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  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1458, Veterans Education and Technical Skills Opportunity Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Bill Summary

    H.R. 1458 would make several modifications, specifically related to GI Bill contributions and independent study courses, to education benefit programs administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The bill also would extend the reduction of pension payments from VA for veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes. Finally, the bill would require VA to notify schools about changes to policies that affect education benefits.

    Estimated Federal Cost

    The estimated budgetary effects of H.R. 1458 are shown in Table 1. The costs of the legislation fall within budget functions 550 (health) and 700 (veterans benefits and services).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Budgetary Effects of H.R. 1458
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		    
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2031

    2032

    2033

    2034

    2035

    2025-2030

    2025-2035

    Increases or Decreases (-) in Direct Spending

    		  

    Contribution Refunds

    		                      

    Estimated Budget Authority

    1

    5

    5

    4

    4

    3

    2

    1

    1

    1

    1

    22

    28

    Estimated Outlays

    1

    5

    5

    4

    4

    3

    2

    1

    1

    1

    1

    22

    28

    Independent Study

    		                      

    Estimated Budget Authority

    1

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    4

    4

    4

    16

    34

    Estimated Outlays

    1

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    3

    4

    4

    4

    16

    34

    Pensions

    		                      

    Estimated Budget Authority

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    -24

    0

    0

    0

    -64

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    0

    -40

    -24

    0

    0

    0

    -64

    Total Changes

    		                        

    Estimated Budget Authority

    2

    8

    8

    7

    7

    6

    5

    -36

    -19

    5

    5

    38

    -2

    Estimated Outlays

    2

    8

    8

    7

    7

    6

    5

    -36

    -19

    5

    5

    38

    -2

    In addition to the amounts shown here, H.R. 1458 would increase spending subjection to appropriation by less than $500,000 over the 2025-2035 period.

    Basis of Estimate

    For this estimate, CBO assumes that H.R. 1458 will be enacted in fiscal year 2025 and that provisions will take effect upon enactment. CBO also estimates that outlays will follow historical spending patterns for affected programs.

    Direct Spending

    H.R. 1458 would make several changes to VA education benefit programs described below. The costs of those programs are paid from mandatory appropriations. The bill also would extend the reduction of pension payments for veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes. In total, the bill would decrease net direct spending by $2 million over the 2025-2035 period.

    Education Benefit Reforms. Several sections of H.R. 1458 would modify education benefit programs administered by VA. Those changes would increase net direct spending by $62 million over the 2025‑2035 period.

    Contribution Refunds.Under the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB), service members must contribute at least $1,200 from their basic pay to become eligible for benefits. Contributions are not required for eligibility under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which pays for tuition and fees and, in most cases, includes a monthly housing allowance. People who are eligible for both the MGIB and Post-9/11 GI Bill may receive a refund of their MGIB contributions if they received benefits—including a housing allowance—under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. That refund is made if they use all 36 months of Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for which they are eligible. The refund is paid along with their last monthly housing payment.

    Section 2 would require VA to refund MGIB contributions to beneficiaries within 60 days of the last benefit payment they receive under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, regardless of whether they receive a housing allowance. Using data from VA, CBO estimates that, under H.R. 1458, roughly 24,000 more people would receive refunds over the 2025‑2035 period, increasing direct spending by $28 million.

    Independent Study. Section 3 would allow veterans to use their education benefits for independent study programs offered by for-profit schools that are approved to participate in the Department of Education’s financial assistance programs. Independent study is training through which an individual student and instructor meet or communicate directly to explore a chosen subject rather than regularly gathering in a classroom with a group of students. Benefits cannot be used for independent study programs at for-profit schools under current law.

    Using information from VA, CBO estimates that under this provision, about 150 people would use more education benefits each year than they would use under current law. The average cost of those benefits would be about $18,000 in 2025. After adjusting for annual inflation, those additional benefit payments would increase direct spending by $34 million over the 2025-2035 period, CBO estimates.

    Activation During School. Section 4 would expand the options available to students using VA education benefits who are activated for military service during an academic term. Those students could agree with their schools to complete courses by other means if they have completed at least half of the courses in their program of education. Students are currently able to take a leave of absence if activated, after which schools must allow them to attempt to complete the academic term. Because both options enable students to complete their academic obligations and the section would not affect benefits paid for tuition and fees, CBO does not expect section 4 to significantly change direct spending.

    Pensions. Under current law, VA reduces pension payments to veterans and survivors who reside in Medicaid nursing homes to $90 per month. That required reduction expires November 30, 2031. Section 7 would extend that reduction for 16 months through March 31, 2033. CBO estimates that extending that requirement would reduce VA benefits by $10 million per month. (Those benefits are paid from mandatory appropriations and are therefore considered direct spending.) As a result of that reduction in beneficiaries’ income, Medicaid would pay more of the cost of their care, increasing spending for that program by $6 million per month. Thus, enacting section 7 would reduce net direct spending by $64 million over the 2025‑2035 period.

    Spending Subject to Appropriation

    Section 6 would require VA to notify schools that participate in education benefit programs administered by the department of changes to policies that affect those programs within two weeks. CBO estimates that such notifications would increase spending subject to appropriation by less than $500,000 over the 2025‑2035 period.

    Pay-As-You-Go Considerations

    The Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 establishes budget-reporting and enforcement procedures for legislation affecting direct spending or revenues. The net changes in outlays that are subject to those pay-as-you-go procedures are shown in Table 1.

    Increase in Long-Term Net Direct Spending and Deficits

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1458 would not increase net direct spending by more than $2.5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 1458 would not increase on‑budget deficits by more than $5 billion in any of the four consecutive 10-year periods beginning in 2036.

    Mandates

    The bill contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

    Mandates: Grace Watson

    Estimate Reviewed By

    David Newman
    Chief, Defense, International Affairs, and Veterans’ Affairs Cost Estimates Unit

    Kathleen FitzGerald
    Chief, Public and Private Mandates Unit

    Christina Hawley Anthony
    Deputy Director of Budget Analysis

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree, Planned Parenthood, and Patients Shine Light on Catastrophic Health Impacts of Republican Cuts to Medicaid

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    On Wednesday, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE) hosted a roundtable discussion to highlight the devastating effects Republicans’ reconciliation bill will have on the health and wellbeing of Mainers and people across the country.  

    During the conversation, which was hosted at PPNNE’s Portland headquarters, PPNNE leadership and patient advocates shared their insights and personal stories on how slashing essential health care programs, including the targeted defunding of Planned Parenthood clinics and devastating cuts to Medicaid, will impact people throughout the state. Participants included Nicole Clegg, CEO of PPNNE; Anna Mead, Advanced Practice Clinician at PPNNE; as well as three patient advocates: Michaela Cavallaro of Portland, Travy Moncure of Yarmouth, and Meredith Ruxton McIntosh of Hallowell. 

    “Last week, House Republicans advanced one of the most egregious betrayals of the American people in our country’s history, passing a bill that will rip health coverage away from 13.7 million Americans in order to fund massive tax breaks for billionaires and corporations. The bill also specifically prohibits Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood clinics across the country. For many Mainers, Planned Parenthood might be their only option for critical services like cancer screenings, pregnancy testing, contraception, and routine wellness exams. Republicans are targeting Planned Parenthood simply because it provides abortions—and in the process, they’re going to hurt people, destabilize our health care system, and actually cost taxpayers,” Pingree said. “Today, we heard from a veteran who relied on Planned Parenthood for decades; a teacher and mother whose early care enabled her to build a career; and a woman whose access to timely treatment preserved her ability to start a family. I’m so grateful to Michaela, Travy, and Meredith for sharing their stories and helping make clear what’s at stake. If this megabill passes the Senate in its current form, the consequences for our state—and for women nationwide—will be catastrophic.”

    “The goal of this reconciliation bill is to eliminate access to abortion by forcing Planned Parenthood to shut down. We are being targeted because Planned Parenthood health centers provide abortion care in states where it is legal. This is abortion opponents’ latest attempt to eliminate abortion in the U.S. Anti-abortion lawmakers are willing to throw Planned Parenthood patients to the wolves so they can eliminate access to abortion, and they’re willing to run up a nearly $300 million deficit to do it,” Clegg said. “Here’s the truth: Planned Parenthood health centers save lives. And, as we heard today from patient advocates, the services provided at Planned Parenthood—birth control, cancer screenings, basic wellness exams, and more – are a lifeline and an access point for people to have freedom over their own bodies, lives and futures. We are grateful for Rep. Pingree’s steadfast support of Mainers’ ability to choose Planned Parenthood as their trusted health care provider. Everyone deserves the right to access the health care they need, when they need it, no matter their zip code or how much money they have. It is our hope that lawmakers in Washington will reject this dangerous proposal and protect access to lifesaving care for Mainers and all Americans.”

    “The care I received at Planned Parenthood when I could not have afforded care anywhere else allowed me to plan my family and my future on my own terms.  I want to live in a state and a country where, at a minimum, my daughter has access to the basic health care that I did when I was her age. She deserves the right to access the health care she needs, when she needs it,” Michaela Cavallaro said. “When I had nowhere to turn, I went to Planned Parenthood. The care I received at Planned Parenthood allowed me to become a mother when I wanted to be a mother. Everyone deserves that kind of care.”

    “I relied on Planned Parenthood for my health care when I was younger and could not afford health insurance,” Travy Moncure said. “I was able to receive routine checkups, cancer screenings and birth control at Planned Parenthood, and these services were integral to my wellbeing and independence as a young woman. Had I not been able to access health care at Planned Parenthood during a time in my life when I could not afford care anywhere else, I know I would have struggled, and the trajectory of my life would have been very different.”

    “Without the medical care and counseling that I was able to access through Planned Parenthood I would have likely dropped out of high school, never joined the military, never attended college or trade school and most certainly would have indulged in addictive substances to the detriment of my life,” Meredith Ruxton McIntosh said. “Planned Parenthood gave me the knowledge and information I needed to make decisions about my body and my health. Planned Parenthood provided my health care for years, no matter where I lived or how much money I had or did not have. Planned parenthood is a lifeline and we have to protect everyone’s access to essential health care.”

    Background:

    House Republicans’ reconciliation bill, which cuts Medicaid by $800 billion, narrowly passed the House last week without any Democratic support. Read Pingree’s statement on the passage here. 

    More than 70 million Americans, including nearly 400,000 Mainers, rely on Medicaid for health care. 

    In 2024, PPNNE provided care to Maine patients through nearly 10,000 visits, and 29% of those were covered by Medicaid. More than half of PPNNE’s patients had incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Sibeprenlimab’s priority review highlights potential to differentiate in IgAN space, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Sibeprenlimab’s priority review highlights potential to differentiate in IgAN space, says GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    Otsuka Pharmaceutical recently announced that the FDA has accepted for review the Biologics License Application (BLA) for sibeprenlimab, which acts as A Proliferation Inducing Ligand (APRIL) inhibitor in development for immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN). This followed sibeprenlimab’s 2024 FDA breakthrough designation for the same indication. The BLA was supported by the Phase III VISIONARY trial data. If approved, sibeprenlimab could provide patients with the first disease-modifying therapy that addresses both the clinical and practical challenges of living with IgAN, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    VISIONARY is an ongoing, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of sibeprenlimab for IgAN. Interim results showed that sibeprenlimab demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in 24-hour urine protein-to-creatinine ratio compared to placebo after nine months of treatment. Additionally, sibeprenlimab demonstrated a favorable safety profile.

    Kajal Jaddoo, Senior Pharma Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Sibeprenlimab is a single-dose prefilled syringe for subcutaneous injection every four weeks, intended for self-administration at home. This represents a substantial improvement over intravenous therapies that require clinical visits and healthcare facility resources. The self-administration at home provides patients with greater control over their treatment schedule and reduces the disruption to daily activities that often accompanies chronic disease management.”

    IgAN is a common cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure. CKD is a condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. This leads to the accumulation of excess fluid and waste in the body. In the early stages, CKD is a largely asymptomatic condition.

    Jaddoo concludes: “Sibeprenlimab’s latest priority review further signifies the drug’s major advantages over existing treatments and will provide enhanced support for its development for targeting a complex condition like IgAN.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Weber Praises DOE’s Authorization of Port Arthur LNG Phase II

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Randy Weber (14th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) applauded Secretary of Energy Chris Wright’s announcement granting final authorization for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to non-free trade agreement (non-FTA) countries from Port Arthur LNG Phase II in Port Arthur, Texas.

    “Our region is once again leading the way in American energy dominance,” said Rep. Weber. “Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Wright, the LNG export project in Port Arthur is finally moving forward, something the previous administration stalled and obstructed at every turn,” said Rep. Weber. “The Gulf of America is the beating heart of America’s LNG industry, and Southeast Texas is proud to fuel freedom around the world. Instead of leaving our allies dependent on hostile foreign regimes, we’re now exporting clean, reliable, American-made LNG. This is a huge win for energy security, American jobs, and our national interest.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation and Global Forum on International Mediation successfully conclude today

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation and Global Forum on International Mediation successfully conclude today 
         Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Wang Yi, attended the Signing Ceremony of the Convention in Hong Kong. Mr Wang was the first to sign the Convention on behalf of China. Thirty-three countries, including China and countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe, jointly signed the Convention. In addition, more than 50 countries and nearly 20 international organisations, including the United Nations (UN), also sent senior representatives to witness the Signing Ceremony. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee; the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan; and the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, were also present.
     
         Addressing the ceremony, Mr Wang said that as an innovative step in international rule of law, the IOMed has great significance in the history of international relations. The establishment of the IOMed is an actualisation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter; it is also an example of a civilisational belief in harmony and an epitome of inclusiveness in the culture of the rule of law. The IOMed will be headquartered in Hong Kong, whose handover is itself a success story of peaceful settlement of international disputes. The success of the “one country, two systems” principle has created brighter prospects for prosperity and stability in Hong Kong. Mr Wang said that he looks forward to all parties working together to let the IOMed play a positive role in peacefully resolving international disputes for a brighter future for humanity.
        
         Addressing the ceremony, Mr Lee expressed his sincere gratitude to the Central Government for its staunch support of Hong Kong, allowing Hong Kong the honour of housing the IOMed headquarters. He also thanked the international community for placing their trust and confidence in the city. He said that Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction in China. With a robust, efficient and well-respected legal system, as well as world-class legal and dispute resolution services professionals, Hong Kong is also the most preferred seat of arbitration in the Asia-Pacific region. Hong Kong goes all out to build bridges with the world and will actively support and facilitate the IOMed’s valuable work in settling international disputes through mediation, thereby providing a pathway for countries to resolve international disputes based on mutual respect and understanding.
     
         The Global Forum on International Mediation in the afternoon discussed topics such as mediation of disputes among countries and mediation of international investment and commercial disputes. Twenty-three leaders from different countries and international organisations shared their experiences on how a neutral third party can effectively assist in the mediation of disputes between countries through dialogue and consultation, highlighting the importance of mediation to the peaceful development of the world and the practice of justice. The speakers also discussed new developments in international investment and commercial dispute mediation and the contributions that the IOMed can make.
     
         Witnessed by forum guests, Mr Lam signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Minister of Commerce of Cambodia, Mrs Cham Nimul, to strengthen co-operation between the two places on issues relating to dispute avoidance and resolution.
     
         The objective and goal of the IOMed is to promote and facilitate the peaceful settlement of international disputes and to develop friendly relations and co-operation between countries through mediation. It is an important mechanism for implementing Article 33 of the UN Charter to peacefully settle international disputes through mediation and other means. It is of great significance to achieving win-win co-operation among all parties to the dispute, improving global governance, and promoting world peace and stability in the international order. The IOMed will be the first international intergovernmental legal organisation devoted to the use of mediation in resolving international disputes. It will be a beneficial supplement to the current international dispute settlement mechanism and will provide a new legal public good in international rule of law, marking a milestone in promoting the settlement of international disputes through mediation.
     
         The Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation is the legal basis for the establishment of the IOMed, which covers important provisions such as the functions, governance structure, operation, scope of cases accepted, privileges and immunities of the IOMed. With the signing of the Convention, the IOMed will be formally established after signatories’ ratification of the Convention and be headquartered in Hong Kong. The IOMed headquarters is expected to be operational by the end of this year or early next year at the earliest, providing friendly, flexible, economical and efficient mediation services to all parties, thereby strengthening Hong Kong’s role as an international dispute resolution services centre and a capital for international mediation. Fully harnessing the institutional strengths under the “one country, two systems” principle and integrating into the national development strategy, Hong Kong will contribute to building a world of peace and justice. 
     
         The text of the Convention is available on the IOMed’s websiteIssued at HKT 23:19

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Highlights DMV Challenges, Calls for Increased Investment

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Highlights DMV Challenges, Calls for Increased Investment

    Governor Stein Highlights DMV Challenges, Calls for Increased Investment
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein joined Secretary of Transportation Joey Hopkins and DMV Commissioner Paul Tine to highlight North Carolina’s ongoing DMV crisis and call for cross-government partnership to improve the customer experience.

    “Hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians each year visit the DMV, and they need to be able to take care of their business in a timely manner,” said Governor Josh Stein. “We are tackling this problem head-on, and Secretary Hopkins, Commissioner Tine, and I are committed to working with our legislature and Auditor Boliek to make the DMV work better for everyone.”

    “Every North Carolinian on our roads will need to interact with the DMV at some point, so we have a responsibility to get it right,” said Department of Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins. “I am pleased to see Commissioner Tine hitting the ground running.”

    “Since my appointment a month ago, I have dedicated myself to meeting with DMV customers and team members to learn more about the challenges our state is facing,” said DMV Commissioner Paul Tine. “While we have begun raising pay for examiners, simplifying the website, and finding opportunities to get more people through offices this summer, we know there is much more work to be done to ensure a positive experience for customers and team members alike.”

    Governor Josh Stein and the NC Department of Transportation announced Paul Tine’s appointment as Commissioner of the DMV on April 30. Commissioner Tine is working to improve North Carolinians’ experience with the DMV by addressing wait times, staffing challenges, and customer satisfaction. Governor Stein’s 2025-2027 budget proposal includes funding for 61 new Driver License Examiners and 24 new positions to staff new and expanded Driver License Offices. The House budget calls for this same expansion of DMV’s staff. Governor Stein is committed to working with the General Assembly and the State Auditor’s office to find and implement real solutions. 

    May 30, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS to Host Session on Advancing the Olmstead Plan on June 9 at i2i Spring 2025 Conference; Secretary Sangvai to Also Discuss Behavioral Health in NC on June 10

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS to Host Session on Advancing the Olmstead Plan on June 9 at i2i Spring 2025 Conference; Secretary Sangvai to Also Discuss Behavioral Health in NC on June 10

    NCDHHS to Host Session on Advancing the Olmstead Plan on June 9 at i2i Spring 2025 Conference; Secretary Sangvai to Also Discuss Behavioral Health in NC on June 10
    jawerner

    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will hold a discussion on the Olmstead Plan and its mission to improve the lives and well-being of people with disabilities at the i2i Center for Integrative Health Spring 2025 Conference. The event is open to credentialed media and will take place on Monday, June 9, at the Hilton Raleigh North Hills Hotel from 1:30-4:30 p.m.  

    The Advancing Success pre-conference session will explain what is involved in transitioning people to community settings, supporting choices for where people work and play, and connecting people to community-based services.

    The North Carolina Olmstead Plan guides NCDHHS’ efforts to help people with disabilities live fully integrated lives in their communities. This plan takes commitment, support and collaboration across a wide range of partners — from people with disabilities and their friends and families, to advocates, providers, government agencies and communities. Attendees will span all of these partner groups.

    The session will highlight groundbreaking initiatives from NCDHHS’ Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services that help to bridge the gap in services. Participants will also learn more about new NCDHHS initiatives to increase visibility of the Innovations Waiver and outreach to people on the waitlist about services available to them right away.

    In addition, people with disabilities will share their experiences. Providers will also discuss how they overcame challenges to help people with disabilities transition into their communities.

    What: Advancing the Olmstead Plan Session at i2i Center for Integrative Health Spring 2025 conference 

    Who: Deb Goda, Director, Olmstead and Transitions to Community Living, NCDHHS
                Ginger Yarbrough, MPA, NADD-DDS, CPHQ, Chief Clinical Officer, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Olmstead, Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services, NCDHHS 
                Dr. David Clapp, Deputy Director, Behavioral Health and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, NC Medicaid, NCDHHS 
                Niki Ashmont, Acting Director, State Operated Healthcare Facilities, NCDHHS 
                Kenneth Bausell, Senior Director, Employment and Community Access, NCDHHS 
                Gregory Daniels, Associate Director, Behavioral Health and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, NC Medicaid, NCDHHS 
                Steve Strom, Director, Money Follows the Person (MFP) Demonstration Project, NCDHHS 
                Dr. Tamara Smith, Associate Director, Olmstead and Transitions to Community Living, NCDHHS 
                Josh Walker, Olmstead Housing Director, NCDHHS

    When: Monday, June 9 
                   1:30 – 4:30 p.m. 

    Where: Hilton Raleigh North Hills Hotel 
                    3415 Wake Forest Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609

    Media: Credentialed media should RSVP to news@dhhs.nc.gov.

    The media is also invited to hear NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai speak at the i2i conference on June 10. Secretary Sangvai will provide an overview of the current behavioral health landscape in North Carolina and the department’s mission to transform mental health care to create a system that works for everyone. His session, “Behavioral Health in North Carolina: Policy, Progress, and Priorities,” will highlight key investments made by the state, the progress of Tailored Plans, potential impacts of federal Medicaid changes, and ongoing legislative efforts to strengthen behavioral health services for all North Carolinians.

    What: Behavioral Health in North Carolina at i2i Center for Integrative Health Spring 2025 conference

    Who: Dev Sangvai, Secretary, NCDHHS

    When: Tuesday, June 10 
                   4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

    Where: Hilton Raleigh North Hills Hotel 
                    3415 Wake Forest Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609

    Media: Credentialed media should RSVP to news@dhhs.nc.gov

    May 30, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s child health care steadily improves: National Health Commission

    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

    BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) — China’s child health care has been steadily improving in recent years, Shen Haiping, a senior official with the National Health Commission, said at a press conference on Friday.

    She noted that in 2024, the infant mortality rate and the under-five mortality rate in the country dropped to 4 per thousand and 5.6 per thousand, respectively, reaching record lows. In these indicators, China has taken a leading position among the world’s upper-middle-income countries.

    According to Shen Haiping, based on global trends over the past decade, China ranks third and fourth among 53 upper-middle-income countries in terms of the average annual rate of decline in infant mortality and under-five mortality.

    The agency spokeswoman also added that between 2010 and 2023, China’s average population life expectancy increased by 3.8 years, with 21.7 percent of that increase due to a reduction in the under-five mortality rate. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: There is no talk of Turkish or anyone else’s mediation in the second round of Russia-Ukraine talks in Istanbul — Russian Foreign Ministry

    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

    Moscow, May 30 /Xinhua/ — A Russian delegation led by Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky will arrive in Istanbul on June 2 for the second round of direct talks with Ukraine. There is no talk of Turkish or anyone else mediating in the second round of talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. This was stated on Friday by Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova.

    “We confirm that the Russian delegation, headed by the Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, will be in Istanbul on June 2 to hold the second round of the aforementioned negotiations. It will arrive with a draft memorandum and other proposals for a ceasefire,” said M. Zakharova.

    Russia does not see a connection between direct negotiations with Ukraine and the presence of representatives of the United States, Great Britain, Germany and France in Istanbul, noted the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

    “Of course, we are deeply grateful to our Turkish friends for their hospitality and for creating the necessary comfortable conditions for work as hosts of the negotiating platform. However, there is no talk of Turkish or anyone else’s mediation,” M. Zakharova emphasized. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Exciting, but incredibly inspiring”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Photo: Dmitry Novikov

    On May 28, the students of the university-wide elective course “GR in modern Russia: theory and practice” The projects were evaluated by three commissions consisting of professors. Department of Theory and Practice of Interaction between Business and Government HSE University. One of the commissions was headed by the head of the department, HSE President Alexander Shokhin.

    This academic year, the Department of Theory and Practice of Business and Government Interaction at the National Research University Higher School of Economics celebrated its 20th anniversary. For over 15 years, its key project has been a university-wide elective course. It is attended not only by HSE students, but also by representatives of other universities, government agencies, commercial organizations, etc.

    The department was one of the first at the university to use a project-based approach to teaching. “Students in our elective write their final theses not as classic coursework or diploma theses, but as projects, including group projects, aimed at solving specific problems. This is due to the fact that the faculty of the department are practicing politicians, officials and entrepreneurs,” notes Alexander Shokhin.

    The head of the department himself annually supervises the preparation of several projects. In the current academic year, one of them was devoted to youth entrepreneurship; a team of four people worked on it: two HSE Master’s students and two elective students who had already received a higher education.

    “Writing the paper under the guidance of Alexander Nikolaevich was exciting, but incredibly inspiring,” says Alena Velikanova, a first-year student in the master’s program.Media management” He was deeply immersed in the topic, guided us, helped to build a clear structure for the research and set the accents. And most importantly, he was sincerely interested not only in the successful defense of the work, but also in its further development. His recommendations went far beyond the scope of the academic assignment and concerned the prospects for the practical application of our developments.”

    Alena completed the elective for the second time, and became its listener for the first time in the third year of the bachelor’s program “Journalism” Then her work, carried out under the supervision of Professor Nikolai Tsekhomsky, was devoted to public-private partnership in infrastructure projects of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Thanks to the elective, she deeply mastered economic issues, and this helped her in professional self-realization – she began to work in the Youth Council at the Representative Office of Kamchatka Krai.

    “I am an ambitious person, and the elective has become a serious challenge for me for the second year: I prove to myself that I can handle any topic,” admits Alena. “This is a great opportunity to prove myself, to master a new direction in an intensive format under the guidance of real leaders, to adopt their invaluable experience. In the future, I would like to do an internship at the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, and then work in my specialty – in the field of media management.”

    Another team of students, led by Professor Vladimir Salamatov, developed a project entitled “Development of the Northern Sea Route in the Context of Eastern Transport Infrastructure and Integration into International Transport Corridors.” It included Sergey Kharyushin, a second-year student in the bachelor’s program “State and municipal administration“, Alexey Proskurin, HSE graduate, head of the data analytics department of the Moscow Department of Information Technologies, and Elizaveta Metelyova, head of the operational analytics department of the Analytical Center under the Government of the Russian Federation.

    “The Northern Sea Route is a unique transport artery that connects Europe and Asia. After the introduction of sanctions, it became the most relevant, many problems associated with its use became more acute, and their solution required the combined efforts of various departments and shippers. The Northern Sea Route expands every year, attracts new participants, and last year it set a historical record for cargo turnover,” explains Elizaveta.

    “We have developed a number of recommendations – for example, we proposed creating the Main Directorate of the Northern Sea Route, an independent institution that will coordinate interdepartmental cooperation between Rosmorrechflot, Rosatom, the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of Russia and other structures on this issue. For online navigation tracking, we proposed creating a digital twin with the involvement of the Agency for Strategic Initiatives. The problem of the shortage of icebreaker and Arctic cargo fleet was also highlighted in the work,” adds Alexey.

    During the defense, the commission highly appreciated the project, and Professor Kirill Androsov recommended that its materials be submitted to the government commission. According to the authors, the expertise of Vladimir Salamatov, who has been working at the Department of Theory and Practice of Interaction between Business and Government at the National Research University Higher School of Economics since 2015, helped to prepare it at a high level and adequately defend it. In different years, he was Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation, General Director of the International Trade Center, and created his own analytical center dealing with issues of international trade.

    “I came to this department because it is unique. People who have achieved great results, worked or work in very important positions and, of course, have invaluable experience work here. They all understand that only the state or only business will not be able to solve the issues of our country’s development, that their alliance is needed for this. Both in professorial lectures and in student projects, the topic of interaction between business and government is highlighted every time,” Vladimir Salamatov notes.

    According to his assessment, there is a noticeable differentiation among the elective course participants by educational tracks: not only economists and political scientists come here, but even engineers, graduates of the Higher School of Economics and other universities. By and large, anyone can participate in the selection for the elective course. “I am equally interested in working with first-year students and graduates who perceive the material, including through the prism of their experience,” the professor adds.

    He recommends that elective students “not stand still, constantly study, test themselves, and if you do this constantly, success will not be long in coming.”

    Among the professors of the department who supervised the projects of the students this year was Deputy Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation Tatyana Ilyushnikova. The topic of one of the projects was devoted to the mechanisms of partnership interaction between the state and large businesses, the state and small businesses, large and small businesses, and another to the landscape of entrepreneurial awards as platforms for interaction between government bodies and businesses and identifying public opinion leaders in the entrepreneurial environment.

    “GR is the art of building a dialogue between business and the state based on mutual trust and strategic vision. Our elective course at HSE is a unique platform where future economists, managers and analysts learn to understand real decision-making mechanisms by working with relevant cases from practice. In the modern economy, where the regulatory environment is rapidly changing, such competencies are becoming critically important. Come and we will analyze real cases and explore the field of interaction between business and government in our joint project work,” said Tatyana Ilyushnikova.

    “In this elective, you will be able to receive exclusive information from outstanding experts – ministers, deputy ministers, State Duma deputies, famous entrepreneurs, and it will certainly be useful when studying in virtually any educational program. Personally, I learned a lot not only from the professors, but also from my senior comrades with whom I worked on the project,” says HSE student Sergey Kharyushin.

    At the end of this academic year, 45 students of the university-wide elective course “GR in Modern Russia: Theory and Practice” defended 27 projects, including 12 group projects. The range of scores was quite large. The maximum score, which only some managed to get, was 9 out of 10. It gives the right to apply for publication in the electronic journal “Business. Society. Power”, 8-point works can also be considered.

    After the defense, Alexander Shokhin thanked the audience for their involvement in the elective. Each was given a copy of the magazine “Business and Power in Russia”, published for the 20th anniversary of the department, with autographs of its professors.

    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 USA: Rep. Loudermilk Announces Military Service Academy Appointments for Class of 2029 – U.S. Representative Barry Loudermilk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Barry Loudermilk (R-GA)

    Washington, D.C. (May 30, 2025) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) has announced that six students from Georgia’s 11th Congressional District have received appointments to attend a U.S. military service academy. Each year, members of Congress are tasked with nominating students from their own district to attend our nation’s prestigious service academies.

    “Being accepted to one of our nation’s service academies is an achievement that requires discipline and determination from an early age, and I am incredibly honored to nominate these outstanding students. The annual nominations process is a responsibility my office takes very seriously, and our esteemed academy selection board chooses only the best and brightest applicants from Georgia’s 11th Congressional District. Congratulations to the Class of 2029 on being selected to represent our state and district at some of the most prestigious institutions in the nation.”

    United States Air Force Academy
    Brady R. Walter, Kennesaw, GA, Allatoona High School

    United States Merchant Marine Academy
    Eva N. Yokley, Woodstock, GA, River Ridge High School

    United States Military Academy
    Rowan Z. Drews, Marietta, GA, George Walton Comprehensive High School
    Jet C. Kennedy, Woodstock, GA, Etowah High School
    Addison M. Rice, Powder Springs, GA, Harrison High School

    United States Naval Academy
    Jana E. Macon, Kennesaw, GA, Allatoona High School

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Now Available: Galaxy S25 Edge, Beyond Slim

    Source: Samsung

    Understanding users’ evolving needs is key to developing technology that truly matters. The new Galaxy S25 Edge combines flagship-level performance with a portable design, serving as a powerful pocket-sized AI companion that pushes the boundaries of what a mobile device can be.
    The Galaxy S25 Edge is more than just a slim smartphone. Every curve, contour, and component reflects a breakthrough in precision engineering, delivering a premium experience befitting the S series’ legacy.
    Extensive experimentation was required to strike this balance, with numerous prototypes developed to test new combinations of components and structures — challenging established standards in mobile hardware design. The result is a smartphone, meticulously engineered for design, performance, and camera excellence.

    Ultra Thin Yet Built to Last
    The Galaxy S25 Edge continues the design language of the S series while achieving the slimmest profile in Galaxy S series history — measuring just 5.8mm thick1 and weighing only 163g.
    To make this possible, the S series experience was reimagined from the ground up. The Galaxy S25 Edge’s internal structure features a new mounting system, allowing components to be placed with precision down to 0.1mm.
    But the new device isn’t just slim — it’s tough as well. Premium materials, including a titanium frame as seen in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, make up the Galaxy S25 Edge’s robust exterior. It’s further reinforced by Corning® Gorilla® Glass Ceramic 2, a new display cover material strengthened with Samsung’s processing techniques.
    It’s a careful balance of design and durability.

    Cool Under Pressure
    The Galaxy S25 Edge may be the slimmest S series device yet, but there’s nothing light about its performance. From everyday responsiveness to intense multitasking, Samsung’s latest smartphone delivers the same power and speed found across the Galaxy S25 series.
    At its heart is the Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy2 — a powerful processor customized by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to set new standards for on-device AI processing and daily performance. True performance, however, goes beyond the chipset, especially in a device so thin.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Mining companies turn to AI and adoptive cloud to support global energy transition

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Mining companies turn to AI and adoptive cloud to support global energy transition

    As global demand for minerals and metals only intensifies, mining companies are turning to AI-powered solutions to enhance exploration accuracy, automate equipment, predict maintenance needs, help increase safety, and optimize energy use. Meeting net-zero targets is expected to require around 700,000 new workers in the critical minerals extraction industry by 2030, an 88% increase from 2022 levels.1 This is one area where AI comes in—82% of leaders say they’re confident that they’ll use digital labor to expand workforce capacity in the next 12 to 18 months.2

    Explore Microsoft for energy and resources

    As the mining industry undergoes its digital and AI transformation, Microsoft remains committed to delivering innovative and secure solutions. From adopting AI and agents to streamlining business processes and unlocking efficiency to moving legacy systems to the cloud—we’re dedicated to working together towards a powerful and sustainable future of mining.

    AI transformation for a more resilient future of mining

    As we are seeing across the energy and resources industry, the mining sector is facing growing pressure to support the global energy transition, with AI emerging as a prominent solution. With demand for critical minerals expected to quadruple by 20403, AI can help mining companies locate and extract resources more efficiently, with studies showing potential reductions of 20% to 30% in the time and cost of mineral discovery.4

    From early stage exploration to downstream processing and logistics, AI has the potential to be embedded throughout the mining value chain. In upstream operations, it can enhance mineral prospectivity mapping, resource estimation, and production planning. Downstream, it can optimize ore blending, recovery, and processing. Even side streams like supply chain logistics are beginning to see gains, as AI-powered efficiencies ripple across operations. And in exploration, AI unlocks insights from vast geoscientific datasets—both legacy and real-time—enabling faster, more accurate decision-making.

    The possibilities for AI use cases in the mining sector are abundant, and there are ways for organizations embarking on their digital transformation journey to get started today—such as with workforce productivity. AI adoption in this context is a powerful step towards the future of work, and Ma’aden, a mining company in Saudi Arabia, is a prime example of that. Ma’aden used Microsoft 365 Copilot, Microsoft Copilot Studio, and Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to help employees be more productive in daily tasks, like getting quick answers on policies, summarizing content, and drafting presentations, emails, and meeting minutes. Ma’aden saw enhanced productivity, with Copilot users saving up to 2,200 hours monthly.

    In addition to workforce productivity, Microsoft AI solutions are also enabling operational transformation, as seen in Sandvik’s approach to equipment optimization. Sandvik created a cloud-based service solution that uses data and AI to generate insights on the state of their machines to support the optimization of the operation of equipment. Powered by Microsoft Azure Cloud and its analytics and AI services, the solution uses data to produce actionable insights into equipment performance and status—helping to drive transformation across its business.

    Foundations for AI-driven transformation in mining

    Unlocking potential: Bringing the cloud to mining operations

    As the mining industry advances efficiency, safety, and sustainability goals, the adaptive cloud has emerged as a critical piece of this journey. Microsoft’s adaptive cloud approach uses cloud-native and AI technologies across hybrid, multi-cloud, edge, and Internet of Things (IoT) environments. By making operational technology (OT) cloud-enabled, mining organizations can unlock real-time insights, streamline operations, and enhance resilience. This union of cloud and OT supports smarter decision-making and predictive maintenance, and lays the foundation for innovation and scalability.

    Boliden offers a compelling example of how cloud infrastructure can modernize mining operations at scale. The Swedish mining company needed to automate and centralize data collection, increase visibility across processes, and add new ways to analyze information. Boliden monitors the Garpenberg site with a network of 500 cameras that give management teams oversight of the mines, wells, and operations, helping to keep an eye on productivity and safety. The company now uses a combination of Microsoft Azure IoT Edge and Microsoft Azure IoT Hub to connect the cameras with other Boliden systems and the rest of its IoT network, which consists of thousands of sensors above and below ground, along with other devices. By working with a flexible, fully featured cloud infrastructure, the company can now bring more productivity and safety to all their sites.

    Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) also exemplifies how adaptive cloud infrastructure can overcome the limitations of traditional on-premises environments to support scalable, intelligent operations. EGA deployed a hybrid environment that connected private cloud services through on-premises datacenters. Deploying a hybrid environment helped to optimize latency, support advanced AI and automation solutions, offer sustaining commercial savings by applying intelligence at the edge, and streamline processing for massive amounts of real-time readings from sensors, machinery, and production lines.

    Learn more about energy and resources solutions with Microsoft

    No matter what your organization’s digital transformation may look like, Microsoft is committed to helping to drive progress in the mining industry and working to grow sustainable, secure, AI-powered businesses. Microsoft has always been built on trust and a robust security suite, and is committed to prioritizing security in the design, build, and operation of our products and services. To take a deeper dive into cybersecurity in the age of generative AI and building a foundation for AI-powered transformation in mining, read our latest e-book.

    1 Tracking the Trends 2025 | Deloitte US, Deloitte 2025

    2 2025: The Year the Frontier Firm Is Born, Microsoft, April 2025

    3 The energy transition will need critical minerals and metals. Here’s how to mine responsibly, World Economic Forum, June 2024

    4 Now is the time to invest in sustainable mining technologies. Here’s why, World Economic Forum, September 2024

    Joseph Starwood

    Worldwide Mining Industry Leader, Microsoft

    Mr. Starwood serves as Worldwide Mining Industry Leader at Microsoft. He works with mining clients to align enterprise capabilities with business strategies to transform business models and operational processes and to realize value from technology investments and assets. He is a thought-leader on the Digital Sustainable Mine of the Future and his work utilizes digital twins, AI, industrial metaverse, edge computing, and more.

    See more articles from this author

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: FDIC Issues CRA Examination Schedules for Third Quarter 2025 and Fourth Quarter 2025

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    WASHINGTON – The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the lists of institutions scheduled for a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination during the third quarter 2025 and fourth quarter 2025.  CRA regulations require each federal bank and thrift regulator to publish its quarterly CRA examination schedule at least 30 days before the beginning of each quarter. 

    The Community Reinvestment Act is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with safe and sound operations.  CRA examinations allow federal regulators to assess an institution’s record of helping to meet those needs.

    CRA examinations are scheduled based on an institution’s asset size and CRA rating.  Absent reasonable cause, an institution with $250 million or less in assets and a CRA rating of Satisfactory can be subject to a CRA examination no more frequently than once every 48 months.  Absent reasonable cause, an institution with $250 million or less in assets and a CRA rating of Outstanding can be subject to a CRA examination no more frequently than once every 60 months.  

    The schedules of institutions to be examined July 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025, and October 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025, are based on the best information now available and are subject to change.  For example, a regulated financial institution not otherwise scheduled for an examination may be examined in connection with the application for a deposit facility.  Alternatively, some institutions may require more time and resources than originally allotted, thus delaying other scheduled examinations.  If an institution is rescheduled for a different quarter, that information will be included on a later list. 

    Federal bank and thrift regulators encourage public comment on the institutions to be examined under the CRA. Comments about FDIC-supervised institutions should be directed to the institutions themselves or to the Deputy Regional Director of the appropriate FDIC regional office (attached).  All public comments received prior to completion of a CRA examination will be considered.

    The CRA examination schedules for the third quarter of 2025 and fourth quarter of 2025 are attached.  Schedules also can be obtained by calling (703) 562-2200 or (877) 275-3342, faxing a request to (703) 562-2296, or writing to:

    FDIC
    Public Information Center
    3501 Fairfax Drive
    Room E-1002
    Arlington, VA 22226

    ATTACHMENTS:

    # # #

    MEDIA CONTACT: 
    LaJuan Williams-Young
    lwilliams-young@FDIC.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ivey Continues Bolstering Veteran Support, Unveils Members of State Board of Veterans Affairs

    Source: US State of Alabama

    MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Friday unveiled the newly restructured Alabama State Board of Veterans Affairs (SBVA) members.

    “In Alabama, we proudly support the men and women who wore the uniform to fight for our freedoms. We continue to prioritize veteran needs in our state and want to ensure we have every available resource for these men and women who served our country,” said Governor Ivey. “I am proud to assemble a strong and wide-ranging Board of veterans to serve all of their fellow veterans. I look forward to continue working with this group to make Alabama the number one state for veterans.”

    The SBVA members include:

    • Colonel (Ret.) Larry Vannoy, American Legion*
    • Colonel (Ret.) Walter Kozak, American Legion*
    • John Keen, Jr., American Legion*
    • Jeffrey Fisher, American Veterans*
    • Sergeant Brandi Whitman, Disabled American Veterans*
    • Deborah Walker, Disabled American Veterans
    • Charles Waugh, Disabled American Veterans
    • John Burks, Marine Corps League*
    • Michael Urquhart, Military Officers Association of America*
    • Lorenzo Nathan, Military Order of the Purple Heart*
    • Colonel (Ret.) Anne Toms, Military Officers Association of America
    • Colonel (Ret.) Scott Gedling, The Veterans of Foreign Wars
    • Robert Schmidbauer, The Veterans of Foreign Wars*
    • Michael Davis, Vietnam Veterans of America*
    • Colonel (Ret.) Lori Rasmussen, At Large, U.S. Air Force*

    *Denotes new appointment

    Governor Ivey, by virtue of her office, serves on the Board as well.

    During the 2025 Regular Session of the Alabama Legislature, Governor Ivey championed Senate Bill 67, sponsored by Sen. Andrew Jones and Rep. Ed Oliver, to restructure both the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs and the SBVA, further elevating veteran needs in Alabama.

    Governor Ivey thanks these Board members for not only their service to the country, but also to Alabama and the state’s veterans. The appointments are effective immediately.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Secures $600,000 from Fitness Company Equinox for its Hard-to-Cancel Memberships

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced a settlement with Equinox Group, LLC (Equinox Group), which offers fitness services under Equinox, Equinox+, and SoulCycle, for making it hard for New Yorkers to cancel their membership. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that Equinox Group failed to clearly disclose its subscription terms, provide consumers with the subscription acknowledgment required by New York law, and offer cost-effective and easy-to-use online cancellation mechanisms. As a result of today’s settlement, Equinox Group must pay $600,000 in penalties, change its subscription practices, and offer refunds to subscribers who tried to cancel their membership but could not.

    “New Yorkers should be able to cancel a membership they no longer use or want without breaking a sweat,” said Attorney General James. “The Equinox Group made it challenging for customers to end their membership, costing them time and money. As a result of my office’s settlement, New Yorkers can now cancel their membership with Equinox, SoulCycle, or any of Equinox Group’s brands much faster.”

    New York law requires subscription terms to be clearly disclosed to customers, including the minimum term, the fact that the subscription renews, and the cancellation policy. Businesses must also obtain affirmative consent for automatic renewals, provide a post-purchase acknowledgment, and offer a cost effective, timely, and easy-to-use cancellation mechanism.

    The OAG found that Equinox’s subscription terms were not clear and appeared in fine print disclosures or within a hard-to-understand terms and conditions document. Equinox also did not obtain informed affirmative consent from subscribers and did not provide them with a post-purchase acknowledgment. In addition, Equinox’s cancellation process was complex, difficult, and time-consuming. 

    This settlement requires Equinox Group to pay $600,000 in penalties and provide refunds of up to $250 to New York subscribers who filed complaints with the Equinox Group, Federal Trade Commission, Better Business Bureau, or the Office of the Attorney General of the State of New York. 

    New York subscribers to Equinox gyms, SoulCycle, and Equinox+ online fitness classes are also eligible for up to $100 in restitution. New York Equinox Group customers who first became subscribers or attempted to cancel their subscription between February 9, 2021 and May 19, 2025 must email Equinox Group by July 19, 2025. SoulCycle subscribers should email NewYorkAGclaims@soul-cycle.com . Equinox Gym and Equinox+ subscribers should email NewYorkAGclaims@equinox.com.  Subscriber restitution requests must include their name, and the phone number or email address associated with their account. 

    In addition to paying penalties and restitution, Equinox Group must improve its disclosures, obtain informed affirmative consent from subscribers, and provide customers with an acknowledgment including cancellation information. The settlement also requires Equinox Group to clearly and conspicuously disclose cancellation information in the subscription agreement and on an easily accessible website page for each brand.

    This settlement is the latest in Attorney General James’ efforts to help customers with hard-to-cancel subscriptions. In December 2023, Attorney General James sued SiriusXM for trapping customers into unwanted subscriptions and in November 2024, a court found that SiriusXM violated the law by forcing customers to undergo a long and burdensome process to cancel their subscriptions.

    This matter was handled by Assistant Attorney General Gena Feist and Laura Mumm, and former Assistant Attorney General Hanna Baek, under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Clark Russell and Bureau Chief Kim Berger of the Bureau of Internet and Technology. The Bureau of Internet and Technology is a part of the Division for Economic Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris D’Angelo and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indianapolis Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    SOUTH BEND – Queyoun Foulks-Smith, 20 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possession of a machinegun, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Foulks-Smith was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, on July 4, 2024, law enforcement found Foulks-Smith in possession of a machinegun—a stolen firearm with a loaded 50-round drum magazine and a “switch.”  The switch converted this firearm into an automatic firearm, allowing it to fire multiple bullets instantaneously with a single function of the trigger.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the South Bend Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph P. Falvey.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced to Over Five Years in Prison for Ammunition Offense in Connection with Everett Shooting

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    BOSTON – A Revere man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for illegally possessing ammunition in connection with a shooting in a residential neighborhood of Everett.

    Kenneth Munoz, 27, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 70 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In December 2024, Munoz pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of ammunition.  

    On the afternoon of Jan. 2, 2022, three individuals fired over 20 shots in an Everett neighborhood, during which multiple houses were struck by stray bullets. Munoz was identified as one of the shooters. Due to prior convictions, including a 2017 state conviction for assault and battery on a family member and malicious destruction of property, Munoz is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division; Everett Police Chief Paul Strong; and Chelsea Police Chief Keith E. Houghton made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Hoefle of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Leveraging Migration for Sustainable Development: IOM Director General Visits Central Asia 

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Bishkek/Astana, 30 May 2025 – International Organization for Migration (IOM) Director General Amy Pope made her first-ever visit to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and Astana, Kazakhstan, this week, working with key partners and government officials on ways in which migration can contribute to economic growth and sustainable development in the region.  

    “As Central Asia takes on an increasingly prominent role as a destination and host for migrants, IOM stands ready to support national governments to harness the potential of migration for long-term sustainable development,” DG Pope said. “By working together, we can address the drivers of migration, support and stabilize vulnerable communities, and ensure the safe, dignified return of migrants to their countries of origin when possible.”   

    In Astana, DG Pope met with His Excellency, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, together with IOM’s regional Goodwill Ambassador, Dimash Qudaibergen, and discussed the impacts of migration and mobility in the region. DG Pope commended President Tokayev’s commitment to upholding the rights and economic contributions of migrants.  

    DG Pope also attended the Astana International Forum which brought together heads of states, thought leaders, and experts from the public and private sectors. The Forum aims to reignite multilateralism and spark transformative dialogue, positioning Central Asia as a key global partner.  

    Kazakhstan, the largest economy in Central Asia and historically a bridge between East and West, hosts the largest number of migrants in the region. Most come from neighboring Commonwealth of Independent States countries, primarily Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and the Russian Federation. In addition to regional flows, migrants are coming increasingly from other countries, notably China, Türkiye, and India.   

    During her visit in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek, DG Pope met with H.E. Prime-Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev and reiterated how migration can significantly impact Kyrgyzstan’s socio-economic landscape. DG Pope then joined partners to officially open the pre-departure orientation and reintegration centre for migrants. The centre will equip prospective and returning migrants with the necessary tools to have a safe migration experience.  

    For over two decades, IOM has worked closely and remains committed to deepening collaboration with Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan in implementing projects and policies that improve migrant protection, combat trafficking in persons, address climate-induced mobility, and support South-North labour migration in the country. 

     

    For more information, please contact IOM Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ogles Launches Investigation Into Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell, Files Official Request for Documents

    Source:

    Columbia, TN — Today, Congressman Andy Ogles, alongside the House Homeland Security and Judiciary Committees, has formally launched an investigation into Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell. The letter requires Mayor O’Connell to provide Congress with all communications, documentation, and materials relating to:

    • His amendment of Executive Order 30, which involves coordination between local authorities and federal immigration officials;
    • Any contact or correspondence with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) regarding immigration enforcement, sanctuary policies, or the handling of criminal aliens;
    • Any internal or external communications concerning the activities of ICE, DHS, or other federal law enforcement operating in Nashville or Davidson County;
    • All financial records and documentation pertaining to taxpayer-funded programs and funds distributed to illegal aliens, including but not limited to the Nashville “Belonging Fund.”

    “Instead of defending our state, Mayor Freddie O’Connell is sabotaging it. He’s weaponized his office to dox and surveil federal agents who are trying to stop violent criminals — and worse, he’s embraced those criminals by creating a taxpayer-funded program to aid illegal aliens The recipients of these funds are untraceable, and the purpose seems crystal clear: help illegal foreigners evade the law,” said Congressman Ogles.

    “I refuse to sit back while our communities are overrun, our neighborhoods are destroyed, and our daughters are assaulted. And I absolutely refuse to stay silent while blue city mayors aid and abet this invasion.”

    “Today, with the full support of Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan and Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green, we’re taking action. If Mayor O’Connell wants to spy on federal agents doing their job, then Congress is going to investigate him for obstruction,” Congressman Ogles said.

    Official Documentation Request Here

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko Blasts Trump Administration for Axing Job Corps Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    ALBANY, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko released the following statement lambasting the Trump administration for forcing a nationwide pause in operations of the Job Corps. The decision, announced by the Department of Labor yesterday, will impact more than 25,000 students nationwide, including hundreds of Capital Region residents at the local Glenmont Job Corps Center.

    “The decision to set a nationwide pause on the Job Corps program is as irrational as it is heartless. Job Corps offers essential training to help our new and future workforce learn, grow, and succeed in their chosen field of work.

     

    “Helping young people develop the skills they need to pursue a path towards a good career is the exact opposite of “waste, fraud, and abuse.” With this erratic, thoughtless action, the Trump administration has kicked tens of thousands of students out of their homes and to the curb — including many in our Capital Region — and punished them for simply trying to better themselves.

     

    “This pause not only harms young students — it harms our communities as well. In the Town of Bethlehem, Job Corps workers help the Highway Department build safe roads and keep streets clear of yard waste. Without assistance provided from Job Corps workers, the Town would likely have to cut back on essential services.

     

    “I vehemently oppose this decision, and I will work with bipartisan partners in Congress to undo this pause and ensure that Job Corps can continue its essential mission.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HUD Secretary Scott Turner, Rep. Kelly tour Erie’s Opportunity Zones

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    ERIE, PENNSYLVANIA — On Wednesday, May 28, U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Scott Turner, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA),and local leaders toured downtown Erie’s highly successful Opportunity Zones (OZs) and other housing initiatives around Erie, Pennsylvania.  

    During their visit to Erie, Sec. Turner and Rep. Kelly were joined by U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) and received an update on downtown Erie’s Opportunity Zone projects. They also met with local stakeholders as Congress considers extending and expanding OZ legislation. 

    “Erie is a model of how Opportunity Zones can revitalize communities,” said Sec. Turner. “Erie’s Opportunity Zone-driven renaissance continues to attract new businesses, inspiring the creation of more homes and generating economic and community development. This would not be possible without the support of local, state and federal leaders who work in tandem with the public and private sectors to take Opportunity Zones from a proposal to a reality that will benefit generations of individuals and families. I want to thank Congressman Kelly for welcoming back to the City of Erie – I’m excited to see what the future holds for this community.”

    “As Congress considers extending and expanding Opportunity Zone legislation, and as we work to make housing more affordable for all Americans, Secretary Turner’s visit puts Western Pennsylvania front and center in Washington,” said Rep. Kelly. “Opportunity Zones continue to create jobs and affordable housing in Erie, and they continue to pump hundreds of millions of dollars into the local economy. I want to thank Secretary Turner for visiting Erie again and for his commitment to pro-growth policy.”

    You can watch the press conference here.

    BACKGROUND

    Sec. Turner and Rep. Kelly played an integral role in establishing and implementing Opportunity Zones when they were passed in the 2017 Tax Cuts & Jobs Act. Downtown Erie remains a national leader in Opportunity Zones legislation.

    In April, Turner, Kelly, and Sen. Tim Scott published this op-ed on FoxNews.com highlighting the importance of extending Opportunity Zones legislation.

    In The News:

    Erie News Now (NBC/CBS, Erie) — “U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner Visits Erie to Highlight Opportunity Zone Progress”

    YourErie.com (ABC/FOX, Erie) — “U.S. HUD Secretary Views Opportunity Zones, partnering with Rep. Kelly for legislation”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China honors outstanding scientists in museum on Sci-tech Workers’ Day

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

    BEIJING, May 30 — China commemorated its National Sci-tech Workers’ Day on Friday as artifacts related with outstanding scientists were displayed in a museum dedicated to their achievements.

    The China Scientists Museum in Beijing showcased 10 significant items, including a group photo of scientists involved in the development of atomic bomb, ballistic missile and satellite and a prestigious medal awarded to engineering expert Qian Qihu.

    The event featured narratives from the scientists themselves, their family members, and students.

    Wan Gang, president of the China Association for Science and Technology, addressed the event, calling on scientific and technological workers to contribute to national development.

    He urged them to carry forward the innovative elements within China’s fine traditional culture, and work for high-level self-reliance and strength in science and technology.

    The event coincided with the first anniversary of the China Scientists Museum. Over the past year, the museum attracted over 170,000 visitors and curated 14 thematic exhibitions to showcase scientists’ achievements and spirit.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Promoting women’s leadership in peace and security in focus of OSCE regional workshop in Ashgabat

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Promoting women’s leadership in peace and security in focus of OSCE regional workshop in Ashgabat

    Participants of a two-day regional workshop on advancing the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda and supporting the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 in Central Asia, with a focus on Turkmenistan, Ashgabat, 27 May 2025. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan) Photo details

    To strengthen the role of women in peacebuilding and security across Central Asia, the OSCE Gender Issues Programme organized a two-day regional workshop on 27 and 28 May in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. The event focused on advancing the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda and supporting the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 in Central Asia, with a focus on Turkmenistan.
    The workshop brought together government officials, scholars, civil society representatives, and international experts to exchange experiences and good practices and explore practical strategies for integrating gender perspectives into national peace and security efforts. Special emphasis was placed on supporting Turkmenistan in updating its Gender Equality National Action Plan (NAP) to align with global standards and regional priorities.
    In her opening remarks, Her Excellency Mahri Bashimova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, emphasized the country’s commitment to neutrality, peaceful coexistence, and international law, highlighting gender equality as a key element of its sustainable development and security policy. “We believe that women’s participation in peacebuilding and security processes must be systemic and institutionalized, not occasional,” she said.
    Organized under the OSCE’s WIN Project and hosted by the Government of Turkmenistan —with support from Finland’s 2025 OSCE Chairpersonship—the event built on momentum from previous regional initiatives, including a 2024 expert workshop in Vienna.
    “We must renew our resolve to empower women and girls and ensure their full participation in every sphere of life. Finland welcomes Turkmenistan’s efforts on WPS—particularly its National Action Plan on gender equality. Gender equality and full inclusion lie at the heart of Finland’s foreign policy and our OSCE Chairpersonship,” stated Ambassador Terhi Hakala, Special Envoy of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office.
    Participants engaged in expert-led sessions covering key areas such as developing and monitoring National Action Plans, strengthening inter-agency collaboration, and ensuring meaningful participation of civil society and the security sector.
    “For OSCE gender equality is not only as a matter of rights but the cornerstone of peace and security. This event reflects our commitment to the Women, Peace and Security Agenda — supporting participating States in developing and implementing effective National Action Plans. By promoting good practices in monitoring, co-ordination, and inclusive engagement, we are helping to build more responsive and resilient peace and security policies,” outlined Dr Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues.
    The participants explored ways to ensure that the voices of women are heard and integrated into all aspects of peace and security in Central Asia.
    Ambassador John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, reflected on the workshop’s impact: “One of the key outcomes of this two-day event was the opportunity to share national experiences and OSCE best practices in advancing the WPS agenda and tailoring National Action Plans accordingly. Sustainable peace cannot be achieved without the meaningful participation of women. Women bring essential perspectives shaped by their roles in families, communities, and economies — raising critical issues such as education, healthcare, and justice.”

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: FDIC Issues Enforcement Orders for April 2025

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    CategoriesBusiness, Commerce, MIL-OSI, United States Federal Government, United States Government, United States of America, US Commerce, US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC, US Federal Government, US Insurance Sector, USA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Road surfacing programme gets under way

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Forty-five Plymouth roads will get a new lease of life over the next 12 months as part of a £1.734 million investment in preventative treatment and resurfacing.

    Our road surfacing programme for 2025/26 has just got under way and is targeting stretches on main routes where the overall road surface is nearing the end of its life or where multiple potholes have developed.

    Nine roads will be fully resurfaced and a further 36 are undergoing surface dressing, which is used to extend the life of roads showing earlier signs of wear and tear, improving their condition and delaying the need for more costly repairs.

    Surface dressing involves spraying a bituminous binder onto the prepared road surface before applying aggregate chippings (also known as the ‘lock-chip’ stage), followed by sweeping and finally re-lining.

    Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “Ensuring people can get from A to B, however they travel, is an absolute priority for Plymouth and a resilient road network is essential. By investing in preventative treatments like surface dressing we can improve the condition of roads and slow down their deterioration to help reduce the need for much more costly resurfacing.”

    Roads undergoing surface dressing between now and the end of June include:

    • Barbican Road
    • Beaconfield Road
    • Boulter Close
    • Chestnut Avenue
    • Clittaford Road
    • Culver Way
    • Dunnet Road
    • Eggbuckland Road/Frogmore Avenue
    • Ford Park Lane
    • Furneaux Road
    • Granby Way
    • Lanhydrock Road Lane
    • Longbridge Road/Marsh Close
    • Macadam Road/Shapters Way
    • Mount Gould Road
    • Old Laira Road
    • Penlee Place/Ashford Road
    • Plymbridge Road
    • Pomphlett Gardens
    • Prince Maurice Road
    • Princess Street
    • Princess Street Ope
    • Roman Way
    • Segrave Road
    • Southway Drive
    • Staddon Lane/Hooe Road
    • Station Road (Tamerton Foliot)
    • Stenlake Terrace
    • St Georges Avenue
    • St Peters Road
    • Uxbridge Drive
    • Whin Bank Road
    • Wolverwood Lane

    The works, which are phased over separate days, are being carried out by our road maintenance contractor South West Highways, alongside its day-to-day repairs to individual potholes.

    Advance warning signs are being put out on the roadside to let drivers know when works are programmed and local residents and businesses are being sent letters with details of when their roads are being closed. Access to properties is being maintained as far as possible and any diversion routes are being signposted.

    Roads that will be fully resurfaced this year include:

    • Buckwell Street
    • Budshead Road
    • Drunken Bridge Hill/Underwood Road
    • Foliot Road
    • Fort Austin Avenue
    • Ham Drive
    • Kinterbury Street
    • New Passage Hill

    For the latest roadworks updates follow @plymhighways on X or sign up for our weekly roadworks roundup.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Pride of place’ at ARU’s Graduate Showcase

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Some of the work on display at the exhibition

    From intimate reflections on home and heritage to explorations of urban spaces, migration and belonging, this year’s Graduate Showcase exhibition at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is celebrating the many ways that “place” informs identity and influences creative expression.

    The free exhibition, which features work by students graduating from a range of creative courses at ARU this year, is a fantastic opportunity for employers, fellow creatives or members of the public to engage with exciting, thought-provoking content, form valuable connections and gain new perspectives.

    The Graduate Showcase features projects by more than 300 students from 15 different undergraduate courses, as well as work in progress from ARU’s Masters courses, and will be on show at ARU’s Cambridge campus from 6-13 June.

    Echoes of Home, a Transatlantic Dialogue by BA (Hons) Photography student Betsy Richards-Kemp asks where our sense of belonging comes from as she attempts to understand the impact of the movement and migration of black people, drawing on the intimate story of two sisters separated by the Atlantic.

    Based in Suffolk, Betsy uses her camera to tell the untold stories of people’s lives and to understand “shared culture, shared history and shared connections”.

    The media used in the exhibition is as diverse as the subject matter – from Alice Hibbert’s handknitted jumper celebrating her Welsh roots and the cockle picking women of Penclawdd, South Wales, to Freyja Finnis’ graphic novel exploring a young person’s journey of self-belief and acceptance set in small rural community.

    Fine Art student Zineb Khadraoui’s handmade ceramic tiles map personal and collective histories. Zineb explained:

    “The tiles are made using clay from Morocco mixed with soil from my family’s land, and each one features photographic transfers from my travels or family archives.

    “The installation takes a circular form, inviting the viewer to walk through the space and reflect on the idea of returning to one’s roots – both physically and emotionally.”

    BA (Hons) Graphic Design student Issac Khera examines the ways we experience place through sound. Featuring the town of Hitchin, his auditory map explores the way the sound of rainfall interacts with the environment along a route. It uses a variable typeface to pinpoint the nuances of rainfall on different surfaces, such as trickling into a drain or falling onto cars.

    Film and TV Production students Lisa-Marie Soulier and Claudia Vogt have co-produced a documentary, Saturday Night Butch, highlighting the importance of lesbian nightclubs in the celebration of masculine presenting lesbians.

    Claudia said: “We travelled across the UK to find and understand the community, visiting venues from nightclubs to barbershops. Bringing Lesbians together has brought a new and long overdue appreciation for masculine presenting Lesbians and a unique perspective to Lesbian documentary.”

    “Place is not just a backdrop for these students’ work, it is an active force – something that provokes, inspires, and challenges. Whether it’s a response to local culture, ecological landscapes, or global dislocation, our students are engaging with the world around them in meaningful and original ways.”

    Professor Catherine Lee, Deputy Dean within the Faculty of Arts, Humanities, Education and Social Sciences at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)

    ARU’s Graduate Showcase 2025 includes installations, moving image from games, film and animation, digital media, and traditional practices, with each piece offering a lens on how place shapes our experiences and futures. Many of the works also reflect a deep commitment to social and environmental issues.

    The free Graduate Showcase is open to the public from Friday, 6 June to Friday, 13 June – including during ARU’s Undergraduate Open Day on Saturday, 7 June – but is closed on Sunday. The exhibition is at ARU’s main East Road campus in Cambridge and further information is available at https://creativeshowcase.aru.ac.uk/showcase/graduate-showcase

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local businesses invited to join borough-wide ‘Shop ABC’ Gift Card Scheme

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council are asking local businesses to sign up to its exciting new gift card initiative, designed to encourage people to shop local, gift local, and spend local.

    Set to go live this summer, the ‘Shop ABC’ Gift Card will be valid across the ABC borough. Businesses of all types and sizes — from retailers and restaurants to salons, hotels, and visitor attractions — are invited to join the scheme for free.

    The card operates via the Mastercard network, meaning no additional equipment is required for businesses already accepting Mastercard payments.

    The ‘Shop ABC’ Gift Card offers a convenient and flexible way for consumers to gift and spend money within the borough. Whether it’s for birthdays, Christmas, thank-you gifts, or corporate rewards, the card will provide a powerful new way to promote local economic activity.

    With a summer launch fast approaching, the Council is urging businesses to register early to ensure they’re part of the scheme from day one.

    Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Kyle Savage said: “The introduction of the Shop ABC Gift Card marks a significant step in strengthening support for businesses across the borough. We all understand the vital importance of shopping local—and this card makes it easier than ever to do just that. By keeping spending within our city, town centres, and villages, we’re not only backing local businesses but also investing in the long-term vitality and resilience of our communities.”

    Chair of the ABC Business Partnership Alliance, Adrian Farrell, said: “The Shop ABC Gift Card is a powerful new way to support our local economy by making it easier than ever to shop local. Available in both physical and digital formats, it’s designed to appeal to all age groups and spending habits. This initiative gives smaller businesses access to a gift card program that aims to drive footfall and boost sales. With no additional cost to join or accept the card, it’s a win-win for businesses and consumers alike. By working together across the borough, we’re creating a compelling, modern tool that keeps money circulating locally and helps our town centres thrive.”

    Colin Munro, Managing Director of Miconex, said: “The first thing people will do when they receive a Shop ABC Gift Card is check where it can be spent. Being a part of the initiative will drive awareness of your businesses, and is a proven means of driving new customers and new revenue. Signing up to accept the card takes moments and ensures you’re not turning away businesses when the card launches in the summer.” 

    To sign up or find out more about the Shop ABC Gift Card, businesses can email:

    *protected email*

     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Outgoing Mayor Cllr Seenoi Barr reflects on historic year of inclusion, growth and resilience

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Outgoing Mayor Cllr Seenoi Barr reflects on historic year of inclusion, growth and resilience

    30 May 2025

    As her year as Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council draws to a close, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr has reflected on her term in office, highlighting her accomplishments, challenges, and her unwavering commitment to unity and inclusivity.

    Speaking ahead of the Council Annual General Meeting (AGM) that takes place on Monday 02 June, to elect a new Mayor – Mayor Barr, said it was an extraordinary privilege to serve as Mayor of Derry and Strabane, to be the North’s first Black Mayor, as well as a Maasai woman and a Derry Girl.

    She said her year as Mayor was dedicated to making “not just history—but change –from the outset, my pledge was to be a mayor for everyone—approachable, present, and focused on building a city and district where every voice matters.”

    Mayor Barr, who made history last year as the North’s first Black Mayor, expressed her deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the district’s First Citizen. She emphasised that her term has been defined by diversity, courage, and a determination to build a more inclusive community despite facing various challenges.

    One of the most pivotal achievements during her tenure was the signing of the Financial Deal for the Derry~Strabane City Deal. “This transformational moment confirmed what we’ve always known: that this district is ready to lead, to innovate, and to thrive,” adding that she firmly believed this investment will bring about positive opportunities for everyone.

    The Mayor said that community was at the heart of her Mayoral year, exemplified by the “One Big Weekend, One Big Cause” initiative, which saw a series of vibrant fundraising events for the Mayor’s chosen charity, the BUD Club. From the “roar of the Supercar event to the rhythm and joy of Derry Rocks for BUD Club, to the colour and energy of my ‘Feel the Beat’ Afro-inspired music celebration,” each event underscored a strong sense of purpose and community spirit,” she said.

    A significant legacy of the Mayor’s term was the Inclusive Youth Hub— ‘Our Guildhall, Our Place’. This initiative provided young voices with a platform and sense of belonging, reflecting a shared commitment to young people and meaningful change.

    The Mayor also proudly recalled the joy of hosting the Inclusive Birthday Party at Foyle Arena, tailored for children and young people with additional needs, proving that “inclusion works when we work together” and the Community Christmas Party held at the Guildhall where those who made a significant impact on their community were acknowledged and recognised.

    The Mayor spoke of the work she did to actively promote diversity and inclusion across civic life, reaching out to fellow Mayors across the North for “powerful and honest conversations about how we can better include all minority communities.” This commitment extended to representing the city internationally, raising awareness around racial inequality, migration, women’s health, and housing.

    The Mayor’s leadership extended to the international stage, welcoming former Taoiseach Simon Harris T.D. and the Lord Mayor of the City of London, cementing Derry~Strabane’s central role in regional growth and global collaboration while a trade and investment mission to the U.S. successfully promoted Derry and Strabane as a hub of innovation and investment.

    A deeply personal and profoundly meaningful highlight was the Mayor’s address at the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., leading to the award of an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Howard University. “This honour was not just a personal milestone—it was a recognition of the values we hold dear: inclusion, justice, and meaningful social change.”

    Mayor Barr said the visit of a delegation from her homeland of Kenya was another very powerful symbol of unity and support, whilst also further strengthening Derry’s international relations.

    The Mayor bravely addressed the “unprecedented levels of online abuse—much of it, racially motivated, and much of it deeply personal.” She said that despite these challenges she refused to be defined by hate, choosing instead to “stay focused, to stay present, and to stay true to my purpose: building a more inclusive, compassionate, and forward-looking district.”

    She credited the people of Derry and Strabane for lifting her up, demonstrating that “love is louder. And hope is stronger.”

    The Mayor extended profound gratitude to Deputy Mayor Alderman Darren Guy for his support during her Mayoral term, her dedicated Mayoral support staff, the Guildhall and wider Council staff, and fellow councillors.

    She also acknowledged the performers and community contributors and sponsors for their continued support with a heartfelt appreciation for her husband Paul and son Brian for their unwavering love and support throughout the year.

    As she prepares to pass the chain of office to the new incoming Mayor, the Mayor concluded saying she left office with her “head held high,” confident that “together, we’ve shown what’s possible when leadership is rooted in community, courage, and compassion.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edinburgh marks a year of Low Emission Zone (LEZ) enforcement

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    NHS Lothian, and Asthma + Lung UK have praised the benefits of the LEZ, following a year of enforcement.

    Experts at the NHS and a leading charity have highlighted the ongoing impact of the LEZ enforcement on air quality and health. In addition, the new rules have incentivised active travel and greater use of public transport.

    A LEZ was introduced in Edinburgh on 31 May 2022, along with LEZs in Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Dundee, restricting the most polluting vehicles and benefiting everyone’s health. Edinburgh began enforcement alongside Aberdeen on June 1, 2024. Dundee began enforcement on May 30, 2024, and Glasgow on June 1, 2023.

    With Clean Air Day (19 June) just a few weeks away too this one-year anniversary is a timely reminder of the importance of the LEZ here in Edinburgh and beyond.

    In recent years air quality in Edinburgh has improved, with our monitoring data showing reduced pollution levels, and people getting ready for the LEZ may have contributed to this.

    Over the last year, the average amount of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) issued for non-compliant vehicles entering the zone has been decreasing steadily.

    Between June 2024 and January 2025 alone the total number decreased by 56%. There is also evidence of lower numbers of second contraventions. The vast majority of vehicles entering the LEZ are compliant, over 95%. Around 3% of vehicles entering the LEZ are exempted classed.

    The Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM) has also published a study indicating that active travel and public transport use increased within the LEZ during the first six months after LEZ enforcement.

    The first annual report on LEZ operation is expected to be presented to the Transport and Environment Committee later this year, including air quality trends and how the scheme contributes to our carbon reduction targets, as well as operational matters such as the number of PCNs issued, costs of maintaining and operating the scheme, gross and net revenue and other key issues.

    The Council is working with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) on data collection and analysis of the LEZ and will present a report in the Scottish Parliament that will help inform the national picture of LEZ impact.

    Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson:

    I’m proud that alongside Aberdeen, Dundee, and Glasgow we took the bold step of implementing and enforcing a LEZ. We’re sending a clear message that our major cities are united in pursuing a better future for all. Fundamentally, the LEZs are about making our cities healthier for everyone. 

    As Scotland’s capital city, we have a duty to lead on the response to the climate and nature emergencies which will define our country for generations to come. Multiple studies show that even low levels of pollution can have an impact on our health. Road traffic is one of the main sources of harmful emissions that are damaging people’s health and contributing to climate change, so we have a real responsibility to tackle this.

    The average decrease in PCNs here in Edinburgh show that people are getting used to the LEZ and modifying their habits accordingly. It’s also encouraging to see studies showing a positive shift towards greater use of active travel and public transport.

    I look forward to seeing the annual report when it is considered by Committee.

    The LEZ is one important tool to help us achieve our ambitious climate goals, including net zero emissions by 2030.

    Flora Ogilvie, Consultant in Public Health, NHS Lothian said:

    It’s great to know that the LEZ enforcement has been in place for a year, helping to improve air quality in the city and protect the health of our most vulnerable residents. Improving air quality and reducing traffic levels are also an important way of encouraging more people to travel by walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport.

    Travelling sustainably can help improve individual physical activity levels and mental wellbeing, as well as supporting better environmental health for the whole population and planet.

    Joseph Carter, Head of Asthma + Lung UK Scotland said:

    We are pleased that Edinburgh along with Dundee and Aberdeen made the bold move a year ago to ban the most polluting cars from their city and it is a step in the right direction to help improve the air that we all breathe.

    With air pollution cutting short thousands of lives a year, we want to see our cities become far healthier places, where people can walk and cycle and not be forced to breathe in dirty air.

    With 1 in 5 people in Scotland developing a lung condition like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in their lifetime, for them, air pollution can trigger life-threatening asthma attacks and flare-ups.

    Children are more susceptible to air pollution as their lungs are still growing, and they also breathe faster than adults. As they grow, toxic air can stunt the growth of their lungs, making them less resilient into adulthood and placing them at greater risk of lung disease in the future.

    Further Information:

    77% of all PCNs in the last year were served to light passenger vehicles (private cars) and 21% to light goods vehicles (panel vans) with the remaining 2% being divided among the other classes of vehicle. 62.4% of PCNs are paid within 14 days at the discounted rate.

    The penalty charge structure for all of Scotland’s LEZs is set by the Scottish Government.

    We publish regular updates on PCN figures on our website.

    Income from the LEZ will be used in the first instance to pay for the operation and maintenance of the scheme. Any surplus income will be contributed towards Council projects which contribute towards the wider goals of the LEZ, particularly improving air quality and climate change emission reduction.

    All LEZ monitoring and evaluation information will be made available on our webpages.

    Air pollution is associated with between 29,000 and 43,000 deaths a year in the UK.  The World Health Organization and the UK Government both recognise that air pollution is the largest environmental threat to our health.

    Another key development is that the Low Emission Zone Support Fund has now resumed and is open to new applications. This is funded by Transport Scotland and administered by the Energy Saving Trust.

    There are separate funds available for households, businesses and retrofitting vehicles.  All eligibility criteria and application details can be found on the Energy Saving Trust website

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –