NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI Security: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents.

    Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials.

    According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage.

    On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home.

    Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents.

    Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials.

    According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage.

    On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home.

    Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Balint Announces South Burlington $700,000 Award from Environmental Protection Agency for Bartlett Bay Wastewater Facility Improvements

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Rep. Balint Announces South Burlington $700,000 Award from Environmental Protection Agency for Bartlett Bay Wastewater Facility Improvements

    South Burlington, VT, June 24, 2025

    Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) is proud to announce that the City of South Burlington will receive an award of $700,000 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to improve the Bartlett Bay wastewater facility. Rep. Balint secured this funding, alongside fourteen other community projects, through the FY2024 appropriations bill.

    “By funding improvement projects that will lower costs, ensure safe water, and reduce our carbon footprint, this kind of investment will make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of Vermonters. I’m proud to get this funding over the finish line and to do the real work that will mean cleaner and safer communities for Vermont,” said Rep. Balint.

    The funding will be used to reduce the overall carbon footprint as part of the current upgrade of the Bartlett Bay Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) in South Burlington. The facility was last upgraded over 20 years ago and will undergo a refurbishment over the next 1-3 years. This funding will be used to replace existing conventional, fossil-fuel powered systems with efficient heat pump units which can reduce the system’s carbon footprint by 25%. In addition, modern heat pumps can reduce electricity used for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric resistance heating. An energy efficient system will help keep wastewater rates low for rate payers, reduce the plant’s carbon footprint, and support a clean energy future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Balint Announces South Burlington $700,000 Award from Environmental Protection Agency for Bartlett Bay Wastewater Facility Improvements

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Rep. Balint Announces South Burlington $700,000 Award from Environmental Protection Agency for Bartlett Bay Wastewater Facility Improvements

    South Burlington, VT, June 24, 2025

    Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) is proud to announce that the City of South Burlington will receive an award of $700,000 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to improve the Bartlett Bay wastewater facility. Rep. Balint secured this funding, alongside fourteen other community projects, through the FY2024 appropriations bill.

    “By funding improvement projects that will lower costs, ensure safe water, and reduce our carbon footprint, this kind of investment will make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of Vermonters. I’m proud to get this funding over the finish line and to do the real work that will mean cleaner and safer communities for Vermont,” said Rep. Balint.

    The funding will be used to reduce the overall carbon footprint as part of the current upgrade of the Bartlett Bay Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) in South Burlington. The facility was last upgraded over 20 years ago and will undergo a refurbishment over the next 1-3 years. This funding will be used to replace existing conventional, fossil-fuel powered systems with efficient heat pump units which can reduce the system’s carbon footprint by 25%. In addition, modern heat pumps can reduce electricity used for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric resistance heating. An energy efficient system will help keep wastewater rates low for rate payers, reduce the plant’s carbon footprint, and support a clean energy future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Colleagues Lead Effort to Create Increased Pathways to Legal Permanent Residency for Families Fleeing Turmoil

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Warnock, Colleagues Lead Effort to Create Increased Pathways to Legal Permanent Residency for Families Fleeing Turmoil

    The SECURE Act provides long-term stability for temporary protected status (TPS) and deferred enforced departure (DED) recipients by giving them the ability to apply for legal permanent residency

    The SECURE Act comes as the Trump administration continues to levy attacks against TPS and DED individuals

    There are more than 41,000 TPS holders in Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock: “All people no matter where they were born deserve just as much respect and compassion as we’d show to anyone else”

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Senate Democrats introduced the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and Emergency (SECURE) Act. The legislation would create a pathway for TPS and DED recipients by giving them the ability to apply for legal permanent residency.

    “As a pastor I believe every human being has dignity,”     said Senator Reverend Warnock. “All people no matter where they are born deserve just as much respect and compassion as we’d show anyone else. I’ll continue to be an advocate for the immigrant community in Georgia, and I won’t stop fighting in Washington for the policies we need to ensure all of our loved ones, friends, and neighbors can live full lives free from fear of persecution and deportation.”

    TPS is a temporary, legal immigration status granted to individuals who are endangered by conditions in their home country resulting from extraordinary events such as ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or epidemic. TPS status is granted for set periods ranging from six to 18 months, requiring the Department of Homeland Security to extend a country’s status on a recurring basis. Recent estimates found there are approximately 41,000 people with TPS in Georgia.

    Deferred enforced departure (DED) is a temporary and discretionary administrative stay of removal granted to foreign citizens from designated countries. Unlike TPS, a DED designation emanates from the President’s constitutional powers to conduct foreign relations and has no statutory basis. 

    Since coming to the Senate, Senator Warnock has been a vocal proponent of fixing the nation’s immigration system through comprehensive immigration reform, and a strong supporter of Georgia’s vibrant immigrant communities. To that end, Senator Warnock has advocated for legislation to provide a legal pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and has supported measures to strengthen funding for border security and fentanyl screening.

    In addition to Senators Warnock and Van Hollen, the legislation was introduced by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ) Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Edward Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mark Warner (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The bill text for the SECURE Act is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Gradually winding up evacuation exercise after ceasefire: Indian Embassy in Iran

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian Embassy in Iran on Tuesday evening announced that it is gradually winding down the evacuation exercise initiated during the recent military conflict in the region, following the announcement of a ceasefire.

    “The Embassy has closed the contact desk that was opened to register new names for evacuation. At the same time, the Government of India is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation and will reassess its strategy in case there is a renewed threat to the security of Indian nationals in Iran,” the Embassy posted on X.

    It advised Indians in other parts of Iran who were planning to travel to Mashhad for evacuation to remain where they are and continue monitoring the news, along with any updated advisories issued by the Embassy.

    “Those Indians who have already travelled to Mashhad in the last few days and are staying in one of the hotels arranged by the Embassy are requested to shift to Sadr Hotel today itself, as the Embassy will be releasing rooms in the other hotels. The Embassy will retain rooms at Sadr Hotel for two more nights (until checkout time on June 26). This will also allow citizens time to assure themselves that the security situation in Iran is indeed returning to normal,” the statement added.

    The Embassy also noted that Indian citizens needing advice, assistance, or having any special requirements may continue to reach out via the official Telegram channel or the helplines provided earlier. These communication channels will remain active for the next few days.

    Giving top priority to the safety and security of Indian nationals abroad, the Government of India had launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate its citizens from Iran as tensions escalated due to the conflict between Iran and Israel.

    As part of the operation, the Indian Embassy evacuated 110 Indian students from northern Iran, assisting them in safely crossing into Armenia on June 17. The students travelled by road to the Armenian capital, Yerevan, under the supervision of Indian missions in Iran and Armenia, before boarding a special flight to New Delhi.

    On Tuesday, Indian nationals evacuated from Iran on a special flight arrived in New Delhi from Mashhad.

    Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita received 281 Indians, along with three Sri Lankans and two Nepalese nationals evacuated from Iran. They arrived in New Delhi on a special flight from Mashhad, raising the total number of evacuees brought home from Iran under Operation Sindhu to 2,576.

    India also launched the Israel leg of Operation Sindhu on June 23, repatriating several groups of Indian nationals from Israel. So far, 594 Indians have returned from Israel as part of the mission.

    -IANS

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster to launch new licensing scheme to raise private sector housing standards | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council has announced a major new initiative to drive up housing standards in the private rented sector. Following last year’s public consultation, the council’s Cabinet has confirmed plans to roll out a Selective Licensing Scheme across the majority of the city, starting 24 November 2025.  

    The scheme, which applies to private homes rented to single households or two sharers in 15 of Westminster’s 18 wards, is designed to ensure that tenants live in properties that are safe, secure, and well-maintained. 

    Landlords will be able to apply online from 1 October 2025, giving them time to get up to speed with the requirements and make necessary changes ahead of the enforcement date.

     Councillor Ellie Ormsby, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, said:

     “This scheme is about raising standards in the private rented sector and making sure every tenant has access to a safe, secure, and decent home. Too many residents are still living in poor conditions, and that’s simply not acceptable.

    “We’re committed to driving improvements across the board and supporting landlords through this process, providing practical guidance to ensure all homes in Westminster meet the standards our communities deserve.”

    Westminster has one of the largest private rented sectors in England, and with growing demand for affordable housing, the council says it’s vital to hold rental properties to the highest standards. 

    To support landlords ahead of the rollout, the council will host a series of information sessions, forums, and drop-ins to answer questions and offer practical advice.

     Landlords can find out more about the scheme, including eligibility and fee discounts, by visiting the www.westminster.gov.uk/private-sector-housing, emailing propertylicensing@westminster.gov.uk or calling 020 7641 6161.

    ENDS 

    NOTES TO EDITORS

    • Mandatory HMO licensing scheme has operated since 2006
    • Additional HMO licensing scheme has operated since 2021
    • Designation 1 consists of eight wards experiencing high levels of poor housing conditions
      • Abbey Road
      • Church Street
      • Harrow Road
      • Knightsbridge and Belgravia
      • Little Venice
      • Maida Vale
      • Queen’s Park
      • Westbourne
    • Designation 2 consists of seven wards experiencing high levels of poor housing conditions, in addition to significant and persistent problems caused by anti-social behaviour linked to private rented housing
      • Bayswater
      • Hyde Park
      • Lancaster Gate
      • Marylebone
      • Pimlico North
      • Regent’s Park
      • West End
    • The selective licensing scheme excludes properties that are already licensed under Westminster’s existing HMO schemes
    • Incentives and discounts will apply to landlords or well managed properties including accredited landlords and energy efficient properties
    • More information about Westminster City Council’s existing licensing schemes for private landlords can be found here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Families in Princeton will benefit from more child care spaces

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Families in Princeton will now have access to 80 new child care spaces at the Riverside Learning Centre.

    “Access to more high-quality, affordable child care spaces will make a real difference for the women, and working and single parents in the Princeton community,” said Rohini Arora, parliamentary secretary for child care. “We know that having access to high-quality, affordable child care allows parents, especially women, to stay in the workforce or return to school, directly helping families and the local economy thrive, while their children are growing and learning.”

    The Province partnered with School District 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) on this project, which was supported by more than $10.2 million from the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund. This fund is jointly supported by provincial investments and federal funding under the 2021-22 to 2030-31 Canada-British Columbia Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. British Columbia and the federal government signed an extension to the agreement for 2026-27 to 2030-31.

    This child care centre will provide a total of 122 child care spaces, including 42 existing spaces and 80 new spaces. This includes 24 spaces for infant-toddlers, 50 spaces for children 2.5 years old to kindergarten, and 48 spaces for school-age care. These new child care spaces bring the total number of child care spaces funded through the ChildCareBC space-creation programs in Princeton and surrounding areas to 206.

    “As a district, we are exceptionally grateful the ministry has invested in rural British Columbia to provide a state-of-the-art child care centre in Princeton,” said Courtney Lawrance, superintendent of schools, SD58 (Nicola-Similkameen). “Children truly are our future and a solid foundation of early learning supports the long-term vitality of the community. We dreamed big with the vision for the project and with this opening, our dream has come true.”

    Since 2018, ChildCareBC’s space-creation programs have helped fund more than 40,900 new licensed child care spaces in B.C. and 24,900 of those are now open. Expanding access to affordable, high-quality child care spaces is part of the Province’s ChildCareBC plan.

    Learn More:

    For information about ChildCareBC, visit:
    https://www.gov.bc.ca/childcare/newspacesfund

    For information about the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund, visit:
    https://www.gov.bc.ca/childcare/newspacesfund

    For information about how to connect to services and help save money, visit the BC Benefits Connector:
    https://gov.bc.ca/BCBenefitsConnector

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL Welcomes 30 Participants To Join Energy to Communities Peer-Learning Cohorts on Utility Engagement and Load Growth

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    30 Local Leaders Join Two New Energy to Communities (E2C) Peer-Learning Cohorts on Electricity Load Growth and Utility Engagement

    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is excited to announce the 30 local participants across 25 states, territories, and Tribes selected for two new Energy to Communities (E2C) peer-learning cohorts, managed on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

    These cohorts will bring together local leaders, energy experts, and community organizations to tackle critical challenges related to electricity load growth, grid impacts, and electric utility partnerships. From July to December, the 15 participants in each cohort will convene monthly to learn from energy experts—and each other—about best practices, strategies, and tools for addressing these energy topics.

    The “Navigating Electricity Load Growth and Associated Utility Grid Impacts” cohort will focus on strategies for adapting to increasing electricity demand driven by emerging industries such as artificial intelligence and data centers. Participants will explore how grid infrastructure can evolve to meet new economic opportunities while maintaining reliability and resilience.

    The “Engaging With Electric Utilities for Successful Local Partnerships” cohort will equip local leaders with knowledge on electric utility regulation, core functions, and business models. Participants will gain insights into collaborative approaches for working effectively with electric utilities, fostering innovation, and advancing policies that support local energy needs.

    Participants from more than 200 communities have already participated in E2C peer-learning cohorts for educational resources, case studies, analysis and modeling tools, templates, trainings, and facilitated collaboration.

    Learn more about E2C’s three different technical assistance offerings, and apply for short-term expert match support today.

    “These peer-learning cohorts represent an exciting opportunity for communities to deepen their understanding of the evolving energy landscape while building strong partnerships to navigate these challenges,” said Jenny Sumner, the E2C program lead at NREL. “We look forward to facilitating these cohorts and providing participants with the tools and expertise needed to shape their energy futures.”

    The cohort topics and participants in the July 2025 cycle are:

    Navigating Electricity Load Growth and Associated Utility Grid Impacts

    • Bennett, Colorado
    • Blaine County, Idaho
    • Cherokee Nation (Tahlequah, Oklahoma)
    • Chester, Pennsylvania
    • Columbus Municipal Division of Power, Ohio
    • Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Inc. (EDGE), Nebraska
    • Frisco, Texas
    • Guam Power Authority, Guam
    • Madelia Municipal Light and Power, Minnesota
    • Middle Tennessee Electric, Tennessee
    • Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, Indiana
    • Prince William County, Virginia
    • Redmond, Washington
    • Somerville, Massachusetts

    Engaging With Electric Utilities for Successful Local Partnerships

    • Athens-Clarke County, Georgia
    • Blaine County, Idaho
    • Boston, Massachusetts
    • Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission, Vermont
    • Delray Beach, Florida
    • Douglas County, Kansas
    • Greater Portland Council of Governments, Maine
    • Johnstown, Colorado
    • Las Cruces, New Mexico
    • Lucas County, Ohio, with Toledo, Ohio
    • Missoula, Montana
    • Sedona, Arizona
    • Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments, Alabama
    • Washoe County, Nevada
    • Windsor, Colorado

    Peer-learning cohorts are one of three technical assistance offerings from the E2C program, ranging from short-term technical assistance to address near-term energy challenges to more in-depth technical partnerships that support communities in developing abundant, reliable, affordable, and secure energy systems.

    E2C is funded by DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and managed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory with support from Argonne National Laboratory, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

    Learn more about E2C.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE investigation leads to 6 charged in connection with interstate commercial burglaries

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEWARK, N.J. — Following an ICE Homeland Security Investigations Newark investigation, six people were charged for conspiring to transport stolen property derived from burglarized consignment shops across multiple states.

    The subjects were charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to sell and receive stolen property that had crossed state lines. Marco Honesty, 28, Richard Francis, 35, Dominique Hayes, 29, Deandre Dudley, 32, Ilon Coles-Melson, 21, and Marcus Gallmon, 21, residents of Washington, D.C. and Maryland, were charged at the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey in Newark.

    “Our law enforcement partnerships across the East Coast in this investigation led to the successful apprehension of six suspects and dismantled an interstate burglary ring behind a string of consignment store thefts across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania Maryland and Delaware,” said ICE HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. “The criminals hoping to line their own pockets by selling millions of dollars in stolen merchandise will now face the consequences of their illicit schemes.”  

    According to the investigation, the defendants are part of a commercial burglary ring that committed at least 18 burglaries in multiple states between March 2024 and November 2024, including in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. On several dates, the defendants broke into the consignment shops in the middle of the night using sledgehammers and other objects, stole dozens of designer handbags and other items from each shop, and transported the stolen goods across state lines.

    HSI Newark led the investigation with the assistance of HSI Baltimore, HSI Malta, HSI Washington D.C. and HSI Wilmington. Many law enforcement partners from five states also supported the investigation.

    HSI Newark’s law enforcement partners in New Jersey who assisted in the investigation include the New Jersey State Police, Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Cape May Police Department, Cherry Hill Police Department, Colts Neck Police Department, Englewood Police Department, Haddonfield Police Department, Livingston Police Department, Manalapan Police Department, Margate Police Department, Millburn Police Department, Montclair Police Department, Roxbury Township Police Department, Springfield Police Department, Tenafly Police Department, Warren Police Department, and Watchung Police Department for their assistance.

    New York partners include Guilderland Police Department, North Castle Police Department and Saratoga Springs Police Department. Pennsylvania partners include Philadelphia Police Department. Delaware partners include Delaware State Police. Maryland partners include Prince George’s County Police Department and Baltimore County Police Department.

    Honesty appeared in Newark federal court June 13 and was detained. Hayes appeared in Newark federal court May 22 and was detained. Coles-Melson appeared n Newark federal court April 11 and was detained. Gallmon, Dudley and Francis also appeared in court earlier this year but were later released on a $100,000 unsecured bond. The charge of conspiracy to sell or receive stolen property carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of up to a $250,000 fine, or twice the amount of money involved in the offense, whichever is greater.

    Anyone who believes they may be a victim, or has information about the theft group or burglaries, is asked to call 1-866-DHS-2-ICE, or call a local field office.

    The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. RaShaun Kemp Hosts Father’s Day Celebration at Georgia State Capitol

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (June 24, 2025) — Last Friday, Sen. RaShaun Kemp (D–Atlanta) hosted a Father’s Day celebration at the Georgia State Capitol to honor fathers from across the state for their unwavering commitment to family and community.

    The event featured opening remarks from former State Representative Erica (Thomas) Adeyemi, followed by a presentation from Sen. Kemp, who introduced a resolution recognizing exceptional fathers and the lasting impact of fatherhood in Georgia.

    “This event holds personal significance for me,” said Sen. Kemp. “I didn’t grow up with my father in my life, and I only met him for the first time at age 37. Since then, he has been a blessing, showing up with open arms and a full heart. Through that experience, I was reminded of the power of grace, intention and presence.

    That’s why I believe it’s time we expand the way we talk about fatherhood. Too often, Father’s Day is framed solely around absence. But there is another story — one of fathers who are deeply present, who nurture and lead, who help shape not only their own children but the communities around them.

    With this resolution, we recognize those fathers and the lasting legacy they create through their everyday actions. Let this not be a one-day celebration, but a continued commitment to uplifting the value of fatherhood throughout our state. I look forward to making this an annual tradition here at our state capitol.”

    # # # #

    Sen. RaShaun Kemp represents the 38th Senate District, which includes a portion of Fulton County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-0105 or by email at rashaun.kemp@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Op-Ed: New York Will Always Support Reproductive Rights

    Source: US State of New York

    oday, on the third anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs ruling, which ended the constitutional right to an abortion in the United States, Governor Hochul authored an op-ed in Empire Report reaffirming her commitment to keeping abortion safe and accessible in New York. Since taking office, Governor Hochul has made nation-leading investments in expanding reproductive freedom rights for New Yorkers including: increasing funding to support abortion care providers, passing historic legislation protecting both patients and New York doctors and today announced nearly $25 million to organizations in New York that support abortion care. Text of the op-ed can be viewed online and is available below:

    Three years ago today was the last day that every woman in the United States had a constitutionally-protected right to access abortion.

    With the stroke of a pen the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, and our nation erupted in grief, anger and fear. This was a right that my mother’s generation fought for – a right we expected would be here to stay for my daughter and granddaughters’ generations.

    Over the past three years, anti-choice politicians have done everything in their power to restrict reproductive freedom. Nineteen states have passed total or near-total abortion bans, and women have literally died because they couldn’t get the care they needed.

    But here’s the thing about New Yorkers: when you try to take away our rights, we fight like hell to protect our people. New York will always stand as a safe harbor for women who need abortion care.

    So what did New York do when they tried to strip away our freedoms? We got to work.

    Immediately following the leaked release of the Dobbs decision, we invested a nation-leading $35 million to support abortion providers statewide. This funding is helping New York doctors address financial challenges and make much-needed investments in security. And in 2022, I signed New York’s “Shield Law” to protect the rights of patients and prevent other states from prosecuting New York’s doctors.

    This year, we went a step further by offering additional protections for those prescribing abortion medication via telemedicine by protecting their personal information.

    These issues aren’t hypothetical. Consider this: a warrant was issued in Louisiana to arrest a New York-based doctor who, for decades, performed her duties as a health care provider. She assisted women exercising control of their own bodies and helped them access the basic health care they needed. Because of our “Shield Law,” we protected that New York doctor.

    Even as other states continue to target, harass and scare doctors and patients, we’ll continue to stand up for what’s right. In this year’s budget, we’ve invested over $60 million to protect New Yorkers’ right to reproductive health care and the brave providers who ensure care is provided to those who need it most. Today, I’m proud to announce nearly $25 million in State grants from the New York State Abortion Access Program, which will go directly to organizations in New York that support abortion care.

    People across the nation look to us for leadership. My promise to them – and to all New Yorkers – is that we will continue to stand as a safe harbor for anyone who needs abortion care.

    And to anyone who dares threaten these fundamental freedoms, my message is simple: Not here. Not now. Not ever.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Sentenced to 168 Months in Federal Prison for Coercion and Enticement of a Child

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – Jason Hanif Rehman, 40, of Rockville, Md., was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 168 months federal in prison in connection with coercing a minor victim to send him sexually explicit images of herself over the internet.  

                The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

                Rehman pleaded guilty on Nov. 21, 2024, to one count of coercion and enticement of a minor. In addition to the 14-year prison term, Judge Carl J. Nichols ordered Rehman to serve 10 years of supervised release and to register as a sex offender.

                According to court documents, in October and November of 2018, Rehman communicated with a 15-year-old girl on Snapchat. Rehman directed her to produce and send him child sexual abuse material. He also sent her explicit photographs of himself. Over the course of five weeks, Rehman continued to coerce the victim into sending him child sexual abuse material and, on at least two separate dates, traveled from Maryland and Washington, D.C. to Virginia where he had sex with her.

                A fellow student notified school officials of the minor victim’s communication with an adult male. Investigators identified the male as Rehman. Subsequently, other minors at the school  disclosed that Rehman had sent them similarly sexually explicit messages and requests over Snapchat. When investigators located Rehman, he admitted that he had used his Snapchat account to contact the victim and knew she was 15 years old. He also admitted to convincing her to send him explicit photos and admitted to having sexual intercourse with her.

                This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in conjunction with the Fairfax County Police Department. The task force is composed of FBI agents, along with other federal agents and detectives from northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. The task force is charged with investigating and bringing federal charges against individuals engaged in the exploitation of children and those engaged in human trafficking. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caroline Burrell for the District of Columbia. and Trial Attorney Angelica Carrasco of the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section.

                This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    23cr64

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Georgia Bookkeeper Sentenced for Embezzling From Columbus Real Estate Brokerage Firm

    Source: US FBI

    COLUMBUS, Ga. – A former employee of Keller Williams Realty River Cities was sentenced to prison after she admitted to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from her employer to pay off her credit card.

    Lauren Williams Eldridge, 38, of Pine Mountain, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 27 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $453,876.64 in restitution to Keller Williams Realty River Cities by U.S. District Judge Clay Land on June 18 after she previously pleaded guilty to five counts of wire fraud on Jan. 29, 2025. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “The repercussions of employee theft are often felt beyond the prosecution, negatively affecting businesses, their customers and the community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Fraud and theft will not be tolerated in the Middle District of Georgia. Our office will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to hold those who choose to disregard the law accountable.”

    “For years, Eldridge used her company’s funds like her personal ATM,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown. “She will now have more than two years behind bars to consider the impact of her actions.”

    According to court documents and other statements made in court, Eldridge was an office manager and bookkeeper for nine years with Keller Williams Realty River Cities (KW). KW representatives noticed some discrepancies in a KW account in Oct. 2022 and that Eldridge had moved money out of that account to other accounts. When Eldridge was initially questioned about the transfer, she did not provide a clear explanation. Eldridge resigned from her position soon afterward.

    Law enforcement was notified in Jan. 2023; a review of the KW accounts revealed that a total of $453,876.68 in monthly electronic payments were made to Eldridge’s personal American Express account from KW accounts between Jan. 2017 and Sept. 2022. Eldridge admitted to KW representatives and their legal counsel in Dec. 2022 that she embezzled the money from KW to pay her personal American Express credit card balance every month. She reported that she intended to pay this money back when she first began taking funds after she had charged $30,000 to her American Express for home repairs.

    The FBI investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah Hostetler prosecuted the case for the Government.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Foreign National Sentenced to Prison for Conducting Cyber Scams That Victimized U.S. Citizens and Businesses

    Source: US FBI

    CHICAGO — A foreign national has been sentenced to three and a half years in federal prison for conducting a variety of cyber fraud schemes that victimized U.S. citizens and businesses.

    RIDWAN ADELEKE ADEPOJU and co-schemers operated multiple fraud schemes from Nigeria, including phishing scams, romance scams, and the submission of fraudulent tax returns.  The scams involved multiple spoofed email addresses, fictional social media personas, and unwitting money mules.  Adepoju’s schemes victimized numerous U.S. citizens and businesses, including individuals and companies in the Chicago area.

    Adepoju, 33, of Lagos, Nigeria, was arrested last year in the United Kingdom and extradited to the United States.  He pleaded guilty in March to federal wire fraud and aggravated identity theft charges.  On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly imposed a 43-month prison sentence.

    The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Ramsey E. Covington, Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in Chicago, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.

    “Defendant’s offense involved a years-long, complex scheme, involving several types of scams and many victims,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann Marie E. Ursini argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum.  “Defendant chose to be a willing participant in the scheme over and over again.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chicago Lab Owner Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison in Connection with $14 Million COVID-19 Testing Fraud Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    CHICAGO — The owner of a Chicago laboratory was sentenced today to seven years in federal prison for his role in a Covid-19 testing fraud scheme.

    ZISHAN ALVI, 46, of Inverness, Ill., owned and operated a laboratory in Chicago that performed testing for Covid-19.  In 2021 and 2022, Alvi caused tens of thousands of claims to be submitted to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for Covid-19 tests that were not performed as billed.  As part of the scheme, the laboratory released negative test results to patients, even though the laboratory either had not tested the specimens or the results were inconclusive because Alvi diluted the tests to save on costs while making them unreliable.  Alvi knew that the laboratory was releasing negative results for Covid-19 tests that were not performed or were inconclusive, but still caused the laboratory to submit claims to HRSA for those tests.  Alvi also lied to laboratory directors to conceal his fraud. HRSA paid the laboratory more than $14 million because of the fraudulent claims that Alvi caused to be submitted.

    Alvi pleaded guilty last year to one count of wire fraud.  U.S. District Judge John J. Tharp, Jr. imposed the prison sentence during a hearing today in federal court in Chicago.  Judge Tharp also ordered Alvi to pay more than $14.1 million in restitution and forfeit more than $8 million in cash, a 2021 Range Rover HSE, a 2022 Tesla X, and a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB250W4, all of which were previously seized by law enforcement.

    The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, and Mario Pinto, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Region of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).  The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Hasten of the Northern District of Illinois, and Claire T. Sobczak, Trial Attorney of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.

    “At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Zishan Alvi disregarded public health concerns in favor of greed and his own financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros.  “The government’s pandemic-relief programs were intended to keep people safe, not provide an avenue for fraud and illegal profits.  Our Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to root out abuse of these important programs and hold accountable those who seek to fraudulently profit from them.”

    “In the midst of economic uncertainty for many Americans, the defendant chose to cash in on a global pandemic by stealing millions of dollars and committing extensive fraud,” said FBI SAC DePodesta.  “Further, he placed patients and the public at risk by releasing false Covid-19 test results. The FBI and our dedicated partners are committed to investigating Covid con artists and ensuring they are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program.  Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion.  In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes.  More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alaskan Individual Charged with Possessing Firearms and Ammunition as a Fugitive From Justice

    Source: US FBI

    Baltimore, Maryland  – Today, a federal grand jury returned an indictment, charging Jack Amadeus LaSota, 34, of Fairbanks, Alaska — aka Andrea Phelps; Ann Grimes; Anne Grimes; Canaris; Julia LaSota; Ziz — with being a fugitive from justice in possession of firearms and ammunition. 

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the indictment with Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office.

    According to the indictment, LaSota possessed several firearms, including a GM6 Lynx .50 caliber rifle, a black HS Produkt, model Hellcat, 9x19mm handgun, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. At the time, LaSota was knowingly a fugitive from justice and therefore was not permitted by law to possess a firearm or ammunition.

    If convicted, LaSota faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    An indictment is merely an allegation.  All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, the Allegany County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared M. Beim who is prosecuting the federal case.  

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wakpala Man Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Federal Prison for Assault and Burglary of a Home Within the Standing Rock Reservation

    Source: US FBI

    ABERDEEN – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of First Degree Burglary and two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on June 16, 2025.

    Francis Lee Dubray, age 35, was sentenced to five years and ten months months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Dubray was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2023. He was found guilty on October 24, 2024, following a three-day federal jury trial.

    Shortly after nightfall on July 5, 2023, Dubray and two co-defendants went to a woman’s home in McLaughlin, South Dakota, within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation, to assault a man they believed had inappropriately touched a girl. As the woman yelled at them to go away, one of the co-defendants kicked in her front door. Dubray’s co-defendants rushed into the house while Dubray stood on the stoop, hollering and chastising the woman for allowing the man to stay in her house. Although the man they came to find was passed out, Dubray’s co-defendants repeatedly kicked him in the face and struck him with a bar while the woman pleaded for them to stop. The victim incurred a broken nose and shattered orbital and sinus bones in the assault. He still struggles with his vision and headaches today.  As Dubray’s co-defendants left the home, one of them knocked the woman to the floor. As she crawled toward the front door, Dubray kicked her in the face, then fled with his companions.

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.

    Dubray was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Climate, Peace and Security Group on Libya – Security Council Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Joint stakeout by Climate, Peace and Security Group on Libya, led by Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, and accompanied by Security Council Members including Denmark, Ecuador, France, Greece, Guyana, Malta, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, the United Kingdom.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0ug_evEa6c

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Scott Release Principles for Market Structure Legislation 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senate Banking Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) in releasing principles to guide the Committee’s consideration of market structure legislation.

    “America desperately needs digital asset legislation that promotes responsible innovation and protects consumers,” said Lummis. “While the European Union and Singapore have established clear regulations, the U.S. continues to sit on the sidelines while the digital asset industry seeks greener pastures. That changes today. I am partnering with Chairman Scott to provide principles for market structure legislation to finally draw the line between a security and a commodity and ensure the U.S. remains at the helm of global financial advancement.” 

    “Since taking over as Chairman, I’ve led a new approach to digital assets regulation, and we’ve delivered results for the industry and the American people,” said Scott.  “We have more work to do, and I look forward to building on the success of the GENIUS Act and advancing market structure legislation here in the Senate. These principles will serve as an important baseline for negotiations on this bill, and I’m hopeful my colleagues will put politics aside and provide long-overdue clarity for digital asset regulation.”

    The market structure principles state:

    Legislation Should Clearly Define the Legal Status of Digital Assets

    • A clear, economically rational line distinguishing digital asset securities from digital asset commodities should be fixed in statute, contemplating existing law and providing predictability, enhanced legal precision, and much-needed regulatory certainty.

    Jurisdiction Should Be Clearly Allocated Among Regulators

    • The authority of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) should be clearly allocated in statute, preventing either from emerging as an all-encompassing regulator.
      • The SEC’s authority should extend to, for example, initial fundraising transactions, disclosures and transactions in tokenized securities; and
      • The CFTC should be granted new spot authority focused on market conduct, which should not extend to digital assets that are securities.
    • Legislation should acknowledge that not all distributed ledger technology should be regulated by the SEC and CFTC.
      • Legislation should recognize the different risks and benefits between centralized firms, decentralized finance protocols, and non-custodial software platforms.
      • For similar reasons, self-custody of digital assets should be explicitly preserved.
      • Likewise, the use of distributed ledger technology and smart contracts for other, non-financial purposes, such as to manage health data, should fall outside the jurisdiction of the SEC and CFTC.

    SEC and CFTC Regulation Should be Modernized to Foster Innovation

    • Federal securities and commodities laws should be modernized to account for the unique nature of digital assets and distributed ledger technology.
      • A new SEC exemption for certain digital asset fundraising should be included in legislation.
      • The SEC should revisit its burdensome registration requirements for digital asset issuers, and instead provide a clear, appropriately tailored pathway to compliance for good faith, innovative actors.
      • Clear, pro-innovation principles regarding the trading of digital assets on the secondary market should be established.
        • These principles should consider whether digital asset securities may be traded alongside digital asset commodities, and whether traditional securities or commodities should be traded alongside digital asset securities or commodities, respectively.
    • Legislation, as well as SEC and CFTC rules, should not apply principles designed for centralized firms to decentralized protocols.
      • Tokenization should be recognized as an evolution of financial infrastructure that enhances efficiency, transparency, and liquidity, rather than a fundamental change to the nature of the underlying asset.

    Regulation Should Protect Those Who Purchase or Trade Digital Assets

    • Centralized digital asset intermediaries should be subject to innovation-friendly registration and risk management requirements similar to that of other centralized intermediaries today.
      • Requirements could include illicit finance compliance, clear and right-sized capital, custody and segregation requirements, and appropriate enforcement authority.
    • Legislation should also ensure that customer funds are protected during bankruptcy.

    Illicit Finance Measures Should Be Targeted and Pro-Innovation

    • A small, common-sense package of measures directed at preventing money laundering and sanctions evasion with digital assets should be included.
    • Potential provisions can and should be targeted and pro-innovation. This could include requiring the adoption of examination standards and clarifying that the Bank Secrecy Act and International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) extends to entities abroad with U.S. touchpoints.
    • Reforms should also consider the ways digital assets and distributed ledger technology can improve transparency, efficiency, and the detection of illicit activity, including money laundering.

    Federal Financial Regulators Should Welcome Responsible Innovation

    • Federal financial regulators should take common-sense steps to respond to responsible innovation, including potentially through increased use of no-action guidance, sandboxes, safe harbors, coordination, and appropriate application requirements.
    • Federal financial regulators should provide clear guidance affirming that many crypto-related activities are permissible for banks and other financial institutions, provided they do not threaten the safety and soundness of the institution.
    • Clear guidance will also improve and better enforcement by establishing well-defined rules and expectations, fostering accountability, and enabling consistent application of regulations, leading to better understanding and compliance.

    For complete market structure principles, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Acts as a “Peace Broker” in the Ukrainian Crisis – Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui

    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, June 24 (Xinhua) — China is acting as a “peace broker” in the Ukrainian crisis and is making efforts to facilitate peace talks, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui said in a written interview with the Russian newspaper Izvestia on Monday.

    “Since the comprehensive escalation of the Ukrainian crisis, China has been acting as a ‘peace broker’ and has been making consistent efforts to end the fighting and facilitate peace talks,” he said.

    The Chinese ambassador stressed that China’s position on the Ukrainian issue is consistent and clear: the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter must be observed, reasonable security concerns of all countries must be taken seriously, and all efforts for a peaceful settlement deserve support. “This is the authoritative position and fundamental principle of the Chinese side on the Ukrainian issue,” the ambassador explained, adding that China welcomes and supports all efforts aimed at achieving peace, and will continue to take an objective and fair position, promote consensus building and create conditions for resolving the crisis.

    According to Zhang Hanhui, Li Hui, the special representative of the PRC government for Eurasian affairs, has already conducted four rounds of “shuttle diplomacy,” covering four continents – Asia, Africa, Europe and Latin America. He visited both the parties to the conflict – Russia and Ukraine – and key European countries, including France and Germany. In addition, deep exchanges of views were held with countries of the Global South, such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Indonesia and South Africa. “These efforts have received wide approval and high praise from the international community, including Russia,” the diplomat noted.

    In addition, in 2024, China and Brazil jointly established the Friends of Peace platform through the UN to seek ways to peacefully resolve the Ukrainian crisis, and several meetings have already been held. According to the ambassador, this group has become an important mechanism through which the countries of the Global South express their position on the Ukrainian issue and which reflects the common desire of the international community for a ceasefire and peace. “In its work, the group invariably adheres to an impartial, objective and open position, and is always ready to listen to the views and positions of all parties to the conflict, including Russia. The group adheres to the principle of consensus and focuses on promoting all actions that contribute to a political settlement and the restoration of peace,” the ambassador added.

    At the same time, Zhang Hanhui confirmed that China did not participate in the discussions on sending peacekeeping forces to the conflict zone. “The Chinese side believes that three basic principles must be observed when sending peacekeeping forces: consent of the parties to the conflict, impartiality, and non-use of force except in self-defense. At present, there are serious disagreements between the parties concerned on the issue of post-war peacekeeping, there is no sign of an end to hostilities, and the number of casualties continues to rise,” the diplomat noted, adding that China calls on all parties to continue efforts to reduce tensions, create favorable conditions for dialogue, and open a “window” of opportunity for peace.

    The Chinese ambassador acknowledged that the causes of the Ukrainian crisis are complex. He recalled the Chinese proverb that “a meter-thick layer of ice does not form in a day,” so “melting” it also takes time. “The end point of any conflict is the negotiating table. The Chinese side welcomes the holding of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul and hopes that all parties can reach a fair, sustainable, binding and mutually acceptable peace agreement through dialogue and negotiations,” he said.

    Zhang Hanhui pointed out that following the direct talks in Istanbul, Russia and Ukraine reached agreements on issues such as prisoner exchange, which created favorable conditions for establishing peace and was an important step forward. As the Chinese ambassador emphasized, China calls on the parties to the conflict to demonstrate a desire for negotiations, and also hopes that the parties concerned can provide favorable external conditions for the negotiation process, jointly support the trend towards peaceful negotiations, and ultimately come to a political settlement.

    According to the diplomat, China hopes that peace and stability will be restored on the European continent as soon as possible, and is ready to continue to make constructive contributions to this. “Regardless of how the situation develops, China will always stand on the side of peace, on the side of dialogue, and on the right side of history. We will continue to make efforts to resolve the crisis and end the fighting, maintain contact with all parties, and contribute Chinese wisdom and strength to promoting a political settlement of the Ukrainian crisis,” Zhang Hanhui assured. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Joint construction of the Belt and Road has entered a new stage of high-quality development – Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui

    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, June 24 /Xinhua/ — The joint implementation of China’s Belt and Road Initiative has entered a new stage of high-quality development. China intends to accelerate the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and deepen strategic cooperation with Russia in various fields, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui said in a written interview with the Russian newspaper Izvestia on Monday.

    “Currently, global, epochal and historical changes are unfolding in an unprecedented way, and the joint construction of the Belt and Road has entered a new stage of high-quality development. We will accelerate the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative with the Eurasian Economic Union, comprehensively deepen strategic interaction between China and Russia and practical cooperation in various fields, and invest even more effort in the joint development of the two countries, in the implementation of modernization by our countries, and in protecting multilateralism and the free trade system,” the ambassador emphasized.

    As Zhang Hanhui noted, China and Russia are good neighbors, time-tested true friends and natural partners in the joint construction of the Belt and Road. He recalled that Russian President Vladimir Putin has attended the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation three times and delivered an important speech in support of this initiative, which “fully reflects Russia’s serious attention and support.”

    The Chinese ambassador pointed out that in May this year, during the state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Russia to attend the ceremonial events marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the leaders of China and Russia signed a Joint Statement on Further Deepening Comprehensive Partnership and Strategic Cooperation in the New Era. The document reaffirms the commitment of both sides to both jointly promoting the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative with the EAEU and promoting the joint and coordinated development of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Greater Eurasian Partnership. According to the diplomat, this outlined the direction for further deepening cooperation between the two countries within the framework of the joint construction of the Belt and Road.

    “The Chinese side is willing to take the implementation of the important agreements reached by the two heads of state as an opportunity to firmly adhere to the Silk Road spirit of peace, cooperation, openness, inclusiveness, mutual learning, mutual benefit and win-win, as well as the principle of joint discussion, joint construction and shared benefits,” Zhang Hanhui said.

    He also noted that, in accordance with the agreement reached, the Russian President will visit China and take part in commemorative events dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the Victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. “This not only clearly demonstrates the strong personal friendship between the leaders of the two states, but also fully reflects the high level and special nature of the Chinese-Russian relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction,” the Chinese Ambassador to the Russian Federation added. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New ferry terminal in Victoria’s inner harbour begins major construction this summer

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Construction will begin this summer for the new ferry terminal in downtown Victoria, following the awarding of a design-build contract to Pomerleau Inc.

    Early work will begin by the end of June with major construction of the new landmark terminal to begin later in the summer. Once complete, the new terminal will provide a more comfortable and seamless experience for those travelling to and from downtown Victoria by ferry.

    “The new Belleville terminal will provide a smoother and more secure travel experience for tourists coming to Victoria and the south Island, supporting local jobs, businesses and our region’s economy,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “A modern ferry terminal has been a goal of the community and all levels of government for over two decades. This major milestone brings us another step closer to offering improved ferry services and more convenient travel for decades to come.”

    Construction of the new facility will involve demolishing existing Clipper terminal infrastructure and building a new pre-clearance terminal building with modern border-security standards. It also includes replacing aging wharf facilities and building a new commercial goods processing facility.

    “As an international gateway for goods, services and tourism, enhancing safety, security and trade between Vancouver Island and Washington state is integral to Canada’s economy,” said Will Greaves, MP for Victoria. “Our government looks forward to the construction of the pre-clearance terminal and commercial goods processing facility, which will strengthen our commitment to a sustainable economy and support local tourism in Greater Victoria.”

    The new pre-clearance terminal will comply with the Canada-U.S. Land, Rail, Marine and Air Transport Preclearance Agreement, and will make travel faster and easier by allowing passengers to complete the customs and immigration process in Victoria prior to disembarking in the U.S.

    Through competitive request-for-qualifications and request-for-proposal processes, Pomerleau Inc. was awarded a $304-million design-build contract. The overall project cost has increased from the $331 million budget that was approved in 2024, due to complex geotechnical and seismic conditions, site constraints and significant soil contamination that will require extensive remediation. Other factors include inflation and safeguarding against economic uncertainty related to tariffs on steel and other products. The federal government has confirmed it will increase its contribution to more than $45 million for the project. The new cost of the project is $416 million.

    The Belleville Terminal Redevelopment Project is taking place within the territories of the lək̓wəŋən (Lekwungen) people, represented by the Esquimalt Nation and Songhees Nation. The project team is working collaboratively and respectfully with both Nations.

    The project is expected to be completed in 2028.

    Quotes:

    Marianne Alto, mayor of Victoria –

    “I’m excited we are embarking on the next phase of the Belleville Terminal Redevelopment Project. This bold step forward underscores Victoria’s shared commitment to developing innovative and sustainable infrastructure and lays the foundation for improved travel for residents and visitors for years to come.”

    Bruce Williams, CEO, Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce –

    “The chamber has been an outspoken proponent for modernizing Belleville terminal for decades, and we’re happy to see the project meet new milestones along its way to completion. With so much uncertainty affecting the economy, we support this project as an important investment in the future of Greater Victoria and as a confirmation of the value the Clipper and Coho bring to our region.”

    Paul Nursey, CEO, Destination Greater Victoria –

    “With 30 years of dedicated advocacy for Belleville terminal’s redevelopment, our organization, as the region’s tourism board, values the steady progress being made. We recognize the importance of this project and are encouraged by the federal government’s increased investment. Clear dates and timelines remain a priority for our members, and we look forward to the significant benefits this project will bring to Greater Victoria’s visitor economy once complete.”

    Quick Facts:

    • Phase 1 of the Belleville Terminal Redevelopment Project is complete.
    • Key upgrades completed during Phase 1 include:
      • the expansion and reconfiguration of the Steamship wharf;
      • renovations and an expansion to the Steamship building; and,
      • enhancements to the Black Ball building and property to ensure Clipper, Black Ball Ferry Line, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Canadian Border Services Agency can continue operating during Phase 2 construction.
    • These improvements were designed to ensure uninterrupted ferry service between Vancouver Island and Washington state during the next stage of construction.

    Learn More:

    Visit the Belleville project website for the latest updates: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/bellevilleterminal

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Healthy Beaches Water Quality Program Returns for Summer

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 24, 2025

    Saskatchewan residents are now able to check the water quality at local beaches.

    Starting this week, the Ministry of Health will begin posting the results of the Healthy Beaches program, which reports on the water quality at select recreational beaches across the province. Accurate information about water quality can provide protection to beachgoers who want a safe and enjoyable experience.

    “Saskatchewan beaches are an important part of summer recreation for residents,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “The Healthy Beaches program provides valuable safety information, and we encourage residents and visitors to check the status of the beach they are visiting before they head out.”

    Water samples are collected and analyzed from June through August at various Saskatchewan public beaches including Regina Beach, Echo Lake and Pike Lake. Sampling is conducted to determine whether water quality meets the Canadian Recreational Water Guidelines. Water sampling began June 23 and results will be available later this week.

    Results will be available on the Healthy Beaches Public Map. If water quality falls below acceptable safety standards advisories will be issued.

    “The Healthy Beaches program is essential to public health,” Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said. “This will help people make decisions about their in-water activities when visiting provincial lakes.”

    The public is encouraged to check the Healthy Beaches webpage before making summer plans and adhere to advisories. Residents are asked to report any concerns about water quality to their local Public Health Inspection office.

    It is also important that residents follow notifications posted at the beach as closures can happen evenings or weekend and may not be immediately reflected on the website.

    For more information about the Healthy Beaches program, including water quality reports and safety tips, visit: www.saskatchewan.ca/healthy-beaches. 

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Media Relations
    Health
    Regina
    Phone: 306-787-4083
    Email: media@health.gov.sk.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Defence Minister McGuinty to visit Latvia

    Source: Government of Canada News

    June 24, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, will make his inaugural visit to Latvia from June 25 to 26, 2025. During his trip, he will participate in a flower laying ceremony ahead of his first bilateral meeting with Andris Sprūds, Defence Minister of Latvia. Minister McGuinty will also personally thank Canadian Armed Forces members deployed in the country for their service.

    The Minister will attend the Transfer of Command Authority ceremony for the Canadian-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization Multinational Brigade in Latvia, where he will deliver remarks. Following the ceremony, Minister McGuinty will hold an audio-only callback with media.

    Minister McGuinty’s visit underscores Canada’s steadfast dedication to NATO and its commitment to supporting deterrence and defence efforts in the region.

    Media Callback Details:

    • Date: June 26, 2025
    • Time: 5:30 p.m. EEST
    • Registration: Media are requested to pre-register by emailing  mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca. Further information will be provided upon registration.
       

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Smith Statement on Trump Ordering U.S. Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adam Smith (9th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to President Trump ordering the U.S. military to conduct military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
     
    “I condemn in the strongest terms the President’s decision to order the U.S. military to strike Iran’s nuclear sites. The President did not seek authorization from Congress or demonstrate that Iran posed an immediate threat to the security of the United States. Furthermore, the President failed to provide clear objectives for these actions and there are no guarantees that it will eliminate the possibility of Iran developing a nuclear weapon or how long it might set their program back.
     
    “Engaging in direct conflict places U.S. service members and military sites in the Middle East squarely in the crosshairs of Iran and its many proxies. Tonight’s actions could further escalate tensions, destabilize the region, and drag the United States into an avoidable war.

    “The way to stop Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and to protect American service members is through diplomacy and negotiation, not entering into direct conflict. The path that the President has chosen risks unleashing a wider war in the region that is both incredibly unpredictable and treacherous and that threatens the safety and security of the United States, Israel, and ultimately the world.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Long-term Satellite Data Reveal How Climate Shapes West Coast Shorelines

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The research, led by the Université de Toulouse and partners, highlights how coastal erosion and shoreline movement vary significantly with time and with latitude. By analyzing waterline positions—where land meets ocean—between 1997 and 2022, scientists found that in the Pacific Northwest, seasonal waterline movements often exceed 25 meters, while shifts in Southern California and farther south rarely top 10 meters.

    The driving forces behind these changes also vary by region. Wave power is the dominant force in the northern parts of the coast, while farther south, sea-level fluctuations and southern hemisphere swell become important. This reflects a transition in how wave climate affects coastal processes from north to south.

    “This paper is the synthesis of [lead author Marcan Graffin’s] many separate efforts, from developing satellite shoreline-detection algorithms, to generating large-scale data sets, and then analyzing them alongside climate data. We’ve learned a great deal about the nuances of shoreline variability on the U.S. West Coast from Marcan’s work,” said USGS Research Oceanographer Dr. Sean Vitousek, a co-author of the study.

     

    In addition, the study examines the outsized influence of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the recurring climate pattern that swings between warm (El Niño) and cool (La Niña) phases in the Pacific Ocean, on shoreline positions. During El Niño years, intense storm tracks shift southward, boosting wave energy and accelerating erosion from Southern California to Baja California Sur. La Niña events, on the other hand, are associated with smaller winter waves and mild shoreline accretion across the subregion.

    However, farther north—from Northern California through the Pacific Northwest—the impacts of ENSO are less predictable. There, shoreline response depends on a complex blend of storm path changes, wave-energy intensity, and local geography.

    These patterns help explain why some coastlines erode dramatically during strong El Niño winters while others seem to hold steady, demonstrating how regional climate signals interact with local coastal dynamics.

    The study is one of the first to examine shoreline changes along such a large, diverse stretch of coast using a consistent satellite-derived dataset. The 25-year archive of shoreline imagery allowed researchers to tease out both seasonal and interannual trends—critical for anticipating how coastlines will respond to future climate extremes. 

    Read the study, Waterline responses to climate forcing along the North American West Coast, in Nature Communications: Earth & Environment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: International Convention Gavels

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    This article was featured in the Summer 2025 IAM Journal and was written by IAM Communications Representative Bill Harkum.

    The gavels used at the 2024 International Convention in New York City symbolize the diverse crafts and skills of our membership. Four unique gavels were produced by four proud lodges within the Eastern Territory.

    The IAM Ritual used at union meetings tells us that by tra­dition, two raps of the gavel are a call to order for the gathered members. Three raps of the gavel require the members to stand and be silent. One rap of the gavel means members take their seats and maintain order.

    THREE RAPS OF THE FIRST GAVEL

    One gavel was made by Local S6 members in Maine, home to Bath Tron Works and members who build ships for the U.S. Navy. Derek Bozeman of IAM Local S6 collaborated with Jeremy Tripp, a member of Bath Maine Draftsmen Association Local 3999, collaborated to produce a gavel out scrap ship material and stainless steel. The result is an impressively balanced and weigh­ ted gavel that looks like materials representing the yard of this ship building facility.

    Tripp said “we were able to incorporate a lot of the identity of the yard, the shipyard, into it.”

    The shine of the stainless steel against an inlaid TAM brass coin and a brass outline of a Navy ship as a crown piece above the hammerhead shows the skill and crea­tivity to turn a simple tool into a showpiece.

    “The pride, execution and talent that went into this gavel speaks for itself when you see it,” said IAM District 4 Business Representative Chris Wiers.

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The next gavel is from Local 175 in York, a home of Harley-Davidson motorcycles manufacturing. Using scrap steel, three members of the lodge fashioned a Harley handlebar and throttle into a gavel, and a Harley gas tank into a strike plate.

    “The theme was, ‘We make the eagle fly,”‘ said Sam Santiago, one of the Local 175 craftsmen to do the intricate work by hand.

    William Anthony IV is the member who artistically trimmed, bent, and hand painted the steel to look like bird feathers. Scott Karaschak produced the handle bar and motorcycle throttle body used in the gavel itself.

    “I am in total awe of what our members did at local 175, from the beginning to the finished product,” said TAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representative Kermit Forbes Jr.

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The next gavel is made by a member of Local 1943 at Cleveland-Cliffs in Middletown, Ohio. This factory is the largest producer of flat-rolled steel in North America, much of which is used in automobile production.

    Michael Wilhelm is a maintenance technician, responsible for attending to and fixing the machinery within this steel mill, for over a decade. He’s known for always staying busy, and finding projects to work on, regardless of the rest cycles in the plan. Wilhelm made all the parts and components of this gavel by band.

    The gavel is made from flat stainless steel and some brass. It features a rotating center coil, driven by a step down motor that Wilhelm had to specially tweak to appear to be levitating inside the hammer head. It has a micro furnace with burner boxes at the corners, and a blower motor to move the air from the furnace.

    “Mike is a real go-getter. No idle time, always working,” said Local 1943 President and Directing  Business  Representative Shawn Coffey. “I knew it would be a success and he would knock it out of the park.”

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The final gavel was made by IAM Local 4 member John Wible at the Winpisinger Center in Hollywood, Md. It is the only gavel for this convention made from wood, and the craftsmanship is just as intricate as its steel siblings used at the International Convention.

    Wible is a full time mainte­nance technician at the Winpisin­ger Center. When not at work he is a life member and volunteer firefi­ghter at this local fire department. “We are so proud of every gavel that’s being made. It showcases the talent our members have, the creativity that our members have,” said IAM Eastern Territory Gene­ral Vice President David Sullivan. ‘The gavel is very, very important to our process, and anybody who has the honor to swing that gavel, needs to respect that gavel, and respect our members, and always do what’s right for our members.” 

    All four gavels are now on dis­ play at IAM Headquarters.

    One rap of the gavel so that all can be seated.

    Watch Video Here

    The post International Convention Gavels appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of Sustainability Awards Environmental and Social Sustainability Grants to Student-Led Projects

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn, consistently one of the top ten most sustainable universities in the United States, will be getting even better at upholding sustainable practices with the help of seven student-led projects this year.

    These innovative projects are funded by the Environmental and Social Sustainability Grants (ESSG) Program through the Office of Sustainability. Creative student-faculty teams applied for funding to support campus programs that enhance environmental and social sustainability while engaging students and community members. Applicants shared ideas spanning education, research, authentic community engagement, and campus operations. This is the fourth round of ESSG funding since 2021, which has helped launch the Swap Shop (now Thrift Den), a composting privy at Spring Valley Student Farm, and efforts to combat food insecurity via hydroponic farming.

    “The ESSG program is just one of the Office of Sustainability’s growing suite of experiential learning programs available to all UConn students. In alignment with UConn’s strategic goals, we are excited to be able to award these funds to empower students to take action on addressing real-world challenges that impact the wellness of people and the planet. Faculty and staff mentors play an instrumental role in ensuring the success of these projects and we’re also incredibly grateful for their support,” said Patrick McKee, Director of the Office of Sustainability.

    Seven projects were awarded funds due to their interdisciplinary nature and ability to advance sustainability and equity.

    Harnessing Phosphorus

    Phosphorus is a key piece in fertilizing crops and producing food. This project aims to explore sustainable, easy ways of getting phosphorus out of wastewater to make it easier, cheaper, and less climate-intensive for farmers to grow food in underprivileged areas.

    • Student: Brenny Alcantara ’27 (CLAS)
    • Staff Mentor: Katie Milardo, Associate Director, Energy & Water Conservation

    The Grove of Generosity: Sustainable Food Forest for Students

    A food forest to create community for people, plants and wildlife on the Storrs campus. Using native plants, this project will provide habitat, food for all, and space to make connections between people and nature.

    • Students: Olivia Ballaro ’26 (CAHNR), Ella May ’27 (CAHNR), Howard Truax ’26 (CAHNR)
    • Faculty Mentor: Phoebe Godfrey, Professor in Residence, Sociology

    Sustainability Practicum: Designing a UConn Hartford Service-Learning Course

    This project will create materials for a UConn Hartford geography service-learning course titled “Sustainability Practicum,” designed to develop student leaders of environmental & social sustainability in collaboration with & in service of Keney Park Sustainability Project, a nonprofit developing sustainable community-based food systems in urban North Hartford.

    • Students: Thomas Bonitz, Ph.D. Candidate in Geography
    • Faculty Mentor: Dr. Carol Atkinson-Palombo, Professor in Geography

    Project Racoon

    Project Raccoon is a student-led initiative that collects redeemable bottles and cans to reduce waste, increase recycling, and fund student scholarships. With this grant, the program will expand to over 50+ bins and engage more volunteers.

    • Student: Abigail Koval ’26 (BUS), Anny Zheng ’26 (COE), Jennifer Weng ’26 (COE), Virginia Weng ’26 (COE)
    • Staff Mentor: Cody Ryan, Innovation Zone Supervisor

    Seeds2Sustain: Hartford & Stamford Campuses

    Seeds2Sustain is a program designed to help students address food insecurity on a personal level by using hydroponics. Over 9 weeks, students are taught about the evolution of food production, food insecurity, hydroponics, nutrition, cooking and more to gain a solid foundation of knowledge.

    • Students: Lucy Ledesma ‘26 (BUS, COE), Audrey Larson ‘25 (COE)
    • Faculty Mentor: Johnathan Moore, Executive Director, Digital Frontiers Initiative, Director of OPIM Innovate Labs 

    Disasters in Society: Working Towards Resilient & Sustainable Futures through Experiential Learning & Service

    This project captures Asheville’s recovery from Hurricane Helene, highlighting student engagement and hands-on learning in disaster resilience. Through storytelling and service, they aim to expand access to fieldwork and promote support for sustainability-focused education.

    • Students: Lisel Nee ’26 (COE), Melia Marshall, MPP Candidate, Daniel Kraemer, Ph.D. Candidate in Geography, Brandon Soto, Masters of Energy and Environmental Management Candidate
    • Faculty Mentor: Dr. Carol Atkinson-Palombo, Professor in Geography

    Sustainable Dairy Wastewater Treatment Using Microalgae at UConn

    This project addresses the challenge of dairy wastewater from the UConn barns, which can be a significant source of pollution if not properly managed. By using microalgae to treat wastewater, we can convert it into a sustainable biomass that can be used as poultry feed. This approach not only helps clean and recycle wastewater but also aligns with circular bioeconomy principles, turning waste into valuable resources. This initiative advances UConn’s environmental goals and contributes to a more sustainable campus ecosystem.

    • Students: Azeem Sarwar ’27 (COE), Syed Zahid Ahmad, Ph.D. Candidate in Mechanical Engineering
    • Faculty Mentors: Dr. Yu Lei, Professor in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Dr. Yongku Cho, Associate Professor in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering

    Over $37,000 will be awarded in total to support these student-lead projects.

    Thomas Bonitz, a grantee pursuing a Ph.D. in Geography says, “As an aspiring educator, I am thrilled to work on designing a “sustainability practicum” course for the UConn Hartford campus. There is obvious educational and community value getting students out of the traditional classroom setting to learn from and contribute to real-world efforts to practice sustainability.” His project exemplifies UConn’s dedication to promoting student success and providing service to Connecticut communities.

    “I look forward to moving onto the next stage for my Harnessing Phosphorus project and being able to work with more resources. I’ve been working on this project independently since my first semester at UConn, so receiving this grant and finding support from new mentors is a reminder of how far I’ve come. It’s great to see the University also believes in my project’s potential,” shares Brenny Alcantara ’27 (CLAS) who will be working on ways to make fertilizer more accessible, less likely to cause algae blooms, and decrease the carbon footprint of a critical agricultural ingredient.

    Students will present their project findings and impacts this fall at the Climate Change Cafe poster symposium in December.

    For more details on the Environmental and Social Sustainability Small Grants Program, please visit: https://sustainability.uconn.edu/environmental-social-sustainability-small-grants-program/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Next President of Society of Clinical Psychology is from UConn

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    “Congratulation to Dr. Damion Grasso on his election as President of the Society of Clinical Psychology,” shares Department of Psychiatry Professor and Chair Dr. David C. Steffens. “There is little doubt that his term as President will be successful.”

    The Society of Clinical Psychology (Division 12 of the American Psychological Association) is the professional home of clinical and health service psychologists.

    Grasso, an elected fellow of the Division 12 of the APA, has always had a strong, longstanding commitment to the Society of Clinical Psychology. Since graduate school he served as a campus representative for the Society. Over time, he took on several leadership roles – most recently as Secretary on the Board and co-chair of the Committee on Science and Practice. As the Committee’s co-chair, Grasso has played an instrumental role in advancing SCP’s efforts to evaluate and inventory empirically supported psychological treatments (ESTs).

    As President, Grasso plans to prioritize these efforts by expanding SCP’s capacity to engage and inform the public with resources designed to promote ESTs, establish an informed consumer-base, and caution against the growing trend for non-efficacious and potentially harmful approaches.

    SCP’s mission is to promote the integration of clinical psychological science and practice in education, research, application, advocacy, and public policy. Also, the Society seeks to engage students and clinical and health service psychologists at any stage of their career in support of this mission.

    “I am honored to serve as the president-elect of the Society of Clinical Psychology. Since graduate school, the Society has been my professional home, connecting me with mentors and pioneers in our field I wouldn’t have otherwise come to know. This community has truly helped shape my career,” says Grasso. “My intent is to pay it forward and grow our community of students and early career professionals so that we can support the next generation of clinical psychologists – especially during these challenging times.”

    Grasso serves UConn Health, Connecticut’s only public academic medical center, caring for patients as a licensed clinical psychologist and associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UConn School of Medicine with a secondary appointment in its Department of Pediatrics.

    Additionally, his research broadly focuses on understanding biobehavioral mechanisms involved in trauma- and stress-related disorders in children and effective strategies for assessing and treating trauma-related impairment. He co-leads the UConn Health Family Adversity and Resilience Research (FARR) Program and provides evidence-based psychotherapy interventions for treating trauma-related disorders in the UConn Health Psychological Trauma Clinic.

    Grasso graduated from Skidmore College with his undergraduate degree in psychology, earned his master’s degree in general psychology at Wesleyan University, completed his Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the University of Delaware, and his clinical internship was performed at the Medical University of South Carolina.

    MIL OSI USA News –