NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE removes Mexican fugitive wanted for family violence

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NOGALES — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed Juan Jasso-Botello, a 44-year-old Mexican fugitive wanted in Mexico for family violence, March 25.

    ICE transported Jasso-Botello from the Florence Detention Center to the Dennis DeConcini Port of Entry in Nogales, where he was transferred to the custody of Mexican authorities.

    “The removal of Juan Jasso demonstrates the collaborative, whole of government approach that ICE supports in protecting the citizens of the U.S.,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Phoenix Field Office Director John Cantu. “Our dedicated officers and partners in law enforcement have worked tirelessly to ensure that such individuals are brought to justice and then removed from the United States.”

    Jasso-Botello illegally entered the United States Nov. 1, 2024, near Newfield and was arrested on Nov. 2, 2024.

    Members of the public who have information about foreign fugitives, transnational gang members or other criminal aliens who are in the U.S. illegally are urged to contact ICE by calling the ICE Tip Line at 1 (866) 347-2423 or internationally at 001-1802-872-6199. They can also file a tip online by completing ICE’s online tip form.

    For more news and information on how ICE carries out its immigration enforcement mission in Arizona, follow us on X, @ERO__Phoenix.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, law enforcement partners arrest 13 illegal criminal alien offenders during Huntsville enforcement operation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HUNSTVILLE, Ala. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement along with law enforcement partners from the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration engaged in an enhanced, targeted enforcement operation that focused on criminal illegal aliens. The team of officers and agents apprehended 13 illegal aliens in the Huntsville area March 25. Additionally, eight of the offenders had been previously removed from the United States and have federal convictions for illegal reentry after removal. The cases were prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Alabama.

    Charges from those arrested include:

    • Domestic violence
    • Narcotics trafficking
    • Property crime
    • Driving while intoxicated

    ICE is focused on smart, effective immigration enforcement that protects the U.S. homeland through the arrest and removal of those individuals who compromise the safety of our communities and the integrity of our immigration laws.

    Entering the United States without authorization is a violation of federal law, and those who do so may be subject to administrative arrest, and in some cases, criminal prosecution.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROAtlanta.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Philadelphia removes illegal alien wanted for murder to Ecuador

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed Luis Gerardo Pelaez Llivichuzca, a citizen of Ecuador with a final order of removal wanted by his home country for murder, to Ecuador on March 25.

    “The removal of Luis Gerardo Pelaez Llivichuzca reflects our stanch commitment to safeguarding public safety and enforcing the integrity of our immigration system,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “ICE remains resolute in its efforts to identify, apprehend, and remove individuals who pose a threat to our communities.

    The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Pelaez April 20, 2010, near Kots Kug, Arizona, for entering the United States without inspection or parole by an immigration official.

    The Border Patrol served Pelaez a notice and order of expedited removal on April 22, 2010, charging inadmissibility and transferred him to ICE at the Florence Service Processing Center in Florence, Arizona. ICE transferred Pelaez May 29, 2010, to the Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Jena, Louisiana, and removed him from the U.S. to Ecuador June 4, 2010.

    Pelaez then re-entered the U.S. on an unknown date and at an unknown location without inspection or parole by an immigration official.

    Authorities in Ecuador issued an arrest warrant for murder for Pelaez May 31, 2018.

    ICE arrested Pelaez during a targeted enforcement action in New York Feb. 11, and served him a notice of intent and decision to reinstate a prior order charging removability.

    ICE transferred Pelaez to the Moshannon Valley Processing Center in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, Feb. 12, where he remained pending removal proceedings.

    Members of the public with information can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE Philadelphia’s mission to increase public safety in our Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia communities on X: @EROPhiladelphia

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Dominican Republic: A Global Benchmark for Investment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a global context marked by increasing economic uncertainty and market volatility, the Dominican Republic is consolidating itself as a global benchmark for foreign investment, especially for companies seeking new destinations from which to operate to reduce costs, mitigate risks, and strengthen the resilience of their supply chains.

    With a GDP growth of 5.0% in 2024, the highest in all Latin America and the Caribbean, the country remains one of the most dynamic, outperforming larger economies. For the coming years, this impressive dynamism is expected to continue, with IMF growth projections of 4.5% and 5.1% for 2025 and 2026, respectively, driven by solid political and social stability, a robust financial system, and favorable economic policies for business development. This extraordinary performance has also strengthened the confidence of international investors, reflected in the improvement of the country’s credit rating by major rating agencies such as S&P Global and Fitch Ratings.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    Thus, beyond its idyllic landscapes, the Dominican Republic has managed to establish itself as a key destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). In 2024, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), FDI in the country increased by 7.1%, representing 41% of the capital flows captured by Central America.

    The Dominican Republic Industrial Tech revolution is no longer a secret – it’s a movement. This dynamic shift is not only transforming the country’s industrial landscape but is also positioning the Dominican Republic as a central hub for technological innovation, creating exciting opportunities for growth and international partnerships.

    Global companies continue to choose the Dominican Republic to relocate their operations in key sectors such as medical and pharmaceutical products, electrical and electronic devices, textile manufacturing, tobacco and its derivatives, jewelry, among others. Clearly, this outlook shows that nearshoring is not an emerging trend, but a reality in the country. We’ve seen how innovation, investment, and talent are transforming the nation into a powerhouse of technological advancement.

    Free Zones in the Dominican Republic: Engine of Economic Diversification and Nearshoring

    The growing interest in creating more resilient, sustainable, and closer supply chains to end consumer markets has made nearshoring a key competitive strategy for companies. In this context, the Dominican Republic, located just two hours by air and two days by sea from the United States, offers multiple competitive advantages:

    • Geographic proximity to the world’s largest consumer markets.
    • Legal security and clear, predictable rules of the game.
    • Top-level connectivity and logistics infrastructure, with 8 international airports, 18 seaports, 5 logistics centers, and 33 logistics operator companies. This infrastructure includes ports that have positioned themselves as important terminal operators, playing a strategic role in the sustainability of global supply chains.
    • Several Free Trade Agreements, including DR-CAFTA and EPA, which open the doors to more than 900 million potential consumers worldwide.
    • Competitive operational costs.

    These extraordinary advantages, combined with the attractive tax incentives offered by the Free Zones Regime, make the Dominican Republic an unbeatable investment destination for companies looking to relocate or expand their manufacturing operations.

    Free Zones, which have been successfully implemented for over half a century without modifications, have played a crucial role in the industrial and social development of the country, attracting the attention of global companies, including those on the Fortune 500 list, and consolidating themselves as a key pillar of the economy. Their main benefits include:

    • 100% tax exemptions on national and local taxes.
    • Access to a skilled and competitive workforce, with experience in advanced manufacturing processes.
    • Specialized training and development programs.
    • Simplified customs processes that streamline export logistics.
    • Competitive wage structures tailored to the Free Zones Regime.
    • Parks Operators which offer business services and solutions to facilitate the operations of Free Zones companies.

    Clearly, this is an exceptional regime for companies interested in developing operations with certainty and predictability, strengthening their supply chains, and successfully navigating disruptions and changes in the global environment.

    About the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSME’s (MICM)
    MICM is the government agency responsible for the formulation, adoption, monitoring, evaluation, and control of policies in the fields of industry, exports, foreign trade, free zones, special regimes, and SMEs.

    Contact Information

    Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSME’s (MICM)
    Vice Ministry of Free Zones and Special Regimes
    (1) 809-685-5171 ext. 1017
    www.micm.gob.do

    For more information, visit:
    www.drfreezones.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Junbo Zhao from UConn College of Engineering Wins NSF CAREER Award

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    For those of us old enough to remember, the 2003 blackout in New York City and parts of the Northeast served as a grim reminder of the tenuous nature of the electrical grid we all take for granted. Electrical generation and distribution systems are complex and, in many cases, overtaxed and quite old. But technology has significantly improved since that fateful day, and if today’s grid operators had access to some of the tools now in place or currently being developed, they might have been able to mitigate or avoid that memorable and traumatic power interruption.

    Looking back, explains Junbo Zhao, Castleman Term professor in Engineering Innovation, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), part of the problem was that the control systems that existed in 2003 didn’t offer any functional way to give operators the needed visibility to adjust to generations and demands in real time. They lacked the tools they needed to reroute or divert power from other sources and, in hindsight, to have seen the problems as they were developing.

    “Traditionally, power grid operators use a method called static state estimation (SSE) to monitor systems and ensure reliable data for decision-making,” Zhao explains. “However, this method struggles under extreme conditions, which contributed to the 2003 blackout, causing billions of dollars in losses.”

    With the rapid growth of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, he adds, as well as increased battery storage, the power grid is becoming more dynamic. Traditional SSE is no longer enough to keep up with these fast-changing conditions.

    To help address these challenges, Zhao, from the UConn College of Engineering (CoE), has received a five-year National Science Foundation (NSF) Faculty Early Career Development Program grant. The CAREER Program is a foundation-wide activity that offers the NSF’s most prestigious awards in support of early-career faculty who have the potential to serve as academic role models in research and education and to lead advances in the mission of their department or organization.

    Junbo Zhao, second from left, works with students (from left) Alaa Selim, Yingyi Tang, Tong Su, and Bendong Tan on CAREER project logistics. (photo, Christopher LaRosa/UConn)

    According to Zhao, beyond technical advancements, this project also will foster collaboration between industry and academia, update courses, and provide hands-on training in renewable energy, data analytics, and power engineering. Special efforts will be made to engage K-12 students, helping to build the next generation of energy experts.

    “We’re looking at ways to expand now to ensure that our energy systems are more resilient and expandable in the future,” Zhao explains. “We are exploring dynamic abilities and creating tools that can be utilized to guide effective decision-making and prevent catastrophic blackouts, rather than simply respond to them.”

    Researchers help ensure stability going forward

    This grant project aims to improve grid operators’ ability to monitor and control the power system in real time, ensuring stability as more renewable energy sources are added. The project will introduce new ways to use measurements for tracking system conditions, diagnosing and fixing model issues, and improving measurement setups to enhance grid reliability and security.

    “Dr. Zhao’s NSF CAREER award is a testament to the ECE department’s dedication to integrating research and educational excellence,” says John Chandy, professor and ECE department head. “The award will support his research efforts in power grid reliability and resilience as well as an integrated education program focused on undergraduate and graduate students. Additionally, the program will extend his outreach efforts to the community as well as to industry and national lab partners. I am confident that this new CAREER project will drive innovations that further enhance the university mission and strengthen the ECE department’s power and energy program.”

    Zhao earned his Ph.D. from Virginia Tech in 2018. He also serves as director, DOE Northeast University Cybersecurity Center for Advanced and Resilient Energy Delivery, and is a research scientist for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

    According to Emmanouil Anagnostou, executive director of CoE’s institute of environment and energy, the Eversource Energy Center, Zhao’s CAREER research will further enhance the center’s role in enhancing grid reliability and resilience, particularly as the integration of renewable energy continues to expand.

    “Dr. Zhao’s CAREER project will significantly benefit both the utility industry and the research community by advancing integrated research and education on the scientific and engineering principles necessary for modeling, monitoring, and digitizing future power systems,” says Anagnostou. “With the growing adoption of renewable energy, this work is essential for ensuring a secure and reliable power supply.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Multistate Coalition to Defend EPA’s Chemical Accident Safety Rule

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, as part of a multistate coalition, filed a motion to intervene to defend the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) chemical accident safety rule adopted in 2024. The rule requires facilities, such as refineries and chemical manufacturing plants, to take steps to prevent chemical accidents, which includes requiring hazardous facilities to implement prevention plans, safety planning for employees, increase community transparency, and prepare for extreme weather risks. The rule protects communities, especially environmental justice communities, that are exposed to chemical accidents due to these facilities’ close proximity. Currently, the rule is being challenged by a coalition of 14 states, led by Oklahoma; separate challenges have also been filed by industry groups including the National Association of Chemical Distributors and the American Chemistry Council. Just this month, The Trump Administration has announced its intent to reconsider this rule as a part of its broader agenda to dismantle environmental and public health safeguards.

    “Chemical disasters pose serious risks, including long-term health effects and devastating economic consequences. Without stringent safety protocols, proper emergency response planning, and corporate accountability, communities will remain vulnerable to preventable catastrophes,” said Attorney General Bonta.  “That’s why I, alongside attorneys general nationwide, are filing this motion. Any attempt to rollback this rule would not only curtail the environmental and economic benefits but could also have irreversible impacts on lives that are preventable.” 

    Chemical accidents, including explosions, and releases of hazardous chemicals are an inevitable part of the operation of large, complex facilities using highly hazardous materials. The worst cases include large explosions and large releases of toxic gases or liquids, causing multiple injuries or deaths. Since 2001, there have been at least five chemical accidents in California large enough to require investigations by the United States Chemical Safety Board. Smaller accidents are even more prevalent. These chemical plants and refineries are disproportionately located in some of the most disadvantaged communities in the state. 

    In 1986, responding to a series of serious chemical accidents in the 1970s and 1980s, California created a risk management and prevention program, now called the California Accidental Release Prevention (CalARP) Program. Similar to the federal Risk Management Plan Rule, CalARP requires regulated entities to adopt a program, explaining how the facility will identify and mitigate the chemical accident risks specific to the facility. The facility must adhere to robust safety measures, including accident prevention and public transparency goals, and implement protections to mitigate potential consequences of chemical accidents. Facilities that are covered by both the federal and state programs must comply with the requirements of each. 

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, District of Columbia, and Harris County, Texas, in filing the motion.

    A copy of the motion is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boulder, Colorado Named New Host of Sundance Film Festival Beginning in 2027

    Source: US State of Colorado

    Press conference to be held at 2 p.m. today in downtown Boulder 

    BOULDER — Today, the Sundance Institute named Boulder, Colorado as the new host of the Sundance Film Festival starting in 2027. To celebrate the announcement, a press conference will be held at 2 p.m. today, March 27, in front of the Boulder Theater on the southwest corner of 14th and Spruce in downtown Boulder, Colorado. State officials, including Gov. Polis, Sundance Institute representatives, and Visit Boulder are all expected to speak. Members of the media who plan to attend should RSVP to Ally Sullivan at ally.sullivan@state.co.us.

     “I’m beyond excited to welcome the Sundance Film Festival to Colorado starting in 2027. Powerful films tell our stories; who we were, who we are, and who we aspire to be. Here in Colorado we also celebrate the arts and film industry as a key economic driver, job creator, and important contributor to our thriving culture. Now, with the addition of the iconic Sundance Film Festival, we can expect even more jobs, a huge benefit for our small businesses including stores and restaurants, and to help the festival achieve even greater success. Thank you to the Sundance Film Festival and all of the partners including the City of Boulder, Visit Boulder, the Boulder Chamber of Commerce, and I also want to thank the bipartisan legislators and leadership who have worked tirelessly to make this possible,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    Today’s announcement follows the submission of a winning proposal by the Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Boulder) with support from the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), the Colorado Office of Film Television and Media (COFTM), OEDIT’s Business Funding & Incentives Division, Colorado Creative Industries (CCI), the Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) and a regional coalition of partners, including the City of Boulder, the Boulder Chamber, the University of Colorado Boulder, and the Stanley Film Center. The proposal to host the Sundance Film Festival in Boulder has also secured bipartisan support, including the sponsors of HB25-1005, which is still moving through the legislative process, House Majority Leader Monica Duran, Rep. Brianna Titone, Sen. Judy Amabile and Sen. Mark Baisley. 

    “We’re beyond excited that Boulder has been chosen as the future home for the Sundance Film Festival. With its thriving creative spirit, stunning mountain backdrop, and welcoming community, Boulder offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience for filmmakers and attendees alike. This moment is a testament to what happens when a community comes together to champion art, culture, and connection. Congratulations, Boulder and all of Colorado — this is our moment to shine!” said Charlene Hoffman, CEO of Visit Boulder. 

    Through this historic opportunity, Colorado will honor the Festival’s roots in the mountain west, while supporting its ongoing growth and success and boosting the state’s creative economy. The Festival’s presence in Boulder will benefit the region and beyond, increasing tourism and boosting sales to restaurants and small businesses during a quiet time of year, while bolstering Colorado’s creative economy and generating new jobs for Coloradans. 

    “Colorado has long been known for its culture of collaboration, and that spirit was on full display throughout the proposal process. Recognizing the opportunity to strengthen our creative economy, create new jobs for Coloradans, boost tourism and elevate Colorado on the global stage, a diverse group of partners came together to showcase Colorado as the ideal next home for the Sundance Film Festival. The relationships we have built and strengthened, especially our partnership with the Sundance Institute, will ensure the Festival’s next act is a tremendous success,” said OEDIT Executive Director, Eve Lieberman. 

    “We are thrilled to welcome the Sundance Film Festival to Colorado and work with our new partners at the Sundance Institute to ensure a smooth transition to Boulder in 2027. We can think of no better partner to elevate filmmaking and storytelling in Colorado and look forward to celebrating the many creative milestones that lie ahead,” said Colorado Film Commissioner, Donald Zuckerman. “With our world-renowned Rocky Mountain landscapes, well-established creative communities, strong hotel bed base, and robust domestic and international connectivity through Denver International Airport, Colorado is the perfect stage for the Sundance Film Festival’s next act. Congratulations to Boulder, and welcome to our new Festival partners!” said Colorado House Majority Leader Monica Duran. 

    “Hosting the Sundance Film Festival is an incredible win for the Boulder region and the state of Colorado. The 2024 festival generated $132 million in gross domestic product, created 1,730 jobs paying $69.7 million in wages, and attracted 24,000 out-of-state visitors who spent an average of $735 a day. We expect to see a similar impact for Coloradans and look forward to welcoming the Festival in 2027,” said Colorado Rep. Brianna Titone. 

    “The Tax Incentive for Film Festivals is advancing through the Colorado legislature with bipartisan support, paving the way for today’s historic announcement and demonstrating our state’s commitment to ensuring the success of the Sundance Film Festival in Colorado. This exciting news will elevate our creative industries and create new jobs for Coloradans for years to come,” said Colorado Sen. Judy Amabile. 

    “Today’s announcement is a tremendous win for Colorado small businesses. We welcome the Sundance Film Festival making its new home in Boulder. This will boost sales at restaurants, retailers and other small businesses throughout the region that rely on tourism, bringing much needed revenue to Colorado communities during a quiet time of year,” said Colorado Sen. Mark Baisley.

     About Visit Boulder 

    Visit Boulder, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, is the official destination marketing organization for the city of Boulder, Colorado. Established in 1985, Visit Boulder strengthens the local economy by inspiring visitor connections to Boulder’s vibrant landscape and unique culture. (www.bouldercoloradousa.com) 

    About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade 

    The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Expanding Funding to Enhance Services for Veterans

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the availability of capital grants to expand services for organizations that serve veterans, service members and military families. At least $1.35 million is available through the third round of the Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program distributed by the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York to support efforts to expand and enhance quality services available to the state’s veterans, service members and military families. $3.65 million in grants to 57 qualifying veterans’ organizations statewide was previously provided through the first two rounds of this program. These investments build on the Governor’s support for veterans, service members and their families, and her FY26 Executive Budget includes proposals to enhance veteran suicide prevention programs and expand support for gold star families.

    “I am deeply grateful to New York’s courageous servicemen and women whose selfless sacrifice protects our country and all that we cherish,” Governor Hochul said. “We owe them the same measure of devotion as they have shown to us and this funding will help them access quality services for them and their families.”

    The Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Grant Program provides support for the indispensable organizations and institutions dedicated to serving New York’s honored Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families. The program plays a critical role in ensuring these vital entities have the resources necessary to sustain their impactful work in a secure and effective manner.

    Through strategic funding, the VNCP empowers these organizations to modernize their facilities, broaden their services, and significantly enhance the lives of those who have selflessly dedicated themselves to protecting our nation.

    New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Viviana DeCohen said, “Governor Hochul is a true friend to New York’s Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families. The Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program reflects her deep commitment to strengthening the support systems that help our heroes. Thanks to the Governor’s leadership, we are not just enhancing services, we are building a brighter future that honors the service and sacrifices of our Veterans and ensures they receive the care and recognition they so deeply deserve.”

    DASNY President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “DASNY is proud to partner with the Department of Veterans’ Services to administer the Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program, providing essential infrastructure support to organizations serving those who have served our nation. We thank Governor Hochul for her leadership in establishing this program that enables these vital nonprofits to modernize their facilities and enhance their service capabilities. These targeted investments in capital improvements will have lasting impacts across New York, creating more resilient and effective support systems for our veterans, service members, and military families.”

    To qualify for this funding, at least 75 percent of the organization’s current members must be veterans or service members of the United States Military, with military family members comprising the majority of all remaining members. The organization must verify to the State that their principal purpose is to provide services and resources to veterans, service members and military families. The RGA is posted on the DVS and DASNY websites. A webinar outlining the process for applicants will be posted April 9 and applicants may also submit questions through April 11, with answers posted no later than April 18. All applicants must be prequalified in the Statewide Financial System (SFS) at the time of application. View a webinar explaining the prequalification process.

    Funding through the Veterans’ Nonprofit Capital Program is provided for architecture, design, engineering, construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation or expansion of an eligible facility; and purchase of eligible furnishings or equipment.

    About the Department of Veterans’ Services
    The New York State Department of Veterans’ Services, proudly serves New York’s veterans, service members and military families, connecting them with benefits, services, and support. All who served should contact the Department at 888-838-7697 or its website to meet in-person or virtually with an accredited Veterans Benefits Advisor to receive the benefits they have earned. Follow DVS on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

    About DASNY
    Founded in 1944, DASNY is New York State’s capital project development authority. It finances and constructs sustainable and resilient science, health, and education institutions that help New York thrive. It is one of the largest issuers of tax-exempt bonds in the nation with an outstanding bond portfolio of approximately $55.8 billion as of March 31, 2024. DASNY is also a prolific public builder with a construction pipeline of approximately 1,000 projects valued at more than $12 billion as of March 31, 2024. To learn more about DASNY, visit www.dasny.org.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nearly $50M Available Through ConnectALL Municipal Program

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today highlighted the launch of Phase 4 of New York State’s Municipal Infrastructure Program (MIP) Request for Applications, making nearly $50 million available to support broadband infrastructure projects across the state. MIP connects unserved and underserved communities to high-speed internet through open-access and publicly controlled broadband infrastructure. To date, ConnectALL has awarded over $240 million, enabling the construction of almost 2,400 miles of fiber and connecting nearly 100,000 locations statewide. The new Phase 4 Application expands the program to nearly $300 million, drawing on funds from the US Department of Treasury Capital Projects Fund.

    “Reliable, affordable high-speed internet is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity for New Yorkers to fully participate in our modern economy and society,” Governor Hochul said. “Through the ConnectALL initiative, we are making historic investments to ensure every New Yorker has access to the digital tools they need to succeed. Phase 4 of the Municipal Infrastructure Program builds on our ongoing efforts to address broadband gaps in areas that have been overlooked and underserved by traditional internet service providers.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Municipal Infrastructure Program represents a transformative approach to broadband deployment that puts communities in the driver’s seat. By supporting public ownership of broadband infrastructure and open-access networks, we’re creating sustainable solutions that increase competition, lower costs, and ensure better service for New Yorkers.”

    Senator Charles Schumer said, “Broadband is a necessity not a luxury, a utility as vital as electricity for success in our modern economy to ensure people have access to healthcare, jobs, business development and education. I’m proud to deliver nearly $50 million in federal funding directly from the American Rescue Plan I led to passage that municipalities across New York can apply for to help underserved rural communities install the broadband infrastructure needed to close the digital divide and connect more homes and businesses to high-speed internet. I thank Governor Hochul for putting these federal dollars to work bringing affordable, high-speed internet to families across New York.”

    Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Broadband infrastructure is a necessity of the American economy, driving digital literacy, expanding educational and professional opportunities, and fueling economic growth. The ConnectALL initiative is a transformative investment in this critical public infrastructure, equipping New York State with the resources needed to expand affordable broadband access to underserved communities and unlock new digital opportunities for its residents. I am proud to see federal funding being used for this project and fully support the implementation of Phase 4.”

    State Senator Kristen Gonzalez said, “The Municipal Infrastructure Program provides broadband access for so many of our communities that are underserved, isolated, and that need these connections. I want to thank the governor for being committed to expanding high-speed internet access and investing in our public infrastructure.”

    Assemblymember Steve Otis said, “This nearly $50 million investment in municipal broadband infrastructure projects is great news for building on ConnectALL’s success in addressing gap areas in our broadband system. Governor Hochul has made New York a leader in addressing broadband gaps and addressing inequities that deprive areas of the high-speed technology access that every New Yorker deserves. The new funding will enable us to meet the needs of businesses, families, and all those needing connection to the digital world most take for granted.”

    New York State Association of Counties President Benjamin Boykin II said, “This program has been an important tool for counties working to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all New Yorkers — regardless of where they live — have access to reliable, high-speed internet. This latest phase of funding is another important step toward closing connectivity gaps and will enable counties to continue investing in the critical broadband infrastructure that supports economic growth, education, and public safety. We commend Governor Hochul for her continued leadership in expanding broadband access across New York State.”

    New York State Conference of Mayors Executive Director Barbara J. Van Epps said, “The expansion of the ConnectALL Municipal Infrastructure Program is a tremendous opportunity for cities and villages across New York to invest in broadband infrastructure that directly serves their communities. Reliable, high-speed internet is essential for economic growth, housing opportunities, workforce development, and access to government services. By supporting publicly controlled broadband projects, this funding empowers local governments to bridge the digital divide, particularly in unserved and underserved communities. We encourage our members to take advantage of this critical resource and apply for Phase 4 funding.”

    New York Association of Towns Executive Director Christopher A. Koetzle said, “NYAOT applauds the continued investment in broadband infrastructure through the ConnectALL Municipal Infrastructure Program. Expanding this vital program to nearly $300 million underscores the state’s commitment to closing the digital divide in New York’s unserved and underserved communities. Reliable, high-speed internet is essential for economic development, education, and public services — and empowering towns to make these connections ensures lasting benefits for all New Yorkers.”

    Phase 4 of the Municipal Infrastructure Program will build on the Governor’s State of the State commitment to establish the Excelsior Broadband Network to build and connect a network of public broadband assets across the state. The first component of the Excelsior Broadband Network will be a new fiber line that runs the full length of the New York Thruway, which will improve high speed internet and reliable cell phone service across the state. The MIP grants will continue to prioritize unserved and underserved areas and increase opportunities for service providers to reach all corners of the state.

    Applications open today, March 27, with a deadline of April 25. Interested parties must submit applications through the New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) Portal here. Detailed information on eligibility and program requirements is available here.

    Governor Hochul’s ConnectALL Initiative

    Governor Hochul has made expanding broadband access a cornerstone of her administration’s efforts to create a more equitable New York. Through the ConnectALL initiative, New York State is investing $1 billion to transform the state’s digital infrastructure, enhance competition among providers, and ensure that every New Yorker has access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet.

    To date, ConnectALL has overseen the successful launch and implementation of several programs to advance broadband access, including:

    • The Digital Equity Program will invest $50 million, including a federal allocation of at least $37 million, to implement the New York State Digital Equity Plan to close the digital divide. ConnectALL closed the Digital Equity Program Capacity Grant Request for Applications on March 24. ConnectALL will award approximately $15.5 million through this Request for Applications to entities and partnerships working to bridge the digital divide.
    • The Affordable Housing Connectivity Program will provide up to $100 million in grants to bring new broadband infrastructure to homes in affordable and public housing leveraging funds from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Capital Projects Fund. The first awards under this program are securing $10 a month broadband service and $30 a month Gigabit service for over 14,000 low-income households in Buffalo, New York City and Rochester. The program continues to accept applications from internet service providers and expressions of interest from housing owners and public housing authorities.
    • The ConnectALL Deployment Program will fund internet service providers to reach unserved and underserved locations, drawing on an allocation of $664.6 million in federal funding from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, as described in the ConnectALL Broadband Deployment Initial Proposal. For details on the active Request for Applications for this program, visit the ConnectALL website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: SafeCard Reviews (Read Before Buying): Does It Really Work or Is It a Scam?

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MONROE, La., March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The world is gradually going fully digital with the advent of many of the latest technologies. We have embraced the convenience it brings with each tap, swipe, and contactless payment, even though it brings with it a new set of vulnerabilities. The proliferation of digital technologies raises the possibility of illegal access to private data, and resultant theft of personal information. This is where RFID-blocking technology comes into play, and SafeCard is one gadget that has generated a lot of attention.

    SafeCard Reviews

    SafeCard is designed to serve as a portable protector for your personal and financial data. According to the manufacturer claims and many consumer reports, It successfully prevents unwanted scanning by erecting an imperceptible barrier around your credit cards, passports, and other RFID-enabled devices using an innovative RFID and NFC blocking technology. To put it another way, SafeCard quietly protects your sensitive information in the background so you may profit from online transactions without worrying about cybercrime all the time.

    The SafeCard has been trending online and on different blogs because of the many claims and features users stand to gain from getting it. Also, users have asked many questions with the aim of confirming the authenticity and manufacturer’s claims. Is the SafeCard Worth My Dime? SafeCard Consumer Reports? Benefits of SafeCard? How Is the SafeCard better than an RFID Blocking Wallet? You will get to learn the answers to these and even more by the end of this review.

    We will holistically be looking at SafeCards performance, features, consumer reports, usefulness, and design. We are aware that making an informed choice requires a clear, factual analysis of the device’s functionality in real-world situations and we will be giving you just that. We will also discuss actual user experiences of the SafeCard from people in the USA, and Canada. Let’s get started!

    What Is SafeCard?
    (SafeCard Reviews USA, Canada, Australia)

    SafeCard is a thin and lightweight innovative card designed to keep you safe from unwanted access to your digital information. SafeCard provides a crucial line of security for your credit cards, passports, and other RFID-enabled devices in this age of contactless payments and growing cyberthreats. It prevents possible scanners from intercepting your data by establishing an imperceptible electromagnetic barrier using innovative RFID and NFC blocking technologies. Even in crowded public areas, this protective field guarantees that your personal identification and financial information stay private.

    SafeCard has an incredibly tiny design, unlike traditional RFID-blocking devices that come in the form of large wallets or separate sleeves. It blends in perfectly with any wallet, pocketbook, or cardholder thanks to its slightly thicker than one millimeter thickness, which keeps the design simple and elegant without adding extra bulk. SafeCard is a great option for anyone looking for both style and security because of its small size.

    The SafeCard functions passively so it doesn’t need batteries, recharging, or complicated setup. It automatically starts protecting your data by thwarting unauthorized scanning efforts as soon as it is put next to your cards. Whether you’re traveling, commuting, or just running your daily affairs, its sturdy, water-resistant materials guarantee that it can endure normal wear and tear. Essentially, SafeCard offers 24/7 security against digital theft by fusing an innovative technology with a user-friendly design.

    Does The SafeCard Really Work?

    By employing RFID and NFC blocking technology, SafeCard creates an imperceptible electromagnetic barrier that protects your private information from unwanted scanning attempts. SafeCard actively blocks radio frequency signals that hackers could otherwise intercept when it is in your wallet with your credit cards, passports, and other RFID-enabled devices.

    Your financial and personal information is always safe because of this passive interference, which operates constantly without the need for batteries or any setup. SafeCard eliminates the risk of digital theft by creating a protective barrier around your cards that stops skimming devices from accessing or sending your data. Because of its incredibly thin and light form, it fits neatly into any wallet or pocketbook and offers strong yet covert security wherever you go.

    SafeCard essentially provides a hassle-free, automated solution to protect your digital data around-the-clock. It is indispensable for anyone interested in digital security.

    DON’T MISS OUT: SafeCard is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order From The Official Website

    What Are the Special Features Of SafeCard?
    (SafeCard Reviews United States)

    The SafeCard has become a must-have device, especially for frequent travelers. Let’s quickly look at the features of the SafeCard RFID/NFC blocking card.

    • Advanced NFC and RFID Blocking Technology: To protect your private data from online scammers, SafeCard uses state-of-the-art NFC (Near Field Communication) and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) blocking technology. The SafeCard blocks unwanted scanning attempts before they can intercept your financial data by forming a strong undetectable electromagnetic barrier of about 5 centimeters. SafeCard provides complete protection for all RFID-enabled devices, including credit and debit cards, identification badges, smart passports, and tap-to-pay devices, in contrast to traditional security methods that might only protect a subset of cards. Even the most sophisticated skimming tools are made ineffective by the SafeCard tried-and-true protection system, providing you with peace of mind in any crowded or public location.
    • Slim and Compact Design: The days of compromising convenience and style for security are long gone. The smart thin design of the SafeCard, which is only 1.1 mm thick, makes it nearly identical to a regular credit card. Its incredibly thin profile makes it fit neatly into any wallet, pocketbook, or cardholder without adding extra bulk. SafeCard fits in perfectly with your lifestyle, regardless of whether you’re a minimalist who appreciates clean design or someone who carries numerous cards and documents on a regular basis. In addition to preserving your wallet’s overall appearance, its small size guarantees that all of the RFID-enabled cards in your collection are protected without the mess of bulky wallets or conventional RFID-blocking sleeves.
    • 24/7 Protection: SafeCard’s capacity to provide continuous protection without any active action is one of its best qualities. SafeCard offers 24/7 security without requiring batteries or recharging thanks to its passive operation. Its protection field is instantly activated when it is placed next to your RFID-enabled cards, guaranteeing that no unlawful scan is missed. Your personal information is always protected thanks to its always-on security system, whether you’re at home, on the road, or in a crowded public area. SafeCard’s dependable, continuous operation allows you to concentrate on your day while your digital security is taken care of automatically, eliminating the need for planned maintenance or downtime.
    • No Setup Required: SafeCard’s design philosophy is centered on ease of usage. There is no installation, configuration, or technical expertise needed. The SafeCard starts protecting you as soon as you put it in your wallet with your RFID-enabled cards. It’s a simple plug-and-play experience with no buttons to click, software upgrades to handle, or complicated instructions to follow. SafeCard is perfect for users of all ages and technical skill levels because of its simple usage.
    • Award-Winning Innovation: Both customers and industry professionals have acknowledged SafeCard’s superiority. This device, which has received praise and prizes from respectable organizations all around the world, is praised for its innovative approach to digital security. SafeCard has established itself as a reliable and creative solution in digital security thanks to thousands of good reviews and an expanding user base of over 10,000 happy customers. It is the preferred option for people looking for dependable, cutting-edge protection against digital theft due to its demonstrated track record of accomplishment. Choosing SafeCard ensures that you’re always one step ahead of cyber threats by investing in a device that has undergone extensive testing and been praised for its effectiveness and inventiveness.
    • Lightweight: SafeCard is the perfect addition for everyone who appreciates portability because, in spite of its strong security measures, it is remarkably light. Its feather-light design practically never adds weight to your daily carry, maintaining the convenience and comfort of your wallet.
    • Long-lasting and durable: SafeCard’s design places a strong emphasis on durability to make sure it can handle the rigors of regular use. SafeCard is made from high-quality, durable materials and is designed to withstand physical wear and tear, including scratches and water spillage. The sturdy design ensures that your card will stay in perfect shape for lengthy periods of time, offering ongoing protection without the need for regular replacements. SafeCard’s resilience guarantees that it will continue to be a reliable defender of your digital data regardless of the challenges provided by inclement weather or the demands of regular use..
    • Travel-Friendly: SafeCard is a necessary travel companion that blends ease and security for those who travel frequently. You may carry it covertly everywhere you go thanks to its small form, which fits neatly into any pocket or travel wallet without calling attention to itself. SafeCard’s dependable security is especially helpful in transit hubs where RFID skimming is more likely, like train stations, airports, and crowded cities. SafeCard guarantees that your sensitive information is protected during your travels. You can now concentrate on your experiences without having to worry about digital theft thanks to this travel-friendly feature.

    Are SafeCards Safe?

    SafeCards are designed to protect against illegal digital scanning and RFID skimming. SafeCard creates a barrier that keeps your RFID cards and documents protected when you slide them into your wallet.

    SafeCards provide complete protection for all RFID-enabled objects, including credit cards, passports, and even key cards, so it’s not just about stopping one kind of card. The verified efficiency reduces the possibility of illegal data collection in congested public areas such as busy transit stations, shopping malls, and airports.

    Once positioned next to your cards, they constantly protect your information around-the-clock because they don’t need batteries or active setup. Thanks to this hands-off design, you won’t have to bother about upkeep, which guarantees that your data is safe every day.

    The increasing quantity of glowing client testimonials also supports its safety. SafeCards are praised by users for providing peace of mind by lowering the danger of fraud and identity theft. Cybersecurity experts agree that SafeCards are a helpful personal security tool. The SafeCards is 100% safe and will not disappoint when you need them the most!

    How Do You Use SafeCard?

    SafeCard doesn’t require any technical setup and is incredibly user-friendly. Unlike other security devices, SafeCard runs passively, so you don’t need to charge it, turn it on, or do any other maintenance. Use SafeCard effectively by doing the following:

    • Unbox and Place SafeCard in Your Wallet: Place SafeCard in your wallet, purse, or cardholder just like you would with a regular credit card.
    • Place SafeCard Next to Your RFID-Enabled Cards: Keep your SafeCard near your contactless payment cards, identification cards, or passports for optimal security. One SafeCard can be used to protect several cards.
    • Take Advantage of Automatic RFID Protection: SafeCard begins to function as soon as it is in your wallet. By emitting a low-frequency signal that tampers with RFID scanners, it stops unauthorized access to private data.

    Is SafeCard Shield Legit?

    SafeCard Shield, a small and powerful RFID-blocking card made to protect your private data, is one product that has drawn a lot of interest. But is the SafeCard Shield genuine? The answer is definitely yes!

    SafeCard Shield’s innovative RFID and NFC blocking technology keeps data thieves at bay by erecting an imperceptible barrier around your RFID-enabled cards. Even with sophisticated scanning tools, SafeCard Shield ensures hackers cannot access your information, including your credit card, passport, or work ID. SafeCard Shield provides universal protection and is remarkably thin and light, unlike conventional RFID-blocking wallets that are large and costly.

    SafeCard Shield’s passive, battery-free operation is one of the things that makes it stand out as a genuine security tool. SafeCard Shield operates automatically around the clock, unlike other RFID blockers that need to be charged or powered by external sources. It offers immediate, continuous security without requiring setup, activation, or upkeep; just put it in your wallet next to your RFID-enabled cards.

    Thousands of excellent reviews from happy clients around the world are another indication of SafeCard Shield’s genuineness. Many users have reported feeling more at ease while traveling, shopping, or commuting in crowded areas. Additionally, tech reviewers and security experts have acknowledged SafeCard Shield as a straightforward and effective method of preventing unwanted RFID reading.

    Additionally, SafeCard Shield is composed of premium, long-lasting materials that guarantee protection for an extended period. Even after regular usage, its scratch-proof and water-resistant design ensures dependability. You can rely on SafeCard Shield to safeguard your private information for many years. SafeCard Shield is entirely legit!

    CLICK HERE NOW TO GET SAFECARD DIRECTLY FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT A MASSIVE DISCOUNT

    Best Places To Use SafeCard (SafeCard Review)

    SafeCard is a flexible addition to your daily security routine because it is made to offer strong protection wherever you go. Your credit cards, passports, and other RFID-enabled devices will always be protected thanks to its sophisticated passive RFID and NFC blocking technology.

    Airports are one of the best places for frequent travelers to take advantage of SafeCard. SafeCard provides a covert layer of security in crowded terminals where digital skimming is common. As you move through congested security lines, lounges, and boarding gates, it guards against illegal scanning.

    Another situation where SafeCard excels is on public transit. Because of the close quarters and quick person turnover, buses, trains, and subways are frequently hotspots for digital pickpocketing. A proactive step that protects your personal information while you commute every day is keeping your SafeCard in your wallet.

    SafeCard is also used in restaurants and retail establishments. The possibility of illegal data collection rises as more companies use contactless payment methods. SafeCard helps guarantee that your digital payment information remains safe as you take advantage of the convenience of tap-to-pay transactions, whether you’re at a busy restaurant, a small boutique, or a retail mall.

    The device is equally useful in professional environments such as co-working spaces and offices. Credit, debit, and access cards are among the several cards that business workers frequently carry. By using SafeCard in these settings, possible data breaches that can happen in open-plan workplaces or while traveling for work are avoided. It adds an additional degree of protection without disrupting your productivity.

    Furthermore, SafeCard can be used most effectively at educational institutions and public gatherings like conferences, concerts, and festivals. SafeCard makes sure that your financial and personal information is safe from any cyber threats in these busy places where there are many distractions and personal security can occasionally take a backseat. The SafeCard blends in well with your lifestyle wherever you are because of its thin, light design.

    Pros of SafeCard (SafeCard Reviews)

    Below are a few benefits of having the SafeCard with you all the time:

    • Advanced RFID and NFC blocking technology.
    • Incredibly thin design blends in perfectly with any wallet without adding bulk.
    • No need for batteries
    • Offers round-the-clock protection.
    • Several RFID-enabled cards are protected at once
    • Sturdy, water-resistant, and scratch-resistant.
    • Thin and lightweight
    • User-friendly for people
    • No-setup installation needed.
    • 30-day money back guarantee

    Cons (SafeCard Reviews)

    Below are a few drawbacks of the SafeCard:

    • Only RFID-enabled devices are protected; physical theft is not covered.
    • Only works when kept in the same wallet as your cards.
    • Retail availability is limited because purchases can only be made on the official website.
    • Limited in stock so hurry while supplies last.

    DON’T MISS OUT: SafeCard is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order From The Official Website

    SafeCard Reviews Consumer Reports USA, Canada, Australia, UK

    Below are reviews from verified users of the SafeCard:

    • Melissa H. | Verified Buyer -“I love going to holiday markets, but after watching my friend lose hundreds to a scammer, I knew I needed protection. SafeCard blocks thieves silently, and I haven’t had an issue since. It’s the best purchase I’ve made for my security!”
    • Rachel T . | Verified Buyer – “While traveling through Rio, I discovered my bank account had been drained by scammers. I was devastated. A fellow traveler recommended SafeCard, and it’s been a lifesaver ever since. No more stolen data, no more stress. Now I can travel with confidence knowing my wallet is secure.”
    • James K. | Verified Buyer -“I bought a 3-pack of SafeCards so my wife and kids could have one too. Now, wherever we go, we know our data is secure. It’s such a relief!”

    How Much Does A SafeCard Cost?

    Right now, the SafeCard is currently being offered at a discounted price, especially if you purchase straight from the manufacturer. The SafeCard at its current price is unquestionably a fantastic deal for a product with such high-end features. The following costs are associated with obtaining your own SafeCard:

    Where Can I Order SafeCard in the USA, Canada, and Australia?

    To ensure that you receive the genuine product with full warranty coverage, it is recommended that you purchase SafeCard directly from the manufacturer’s official website.

    Buying from the official website not only guarantees authenticity but also gives you access to any special offers, discounts, or package discounts that might not be available from third-party sellers. Additionally, the official website ensures that your private card information is secure. On the manufacturer’s website, you can easily place your order with hassle-free shipping guaranteed.

    CLICK HERE NOW TO BUY SAFECARD DIRECTLY FROM THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE AT A MASSIVE DISCOUNT

    SafeCard Reviews: Frequently Asked Questions

    We will be providing answers to some frequently asked questions on the SafeCard RFID blocking device. Please go through it as you will gain extra information about the use and functioning of the device:

    Do Safe Shield Cards Really Work?

    SafeCard has been shown to be successful in preventing unwanted RFID scanning, according to several user reports and independent evaluations. It greatly lowers the risk of data skimming, a typical tactic used by fraudsters, by erecting an imperceptible barrier around your RFID-enabled cards. SafeCard’s innovative design and technologies provide a strong line of defense that improves your overall digital security.

    What is the difference between SafeCard and conventional RFID-blocking wallets?

    Conventional RFID-blocking wallets are designed to use integrated panels or several large sleeves, which can be inconvenient and add extra weight. Conversely, SafeCard provides an even higher degree of security but is made to be thin and undetectable. Multiple cards are protected simultaneously by its single-card design, which eliminates the need for separate compartments.

    Is it simple to use SafeCard?

    Definitely, SafeCard’s ease of use is one of its main benefits. No buttons need to be pressed, no complex setup, and no technical knowledge is required. SafeCard starts working as soon as you put it in your wallet with your RFID-enabled cards. It is the perfect answer for people from all walks of life because of its passive functioning, which guarantees users can enjoy continuous protection without worrying about configuration or recharging.

    Can other RFID-enabled devices be used with SafeCard?

    SafeCard is designed to provide all-around safety for many RFID-enabled devices all at once. SafeCard’s innovative technology builds a complete barrier that prevents unwanted scanning attempts on a variety of devices, including credit cards, debit cards, passports, access cards, and even identification badges. It is a practical option for anyone wishing to secure several RFID devices without having to deal with buying separate protective gear or tools.

    Who needs the SafeCard?

    Anyone who wants to improve their digital security and uses RFID-enabled devices should consider getting the SafeCard. This includes professionals with hectic schedules, frequent travelers, students, and even casual users who are worried about RFID skimming threats. It is a useful addition for people who appreciate convenience and security because of its simplicity of use, small size, and dependable protection. SafeCard can be easily incorporated into your lifestyle, regardless of whether you’re a tech expert or someone searching for a simple security solution.

    What are the opinions of actual users regarding SafeCard?

    The majority of actual user reviews have been favorable, with numerous clients complimenting SafeCard on its efficiency, ease of use, and stylish appearance. When traveling or shopping in congested areas, users report feeling more at ease. For those who are worried about the security issues associated with RFID, the high customer satisfaction percentage indicates that it is a smart investment.

    Conclusion on SafeCard RFID Blocking Card Reviews

    Modern RFID and NFC blocking technology employed by SafeCard prevents unwanted scanning and safeguards private data on credit cards, passports, and other RFID-enabled devices. It’s incredibly thin profile guarantees protection without the hassle of bulk or complicated setups, while also preserving the elegant appearance of contemporary wallets.

    During our review, we found that SafeCard’s smooth, passive protection sets it apart from other conventional RFID-blocking devices. The SafeCard starts protecting your digital data as soon as it is in your wallet and doesn’t require any further upkeep or power sources. Customers have praised the device’s longevity, highlighting its scratch- and water-resistant design as two significant daily-use benefits.

    SafeCard provides a practical and dependable defense against typical travel risks including digital theft and unauthorised data skimming. Its strong performance and simple design make it a desirable option for frequent travelers, busy professionals, and anybody else worried about the security of their personal information.

    Many USA consumer reports support the manufacturer’s claims with many real users stating that it exceeded their expectations. The SafeCard is a wise and proactive way to stay safe in these dangerous times of sophisticated data theft. Why travel scared when you can do your trips confidently with SafeCard? You can stay safe all through your trips by getting your own SafeCard!

    DON’T MISS OUT: SafeCard is Available At A Special Price – Click Here To Order From The Official Website

    Contact: SafeCard
    Email: support@safecardshield.com

    Disclaimer:
    This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional, legal, or cybersecurity advice. While SafeCard may help reduce the risk of RFID-based digital theft, no security product can guarantee 100% protection in all scenarios. Individual results may vary based on usage and other factors. Always exercise general caution and follow best practices when safeguarding your financial and personal data. The publisher and all parties involved in the creation and distribution of this content are not liable for any misuse, loss, or damages arising from the use or reliance on the information provided herein. Always consult the official product website or customer support for the most accurate and updated details.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b2f8b2b-7614-471e-bc04-df63db036bea

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b1e8d76f-8ecf-4176-a754-f9f916e782ff

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7e1131b2-5041-4305-8773-cc7188774ecf

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4ad570a4-17b3-4a6f-aaa3-17fc4a2788e1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SASC Leaders Reed & Wicker Request Inspector General Probe into Signal Incident

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC — Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-RI) sent a letter to the Acting Inspector General of the Department of Defense regarding their bipartisan concern and interest about the Signal group chat involving senior members of the Trump Administration.
    Full text of the letter follows:
    Mr. Steven A. Stebbins
    Acting Inspector General
    U.S. Department of Defense – Office of Inspector General
    4800 Mark Center Drive
    Alexandria, VA 22350-1500
    Dear Mr. Stebbins,
    On March 11, 2025, Jeffrey Goldberg, the Editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was reportedly included on a group chat on the commercially available communications application called Signal, which included members of the National Security Council. This chat was alleged to have included classified information pertaining to sensitive military actions in Yemen. If true, this reporting raises questions as to the use of unclassified networks to discuss sensitive and classified information, as well as the sharing of such information with those who do not have proper clearance and need to know.
    Accordingly, we ask that you conduct an inquiry into, and provide us with an assessment of, the following:
    1. The facts and circumstances surrounding the above referenced Signal chat incident, including an accounting of what was communicated and any remedial actions taken as a result;
    2. Department of Defense (DOD) policies and adherence to policies relating to government officers and employees sharing sensitive and classified information on non-government networks and electronic applications;
    3. An assessment of DOD classification and declassification policies and processes and whether these policies and processes were adhered to;
    4. How the policies of the White House, Department of Defense, the intelligence community, and other Departments and agencies represented on the National Security Council on this subject differ, if at all;
    5. An assessment of whether any individuals transferred classified information, including operational details, from classified systems to unclassified systems, and if so, how;
    6. Any recommendations to address potential issues identified.
    Please include a classified annex to these responses as needed. The Senate Armed Services Committee will work with you to schedule a briefing immediately upon completion of your review.
    Respectfully,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Keep Cellphones Out of Jails, Increase Public Safety

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Tom Cotton (R-AR), and a group of Republican colleagues introduced the Cellphone Jamming Reform Act of 2025 to prevent inmates from using contraband cellphone use in prison facilities by allowing state and federal prisons to use cellphone jamming systems. 
    “Cellphone use behind bars allows criminals to commit more crimes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This is a simple way to cut them off and keep our communities safe.”
    “For far too long, contraband cellphones have been a major security threat in our prisons, allowing criminals to coordinate crimes from behind bars. This legislation is a common-sense step to cut off their ability to threaten witnesses, organize drug trafficking, and endanger law-abiding citizens from within prison walls,” said Senator Cotton.
    Cassidy and Cotton were joined by U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Cyndi Hyde-Smith (R-MS), James Lankford (R-OK), and James Risch (R-ID) also joined the legislation. U.S. Representative David Kustoff (R-TN-08) is leading companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “Criminals are using contraband cellphones to commit crimes while in prison. The extent of coordinated criminal activity carried out by inmates is a serious threat to public safety,” said Representative Kustoff. “As a former United States Attorney, I have seen first-hand the dangerous effects of contraband cellphone use to both law enforcement officers and our communities. It should be impossible for prisoners to organize gang activity, traffic drugs, and coordinate any other wrongdoing from behind bars. The Cellphone Jamming Reform Act is commonsense legislation that will crack down on cellphones in prisons and protect inmates, guards, and the public at large.”
    Background
    The use of contraband cellphones is widespread in both federal and state prison facilities. Inmates have used contraband cellphones to conduct illegal activities, including ordering hits on individuals outside of the prison walls, running illegal drug operations, conducting illegal business deals, facilitating sex trafficking, and organizing escapes that endanger correctional employees, other inmates, and members of the public.
    Last year, two 13-year-old boys were killed at a birthday party in Atlanta after inmates in a Georgia prison used contraband cellphones to order their murder. In December 2024, two California inmates were convicted of murder, racketeering, and other RICO-related crimes for running a heroin and meth trafficking operation from their prison cells. In 2018, a gang fight over territory using cellphones to trade contraband sparked a brawl inside the Lee Correctional Institution in South Carolina and left seven inmates dead and 20 injured.
    Bureau of Prisons Correctional officer Lt. Osvaldo Albarati was murdered in 2013 for interrupting an illicit contraband cellphone business. His assassination was initiated by an inmate using a contraband cellphone to contact the gunman as outlined in the indictment.    

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Booker, Cramer, Heinrich Reintroduce Bill to Protect Dialysis Patients

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) reintroduced the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act to ensure individuals with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or kidney failure, continue to have access to private health care.
    “ESRD patients need dialysis treatments to survive,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We must ensure their access to treatment is continued and their choice of care is protected.”
    “Three years ago, the Supreme Court made the decision to allow private health care companies to kick patients suffering from kidney failure off their plan, forcing many people into financial hardship,” said Senator Booker. “No one should lose their insurance, especially when they need it most. The Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act is critical legislation that will ensure ESRD patients’ right to choose their care is protected.”
    “The last thing patients should be worried about when dealing with kidney failure is being kicked off their insurance while undergoing treatment,” said Senator Heinrich. “I’m proud to support the Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act to help ensure that every New Mexican can access life-saving care when they need it most.”   
    “Dialysis is a vital treatment for over a thousand North Dakotans living with kidney failure,” said Senator Cramer. “Our legislation protects access to private health insurance for dialysis patients and supports the stability of the Medicare Trust Fund into the future.”
    The Restore Protections for Dialysis Patients Act is endorsed by Akebia Therapeutics, American Kidney Fund, American Nephrology Nurses Association, American Society of Nephrology, American Society of Pediatric Nephrology, Ardelyx, AstraZeneca, Atlantic Dialysis Management Services, Baxter, Centers for Dialysis Care, CorMedix, CSL Vifor, DaVita, Dialysis Care Center, Dialysis Patient Citizens, Fresenius Medical Care, Greenfield Health Systems, The Kidney Care Council, NATCO, Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission, Renal Healthcare Association, Renal Physicians Association, Renal Support Network, Rogosin Institute, U.S. Renal Care, Unicycive Therapeutics, and Diality.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Signal-gate security blunder overshadows Black Sea ceasefire

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Este, Senior International Affairs Editor, Associate Editor

    Depending on what you think of Donald Trump, his administration could fit either of the following two descriptions. Chaotic, vindictive and accident-prone, marked by mendacity, driven by impulse and bent on securing the will of the leader, rather than – as in the US constitution – the will of the people. Or it could be a government masterminded by a man playing 4D chess while all around him are playing chequers. A president whose deal-making skills and focus on outcomes ensure the security and prosperity of America and its allies.

    If you base your assessment on the people Trump has chosen as his key national security advisers then, after the recent Signal chat group intelligence debacle, you’d almost certainly opt for chaotic and accident-prone, at the very least.

    Looking around the Signal chatroom, who do we have? National security advisor Mike Waltz, Vice-President J.D. Vance, secretary of state Marco Rubio, defense secretary Pete Hegseth, director of national intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, CIA director John Ratcliffe and a supporting cast of other senior Trump staffers. And, unwittingly, the editor-in-chief of the Atlantic, Jeffrey Goldberg.

    Heads must roll, say Trump’s critics. But who from this hydra-headed beast should take the fall? Should it be Waltz, who invited Goldberg to the chat group? Or Hegseth, who posted operational details of a US attack, including the when, where and how, hours before it was due to take place? Should it be Vance, whose swipe at America’s freeloading European allies has caused considerable angst across the Atlantic?

    Or perhaps one or another of Gabbard and Ratcliffe, who sat in front of the Senate select committee on intelligence on Tuesday and maintained that no classified material or “war plans” had been revealed to the group – sworn evidence now revealed to be unreliable at best?

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    At present it seems as if none of them are going to pay for their dangerous incompetence. Instead their ire is turned on Goldberg, who has variously been called a “sleazebag” by Trump himself, “loser” and the “bottom scum of journalists” by Waltz and a “deceitful and highly discredited, so-called journalist who’s made a profession of peddling hoaxes time and time again” by Hegseth.

    Robert Dover of the University of Hull, whose research centres on intelligence and national security, believes this is a “national security blunder almost without parallel”. He points to the hypocrisy of people like Hegseth who savaged Hillary Clinton for using a private email server to conduct official business when she was secretary of state under Barack Obama.

    Dover also notes the damage the episode will have done to America’s already shaky relations with its allies in Europe. Being disparaged by the vice-president as freeloaders and dismissed by the defense secretary as “pathetic”, he believes, will be “difficult to unsee”.



    Read more:
    Signal chat group affair: unprecedented security breach will seriously damage US international relations

    But credit where it’s due, it appears that US diplomacy may at least be bearing some – limited – fruit. At least, that is, if the two partial ceasefires recently negotiated between Russia and Ukraine actually materialise. That’s a fairly big if, of course. Despite a pledge by both sides that they could support a deal to avoid targeting each other’s energy infrastructure, there’s no sign yet of a cessation of attacks.

    And there has been a degree of scepticism over the recently announced plan for a maritime ceasefire to allow the free passage of shipping on the Black Sea. Critics say this favours Russia far more than Ukraine. Over the course of the war, Ukraine has successfully driven Russia’s Black Sea fleet away from its base in Crimea, giving it the upper hand in the maritime war. But maritime strategy expert, Basil Germond, says the situation is more nuanced, and the deal represents considerable upside for Ukraine as well.



    Read more:
    Russia has most to gain from Black Sea ceasefire – but it’s marginal, and Ukraine benefits too

    Setting aside America’s eventful recent forays into foreign relations, there’s a major domestic fix brewing which many US legal scholars believe could plunge the country into a constitutional crisis.

    Anne Richardson Oakes, an expert in US constitutional law at Birmingham City University, anticipates a potential clash between between the executive and the judiciary which could threaten the separation of powers that lies at the heart of American democracy.

    Oakes observes there are more than 130 legal challenges to Trump administration policies presently before the courts, some of which will end up in front of America’s highest legal authority, the Supreme Court, which is tasked with assessing the constitutionality of those policies. She warns that we’ve already seen evidence that Trump and his senior officials resent what they consider to be interference from the judiciary into the legitimate executive power of the elected president.

    Will there be a stand-off where the Trump administration simply ignores the Supreme Court’s ruling? It’s happened before, says Oakes. In the mid-20th century, in Little Rock, Arkansas, when the governor used the state’s national guard to prevent the court-ordered desegregation of public schools. On that occasion the then president, Dwight D. Eisenhower, sent in federal troops to enforce the court’s ruling and a constitutional crisis was averted.



    Read more:
    US stands on the brink of a constitutional crisis as Donald Trump takes on America’s legal system

    But what if it’s the serving president who chooses to ignore a Supreme Court ruling? This was the case in the 1830s when greedy cotton farmers in Georgia were bent on forcing the Native American peoples off their lands. The Cherokee actually took the state of Georgia to the Supreme Court, which ruled that as a “dependent nation” within the United States they were entitled to the protection of the federal government and that the state of Georgia had no right to order their removal.

    As historian Sean Lang of Anglia Ruskin University recounts, Georgia ignored the Supreme Court’s ruling and sent in troops to expel the Cherokee who were then forced to move to new lands in a journey known as the “Train of Tears”. Lang writes that then US president, Andrew Jackson, a populist advocate of states’ rights and former “Indian fighter”, ignored the Supreme Court’s ruling, “sneering that [Chief Justice John] Marshall had no means of enforcing it”.

    Lang concludes: “It’s a history lesson Greenlanders, Mexicans and Canadians – and indeed many Americans who may fall foul of this administration and seek recourse to the law – would do well to study.”



    Read more:
    Trump’s America is facing an Andrew Jackson moment – and it’s bad news for the constitution

    Trump’s chilling effect

    The Trump administration’s antipathy towards judges who have opposed its policies have extended towards those law firms who have in some way crossed the US president. But the legal system is not the only sector to feel the chilling effect of Trump’s displeasure, writes Dafydd Townley.

    The world of higher education in the US is also apprehensive after the administration went after Columbia University, home to some of the most outspoken protest over US policies towards Israel and Gaza. Columbia has recently had to agree to allow the administration to “review” some of its academic programmes, starting with its Middle Eastern studies, after the administration threatened to cancel US$400 million (£310 million) of government contracts with the university.

    The news media is also under heavy pressure. The administration has taken control of the White House press pool from the non-partisan White House Correspondents’ Association and has blackballed Associated Press for refusing to call the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America. We’ve also seen Trump himself bring lawsuits against media organisations he judges to have crossed him. And now the president has called for the defunding of America’s two biggest public broadcasters, NPR and PBL, for what he perceives as their liberal bias.

    Townley, an expert in US politics at the University of Portsmouth is concerned that this all adds up to a deliberate attempt to cripple institutions which underwrite American democracy.



    Read more:
    Donald Trump’s ‘chilling effect’ on free speech and dissent is threatening US democracy

    Popularity falls as prices rise

    Trump’s leadership continues to be very polarising, writes Paul Whiteley, a political scientist and polling specialist at the University of Essex, who has spent years studying political trends in the US. Looking at the most recent numbers, Whiteley finds that while Trump’s approval ratings are fairly steady at 48% approval and 49% disapproval, when you dig down you find that only 6% of registered Democrats approve of his performance, while 93% disapprove. For registered Republicans it’s almost exactly the opposite.

    Whiteley takes his analysis further, looking at measures such as consumer sentiment, which has fallen sharply since January, with talk of tariffs and the return of inflation affecting people’s confidence in the economy. He points out there tends to be a fairly strong historical correlation between confidence in the economy and popular approval of a president’s performance.



    Read more:
    Three graphs that show what’s happening with Donald Trump’s popularity

    Another factor which will surely affect people’s confidence in the government are the job losses flowing from Elon Musk’s work as “efficiency tsar”. Thomas Gift, the director of the Centre on US Politics at University College London, believes that federal job losses as a result of Musk’s cuts are spread indiscriminately among Democrat and Republican states. As a result there may be some Republican voters who are experiencing what he calls “buyer’s remorse”.

    At the same time, rising inflation is flowing into the cost of living, something many people voted for Trump to punish the Democrats for. As Gift points out, both parties are experiencing a dip in support at present as people reject politics for having a generally negative effect on their lives. But from now, it’ll be the Republicans who will feel the sting of popular disapproval more keenly.



    Read more:
    Trump’s job cuts are causing Republican angst as all parties face backlash

    World Affairs Briefing from The Conversation UK is available as a weekly email newsletter. Click here to get updates directly in your inbox.

    – ref. Signal-gate security blunder overshadows Black Sea ceasefire – https://theconversation.com/signal-gate-security-blunder-overshadows-black-sea-ceasefire-253245

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Shakespeare can help us put meaning back in money

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Paul Yachnin, Tomlinson Professor of Shakespeare Studies, McGill University

    From greed for resources and money to technology run amok and a politics of domination, hatred and fear of others, our world sometimes seems to be on a course of assured destruction.

    How can our society not only avert disaster, but move toward a better path forward, driven not only by money-making (the accumulation of wealth, power and status), but also by meaning-making (the search for deeper purpose for ourselves in community with others and with the natural world)?

    As scholars who have respectively studied Shakespeare and health and economics — along with a team of thinkers in economics, health policy, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and a number of theatre and literary artists and humanities scholars — we’re building a project called Reimagining Shakespeare, Remaking Modern World Systems.

    Shakespeare and the arts can help researchers see the way toward new ways of thinking through our period of massive disruption, especially since the world in Shakespeare’s time, like our world now, was riven by social, political, ecological and epidemic crises.



    Read more:
    After the plague, Shakespeare imagined a world saved from poison, slander and the evil eye

    Making meaning with audiences

    Why Shakespeare? In some ways, Shakespeare was the Jeff Bezos of his time.

    Unlike the billionaire entrepreneur Bezos, who founded Amazon and is now its executive chair, Shakespeare didn’t sell everything under the sun. However, like Bezos, who innovated new ways of packaging stories for people via books and movies, for example, Shakespeare repackaged existing stories and authored plays as a leader of the creation of a new money-making industry.

    Shakespeare’s new industry was different from TV streaming in important ways. Theatre, which fosters real-time, embodied and collective experiences, never operates on a one-way supplier-to-buyer axis.

    Shakespeare’s theatre made money — he became a wealthy man — but his theatre always also made meaning in collaboration with its audiences, educating playgoers and stimulating conversations about about state politics, money and power and about the care of other people and of the natural world.

    Shakespeare as social entrepreneur

    Shakespeare was a social entrepreneur whose work strengthened the convergence of money-making and meaning-making. Shakespeare showed all kinds of people how they might play creatively with the systems that ruled their world.

    Shakespeare didn’t dismantle the systems, but what the characters in the plays say and do opens up fissures in those systems that invite characters like Rosalind in As You Like It or Imogen in Cymbeline to wriggle through, toward the possible restoration of freedom that allows them to do things differently.

    The divine right of kings was the foundation of the political system in Shakespeare’s time.

    In Richard II, John of Gaunt says to the Duchess of Gloucester that there is nothing he can do to avenge the murder of her husband (King Richard’s uncle) because while the king orchestrated the murder, he is above the law.

    Shakespeare’s play, which dramatizes the history of the deposition and assassination of King Richard, does not dismantle the system of monarchy as it stood in Shakespeare’s time — the divine right of kings remains in place. But it dramatizes how the characters are able to do what they need to do for the good of the state by finding their way through the cracks in the political system.

    Recognition of mortality

    Theatrical art like Shakespeare’s also leads us away from the fatuous life goal of the endless accumulation of wealth.

    In King Lear, Shakespeare shows us how money-making can become divorced utterly from meaning-making and how money and meaning have to be brought back into convergence. At the start, Lear is wedded to wealth, power and prestige.

    Even his daughters are required to declare publicly their worshipful love and loyalty to him. By virtue of his uncrowning, the suffering that follows for him, and his recognition of his own mortality, he learns to see other people as people, including his truly loving daughter Cordelia. He also learns how his meaningfulness as a man can come back to him only once he embraces the equitable distribution of resources among all the people of Britain.

    Not that Shakespeare is the only one offering insights into how to address the multiple crises that the world is facing. Many others have brought forward new ideas about how to “green” the world of finance or how to restore human values to a sense of value calculated exclusively in monetary terms.

    But something more is needed now to move us toward a healthier and more just future, and the makers of art are the ones who can provide it.

    Money poisonous when ill-used

    Consider one moment from Shakespeare’s play, Timon of Athens. The once fabulously wealthy Timon has squandered money on scores of men whom he thought were friends. Here the character Flavius distributes the money he has saved from his employment as Timon’s steward to the other household servants, all of them now unemployed.

    He insists that they take their share, and he reflects on the poisonous power of money when it is not used to support meaningful community:

    Good fellows all,

    The latest of my wealth I’ll share amongst you.

    Let each take some;

    Nay, put out all your hands—not one word more:

    (The servants embrace, and part several ways)

    O, the fierce wretchedness that glory brings us!

    Who would not wish to be from wealth exempt,

    Since riches point to misery and contempt?

    Who would be so mock’d with glory? or to live

    But in a dream of friendship?

    In Timon, Shakespeare shows us that money must not be stripped of a search for a meaningful life in community with others. Money without meaning conjures a mere dream of friendship, a fantasy world that must finally give way to a reality of misery and contempt.

    If that is what we want, bring on the dollars — so much money, we won’t know where to spend it all — and away with art!

    By bringing Shakespeare into conversations about finance, health, climate and AI, our research collaboration aims to help change the prevailing rationale of western modernity that positions money-making as the core driver of individual and collective progress.

    Paul Yachnin receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada.

    Laurette Dube does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. How Shakespeare can help us put meaning back in money – https://theconversation.com/how-shakespeare-can-help-us-put-meaning-back-in-money-250903

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why it’s a critical time for Canada to renew its commitment to global health co-operation

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Kelley Lee, Professor and Canada Research Chair in Global Health Governance; Scientific Director, Pacific Institute on Pathogens, Pandemics and Society, Simon Fraser University

    As the United States moves to end longstanding commitments to global health co-operation — punctuated by its withdrawal from World Health Organization (WHO) — a new report by the joint Expert Panel of the Royal Society of Canada and Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, which we co-chaired, offers guidance on how Canada can strategically position itself in this fast-changing context.

    Traditionally, Canada has taken pride in being a good global health citizen through distinct contributions as a middle power. Active participation in multilateral institutions such as the WHO, close co-operation with like-minded states and research partnerships led by low- and middle-income countries have defined Canada’s global health brand.

    Since the early 2000s, Canada has also initiated and funded major initiatives on reproductive, maternal and child health, nutrition and the control of infectious diseases. The International Development Research Centre and Grand Challenges Canada, alongside researchers and civil society organizations, have generated further tangible benefits for the health and well-being of populations worldwide, while also elevating Canada’s standing on the world stage.

    Pandemic stress test

    However, the COVID-19 pandemic has since triggered seismic changes in the global health landscape. The pandemic itself stress-tested Canada’s global health role, earning the country mixed reviews.

    While the federal government provided billions of dollars to collectively fight SARS-CoV-2, through initiatives such as the COVAX Facility and ACT-Accelerator (Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator), these important contributions were overshadowed by Canada’s failure to champion global vaccine equity. Rather than bringing countries together, the pandemic prompted many to prioritize national interests.

    Since the end of the emergency phase, governments have struggled to agree to a pandemic treaty and there has been a shift in attention to other pressing needs. Calls to decolonize global health have instead been met with a decline in financial commitments by the U.S. and other donor countries.

    This concerning shift in the global health landscape signals an important need for Canada to reflect on its role in global health. Key findings of our panel’s report directly challenge the outdated notion that global health is simply about development assistance.

    Instead, we identify where domestic and global health needs intersect in an interconnected world of shared risks and opportunities. We conclude that domestic health and well-being cannot be advanced without a robust commitment to global health co-operation. The key is to urgently identify these win-wins as points of navigation in an era of what’s known as polycrisis.

    Priority issues

    To renew Canada’s global health role, the panel identifies four priority issue areas that bring together domestic and global health needs:

    • Champion an accelerated and equity-focused universal health coverage strategy with particular emphasis on primary care and the rights of women and girls;

    • Advance a One Health security approach to pandemic readiness that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life, need for primary prevention and central importance of sustainability and equity; spans upstream risks as well as downstream preparedness and response measures; and builds core capacities such as a standing emergency workforce;

    • Renew Canadian leadership in health promotion and protection by advancing a well-being economy focused on serving people and the planet, rather than the generation of wealth as an end goal; and prevents the harms and promotes the benefits from for-profit businesses, their activities and the economic systems that sustain them, known as the commercial determinants of health;

    • Initiate a Canadian Emergency Workforce for Health Innovation Program to urgently tackle the domestic and global health workforce crisis including a commitment to zero poaching of international health-care workers by 2035.

    Taking action

    Microscopic view of H5N1 avian influenza particles. The growing threat from highly pathogenic avian flu offers a clear example of how a retreat from global health co-operation directly weakens the capacity of all countries to protect domestic populations.
    (CDC and NIAID), CC BY

    The panel recommends that three strategic actions are needed to take forward these priority issue areas:

    • A Canadian Global Health Strategy that sets out a renewed rationale for global health engagement, key priorities for federal, provincial/territorial and local levels of government, targeted investments and clear metrics to monitor progress;

    • A coherent and targeted plan to bolster public and private investments in science and innovation for critical priorities such as the health workforce, One Health Security, along with research capacity in Indigenous communities and the developing world; and

    • A commitment to ensuring Canadian capacity to engage in global health decision-making, diplomacy and partnerships through the appointment of a Global Health Ambassador; establishment of a Canadian Global Health Hub (CG2H) that brings together available expertise, talent and resources; and a training program for our next-generation of leaders.

    The growing threat from highly pathogenic avian influenza and the health impacts of climate change are looming examples of how a retreat from global health co-operation at this time would directly weaken Canada’s capacity to protect health and well-being at home.

    From the World Health Organization’s tracking of the ever-changing influenza virus to the rapid development and deployment of medical countermeasures and the joint tackling of the causes of global warming, a retreat behind national borders makes little sense. Building on a storied history of engagement that supersedes partisan politics, there is no time to lose for Canada to strategically renew its role in global health.

    Kelley Lee receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, New Frontiers in Research Fund, Canadian Biomedical Research Fund, Canada Foundation for Innovation, and British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and Canadian Academy of Health Sciences.

    Tim Evans is a Board member of the not-for-profit group CanWaCH.

    – ref. Why it’s a critical time for Canada to renew its commitment to global health co-operation – https://theconversation.com/why-its-a-critical-time-for-canada-to-renew-its-commitment-to-global-health-co-operation-251894

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investment in adult education paves pathways to high-priority careers

    Adults looking to upgrade their academic skills to access high-priority post-secondary career programs will continue to benefit from tuition-free Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English Language Learning (ELL) pathway programs across B.C.

    The Province is investing nearly $4 million to support delivery of 23 pathways at 11 public post-secondary institutions and Native Education College (NEC) between April 1, 2025, and Aug. 31, 2026. The pathway programs are offered in addition to existing ABE and ELL programming available throughout the province, which became tuition-free in 2017.

    The ABE and ELL pathway programs were launched in 2022 and provide opportunities for domestic students to upgrade English, math, and science skills to meet prerequisites for entry into high-priority post-secondary career programs, in areas such as health care, early childhood education, skilled trades and technology.

    The programs help students transition into post-secondary education and skills training and set them up for success by helping them integrate into post-secondary life, tailoring programs to students’ target careers or disciplines, and offering career guidance and additional academic support.

    The 11 public post-secondary institutions and NEC each offer unique approaches that reflect their region, student population and programming. For example, institutions may customize their pathways to meet the needs of Indigenous students, students living in rural areas, or newcomer students.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about ABE and ELL programs, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/adult-education/adult-upgrading

    To read B.C.’s 2024 Labour Market Outlook, visit: https://www.workbc.ca/sites/default/files/2025-02/BC%20LMO%20Report%202024.pdf

    Two backgrounders follow.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Johnson Joins Sens. Barrasso, Booker, Van Hollen, Ricketts in Applauding Passage of Resolution Honoring Greek Independence Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) joined U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) in applauding the Senate passage of a bipartisan resolution to commemorate the 204th anniversary of Greek Independence Day (March 25). In addition to celebrating Greece’s historic role as the birthplace of democracy and its immense contributions to global society, the bipartisan resolution also recognizes the strength of the United States’ enduring partnership and friendship with Greece.
    Sens. Johnson, Barrasso, Booker, Van Hollen, and Ricketts were joined by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.).
    The full text of the resolution can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Fifth Committee Fill Vacancies on Contribution, Audit Committees

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    The Fifth Committee (Administrative and Budgetary) today sent the General Assembly the names of three candidates to fill two vacancies on the Committee on Contributions and one vacancy on the Independent Audit Advisory Committee.

    Committee on Contributions

    For the 18-member Committee on Contributions, which advises the Assembly on the distribution of the Organization’s expenses among Member States, delegates delivered the names of Benjamin Sieberns (Germany) and Fu Liheng (China) to fill vacancies created by the resignations of Michael Holtsch (Germany), effective 7 March, and Lin Shan (China), effective 18 March, respectively. 

    Both candidates would serve for the remaining period of each office, which expires 31 December 2026.

    Independent Audit Advisory Committee

    After a single round of balloting, the Independent Audit Advisory Committee recommended Eric Oduro Osae (Ghana) to fill the vacancy created by the passing of Imran Vanker (South Africa).  Mr. Osae received 89 votes after 155 valid votes were cast.  He will serve for the remaining period of that office, which expires on 31 December 2026.  The Committee serves in an expert advisory capacity and helps the Assembly fulfil its oversight responsibilities.

    Before closing the meeting, Fifth Committee Chair Egriselda Aracely González López (El Salvador) thanked delegates for their work over the past several weeks and urged them to return to the negotiating rooms with “a constructive spirit and an open spirit” to conclude the Committee’s work by the end of the first resumed session on Friday, 28 March.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain and Rep. Baumgartner Statements on the U.S. House Passing the DETERRENT Act

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON—The U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Michael Baumgartner’s (R-Wash.) legislation, the Defending Education Transparency and Ending Rogue Regimes Engaging in Nefarious Transactions (DETERRENT) Act, that would protect American students from the influence of foreign adversaries, particularly the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Specifically, this bill lowers the threshold for reporting gifts and contracts from foreign sources to the Department of Education from $250,000 to $50,000.

    House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) and Rep. Baumgartner issued the following statements:

    “Malign influences pose a national security threat to our country, especially when it comes to the CCP. We passed Rep. Baumgartner’s bill to strengthen transparency and accountability in our higher education institutions and keep the CCP away from our students,” Chairwoman McClain said. “It is unfortunate, but not surprising, that 168 Democrats voted against protecting American students from the CCP’s influence today. House Republicans, however, will continue to keep our promise to make America secure.”

    “The passage of the DETERRENT Act with bipartisan support is a significant and hard-won victory in the fight to protect academic integrity from foreign interference. This bill reflects a growing consensus that transparency and accountability are essential in safeguarding American universities from the influence of foreign adversaries, particularly the Chinese Communist Party. It is a crucial step forward, but it is important to remember that universities don’t have to wait for federal action to begin taking these necessary steps. Adopting the DETERRENT framework now—by disclosing foreign funding, establishing robust oversight, and ensuring that no outside power undermines the pursuit of knowledge—can help preserve the free exchange of ideas and innovations that are central to our academic institutions,” Rep. Baumgartner said. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain and Rep. Bice Statements on the House Reversing a Biden-era Regulation That has Affected American Small Businesses and Families

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON—The U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Stephanie Bice’s (R-Okla.) legislation, H.J.Res.24, to reverse a Biden-era Department of Energy rule that imposed energy efficiency standards on walk-in coolers and freezers, which led to higher costs and fewer choices for Americans. 

    House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) and Rep. Bice released the following statements:

    “Biden’s regulations limited consumer choice, raised prices, and put unnecessary financial burdens on American businesses and families. House Republicans continue to reverse this regulatory non-sense and lower costs for businesses and families,” Chairwoman McClain said.

    “Today, House Republicans acted to overturn more last-minute environmental regulations from the Biden Administration. Walk-in coolers and freezers are essential for pharmacies, convenience stores, food processing facilities, food banks, restaurants, and many other establishments nationwide. This regulation, which had an estimated cost of a billion dollars, would have been crippling for businesses throughout the country, especially in rural areas. We must continue to push back against federal overreach, and I appreciate the support of my colleagues on this critical measure,” Rep. Bice said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain and Rep. Goldman Statements on the House Reversing a Biden-era Regulation to Lower Costs for American Businesses and Families

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON—The U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Craig Goldman’s (R-Tex.) bill, H.J.Res.75, to reverse another burdensome Biden-era regulation that set energy consumption limits on commercial refrigerators, freezers, and refrigerator-freezers, which increased expenses for businesses and consumers. 

    House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) and Rep. Goldman released the following statements:

    “House Republicans are wasting no time in reversing Biden’s burdensome policies. We are delivering on the promises made to lower costs, help taxpayers keep more of their hard-earned money, and give American businesses an opportunity to succeed again,” Chairwoman McClain said. 

    “I am grateful to my House Republican colleagues for their support of my resolution, H.J. Res. 75, which repeals the Biden administration’s burdensome regulations on commercial refrigerators and freezers. This is an important measure to block the implementation of regulations that would have increased the cost of living for millions of Americans,” Rep. Craig Goldman said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Violent Crime Consortium Keeps Public Safety at Forefront

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    CLEVELAND – The Northern Ohio Violent Crime Consortium (NOVCC) recently brought together more than 100 regional law enforcement participants, representing more than 20 agencies, to take part in a region-wide initiative to discuss public safety. The annual event is hosted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Northern District of Ohio. The District covers the 40 northern-most counties in the state of Ohio, which is home to more than 5.7 million people.

    The violent crime consortium was established in 2007 through a Department of Justice grant to specifically address violent crime issues in eight Northern Ohio cities: Akron, Canton, Cleveland, Elyria, Lorain, Mansfield, Toledo, and Youngstown.

    As the current top federal law enforcement officer for the District, Acting U.S. Attorney Carol M. Skutnik provided welcoming remarks on the importance of the consortium’s work to keep crime off the streets.

    “The Consortium’s purpose is to prevent and reduce violent crime through the use of data-driven and evidence-based technologies,” said Skutnik. “NOVCC enhances our member agencies through skills training on accepted best practices and emerging technologies.”

    Subject-matter experts addressed several key topics at this year’s gathering including the importance of inter-agency data sharing and information to combat crime, promising law enforcement practices, and modern policing in the digital age.

    The USAO would like to acknowledge and thank the following for attending and participating in this year’s event:

    Event speakers representing

    • Fordham University
    • Johns Hopkins University Center for Gun Violence Solutions
    • Blacksburg, Virginia Police Department
    • Brookhaven, Georgia Police Department
    • Research Innovations, Inc.

    Law enforcement agencies represented

    • Akron Police Department
    • Avon Police Department
    • The University of Akron Police Department
    • Barberton Police Department
    • Berea Police Department
    • Canton Police Department
    • Cleveland Division of Police
    • Cuyahoga County Sheriff
    • Elyria Police Department
    • Lorain Police Department
    • Mansfield Police Department
    • Maple Heights Police Department
    • North Royalton Police Department
    • Put-in-Bay Police Department
    • Sandusky Police Department
    • Toledo Police Department
    • Warren Police Department
    • Westlake Police Department
    • Youngstown Police Department

    State agencies

    • Ohio Adult Parole Authority
    • Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction
    • Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services

    Nonprofit agency

    • Partnership for a Safer Cleveland

    Federal agencies

    • ATF-Cleveland
    • FBI-Cleveland
    • U.S. Marshals Service-Cleveland
    • U.S. Department of Justice-Office of Legal Policy

    For more information about the consortium, contact Thomas McCartney at 216-622-3955.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stamford Man Indicted for Defrauding Mars, Inc. out of Millions of Dollars

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Anish Shukla, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Harry Chavis, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, and Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Region of the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned a nine-count indictment charging PAUL R. STEED, 58, of Stamford, with fraud and tax offenses stemming from his alleged commission of multiple frauds against his former employer Mars, Inc.

    The indictment was returned yesterday, and Steed was arrested this morning.  He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti in Bridgeport, pleaded not guilty, and is currently detained.

    The indictment alleges that, between approximately 2011 and 2023, Steed was employed by Mars Wrigley, a subsidiary of Mars. Inc. (“Mars”), working remotely from his home in Stamford.  Steed served as Global Price Risk Manager for Mars Wrigley’s Global Cocoa Enterprise.  As part of his employment, Steed was responsible for managing Mars Wrigley’s participation in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) Sugar-Containing Products Re-Export Program.  In approximately 2016, Steed created a company, MCNA LLC, to mimic an actual Mars entity, Mars Chocolate North America.  He then diverted millions of dollars in Mars assets to a bank account he set up in MCNA’s name by directing sugar refineries purchasing Mars’s re-export credits, obtained through the USDA program, to pay MCNA LLC as if it were a legitimate Mars entity.

    The indictment also alleges that Mars had an ownership interest in Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (“ICE”), a financial services company that operated financial exchanges and clearing houses, and received quarterly dividends in connection with that ownership.  In 2017, Steed directed Computershare Limited (“Computershare”), a company that ICE utilized for stock-related services, to pay MCNA LLC for Mars’s dividends from its ownership shares in ICE.  As a result, more than $700,000 in dividend payments were diverted to the MCNA LLC account.  In 2023, after Steed had used a fraudulent letter purportedly from the Mars Treasurer authorizing him to trade ICE shares, Steed directed Computershare to sell Mars’s ICE shares entirely.  Computershare issued a check in the amount of more than $11.3 million, which Steed deposited into the MCNA LLC account.

    The indictment further alleges that, from 2013 through 2020, Steed used a company he owned called Ibera LLC to invoice Mars for services Mars did not receive.  Mars paid Ibera LLC approximately $580,000 through this scheme.

    The indictment charges Steed with seven counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment on each count.  Steed is also charged with two counts of tax evasion, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years on each count, for failing to report and pay taxes on his stolen income, as alleged.

    According to statements made in court, Steed is alleged to have stolen more than $28 million from Mars and through his schemes.  More than $18 million was seized today for forfeiture, and the government is seeking to forfeit a Greenwich home that Steed is alleged to have purchased with nearly $2.3 million in stolen funds.  It is alleged that another $2 million was sent by Steed to Argentina, where he is a dual citizen, has family ties, and owns a ranch.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Novick.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ecuadorian National Indicted For Attempting To Smuggle Firearms Out Of The United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, FL – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging Karla Alejandra Tejena Parraga (38, Ecuador) with attempted smuggling of firearms. If convicted, Tejena Parraga faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. 

    According to the indictment, on February 19, 2025, Tejena Parraga fraudulently attempted to export a firearm and firearm part from the United States to Panama. Prior to the attempted exportation, Tejena Parraga concealed, received, bought or sold, or facilitated such, knowing the firearm and firearm part was intended for exportation contrary to any law or regulation of the United States. 

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie McNeff.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national extradited from Mexico to the United States pleads guilty to drug and money laundering conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Gilberto Alarcon-Holguin a/k/a Beto, 57, a Mexican national, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $10,000,000.

    According to the plea agreement, on October 14, 2017, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) seized 10 kilograms of cocaine from an identified co-conspirator. HSI obtained a phone number as a point of contact for the delivery of the cocaine, which was linked to co-conspirators of Alarcon-Holguin. On October 19, 2017, HSI conducted a controlled delivery of 10 bricks of “sham” cocaine, which had been wrapped in the same manner as the seized kilograms of cocaine, to a motel parking lot in Corfu, NY. The bag was given to co-conspirator Eduardo Valdez, who was on the phone with Alarcon-Holguin during the delivery. Following the controlled delivery, the New York State Police conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle Valdez was riding in. HSI seized $259,960 in cash as a result of the controlled delivery.

    Subsequent investigation determined that Alarcon-Holguin had multiple communications with another co-conspirator, Edgar Pavia. Alarcon-Holguin provided instructions to Pavia about shipments of cocaine, packaging of money, and more, all of which was passed along to drug distributors supplied by Alarcon-Holguin in cities including Buffalo, and Louisville, KY. Alarcon-Holguin also passed information to Pavia that was separately conveyed to other co-conspirators, including those involved in the transportation of drugs. For example, on June 21, 2018, co-conspirator Adrian Goudelock received 40 kilograms of cocaine in Buffalo. Over the course of the conspiracy, Goudelock received multiple shipments of 10 kilograms of cocaine or more brokered by Pavia and supplied by Alarcon-Holguin. Alarcon-Holguin also provided instructions to Pavia on how Goudelock should wrap and mark money being sent back to Mexico. Specifically, Alarcon-Holguin told Pavia that Goudelock should wrap the money into 52 packages of $10,000 each.

    Other deliveries organized by Alarcon-Holguin during the investigation included: 17 kilograms of cocaine seized from a co-conspirator in West Seneca, NY, and shipments of 10, 15, 20, and 40 kilograms of cocaine to a co-conspirator in Kentucky. In addition, approximately $1,144,735 in cash was seized from a commercial truck driver in Chicago, Illinois. During the course of the investigation, investigators seized approximately $2,600,000.

    The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia; the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto; the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia; and Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Unit, under the direction of Brian Manaher, Director, Marine Operations. Additional assistance was provided by the New York National Guard and Homeland Security Investigations, El Paso, Texas. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Alarcon-Holguin.    

    Sentencing is scheduled for September 3, 2025, before Judge Sinatra.

    # # # #

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Case You Missed It: Capito Op-Ed: The Surface Transportation Opportunity Before Us

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – In an op-ed published in the Washington Times, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, detailed her vision for the upcoming Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill. In the piece, Chairman Capito outlines three key principles that she believes are important for this reauthorization to achieve, and priorities that will address issues within our country’s surface transportation network. 
    “When it comes to my vision for the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill, I have three key principles that I believe will jumpstart this conversation. By focusing on these fundamental outcomes, I’m confident that we can work towards a legislative solution that will deliver results for the American people,” Chairman Capito writes.
    The full op-ed is available here and below.
    The Surface Transportation Opportunity Before Us
    By: U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
    The Washington Times 
    March 27, 2025
    Our roads and bridges are what connect us to the people and things that matter most in our lives, and all the places we travel to every day. They help American businesses, large and small, create jobs and economic opportunities, and enable their competitiveness in the global marketplace. They connect everything around us from Point A to Point B.
    The responsibility given to Congress to ensure a safe and reliable transportation network for our country originates in Article One of our Constitution and was affirmed when the Federal Aid Road Act was enacted in 1916. Today, the Federal-aid Highway Program provides the funding and policy for the transportation network that all Americans and businesses rely on — and that network requires continued investment and improvement. This is something I know well, and I’m thrilled to be the chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee during a Congress where we will need to pass a surface transportation reauthorization bill.
    This legislation supports the Federal-aid Highway Program, among other important policies and funding priorities that impact surface transportation in our country. While some might look at this as a legislative challenge, I view it as an incredible opportunity. Throughout my tenure on the EPW Committee, I have made infrastructure a central priority. Now as chairman, I look forward to continuing my work to modernize our transportation network.
    When it comes to my vision for the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill, I have three key principles that I believe will jumpstart this conversation. By focusing on these fundamental outcomes, I’m confident that we can work towards a legislative solution that will deliver results for the American people.
    Principle One: Improving the safety and reliability of America’s surface transportation network with impactful investments. In recent years, we’ve seen a major increase in the number of federal transportation programs. This leads to a duplicative and confusing process to get funding out the door, disrupts the focus of federal funding, and lessens the impact that the Federal-aid Highway Program can make.
    We can make investments that instead optimize the impact of federal funding by prioritizing our commitment to the safe and reliable movement of goods and people, and giving project partners certainty to invest over a longer period of time. We should focus on eliminating duplicative programs that often invite regulatory overreach, and rather increase funding for the highway formula programs that our states rely on.
    Principle Two: Reforming and modernizing federal programs and policies to increase efficiency. We all know that, as currently structured, federal requirements can add red tape that increases costs and slows down project completion. We all want to deliver transportation benefits faster and save money for American taxpayers. That’s truly a win-win.
    We need to take a serious look at federal requirements to determine how to best make improvements to our planning and procurement procedures, environmental review process for projects, and discretionary grants and loans requirements. By reforming and modernizing these requirements, we can create certainty for partners who make these projects happen.
    Principle Three: Addressing the variety of surface transportation needs across all states. Obviously, different states have different needs. I wouldn’t expect West Virginia, with our mountainous peaks and valleys, to prioritize the same transportation projects as other states in different parts of the country.
    By avoiding top-down mandates from Washington, D.C., we can provide the flexibility needed to address the individual improvements our states require. The Federal-aid Highway Program can support our common goals while ensuring that federal rules, regulations, programs, or policies recognize these different needs in our states.
    The vision I’ve laid out is broad, but that’s intentional. It will take the collaboration of my Senate colleagues and many others as we move toward completing the bill before September 2026. We must always be pragmatic, and work in a bipartisan fashion to develop a bill in the Senate that sets us up for a productive conversation on this reauthorization effort across both chambers of Congress.
    At the end of the day, we all know how important our surface transportation is, and the role that it plays in keeping our country’s economy and people on the move. There is an excellent opportunity ahead of us to make a pivotal impact on our transportation network, and one that I intend to see through.
    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito is the Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, and also serves on the Appropriations, Commerce, and Rules Committees. She is the Chairman of the Senate Republican Policy Committee, making her the fourth highest ranked Senate Republican.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford, Cotton Introduce Bill to Keep Contraband Cellphones Out of Jails

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford
    Washington, DC— Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) yesterday introduced the Cellphone Jamming Reform Act of 2025, legislation which would prevent inmates from using contraband cellphones in prisons by allowing state and federal prisons to use cellphone jamming technology. Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08) is leading companion legislation in the House. 
    Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and Jim Risch (R-ID) are cosponsoring the legislation. Rep. David Kustoff (R-RN) introduced companion legislation in the House.
    “Cell phones are being slipped into jails and prisons, but federal policy prevents local law enforcement from jamming the cell signal. That needs to stop,” said Lankford. “After years of work and conversations with law enforcement, the Federal Communications Commission, the Department of Justice, and Oklahoma prison leadership, we finally have a bill to allow states to jam illegal cell phones in their prisons to prevent prisoners from contacting their victims or coordinating even more crime while they are incarcerated. This bill simply allows state and federal prisons to use cell phone jammers to ensure they have the tools they need to combat illegal activity in a prison.” 
    “For far too long, contraband cellphones have been a major security threat in our prisons, allowing criminals to coordinate crimes from behind bars. This legislation is a common-sense step to cut off their ability to threaten witnesses, organize drug trafficking, and endanger law-abiding citizens from within prison walls,” said Senator Cotton.
    “Criminals are using contraband cellphones to commit crimes while in prison. The extent of coordinated criminal activity carried out by inmates is a serious threat to public safety,” said Congressman Kustoff. “As a former United States Attorney, I have seen first-hand the dangerous effects of contraband cellphone use to both law enforcement officers and our communities. It should be impossible for prisoners to organize gang activity, traffic drugs, and coordinate any other wrongdoing from behind bars. The Cellphone Jamming Reform Act is commonsense legislation that will crack down on cellphones in prisons and protect inmates, guards, and the public at large.”
    Text of the legislation may be found here. 
    Background:
    The use of contraband cellphones is widespread in both federal and state prison facilities. Inmates have used contraband cellphones to conduct illegal activities, including ordering hits on individuals outside of the prison walls, running illegal drug operations, conducting illegal business deals, facilitating sex trafficking, and organizing escapes which endanger correctional employees, other inmates, and members of the public.
    Last year, two 13-year-old boys were killed at a birthday party in Atlanta after inmates in a Georgia prison used contraband cellphones to order their murder. In 2024, Georgia authorities confiscated more than 15,500 contraband cellphones and seized more than 8,000 in 2023.
    In December 2024, two California inmates were convicted of murder, racketeering, and other RICO-related crimes for running a heroin and meth trafficking operation from their prison cells. 
    In 2018, a gang fight over territory using cellphones to trade contraband sparked a brawl inside the Lee Correctional Institution near Bishopville, South Carolina, and left seven inmates dead and 20 injured.
    Bureau of Prisons Correctional officer Lt. Osvaldo Albarati was murdered in 2013 for interrupting an illicit contraband cellphone business. His actual assassination was initiated by an inmate using a contraband cellphone to contact the gunman as outlined in the indictment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee and Tuberville Introduce Bill to Abolish the TSA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    Bill would privatize airport security under federal oversight
    WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) today introduced the Abolish the TSA Act, which would dissolve the bloated and ineffective Transportation Security Administration while allowing America’s airports to compete to provide the safest, most efficient, and least intrusive security measures, under a new Office of Aviation Security Oversight.
    “The TSA has not only intruded into the privacy and personal space of most Americans, it has also repeatedly failed tests to find weapons and explosives,” said Sen. Lee. “Our bill privatizes security functions at American airports under the eye of an Office of Aviation Security Oversight, bringing this bureaucratic behemoth to a welcome end. American families can travel safely without feeling the hands of an army of federal employees.” 
    “The TSA is an inefficient, bureaucratic mess that infringes on Americans’ freedoms,” said Sen. Tuberville. “It’s a bloated agency—riddled with waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars—that has led to unnecessary delays, invasive pat downs and bag checks, and frustration for travelers. We need to focus on more efficient and effective methods to protect our country without sacrificing the liberties and freedoms of American citizens. The TSA should be eliminated and replaced with privatized solutions that are more targeted, streamlined, and where appropriate, accountable to limited government oversight.”
     
    BACKGROUND 
    Within 90 days of enactment, the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall submit a reorganization plan to Congress that includes: 
    Creation of the Office of Aviation Security Oversight within the FAA, solely responsible for overseeing the privatization of aviation security screening.
    Rapid transfer of security activities and equipment to qualified private companies.
    Transfer of non-aviation security functions to DOT (mass transit, freight rail, pipelines, etc.).
    Proportional reductions of TSA operations and personnel to facilitate transfer of duties.
    The reorganization plan cannot include requirements for private security companies to conduct warrantless searches and seizures or extend the TSA’s existence. Congress will consider, amend, vote up or down on the reorganization plan through expedited and privileged procedure. Compliance will be monitored by the GAO and regular reports to Congress.
    You can read the one pager HERE.
    You can read the bill text HERE.
    You can read the FOX exclusive HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 03/27/2025 Blackburn, Cassidy, Hyde-Smith Reintroduce Stop Supreme Court Leakers Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) reintroduced the Stop Supreme Court Leakers Act to criminalize individuals who leak confidential information from the Supreme Court of the United States.
    “Individuals who aim to undermine the highest Court in our nation and intimidate its justices should be held accountable for their actions,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Stop Supreme Court Leakers Act is a vital piece of legislation, which would ensure that the Court’s work remains free from unwanted outside interference by cracking down on those who leak confidential information.”
    “Supreme Court leaks should be a criminal offense. Leakers threaten the safety of justices, damage the Court’s reputation, and put lives at risk,”said Dr. Cassidy. “They must be held accountable, not celebrated.”
    “Supreme Court justices must be able to carry out their responsibilities without the threat of their every action being leaked, whether to influence, embarrass, or threaten them.  Such actions, which we’ve seen in recent years, only undermine public trust and the Supreme Court as an institution,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “This legislation is needed to establish significant criminal penalties and fines for those who cross that line and betray the Court.”
    The Stop Supreme Court Leakers Act requires a $10,000 fine and imposes up to a 10-year prison sentence on those who leak confidential information from the Supreme Court. Additionally, Cassidy’s legislation goes one step further by enforcing a seizure of profits derived from the leak which could include book deals or cable television contributor contracts.
    The Stop Supreme Court Leakers Act criminalizes leaks of the following information:
    Internal notes on cases heard by the Supreme Court of the United States.
    Any communication between the Chief Justice or an associate justice and an employee or officer of the Supreme Court on a matter pending before the Supreme Court.
    A draft opinion or a final opinion prior to the date on which such opinion is released to the public.
    Personal information of the chief justice or an associate justice that is not otherwise legally available to the public.
    Any other information designated to be confidential by the chief justice.

    MIL OSI USA News –