forms a strong future for our society. At the moment, the embankments of the Kiparisny and Solnechny camps have been improved. The builders have installed an underwater breakwater, carried out comprehensive landscaping, and also erected a beach building with a detachment site on the exploited roof, where children vacationing in Artek will gather. Earlier, a dormitory with an area of more than 750 square meters was reconstructed in the Kiparisny children’s camp. It is intended for the temporary accommodation of more than 40 children aged 8 to 17 years old,” said Irek Faizullin, Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities of the Russian Federation.

    In January 2025, the reconstruction of a number of facilities of the children’s camp “Kiparisny” was successfully completed in “Artek”. Among them is the milk kitchen building, which the builders converted into a medical unit. In addition, specialists comprehensively improved the adjacent territory: they arranged walking areas with places to rest, installed benches, renewed the asphalt surface and laid new paths for comfortable movement around the camp. A decorative pond was created, and the green areas are equipped with an automatic irrigation system. The total area of the park zone of the camp “Kiparisny” is more than 90 thousand square meters.

    “By the end of 2025, we plan to complete the construction of the Center for Innovative and Educational Technologies, which is designed for 1.2 thousand students. This facility, with a total area of over 27 thousand square meters, is one of the largest on the territory of Artek. In addition to classrooms, there will be art and rehearsal halls, an amphitheater, modern workshops, a universal hall for 700 seats and much more,” said Karen Oganesyan, General Director of the Unified Customer PPC.

    The construction and reconstruction of capital construction projects of the International Children’s Center “Artek” are carried out within the framework of the comprehensive state program “Construction”, supervised by the Ministry of Construction of Russia.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Participants of the anniversary shift should take with them in their hearts love for our country and for Artek

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On June 16, 2025, a special commemorative postage stamp cancellation ceremony dedicated to the centenary of the center was held at the Artek International Children’s Center. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Chernyshenko, Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov, and Director of the Artek International Children’s Center Konstantin Fedorenko.

    They greeted the Artek children and took part in the special cancellation procedure – a special postmark that is valid for only one day. This postmark with the date and place of the ceremony turns the postal products that have undergone the cancellation into real philatelic rarities.

    “Being a participant in the anniversary shift is a great honor and privilege. You should carry in your hearts the love for our country, for Artek, meet the children with whom you will go through life, who will forever remain Artekites and will be with you. Here you learn to be friends, work and be useful to our country and your families. This is the main thing you should learn here. Artek has been around for over 100 years, and now we can say so, it is an international standard for the best children’s recreation. Happy anniversary, Artek! Happy holiday, guys!” Dmitry Chernyshenko addressed the participants.

    “On this festive day, I want to thank the counselors, the organizers, who do everything to ensure that each of you realizes your talents. Guys, I think that you will also join these words. Today is a significant event for the international children’s center “Artek” and for other children’s centers. We laid a capsule in 2125, the ceremony of cancellation of the anniversary postage stamp took place. I am sure that in 100 years, the children will also strive to get to “Artek” and rejoice at the opportunity to be here,” said Sergey Kravtsov at the ceremony of cancellation of the stamp.

    During the celebration, Artek member Ruslan Minyaylenko from the Luhansk People’s Republic, the author of the drawing that won the competition to create a sketch for a postage stamp, spoke about the creation of the sketch. His work reflects the spirit and long-standing traditions of Artek, uniting the past and the present.

    The camp counselors and educators prepared a creative exhibition where they presented postage stamps, envelopes and postcards issued in different years on significant dates in the history of Artek. Among them: a postage stamp from 1938 from the Children of the Land of Soviets series; a stamp from 1948 dedicated to the All-Union Pioneer Organization; a stamp from 1958 for International Children’s Day with an image of a bugler from a pioneer camp; postage envelopes from 1963, 1965, 1971 issued by the USSR Ministry of Communications; a postcard from 1975 in honor of the 50th anniversary of the camp; stamps from 1985 and 2015 dedicated to the 60th and 90th anniversaries of Artek, respectively. This exhibition allowed guests and Artek residents to see how the images and symbols of Artek on postal items changed and to feel the connection between generations.

    The release of the anniversary postage stamp is accompanied by the publication of first day covers, maximum cards, artistic covers and vignettes. All these collectibles can be purchased at post offices throughout Russia. Particular attention is paid to the special cancellation stamps, which were made not only for Moscow and Gurzuf (Republic of Crimea), but also for Ulyanovsk and Chelyabinsk.

    The festive mood was created by the theatrical composition “Native Artek” with the participation of the famous song theater “Neposedy”. Artek residents had the opportunity to personally sign envelopes and receive unique impressions of a special stamp in the post house “Artek Post”.

    In addition, Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sergey Kravtsov and Konstantin Fedorenko, together with Artek children, unveiled a memorial bas-relief dedicated to the sculptor Ernst Neizvestny at the entrance to the educational space for artistic creativity.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Joly to hold a virtual media availability at the Paris Air Show

    Source: Government of Canada News

    June 16, 2025 – Paris, France 

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, is participating in the International Paris Air Show at Le Bourget in Paris, France, from June 16 to 17. The Minister met with key industry stakeholders in the aerospace, space and defence sectors to highlight Canada’s innovative aerospace industry and promote Canada as a top destination for aerospace investment from around the world.

    Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025

    Time: 3:15 pm (CET) / 9:15 am (ET)

    Location: virtual

    This event is for accredited members of the Press Gallery only. Media who are not members of the Press Gallery may contact pressres2@parl.gc.ca for temporary access.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Landsat at Work: Energy Nurturing Nature

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Exelon Corporation, one of the largest utility companies in the United States, touches a significant amount of land in connection with its electric and natural gas transmission and distribution. The company decided to get a better idea of the quality of the ecosystems on its operational lands in support of its commitment to positive nature outcomes. 

    This is an example of the maps Exelon has produced for the biodiversity sensitivity in its service areas and transmission rights-of-way. The Delmarva Power Service Area, outlined in black, covers Delaware and eastern Maryland, though this map also includes characterization for Exelon service areas outside of Delmarva. Factors contributing to high sensitivity (in orange and red tones) in certain areas of Delmarva include the presence of forests and wetlands, water stress and high species abundance in high sensitivity areas. Used with permission from Exelon Corporation.

    So Exelon’s sustainability team used publicly available information, especially NLCD, to create a baseline set of maps released in 2024 that characterize the level of biodiversity sensitivity, or the diversity of species, for the land in each of its service territories. Exelon owns utilities in the Mid-Atlantic and northern Illinois regions, including Washington, D.C., and Chicago.

    Half of the analysis for the maps was weighted to rely on NLCD, and the other half included data on water drainage, protected areas, biodiversity hotspots, average species abundance and water stress, or water demand vs. supply.

    NLCD provided the multistate coverage Exelon needed at a good resolution, explained Kevin Costello, Exelon’s senior manager of sustainability strategy. In addition, he said, NLCD “provides a broad representation of the physical and ecological characteristics of the landscapes that we work in and can provide more insight than just specific ecological data.”

    Costello used wetlands as an example of why NLCD’s landscape distinctions are important. “While wetlands across our territory are providing ecological services, by layering multiple datasets together, we might be able to conclude that a wetland in an area of higher biological diversity is providing more ecological value than a wetland in an area of lower biological diversity.”

    The baseline results ranked most areas of the land Exelon utilities pass through as having low to medium biodiversity sensitivity because of their use as metro areas or agricultural production. However, some areas in the Mid-Atlantic had high biodiversity sensitivity because of the presence of significant coastal and inland wetlands, forests, water stress, biodiversity hotpots and protected areas.

    Opportunities to Improve Habitat 

    With a baseline of ecological value, Exelon now can make better-informed decisions. 

    “We’re able to strategically develop stewardship-based projects that could improve ecological quality in our service areas. Exelon performs multiple projects to expand and improve electric and gas service in our territories. While we are performing this work, we look for opportunities to improve the quality of the habitat above the state where we found it. We are leveraging our biodiversity maps to assist in these assessments,” Costello said.

    “We’re also looking at things like, where do we have rights-of-way that are in between areas of very high biological quality habitat? Do we have a right-of-way that’s connecting existing green spaces, for instance, a state or national park and a nearby land trust? If so, what can we do within that corridor to improve the quality of the habitat so that it helps connect those two ecosystems for the species that may be utilizing our land to migrate between them?”

    NLCD and Landsat are tools to help companies consider the bigger picture for land management.

    “Landsat can provide a significant value into our analysis on a large-scale assessment of our corporate lands from a stewardship and land management perspective,” Costello said.

    Exelon’s intentions are an example of how NLCD and Landsat data are used to not just monitor but also improve the world around us.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Robber Gets Seven Years For 7-Eleven Robberies

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Kevon Holston, 27, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today in Superior Court for robberies he committed on two separate dates at 7-Eleven stores in Northwest, Washington, D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Holston pleaded guilty on March 31, 2025, to one count each of armed robbery, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and robbery. Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno sentenced Holston to seven years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. 

                According to the government’s evidence, at approximately, 11:27 p.m., on November 27, 2024, Holston entered a 7-­Eleven store located in the 1600 block of 7th Street, Northwest, and pointed a gun at a store employee and demanded money. The victim complied and gave the defendant $200 in cash. Holston took the money and fled the store.

                On December 28, 2024, at approximately 8:05 p.m., Holston entered a different 7-Eleven store located in the 500 block of K Street, Northwest. The defendant brandished a gun and told the victim, “give me all you got.” The victim did not have the PIN to the cash register and called over another employee to assist with opening it. The second victim opened the register and handed $5 in cash to the defendant. Holston took the money and fled the store.

                In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also acknowledged Assistant U.S. Attorney Rashmika Nedungadi, who prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Robber Gets Seven Years For 7-Eleven Robberies

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Kevon Holston, 27, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today in Superior Court for robberies he committed on two separate dates at 7-Eleven stores in Northwest, Washington, D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Holston pleaded guilty on March 31, 2025, to one count each of armed robbery, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and robbery. Superior Court Judge Robert Salerno sentenced Holston to seven years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. 

                According to the government’s evidence, at approximately, 11:27 p.m., on November 27, 2024, Holston entered a 7-­Eleven store located in the 1600 block of 7th Street, Northwest, and pointed a gun at a store employee and demanded money. The victim complied and gave the defendant $200 in cash. Holston took the money and fled the store.

                On December 28, 2024, at approximately 8:05 p.m., Holston entered a different 7-Eleven store located in the 500 block of K Street, Northwest. The defendant brandished a gun and told the victim, “give me all you got.” The victim did not have the PIN to the cash register and called over another employee to assist with opening it. The second victim opened the register and handed $5 in cash to the defendant. Holston took the money and fled the store.

                In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also acknowledged Assistant U.S. Attorney Rashmika Nedungadi, who prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Zinke Urges Secretary of Interior to Address Flathead Lake Levels

    Source: US Congressman Ryan Zinke (Western Montana)

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum urging immediate action to address the projected low water levels of Flathead Lake this summer. The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), which operate the SKQ Dam, are currently projecting lake levels as much as three feet below full pool this summer. Current water volume supply forecast predicts only 72% of the average annual water supply. Congressman Zinke is calling for increased water releases from Hungry Horse Reservoir and cooperation with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to reduce outflows from the SKQ Dam in order to stabilize lake levels.

    “Montana is facing one of its driest seasons on record, and unless action is taken now, we’re looking at a repeat, or worse, of the water crisis on Flathead Lake,” said Zinke, “Our small businesses, farmers, ranchers, and communities cannot afford another devastating season. While releasing from Hungry Horse and reducing flow from the dam will not bring the lake to full pool, it will help prevent a catastrophic drop.”

    In 2023, Flathead Lake dropped more than two feet below full-pool due to low snowpack and regional drought. The resulting impacts on local irrigators and small businesses that depend on summer recreation was severe. A University of Montana study estimates that Flathead County sees roughly $600 million in annual spending from lake-based tourism alone.

    Congressman Zinke has led the charge on address low water levels at Flathead Lake, introducing the Fill the Lake Act in 2023 and reintroducing the bill this Congress.

    Read Congressman Zinke’s full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement on Reversal of Biden Administration Anti-Dam Agreement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) released the following statement celebrating President Trump’s move to undo the Biden Administration’s flawed “Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative.”

    “President Trump is demonstrating once again his commitment to listening to the will of people on the ground and the sound science that backs the current state of the dams,” said Crapo.  “The Biden Administration’s controversial proposal was doomed from the start.  The flawed initiative ignored congressional authority over the dams, as well as the views and feedback of regional stakeholders and constituents in Idaho.  The path forward for a solution to salmon recovery must include a truly collaborative approach that involves all–including both public and private–stakeholders in the region.”

    Crapo is a co-sponsor of Senator Jim Risch’s (R-Idaho) S. 182, Northwest Energy Security Act, which would require the federal government to ensure the Lower Snake River dams remain operational and continue to support the region’s energy needs.

    On November 21, 2023, Crapo joined Risch and Senator Steve Daines (R-Montana) in sending a letter to then-President Biden voicing severe concerns regarding the Administration’s efforts to breach the dams.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB has reported an attack on it from Israel

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    TEHRAN, June 16 (Xinhua) — Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB said one of its buildings came under attack from Israel on Monday, calling it a “brutal aggression” and adding that live broadcasts were continuing without major interruptions.

    The Israeli strike targeted the broadcaster’s news network in an apparent attempt to “silence the voice of the Iranian people and the voice of truth,” IRIB said. It said IRIB staff were continuing to report “at maximum capacity.”

    The television broadcast showed the moment of the Israeli attack, which occurred during a live broadcast. In the footage, the presenter was reading the news when the explosion occurred. She reported on it and condemned the attack, but was forced to interrupt the broadcast after a second explosion and the resulting smoke.

    The TV presenter later reappeared live on IRIB without any injuries.

    In the early hours of June 13, Israel launched massive airstrikes on Iran, killing several military commanders, scientists and dozens of civilians. Iran retaliated later that day, and the exchange of strikes continued into Monday. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Vapes stores go dark, disposable vapes banned

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Vaping law changes that take effect today ban disposable vapes and will make a noticeable difference to shop fronts and the marketing of vaping products, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello says.
    “This coalition Government committed to tackling youth vaping, and we’ve made practical changes to reduce the appeal of vaping to young people and to target retailers who sell vapes and tobacco products to our youth,” Ms Costello says.
    “Today’s changes implement the final parts of legislation passed in December.
    “Disposable vapes, which have been the most popular products among young people, are now off the market.”
    Penalties for breaching the ban are up to $400,000 for a manufacturer, importer or large retailer, and $50,000 for any other person.  
    “Visibility restrictions also take effect today, which will change the way specialist vape stores look and mean that retailers like dairies, supermarkets and petrol stations need to have vape products out of sight,” Ms Costello says.
    “Similarly, online stores will no longer be able to include images of vape products and New Zealand-based online stores are prevented from linking to overseas sites that have images of vaping products.”
    The Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Amendment Bill (No 2) that was passed in December had four main components:

    banning the manufacture, sale, supply, and distribution of disposable vapes
    increasing penalties for unlawful sales of vapes, cigarettes and other regulated products to minors
    imposing retail visibility restrictions for vaping products
    adding further proximity restrictions for specialist vape retailers.

    The increased penalties for selling vapes to minors, and restrictions on where specialist vape stores can open took effect at the time.
    The commencement of the disposable vape ban and the retail visibility restrictions were delayed six months to allow time for businesses to prepare for the changes.
    “This also allowed for the recruitment and training of more dedicated smokefree enforcement officers – there are now 18 – so that the new rules and tougher penalties are supported by greater enforcement capability,” Ms Costello says.
    “For too long, New Zealand didn’t have vaping regulations in place. 
    “Vaping has played a key role in helping people quit smoking, and we want vapes available to adults as a cessation tool, but vaping isn’t for children and young people and that’s why the Government has taken action.”  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to New Jersey Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Excessive Rain and High Winds

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP)organizations in New Jersey of the July 15 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by excessive rain and high winds occurring July 16, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers New Jersey counties of Morris, Passaic, Sussex and Warren; Orange in New York as well as Monroe and Pike in Pennsylvania.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than July 15, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available for Florida Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Milton

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the Florida area of the July 16 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Hurricane Milton on        Oct. 5-Nov. 2, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Brevard, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and Volusia.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature with financial losses directly related to the disaster. Example of eligible non-critical PNPs include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools and colleges.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 3.25% and terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 16, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Amicus Brief Supporting Challenge to the Trump Administration’s Unlawful Freeze of Federal USAID Funding

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, as part of a coalition of 23 attorneys general, announced filing an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in support of the Plaintiffs’ opposition to the Trump Administration’s appeal of a preliminary injunction order in Global Health Council, et al. v. Trump, et al., a lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration’s freeze of federal funding of foreign assistance funds from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). In their brief, the attorneys general argue that the Trump Administration’s unlawful impoundment of USAID funds undermines Congress’s constitutional authority and is contrary to the public interest, harming amici states and their residents.

    “The Trump Administration does not have the authority to unilaterally withhold lawfully appropriated federal funds,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The unlawful impoundment of these funds results in irreparable harm to states across the nation that rely on federal funding for critical humanitarian and public health programs, research, and initiatives. In California alone, organizations and universities receive over $1.2 billion in USAID funding.”

    In the amicus brief, the coalition of attorneys general urges the court to affirm the district court’s preliminary injunction order, arguing that the Trump Administration is constitutionally obligated to spend funds appropriated by Congress and that the unlawful freeze of USAID funding poses irreparable harm to states. In stopping the flow of billions of dollars of USAID funding for foreign assistance programs, the Trump Administration has inflicted substantial harms on universities, farmers, nonprofits, and small businesses across the nation. To date, hundreds of domestic workers have been terminated, substantial amounts of American crops intended for international distribution have been unallocated, and hundreds of millions of dollars of cutting-edge research projects at some of the nation’s top public universities have been halted as a result of the Trump Administration’s unlawful actions.

    In filing the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of the District of Columbia, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin

    A copy of the amicus brief can be found here.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – European Parliament to strengthen maternity rules for MEPs

    Source: European Parliament 3

    President Metsola has outlined plans to strengthen maternity rules for Members of the European Parliament.

    President Metsola today informed the Bureau of new initiatives that continue the reforms to modernise Parliament. The planned measures will strengthen maternity rules for Members of the European Parliament who wish to continue to carry out their parliamentary duties and speak for their constituents during this period.

    If adopted, these reforms would make the European Parliament one of the most modern and inclusive parliaments in the world when it comes to maternity rules.

    “No elected representative should have to choose between their mandate and parenthood,” said President Metsola. “By modernising our rules, we are standing up for fairness, equality and a Parliament that truly reflects the people it serves. We must practice what we preach.”

    Next steps

    Parliament’s Bureau will consider a targeted review of the Implementing Measures for the Statute for MEPs by the autumn, including a dedicated section on maternity absences, building on existing rights.

    Parliament will also propose a targeted revision of the European Electoral Act to allow Member States to introduce proxy voting — enabling MEPs who are on parental leave to delegate their plenary vote to another Member of their choice. President Metsola will present this request to the European Council on 26 June.

    With these changes, the European Parliament aims to lead by example in advancing institutional fairness and inclusion.

    Background

    Pregnant Members already have the right to be excused from meetings three months before and six months after giving birth. This right will be codified and extended to other cases of parenthood by adding a dedicated chapter on periods of absences to the Implementing Measures for the Statute for MEPs.

    According to the European Parliament Research Service (EPRS) analysis of practices in national parliaments across the EU, very few parliamentary assemblies have adopted provisions allowing national members of parliament on maternity or paternity leave to continue fulfilling their parliamentary duties.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rapid surrender of high-profile murder suspect from Greece to Italy coordinated by Eurojust

    Source: Eurojust

    The suspect in a high-profile murder case can be surrendered from Greece to Italy, due to a rapid judicial support action coordinated by Eurojust. Close cooperation via the Agency ensured that a European Arrest Warrant (EAW) could be issued in time, in order to keep the suspect detained in Greece. The detained person is suspected of the murder of an infant girl in the Villa Doria Pamphili park in Rome a week ago.

    Investigations indicated an American citizen as the alleged suspect of the murder, which led to public indignation in Italy. The body of the alleged mother of the young child was also found in the park last week, but the cause of her death has not yet been officially ascertained.

    The Italian State Police, coordinated by the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Rome, managed to trace the suspect travelling to the Greek island of Skiathos last Thursday. In close cooperation with their Italian counterparts, the Greek police were able to apprehend him the following day.

    The rapid issuance and timely execution of an EAW were essential to detain the American citizen. This was arranged through close and immediate cooperation between the Italian and Greek National Desks at the Agency, after the national authorities had requested their assistance.

    The suspect is currently still in detention in Greece, as he did not consent to a surrender to Italy. The Council of the Court of Appeals of Larissa will decide in the coming days on the procedure regarding his surrender to Italy.

    The investigations and actions on the ground were carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:

    • Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Office (PPO), Rome; State Police, Rome (Mobile Squad and Central Operations Service); SIRENE Bureau of Italy
    • Greece: PPO Court of Appeals, Larissa; PPO Court of First Instance, Volos; Police Department, Skiathos; SIRENE Bureau of Greece

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Peru: Granting amnesty to those responsible for human rights violations is turning our backs on thousands of victims

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Lima, 13 June 2025. Amnesty International rejects bill 7549, approved by Congress on the first vote, which proposes granting amnesty to members of the Armed Forces, the Police, members of self-defense committees and State officials who have not received a final sentence in “cases related to the fight against terrorism in the period 1980-2000”. Likewise, it establishes a “humanitarian amnesty” for people over 70 years of age who have a final sentence with the quality of res judicata or are in the process of serving a sentence.

    The approval of this bill violates and jeopardizes access to justice, truth and reparation for thousands of victims and their families, as it puts a stop to the ongoing criminal action against alleged perpetrators of crimes under international law and spares punishment for those who have been found responsible for crimes such as extrajudicial executions, forced disappearances, torture and sexual violence.  

    This amnesty, if definitively approved, will impact at least 156 cases with a final sentence whose perpetrators – who are currently serving sentences for crimes against humanity and serious human rights violations – will be released. In addition, it would put an end to hundreds of cases under investigation and trial, such the Putis (Ayacucho) massacre in 1984, where 123 people were killed. 

    “Thousands of families have been seeking justice, truth and reparation for decades. To close the wounds of the internal armed conflict, it is essential that all victims have access to their rights. It is essential to think about a reasonable timeframe for the victims, and that means that it is important to strengthen investigations and prosecutors’ offices, not to eliminate processes and penalties for the perpetrators of serious human rights violations”, said Marina Navarro, executive director of Amnesty International Peru. 

    Thousands of families have been seeking justice, truth and reparation for decades. To close the wounds of the internal armed conflict, it is essential that all victims have access to their rights.

    Marina Navarro, executive director of Amnesty International Peru. 

    Regional and international human rights standards clearly state that amnesties are inadmissible for cases of serious violations and crimes against humanity, such as those committed in Peru between 1980 and 2000. Granting amnesties to the alleged perpetrators and those responsible for these acts represents a serious breach of the international obligation acquired by the Peruvian State to investigate, prosecute and punish those who commit serious human rights violations, and to guarantee access to justice for the victims.

    On the other hand, ensuring the life and guaranteeing the right to health of a person deprived of their liberty is a legitimate concern, but each case must be reviewed individually and evaluated proportionately, so that any measure taken does not prejudice the right of victims of human rights violations and their families to justice. 

    “It is very worrying that in Peru, instead of strengthening guarantees of non-repetition, a law that prescribes crimes against humanity was approved last year, and today approval is being sought for a generalized amnesty project. You cannot turn your back on victims and family members who have been waiting for justice for decades. We will continue to demand justice, truth, reparation and guarantees of non-repetition for the victims and Peruvian society”, Navarro said. 

    You cannot turn your back on victims and family members who have been waiting for justice for decades. We will continue to demand justice, truth, reparation and guarantees of non-repetition for the victims and Peruvian society.

    Marina Navarro, executive director of Amnesty International Peru. 

    Faced with this risk of impunity, we urge the Peruvian Congress to reject this initiative, and the justice authorities to strengthen investigations that guarantee access to justice, truth and reparation for victims. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga to host ‘Yoga Bandhan’ on June 17

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), under the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, will host ‘Yoga Bandhan’ on June 17, as a highlight of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025 celebrations. As one of the 10 Signature Events for IDY-2025, this initiative reflects India’s dedication to fostering global cooperation through institution-to-institution connections in Yoga, advancing collective well-being and cultural exchange.

    ‘Yoga Bandhan’ will unite prominent Yoga leaders from across the globe, including academicians, practitioners, authors, trainers, and studio founders, to promote people-to-people exchanges and strengthen international partnerships. Notable delegates include Josh Pryor, President & CEO of Yoga Australia and a Mysore Style Yoga practitioner; Gregor Kos, senior representative of Yoga in Daily Life from Austria; Danilo Forghieri Santaella, Head of Research at the Sports Center, University of São Paulo, Brazil; Yin Yan, Founder of Yogi Yoga in China; and Maj Ingemann-Molden, a Yoga expert from Denmark. Other distinguished participants include Slamat Riyanto, Chairperson of the Indonesian National Association of Yoga Practitioners; Vidya Volkova, Director of Shakti Yoga Studio in Kazakhstan; Manisekaran, Founder of the Malaysian Yoga Society; Sinthamani Arunasalam, Co-Founder of AKSINOM Yoga in Malaysia; and Irina Fursova, a Yoga therapist and Hatha/Iyengar teacher from Russia. The event will also welcome Sujata Cowlagi, Founder & Director of Pragya Yoga and Wellness in Singapore; Geo-lyong Lee, a 2019 Distinguished Indologist Award recipient from South Korea; Kugan Naidoo and Sivlutchime Naidoo, Yoga experts from South Africa; Jose Maria Marquez Jurado (Gopala), a renowned Yoga practitioner from Spain; Vimukthi Jayasundara, a filmmaker and visual artist from Sri Lanka; and Rocio Belen Bonacci, National Representative from Santa Fe Province, Argentina.

    The event will commence with an inaugural session featuring addresses by key dignitaries, including Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush; Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush; K. Nandini Singla, Director General of the ICCR; and Dr. Kashinath Samagandi, Director of MDNIY. Following the opening, delegates will take part in a guided tour of the MDNIY campus and engage in interactive sessions focused on knowledge sharing and communication.

    During their visit, international delegates will participate in cultural tours, institutional dialogues, dedicated Yoga sessions, and discussions on integrative wellness. They will also explore opportunities for collaboration with Indian institutions, with their visit culminating in the grand IDY celebration on June 21, 2025.

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Services Council spotlights good regulatory practices, advances discussions on other issues

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Services Council spotlights good regulatory practices, advances discussions on other issues

    On 10 June, members also participated in an event under the “Simply Services” series, which serves as an informal platform for sharing the latest developments in trade in services (see below).
    Thematic session on good regulatory practices
    An informal thematic session on good regulatory practices (GRPs) was held on 12-13 June, as agreed at the March meeting of the Council for Trade in Services. GRPs for services trade refer to approaches to designing and implementing regulations aimed at achieving better regulatory outcomes. Discussions focused on measures such as increased transparency, including through stakeholder engagement, streamlining and digitalizing authorization processes, and promoting impartial and independent regulatory decision-making.
    The session featured extensive experience-sharing. The WTO Secretariat provided a broad overview of GRPs in services trade, including their role in regional trade agreements and their economic benefits. International organizations and regional economic fora — including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the World Bank, United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Secretariat, and the International Trade Centre (ITC) — shared data demonstrating how effective design and implementation of GRPs can boost both trade and economic growth. They also emphasized the importance of addressing implementation gaps between high- and low-income countries through capacity building, institutional strengthening, and more inclusive stakeholder engagement.
    Several members, including Australia, China, the European Union, Hong Kong China, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, and the United Kingdom, as well as other organizations, presented national experiences in leveraging GRPs to facilitate services trade. They highlighted domestic reforms to simplify procedures, reduce regulatory burdens, and improve regulatory quality, including through digital tools, single online portals, regulatory impact assessments, and enhanced stakeholder engagement. The importance of predictability, proportionality, inter-agency coordination, and outcome-focused regulation was underscored, alongside efforts to foster innovation, facilitate cross-border trade, and strengthen regulatory cooperation.
    Members reflected on the key takeaways from the session, emphasizing the rich discussions and valuable insights shared. Several noted that GRPs not only support international trade but also enhance domestic competitiveness and consumer welfare. The role of GRPs in strengthening crisis preparedness and resilience was also emphasized, with examples showing how transparent, predictable and streamlined regulatory frameworks can support faster and more effective responses in times of emergency.
    There was broad recognition of the role that international commitments, such as WTO members’ recent adoption of disciplines on services domestic regulation and regional trade agreements, play in providing a stable framework for consolidating domestic reforms aimed at improving the domestic business environment. Members expressed interest in continuing experience-sharing and peer learning. They also encouraged other members to adopt WTO disciplines on services domestic regulation to sustain reform efforts and promote services trade. 
    At the close of the session, the Chair of the Council for Trade in Services, H.E. Ambassador Ram Prasad Subedi (Nepal), emphasized that the depth and quality of GRP implementation by ministries and regulatory authorities is essential, with regulatory reforms representing an ongoing process informed by experience, evolving capacities and changing circumstances. He underlined the value of peer learning and regular exchanges on regulatory innovation, as well as the role that technical assistance can play in supporting members’ reform efforts.
    Responding to ministerial mandates
    Members continued efforts to advance the instruction in the 2024 Ministerial Declaration to reinvigorate work on trade in services and facilitate greater participation of developing members in services trade.
    The African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group introduced a submission on the role of services trade in responding to crises and resilience-building, as well as on the challenges faced by developing members in realizing the full potential of services trade. Members supported deepening work on the ACP Group’s proposal, with some suggesting a thematic session for further discussions.
    Barbados, South Africa, and the United Kingdom also presented a proposal for a thematic session on the green services economy and sustainable development. Members agreed in principle to organize an informal experience-sharing session in December, contingent on agreeing on an acceptable outline, to further explore the opportunities and challenges of leveraging services trade to deliver on environmental objectives. Suggestions were made on possible topics and speakers.
    As previously agreed at the March meeting, the Council is scheduled to organise an informal thematic session on the recognition of professional qualifications in October, subject to convergence on the session’s outline.
    Participation of least-developed countries in services trade
    Members received an update by the WTO Least Developed Countries (LDC) Group regarding its request to conduct a survey, hosted on the WTO website, to collect information on how their service suppliers engage with consumers and businesses in other economies. The LDC Group reported on ongoing consultations with a member who has maintained reservations about the request since the March meeting.
    The Group reaffirmed the importance of the survey in supporting LDCs’ participation in services trade, in line with the ministerial mandate to operationalize the “LDC Services Waiver,” adopted at the 8th Ministerial Conference in 2011.
    Engagement between the members concerned will continue to reach consensus on the issue.
    Services trade concerns
    The Council addressed issues related to recent unilateral tariff measures. China noted the need to consider overall trade balances, that include services trade, when setting trade policy. It also expressed concerns about the impact of US “reciprocal” tariffs on global supply chains and underscored the importance of multilateral collaboration under the WTO. The latter point in particular was echoed by other members. The United States said that, in contrast to the openness of its service markets, China maintained many restrictions and uncompetitive practices in numerous services sectors.
    Members also reverted to previously raised specific trade concerns. Japan and the United States repeated their concerns over cybersecurity measures implemented by China and Viet Nam, with several members echoing these concerns.
    China reiterated its concerns regarding certain US services measures and India’s measures affecting mobile applications.
    Trade in financial services
    On 11 June, the Committee on Trade in Financial Services appointed Mr. Will Nixon of Australia as its new Chair.
    Members focused on a proposal to organize an informal thematic session on “Facilitating Digital Payment Systems and Remittance Services”, building on the original proposal submitted by China, India, Pakistan, and the Philippines, which was first reviewed at the March meeting. The proposal covers three main topics: developing robust digital payment systems, ensuring interoperability of payment systems, and facilitating cross-border remittances.
    The Committee agreed to consider the latest version of the draft agenda put forward by China and the Philippines. Unless any objections are raised by 20 June 2025, the proposal will be automatically adopted. If approved, the session will take place alongside the next cluster of services meetings scheduled for 29 September to 3 October.
    The Committee also discussed a new submission by Morocco (S/FIN/W/103) on reducing the costs of cross-border remittances. Morocco emphasized the strategic importance of remittances for the economic and social development of developing members and called for multilateral cooperation to improve remittance transfers, reduce costs, and enhance transparency. It also expressed its intent to bring this issue to the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in March 2026. Members agreed to continue discussions at the next Committee meeting.
    Classification of environmental services
    At its 11 June meeting, the Committee on Specific Commitments confirmed Mr. Sirapat Vajraphai of Thailand as its new Chair. The Committee is one of the subsidiary bodies of the Services Council.
    Discussions focused on the classification of environmental services. Building on previous discussions regarding the Agreement on Climate Change, Trade and Sustainability (ACCTS) and its contributions to defining and classifying environmental services, the United Kingdom presented its new analysis (S/CSC/W/80), comparing the APEC Reference List and the ACCTS List. Delegates welcomed the UK’s analysis as a valuable foundation for further work and expressed interest in continued engagement on this issue.
    Members also revisited Canada’s proposal (S/CSC/W/77) for an informal experience-sharing session on services classification related to the environment. They agreed to hold the session in October alongside the next services cluster of meetings.
    Recent developments in services trade policy
    An event held on 12 June, entitled “Services Unbound — Digital Technologies and Policy Reform in East Asia and the Pacific,” addressed the region’s challenges, particularly barriers to competition in key services that hinder innovation. Participants also called for deeper domestic reforms and stronger international cooperation.
    The event was organized by the WTO’s Trade in Services and Investment Division as part of the “Simply Services” speaker series, an informal platform for sharing the latest information on services trade trends. The webcast of the event is available here.

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    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Verizon’s Total Wireless Supports Working Students with First-Ever Social Impact Program, “Total Spark”

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon’s Total Wireless Supports Working Students with First-Ever Social Impact Program, “Total Spark”

    NEW YORK — Total Wireless, a leading provider of premium, affordable and flexible wireless plans covered by the Verizon 5G network, today announces the launch of Total Spark, the latest social impact program from the Verizon Value portfolio.

    Designed to support working students, Total Spark is tailor-made to meet the Total Wireless community where they are – whether they’re working full-time and going to school at night, balancing family obligations with school, part-time students pursuing additional training and more.

    To help Total Spark truly meet the needs of working students everywhere, the brand commissioned a custom survey of more than 1,000 U.S. adult students[1] to uncover insights on the true needs of working students across the country and found:

    • A third (32%) of working students have a job to support their families. Additionally, one-third (32%) of working students rely on government subsidy programs to get by, and a large majority (89%) working students have student loans.
    • Nearly three quarters (73%) of working students wish they had additional support to help them with pursuing a career. Career mentorship was indicated as the most useful support service for all students.
    • Only 1 in 10 working students strongly agree that they have adequate free time. Time is short for many, as unaided, general time management is the number one obstacle among working students.
    • Mobile phones are seen as an essential tool for staying connected by a large majority of working students (90%). This is especially true for students who work full-time, who indicate they rely on mobile phones to stay connected for work and for job searching.

    That’s why Total Wireless partnered with Empower Work, a national nonprofit on a mission to build healthier workplaces, to support programs that addressed each of these pain points. Together, Total Wireless and Empower Work identified five nonprofit organizations in Chicago, Dallas, and Detroit to receive grants between $50,000 – $150,000. The grants will fund existing community-oriented programs supporting working students – from job training and skill development to job placement and career advancement. Additionally, Total Spark will enable each grant recipient to host in-person events for working students at predetermined, independently operated Total Wireless retail locations in each city later this year. With many working students indicating the need for career support, Total Spark events will focus programming in this area and on other pressing needs of working students today.

    “Our Total Wireless customers are the ultimate go-getters – and we know nobody hustles harder than working students,” Nancy Clark, President of the Verizon Value segment said. “Whether our customers are returning to school or celebrating a recent graduation, connections on-line and off are crucial – our Total Spark program is just a reminder that we are ‘in your corner’ no matter the stage of that journey. We’re proud to support our communities when and where they need it most.”  

    In its first year, Total Spark will support the following nonprofits in three cities, with additional expansions planned for the coming years.

    Chicago, IL

    • The Jane Addams Resource Corporation promotes strong communities, businesses, and households to ensure that people who work do not live in poverty. Throughout the year, JARC offers free manufacturing training in Welding and CNC (Computer Numerical Control), along with wraparound support services to help adults build skills and secure steady, living-wage jobs that bring financial stability to themselves and their families.
    • LIFT-Chicago programs invest in families with children ages 0-8 through integrated financial coaching and direct cash support. Additionally, they offer educational and employment coaching for adults, empowering parents to set and achieve goals that put families on the path toward economic mobility through support for going back to school, improving credit, eliminating debt, or securing a living wage.

    Dallas, TX

    • The Wilkinson Center – whose mission is to transform the lives of Dallas families by providing pathways to self-sufficiency with dignity and respect – serves approximately 24,000 individuals annually through a wide range of programming, including financial coaching, emergency support services, as well as adult education and workforce training.

    Detroit, MI

    • NPower Michigan is rooted in community and dedicated to empowering young adults and military-connected individuals from low-income communities to thrive in the digital economy. Through transformative, no-cost IT training, industry-recognized credentialing, job placement assistance, and comprehensive social support services, NPower creates clear career pathways to economic mobility and sustainability.
    • TechTown Detroit’s mission is to drive economic growth by supporting entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses, particularly those in tech and innovation. For working students, TechTown provides access to resources, networking, and career development opportunities to help them balance work, education, and entrepreneurial goals.

    To mark the Total Spark debut, Total is hosting a one-of-a-kind “Career Spark” Fair in Chicago on Friday, June 27 near Wicker Park. Total’s “Career Spark” fair will provide working students in the area with the tools they need to achieve success. Stations are focused on student well-being and career growth and include tips and resources to manage work/life balance, short and long term career opportunities, community resources from our nonprofit partners & Total Spark grant recipients, a headshot station, plenty of Total swag, and more.

    On Thursday, June 26, the brand will also take coffee, career and community to new heights at its takeover of the buzzy Oro Coffee & Chocolate coffee shop pop-up, where working students in Chicago can grab a midweek pick-me-up on us, enjoy a quiet place to study and work and get connected to personal and professional development resources.

    The Total Spark launch is the latest social impact program under the new Value Cares platform, which reinforces the Verizon Value segment’s focus of empowering communities with the reliable connectivity they need to thrive. Total Spark launched following the success of Visible and its award-winning impact program, Connection Protection, where individuals who experience job loss can receive three months of service with costs covered by Visible and get connected to additional career services support, also provided by Empower Work’s text-line.

    “We’re thrilled to build on the success of the Visible Connection Protection program by launching Total Spark,” Jaime-Alexis Fowler, Founder and Executive Director at Empower Work said. “Empower Work exists to help address these very gaps and concerns of today’s diverse workforce – students included. Now through Total Spark, we’re helping to scale support for this population in a moment where it is most needed.”

    For more information on Total Spark and forthcoming programs with its partners, go to https://www.totalwireless.com/total-spark. Interested attendees may reserve a spot for the Total Career Spark Fair in Chicago on Friday, June 27 by signing up here: https://partiful.com/e/pqHAgV3DAi2etV67PFRG.

    [1]Total Wireless commissioned KRC Research to conduct a survey among U.S. adult students (n=1,004), including non-working students (n=200) and working students (n=804).​ The study was fielded between May 9-15, 2025.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Verizon to report 2Q earnings July 21, 2025

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon to report 2Q earnings July 21, 2025

    NEW YORK, N.Y. – Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) will report second-quarter 2025 earnings on Monday, July 21, 2025. The company will present results on a webcast beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Second-quarter 2025 materials will be available at 7:00 a.m. ET on Verizon’s Investor Relations website, https://www.verizon.com/about/investors. These materials will include:

    • Detailed information on Verizon’s second quarter results, including a recording and transcript of management’s commentary;
    • Verizon’s earnings news release; and
    • Financial tables.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Japan gives CHF 105,000 to support trade capacity-building in developing economies

    Source: World Trade Organization

    The Global Trust Fund finances trade-related technical assistance in areas such as market access, trade facilitation, services and agriculture. The objective is to help participants better understand WTO agreements and participate more effectively in global trade negotiations.

    WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said: “We are grateful for Japan’s continued partnership, which reflects its longstanding commitment to supporting the multilateral trading system and capacity-building efforts for developing countries and LDCs. This contribution will help officials enhance their skills to better support their economies’ effective participation in global trade and to leverage international markets in pursuit of new opportunities for sustainable growth and job creation.”

    Japan’s Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative to the WTO, Mr. Naoki Hikota, said: “Japan’s long-standing support for the Global Trust Fund reflects our firm belief in the essential role the rules-based multilateral trading system plays in providing stability, predictability, and inclusive growth. By contributing to technical assistance and capacity-building, we aim to strengthen the ability of developing and least-developed country Members to implement the WTO Agreements and thereby support their complementing policies for sustainable development. It is our strong conviction that expanding their capacity to fully participate in the multilateral trading system will create more opportunities to reap the benefits of global trade.”

    Since 2002, Japan has contributed over CHF 12.8 million to the WTO Global Trust Fund and other WTO trust funds.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cleaver, Davids Demand Answers on Lack of Funding for Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    The federal funding for National Heritage Areas was signed into law by President Trump in March but has not been delivered, with no explanation

    (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) and Sharice Davids (D-KS) have called on the Trump Administration to immediately release long-overdue funding for National Heritage Areas (NHAs), which preserve local history, create jobs, and drive tourism across the country.

    Despite being signed into law in March, federal funding for NHAs — including the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area (FFNHA) in western Missouri and eastern Kansas — still hasn’t been delivered. As a result, local sites are struggling to keep staff employed, preserve historic landmarks, and continue educational programs that serve thousands of visitors and students each year.

    “NHAs contribute billions to the U.S. economy annually and support hundreds of thousands of jobs, leveraging each dollar of federal funding into more than $5 of nonfederal resources,” the lawmakers wrote. “For example, FFNHA provided 61 percent of its FY24 income from nonfederal sources. Our nation’s 62 NHAs provide an excellent and sustainable model of economic development at little cost to the federal government. This delay in funding is causing significant strain on our NHAs – many of which rely on small staffs and robust volunteer networks; annual NPS appropriations are critical to attracting private donations, planning grants and historic preservation efforts, and executing educational opportunities.”

    “We respectfully request that you quickly provide us with a timeline as to when FY25 appropriations for NHAs will be processed and work to execute these funding awards as soon as possible,” the lawmakers concluded.

    NHAs are public-private partnerships that highlight culturally significant regions across the U.S., from Civil War battlefields to Indigenous heritage sites. Each federal dollar invested generates over $5 in private and local support. Without this timely funding, programs grind to a halt and community-driven preservation work suffers.

    Established in 2006, the FFNHA is one of 55 National Heritage Areas throughout the United States. FFNHA tells the stories and builds awareness of western Missouri and eastern Kansas’ past, present, and future, including stories of American settlement of the western frontier, Bleeding Kansas and the Civil War, Brown v. Board of Education, and significant figures in our nation’s history such as President Harry Truman, Amelia Earhart, and the Native tribes of the Great Plains. 

    The FFNHA supports and promotes roughly 323 partners, including historic sites, museums, historical societies, libraries, and other cultural-heritage tourism destinations in 41 counties across the Missouri-Kansas border.

    Some notable FFNHA partners in the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri include the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Truman Presidential Library, American Jazz Museum, the National WWI Museum and Memorial, and more.

    Some notable FFNHA partners in the Third Congressional District of Kansas include Old Quindaro Museum, John Brown Museum, Kansas City Area Historic Trails Association, Kaw Point Park, Louisburg Historical Society, and more.

    The official letter from Reps. Cleaver and Davids is available here.

     

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Change in Disaster Recovery Center Hours in South Texas

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Change in Disaster Recovery Center Hours in South Texas

    Change in Disaster Recovery Center Hours in South Texas

    Change in Disaster Recovery Center Hours in South TexasAUSTIN – In coordination with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), FEMA and U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) have been staffing Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) to offer face-to-face help to residents of the four South Texas counties affected by the severe storms and flooding that occurred March 26-28, 2025

    Starting Saturday, June 21, new weekend hours of operation for all seven DRCs are:Saturdays: Open 8 a

    m

    to 5 p

    m

    Sundays: ClosedWeekday hours remain the same: Monday – Friday, 8 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    All DRCs will be closed for the Juneteenth Holiday (Thursday, June 19); and reopen on Friday, June 20, at 8 a

    m

    Homeowners and renters in Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties may be eligible for FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance

    FEMA and SBA support state-led recovery efforts at the recovery centers

    Staff can help survivors apply for federal assistance

    They can also identify potential needs and connect survivors with local, state and federal agencies, as well as nonprofits and community groups

     The list of DRCs by county is as follows:Cameron CountySan Benito Parks and Recreation Building705 N Bowie St

    San Benito, TX Harlingen Convention Center701 Harlingen HeightsHarlingen, TX 78552 Hidalgo CountyLas Palmas Community Center1921 N

    25th St

      McAllen, TX   Pharr Development & Research Center  850 W

    Dicker Rd  Pharr, TX Weslaco EDC275 S

    Kansas Ave

    Weslaco, TX 78596 Starr CountyStarr County Courthouse Annex100 N FM 3167Rio Grande City, TX 78582 Willacy CountySebastian Community Center434 West 8th St

    Sebastian, TX 78594 For information and to apply online visit SBA

    gov/disaster

    Applicants may also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba

    gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance

    For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services

    Survivors can apply to FEMA in several ways including going online to DisasterAssistance

    gov, downloading the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    Calls are accepted every day from 6 a

    m

    to 10 p

    m

    CT

    Help is available in most languages

     If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube

    For more information, visit fema

    gov/disaster/4871

    Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x

    com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook

    com/FEMARegion6/
    toan

    nguyen
    Mon, 06/16/2025 – 16:22

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Announces Winners of 2025 Student Launch Competition

    Source: NASA

    By Beth Ridgeway 
    NASA’s Student Launch competition celebrated its 25th anniversary on May 4, just north of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, bringing together more than 980 middle school, high school, college, and university students from across the U.S. to showcase and launch their high-powered rocketry designs.
    The event marked the conclusion of the nine-month challenge where teams designed, built, and launched more than 50 rockets carrying scientific payloads—trying to achieve altitudes between 4,000 and 6,000 feet before executing a successful landing and payload mission.

    [embedded content]

    “This is really about mirroring the NASA engineering design process,” Kevin McGhaw, director of NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement Southeast Region, said. “It gives students hands-on experience not only in building and designing hardware, but in the review and testing process.  We are helping to prepare and inspire students to get out of classroom and into the aerospace industry as a capable and energizing part of our future workforce.”
    NASA announced James Madison University as the overall winner of the agency’s 2025 Student Launch challenge, followed by North Carolina State University, and The University of Alabama in Huntsville. A complete list of challenge winners can be found on the agency’s Student Launch webpage.

    Each year, a payload challenge is issued to the university teams, and this year’s task took inspiration from the agency’s Artemis missions, where NASA will send astronauts to explore the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefit, and to build the foundation for the first crewed missions to Mars. Teams were challenged to include sensor data from STEMnauts, non-living objects representing astronauts. The STEMnaut “crew” had to relay real-time data to the student team’s mission control, just as the Artemis astronaut crew will do as they explore the lunar surface.  
    Student Launch is one of NASA’s seven Artemis Student Challenges – activities that connect student ingenuity with NASA’s work returning to the Moon under Artemis in preparation for human exploration of Mars.
    The competition is managed by Marshall’s Office of STEM Engagement. Additional funding and support are provided by the Office of STEM Engagement’s Next Generation STEM project, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, the agency’s Space Operations Mission Directorate, Northrup Grumman, National Space Club Huntsville, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Association of Rocketry, Relativity Space, and Bastion Technologies Inc.
    To watch the full virtual awards ceremony, please visit NASA Marshall’s YouTube channel.
    For more information about Student Launch, visit:
    https://www.nasa.gov/learning-resources/nasa-student-launch/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Seeks Commercial Feedback on Space Communication Solutions

    Source: NASA

    NASA is seeking information from U.S. and international companies about Earth proximity relay communication and navigation capabilities as the agency aims to use private industry satellite communications services for emerging agency science missions.
    “As part of NASA’s Communications Services Project, the agency is working with private industry to solve challenges for future exploration,” said Kevin Coggins, deputy associate administrator of NASA’s SCaN Program. “Through this effort, NASA missions will have a greater ability to command spacecraft, resolve issues in flight, and bring home more data and scientific discoveries collected across the solar system.”
    In November 2024, NASA announced the TDRS (Tracking and Data Relay Satellite) system, the agency’s network of satellites relaying communications from the International Space Station, ground controls on Earth, and spacecraft, will support only existing missions.
    NASA, as one of many customers, will obtain commercial satellite services rather than owning and operating a replacement for the existing satellite system. As NASA transitions to commercial relay services, the agency will leverage commercial capabilities to ensure support for future missions and stimulate private investment into the Earth proximity region. Commercial service offerings could become available to NASA missions as early as 2028 and will continue to be demonstrated and validated through 2031.
    NASA’s SCaN issued a Request for Information on May 30. Responses are due by 5 p.m. EDT on Friday, July 11.NASA’s SCaN Program serves as the management office for the agency’s space communications and navigation. More than 100 NASA and non-NASA missions rely on SCaN’s two networks, the Near Space Network and the Deep Space Network, to support astronauts aboard the International Space Station and future Artemis missions, monitor Earth’s weather, support lunar exploration, and uncover the solar system and beyond.
    Learn more about NASA’s SCaN Program at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/scan

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Possible link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and aggressive cancers (‘turbo cancer’) in the context of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan – E-002078/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002078/2025/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Gerald Hauser (PfE)

    Although ‘turbo cancer’ is not a medically or scientifically defined term, it is currently being used by doctors to describe the distinctive signs of certain cancer trajectories. Renowned oncologists at home and abroad have recently alerted us to a significant uptick in extremely aggressive, rapidly progressing cancers, particularly in people who have received COVID-19 mRNA vaccines.[1] Among other things, they point to the presence of SV40 sequences in certain vaccines – a potentially oncogenic virus fragment.[2]

    • 1.What scientific evidence does the Commission currently have of a possible link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and the increased incidence of particularly aggressive forms of cancer (‘turbo cancer’)?
    • 2.Has the Commission – as part of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan for instance – commissioned any independent studies on these indications or is it planning any such initiatives?
    • 3.Is the potential presence of SV40 fragments in vaccines currently being investigated or monitored by the Commission, its institutions, bodies, offices or agencies?

    Submitted: 22.5.2025

    • [1] https://www.berliner-zeitung.de/open-source/corona-impfstoffe-pathologin-warnt-diese-mrna-technik-ist-nicht-ausreichend-getestet-li.2259438
    • [2] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/386414408_BioNTech_RNA-Based_COVID-19_Injections_Contain_Large_Amounts_Of_Residual_DNA_Including_An_SV40_PromoterEnhancer_Sequence
    Last updated: 16 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Charged with Kicking Federal Agent During Immigration Inspection

    Source: US FBI

    BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 37-year-old Mexican woman living in San Benito has been charged with assaulting an agent with Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Maria Isabel Cruz-Salas is expected for her next hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen Betancourt June 18 at 11:15. She is currently in custody.

    The criminal complaint filed June 10 alleges Cruz-Salas assaulted a federal officer during a worksite immigration inspection in San Benito.

    According to the charges, authorities were conducting a lawful enforcement operation June 9 at Taqueria El Mante, where they discovered Cruz-Salas. As an HSI agent attempted to detain her, she allegedly kicked him in the face.

    If convicted, she faces a maximum of eight years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    ICE-HSI and FBI are conducting the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Coronado is prosecuting the case. 

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Charged with Kicking Federal Agent During Immigration Inspection

    Source: US FBI

    BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 37-year-old Mexican woman living in San Benito has been charged with assaulting an agent with Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Maria Isabel Cruz-Salas is expected for her next hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen Betancourt June 18 at 11:15. She is currently in custody.

    The criminal complaint filed June 10 alleges Cruz-Salas assaulted a federal officer during a worksite immigration inspection in San Benito.

    According to the charges, authorities were conducting a lawful enforcement operation June 9 at Taqueria El Mante, where they discovered Cruz-Salas. As an HSI agent attempted to detain her, she allegedly kicked him in the face.

    If convicted, she faces a maximum of eight years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    ICE-HSI and FBI are conducting the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Coronado is prosecuting the case. 

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Calls from Foreign Ministers of Italy, Canada, Greece

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 16, 2025

    HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received on Monday phone calls from HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic Antonio Tajani, HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada Anita Anand, and HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic George Gerapetritis.

    The calls discussed cooperation relations and ways to support and enhance them. They also discussed the developments in the region, particularly the Israeli attack on the sisterly Islamic Republic of Iran.

    In this context, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs voiced the State of Qatar’s condemnation of the repeated Israeli violations and attacks in the region, which undermine peace efforts and threaten to drag the region into a regional war.

    His Excellency also emphasized the gravity of Israel’s targeting of economic facilities in Iran, warning of its disastrous regional and international repercussions, particularly for the stability of energy supplies.

    His Excellency stressed the need for concerted regional and international efforts to de-escalate tensions and resolve disputes through diplomatic means, affirming that the State of Qatar is making strenuous efforts with its partners to return to the path of dialogue among all parties to address outstanding issues and consolidate security and peace in the region and the world.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Government Watchdog Finds Trump Admin is Illegally Impounding Funding for Museums and Libraries Across America; Senator Murray Responds

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on another Government Accountability Office (GAO) decision announced this morning, which concludes that President Trump is illegally impounding funding approved by Congress for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), in violation of the Impoundment Control Act (ICA):
    “Here again, it is clear as day President Trump is breaking the law to block funding Congress provided—in this case, we’re talking about investments in local museums and libraries in all fifty states.
    “President Trump may not like the fact that Congress has, on a bipartisan basis, invested in helping kids learn at their local library—but that does not change the fact that he himself signed these investments into law, and they need to start flowing immediately. The president’s funding freeze isn’t just illegal; every day it continues, it hurts real people and communities across our country who are suffering the consequences as investments they count on get choked off.”
    Presidents do not wield the power to unilaterally withhold or block investments that have been enacted into law through what’s known as “impoundment.” This foundational principle has been affirmed time and again. The Impoundment Control Act (ICA) of 1974 makes this plain and establishes limited procedures the president can and must follow to propose delaying or rescinding enacted funding. The Impoundment Control Act also charges the GAO with the responsibility of investigating and reporting to Congress when the president illegally withholds funding. In testimony to the Committee this spring, the GAO acknowledged that it has opened 39 impoundment investigations and counting. Today’s announcement follows the GAO’s first decision in May in one of its ongoing investigations, which concluded Trump is illegally impounding funding. The ICA also authorizes the Comptroller General to file suit when the president illegally impounds funding.
    IMLS was established and funded by Congress on a bipartisan basis to support museums, libraries, and similar entities in every part of the country through grants, research, and policy development. But earlier this year, President Trump signed an executive order calling for IMLS to be eliminated, which was followed by grant cancellations, delays in allocating required funds, and nearly all of IMLS’ employees being put on administrative leave.
    In its decision today, the GAO concluded that:
    “IMLS has not responded to GAO’s requests for information regarding the potential impoundment of appropriated funds. Yet publicly available evidence, including sworn testimony, federal court cases, data on USAspending.gov, and information on IMLS’s website, indicates that IMLS withheld grant and other appropriated funds. Based on the available evidence and the lack of any special message pertaining to IMLS funds, GAO concludes that IMLS has violated the ICA by withholding funds from obligation and expenditure. GAO also concludes that IMLS violated the ICA by withholding funds that cannot be withheld under the ICA’s fourth disclaimer. …. The Constitution specifically vests Congress with the power of the purse, providing that ‘No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law.’ The Constitution also gives Congress the exclusive power to legislate, and sets forth the procedures of bicameralism and presentment, through which the President may accept or veto a legislative bill passed by both houses of Congress, and Congress may subsequently override a presidential veto. This process does not grant the President the authority to pass his own laws or to ignore or amend a law duly enacted by Congress. …. If IMLS wishes to make changes to the appropriation provided to IMLS, it must propose funds for rescission or otherwise propose legislation to make changes to the law for consideration by Congress.”
    Since his first hours in office, President Trump has illegally blocked funding owed to communities across the country through a variety of different means. Senate and House Appropriations Committee Democrats have been tracking Trump’s illegal funding freeze and found that, as of June 3, President Trump is blocking at least $425 billion in funding owed to the American people.

    MIL OSI USA News –