NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Colleagues Condemn Trump Administration’s Gutting of the Department of Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined Senate colleagues in a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon condemning the administration’s reckless and illegal firing of half of the workforce at the U.S. Department of Education, which is tasked with providing funding and support to critical programs that help students succeed. By dismantling the Department of Education while fighting to give more tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy, the Trump Administration is putting at risk federal funding that helps pay teachers’ salaries, support veterans accessing higher education, and protect student’s civil and educational rights.  
    For Nevada, this means threatening the federal agency that provides over 16 percent of the state’s funding for public K-12 education to meet the needs of nearly 700 schools and over 534,000 students. It has also distributed $264 million in Pell Grants to help 57,000 students in Nevada access higher education.
    “As Secretary of Education, you are the foremost public servant responsible for carrying out the Department of Education’s mission to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access,” wrote the Senators. “Despite that responsibility, your first act as Secretary was announcing it was your ‘final mission’ to dismantle the Department of Education, fire the public servants who keep it running, and terminate opportunities for students in public schools, colleges, and universities across the country.”
    “We will not stand by as you attempt to turn back the clock on education in this country through gutting the Department of Education,” they continued. “Our nation’s public schools, colleges, and universities are preparing the next generation of America’s leaders—we must take steps to strengthen education in this country, not take a wrecking ball to the agency that exists to do so.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a strong critic of the Trump Administration’s efforts to cut programs Nevadans rely on in order to give tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy. Last week, she voted against Republicans’ partisan continuing resolution that gives President Trump and Elon Musk unprecedented power to withhold funding for critical programs supporting veterans, seniors, and families in Nevada and across the country. Last month, Rosen took to the Senate floor to call out Congressional Republicans for this extreme budget plan that cuts Medicaid to give more tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Re-Directs Biden-era EV Fund to Support Critical Wyoming Infrastructure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced the Highway Funding Flexibility Act which frees up money stuck in accounts intended to fund Biden’s radical EV charger initiative and directs those funds to pay for projects critical for travel and commerce throughout Wyoming.

    “For far too long, the people of Wyoming were forced to endure Biden’s radical EV mandates that dedicated their hard-earned tax dollars toward Green New Deal initiatives that do not effectively serve the state of Wyoming,” said Lummis. “My legislation frees up these funds to address Wyoming’s actual transportation needs without adding to the national debt, rather than forcing Biden-era EV mandates on the Cowboy State.”

    Under the Biden administration, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provided $5 billion for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program ($1 billion annually from FY22-FY26), and $2.5 billion from FY22-FY26 for the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program, totaling $7.5 billion.

    In February, President Trump paused this ill-conceived program, giving Congress the ability to redirect appropriated funds stuck in the accounts.

    Despite the hefty price tag and the Biden administration’s desire to force its ill-fitting EV mandate on Wyoming, the funds remain virtually untouched in Wyoming and other states. The Highway Funding Flexibility Act ensures the state of Wyoming can use these existing funds to pay for Wyoming’s highway infrastructure needs, including roads, bridges, truck parking, and wildlife crossings. The bill’s scope for eligible activities includes engineering, design, construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation.

    Text for the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Chesapeake Bay State Lawmakers Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Help Farmers Cut Costs, Enhance Bay Health

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), alongside Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Mark Warner (D-VA), announced the introduction of the Chesapeake Bay Conservation Acceleration Act. This legislation would incentivize agricultural conservation practices by providing federal resources to help cut costs for the region’s farmers while improving the health of the Chesapeake Bay. As approximately one-third of the Chesapeake Bay’s 64,000-square-mile watershed is agricultural land, enabling more farmers to implement conservation and environmental resilience measures will help reduce nutrient runoff into the Bay and its tributaries – a significant cause of harm to the health of the Bay’s fisheries and ecosystem. Companion legislation was introduced in the House on a bipartisan basis by U.S. Representatives Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), and Bobby Scott (D-VA-03).

    “Responsible stewardship of the Chesapeake Bay’s ecosystem is crucial to protecting tourism jobs, farmers, and our local seafood industries,” said Kaine. “This legislation will help give Virginia’s agricultural producers—who are especially vulnerable to a changing climate—the support they need to implement smart conservation measures that will reduce pollution in the Chesapeake Bay and ensure the watershed is healthy for generations to come.”

    “The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure and a regional economic engine – it puts food on our tables, supports the livelihoods of thousands of Marylanders, and serves as a critical habitat for wildlife. This bipartisan legislation will help us both support our farmers and agricultural communities, while providing greater resources to protect the Bay and reducing harmful runoff,” said Van Hollen.

    “The Chesapeake Bay is the heart of Maryland – our state treasure,” said Alsobrooks. “We must do all we can to conserve it. The Bay is one of Maryland’s key economic drivers – supporting the tourism industry, our watermen, and farmers all across the state. And this legislation won’t just support Maryland – it will help Americans across our region access clean drinking water. Let’s get this done.”

    “The Chesapeake Bay is synonymous with Virginia, and it’s crucial that we take meaningful steps to help protect it. I’m proud to introduce this legislation that will boost conservation efforts by providing direct support to the farmers on the ground who are vital to the health and safety of the bay,” said Warner.

    The full text of the bill is available here.

    The Chesapeake Bay Conservation Acceleration Act is endorsed by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Choose Clean Water Coalition, and Chesapeake Bay Commission.

    Background on Chesapeake Bay Conservation Acceleration Act

    As extreme weather events and flooding occur with increasing frequency, the Chesapeake Bay region’s farmers are contending with crop damage and runoff of soil and fertilizers, which also carries pollution into waterways. Agricultural conservation practices are one of the most cost-effective solutions to address these urgent problems and they provide multiple benefits. Practices that focus on building healthy soils and maintaining permanent vegetation such as forest buffers can reduce runoff, remove carbon from the atmosphere, and improve the land’s ability to withstand floods, drought, and other extreme conditions. In addition, many practices help producers cut costs and make their farms more resilient to economic shocks by increasing yields.

    The Chesapeake Bay Conservation Acceleration Act focuses federal resources on the approximately 83,000 farms in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to boost voluntary conservation efforts that help achieve water quality goals, increase soil health, and provide economic benefits. Additionally, the legislation provides solutions for developing a more robust agriculture workforce to get more technical assistance on the ground, and it would simplify harvesting invasive blue catfish from the Bay.

    Specifically, this legislation: 

    • Authorizes the Chesapeake Bay States’ Partnership Initiative (CPSI). In May 2022, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced an additional $22.5 million in conservation assistance in fiscal year 2022 to help farmers boost water quality improvements and conservation in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This administrative action was a significant step toward closing the estimated $737 million investment gap needed to meet agriculture sector nutrient reduction goals. USDA also announced a new task force, jointly with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to better quantify the voluntary conservation efforts of farmers in the Bay watershed. This legislation codifies these administrative actions, empowering USDA to provide targeted support to Chesapeake Bay watershed farmers.
    • Reforms the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) to boost participation. CREP was once the dominant source of financial and technical assistance for riparian forest buffers in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. However, enrollment has slowed in recent years, despite the cost effectiveness of buffers to address water quality concerns. This bill removes administrative barriers to implementation and allows states to more easily take advantage of legislative improvements to the program.
    • Creates a Chesapeake Bay Watershed Turnkey Pilot Program. This legislation establishes a pilot “turnkey” program for the installation, management, and maintenance of riparian forest buffers (RFB) to be implemented by a third party, where the landowner assigns the cost-share and practice incentive payments to the third party but continues to receive the annual rental payment. This program offers a simple process for landowners who wish to install RFB buffers to apply.
    • Strengthens Chesapeake Bay Watershed Workforce Development. This bill expands the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture Higher Education Challenge Grant Program to include community college and post-secondary vocational programs, as well as paid work-based learning opportunities. Additional capacity is needed to support the implementation of conservation technical assistance. This legislation will increase the workforce pipeline for trained professionals that work with producers to inform, design, engineer, and install agricultural best management practices in a way that maximizes the benefits for both the producer and the environment. Promoting agricultural conservation courses at institutions that offer one- and two-year programs will help bring students to the workforce more quickly and with a lower student loan debt burden, making these jobs more attractive.
    • Provides Invasive Blue Catfish Inspection Relief. This legislation transfers primary regulatory oversight of domestic wild-caught catfish invasive to the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem from the Department of Agriculture to the Food and Drug Administration. In 2017, all catfish were placed under the regulatory jurisdiction of the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, including wild-caught, domestic blue catfish. The establishment of this inspection program has placed constraints on catfish processing in the Bay region.

    “Across the Chesapeake Bay watershed, producers are doing their part to protect the health of their soils and local streams by installing conservation practices. To keep faith with our farmers, we need a strong Farm Bill that enhances the technical and financial support producers need for success,” said Anna Killius, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Commission. “We applaud Senator Van Hollen and all of the original cosponsors of the Chesapeake Bay Conservation Acceleration Act for their forward-thinking approach for the Farm Bill, for our region’s farmers, and for the Chesapeake Bay. “

    “Farmers are essential to restoring the Bay and its waterways. The Chesapeake Bay Conservation Acceleration Act would encourage more farmers to adopt conservation practices that reduce fertilizer and sediment runoff, the largest source of water pollution to the Bay. The bill would also enable more watermen to improve their bottom line by harvesting invasive blue catfish. This would help protect native Bay species and the seafood industry from this voracious predator while supporting the region’s economy. With the staffing turmoil at USDA, the proposals for increasing the number of trained professionals on the ground helping farmers improve water and soil quality are more important than ever,” said Keisha Sedlacek, Federal Director at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. “The Chesapeake Bay Foundation thanks Reps. Wittman, Scott, Elfreth, and Kiggans and Sens. Van Hollen, Alsobrooks, Fetterman, Kaine, and Warner for reintroducing this bipartisan legislation. We urge Congress to quickly pass a new, more Bay-friendly Farm Bill that includes the smart policy changes outlined in this bill.”

    “With farmers as the original conservationists, we applaud the Chesapeake Bay Conservation Acceleration Act, which will help farmers implement more conservation projects on their land. These projects will not only help local waterways, but also support local economies,” said Kristin Reilly, Director of the Choose Clean Water Coalition. “We thank Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA) for their leadership in this effort.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock’s Statement on Trump Administration Removing Seniors’ Ability to Access Social Security Services via Phone

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock’s Statement on Trump Administration Removing Seniors’ Ability to Access Social Security Services via Phone

    The statement follows the Trump Administration’s announcement that Georgia seniors will have to apply or make changes to their Social Security benefits online or in person

    Earlier in the month, the Trump Administration announced it was shutting down five Georgia Social Security offices that serve rural parts of the state

    According to the New York Times, it takes over a month to make an in-person appointment at a local Social Security office

    15% of Georgians lack access to reliable broadband

    ICYMI: Social Security Administration Will No Longer Allow Changes Made by Phone

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) issued the following statement after the Trump Administration’s announcement that seniors could no longer contact the Social Security Administration by phone to file for benefits or change the bank where their payments are deposited.

    “This announcement is one more example of the Trump Administration’s war on seniors and their social security benefits. The leaders of this administration appear to know a lot of billionaires, but not many ordinary people. Many Georgia seniors are unable to drive and can’t access transportation, so I know how difficult it is for seniors to make in-person appointments. Forcing seniors to choose between navigating a complicated government bureaucracy online or waiting over a month for an in-person appointment will only lead to more confusion and cause some Georgia seniors to lose out on their benefits. This announcement is especially thoughtless considering the Trump Administration just closed five Georgia Social Security offices and 15% of Georgians lack access to reliable broadband.”

    “I am all for cutting government waste and abuse, and if my colleagues in Washington want to have a bipartisan conversation about how to reduce our debt, my door is open. But efforts to limit government spending should never be at the expense of services our retired seniors rely on to live healthy, fulfilling lives. This is wrong, this is dangerous, and I will fight cuts to Social Security services with every tool I have.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Urges President Trump to Abandon Use of Family Detention

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Senators to Trump: “There is simply no basis for reinstating this cruel, ineffective, and costly practice, particularly when there are effective solutions that, unlike family detention, do not permanently damage children’s health and well-being”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, joined a group of 21 other Senate Democrats in condemning President Donald Trump’s revival of family detention policies and urging him to reject the harmful practice.

    The Senators strongly objected to the Trump Administration’s reinstatement of these policies, citing multiple studies published on family detention’s harm to children. Family detention, even in the short term, risks serious harm to the physical and mental well-being of children, violating basic child welfare standards and leading to lasting trauma. Medical and child welfare experts, including Department of Homeland Security’s own medical consultants, have found that family detention creates a “high risk of harm to children and families.”

    “We strongly object to the failed and inhumane practice of detaining migrant families. We are deeply disturbed by reports that your Administration intends to revive this cruel policy, which has proven to be ineffective, costly, and devastating for children and families,” wrote the Senators.

    The Senators also cited multiple studies finding family detention to be costly and ineffective, and demanded the Trump Administration abandon plans to reinstate family detention.

    “Family detention is not just damaging to children and families; it is also costly and ineffective,” continued the Senators. “It does not deter migration. It simply inflicts suffering while draining taxpayer funds at an exorbitant cost.”

    “There is simply no basis for reinstating this cruel, ineffective, and costly practice, particularly when there are effective solutions that, unlike family detention, do not permanently damage children’s health and well-being. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to abandon the use of family detention and instead pursue humane, evidence-based alternatives that prioritize the well-being of children and families while ensuring an orderly and lawful immigration system,” concluded the Senators.

    Padilla signed the letter, led by Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, alongside Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress opposing President Trump’s anti-immigrant actions and rhetoric. Earlier this week, Senators Padilla, Durbin, Booker, and Welch issued a joint statement slamming President Trump for his attempted invocation of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, wartime law, to deport noncitizens without due process. Last week, Padilla joined other Democratic immigration leaders in challenging the constitutional basis of President Trump’s sham “invasion” proclamation, which the President believes would allow his Administration to circumvent federal immigration law and due process.

    Padilla sharply criticized Trump’s harmful executive orders targeting immigrants at the start of his second Administration. Last month, Padilla denounced Trump’s transfer of immigrants from the United States to Guantánamo Bay as unlawful and demanded answers regarding these transfers. He also condemned the Trump Administration’s intended use of Bureau of Prisons facilities to detain immigrants as part of President Trump’s mass deportation agenda. Additionally, Padilla cosponsored the Born in the USA Act to effectively block the implementation of Trump’s unconstitutional Executive Order attempting to end birthright citizenship for certain children born in the United States, or a similar subsequent Executive Order. Padilla also recently blasted the Trump Administration’s stop work order to organizations that provide legal services for unaccompanied children and demanded they protect Congressionally mandated legal representation for these children in the immigration system. Last year, Padilla emphasized the dangers and immense economic costs of the Trump Administration’s mass deportation plans during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.

    Full text of the letter to President Trump is available here and below:

    Dear President Trump:

    We strongly object to the failed and inhumane practice of detaining migrant families. We are deeply disturbed by reports that your Administration has revived this cruel policy, which has proven to be ineffective, costly, and devastating for children and families.

    There is a widespread consensus in the United States that family detention poses serious risks to the physical and mental well-being of children. Medical and child welfare experts—including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association—have consistently condemned this practice, warning that even short-term detention fails to meet basic child welfare standards and exposes children to lasting trauma. Even the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) own medical consultants have concluded that family detention presents a “high risk of harm to children and families.” The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Advisory Committee on Family Residential Centers also determined that family detention should be discontinued.

    Family detention is not just damaging to children and families; it is also costly and ineffective. It does not deter migration. It simply inflicts suffering while draining taxpayer funds at an exorbitant cost. DHS previously spent more than $866 million over a three-year period to maintain space to detain just over 2,500 families. Detaining a mother and her children in an ICE facility costs an astonishing $319 per day. In contrast, Alternatives to Detention (ATD) programs —such as community-based case management—cost as little as $5 per person per day and have ensured high compliance rates with immigration proceedings.

    There is simply no basis for reinstating this cruel, ineffective, and costly practice, particularly when there are effective solutions that, unlike family detention, do not permanently damage children’s health and well-being. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to abandon the use of family detention and instead pursue humane, evidence-based alternatives that prioritize the well-being of children and families while ensuring an orderly and lawful immigration system.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor awards $793K to continue unemployment assistance for Tennessee residents affected by Tropical Storm Helene

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a supplemental award of $793,000 to Tennessee to continue providing disaster unemployment assistance for people in communities whose livelihoods were harmed when Tropical Storm Helene swept through the area in September 2024. 

    “Many workers had their lives completely upended when Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee. As communities continue working to rebuild, I’m pleased to approve additional unemployment assistance for hardworking Tennesseans who were impacted by this disaster,” Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said. 

    The department’s Employment and Training Administration awarded a grant to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development to enable them to deliver benefit payments to the state’s eligible Disaster Unemployment Assistance claimants and to cover program administrative costs. The funding announced today allows the state to continue providing financial assistance to people who lost their jobs, or had their employment or self-employment interrupted, as a direct result of the disaster and who are not eligible for regular unemployment benefits. 

    On Oct. 2, 2024, the Federal Emergency Management Agency issued the major disaster declaration enabling the state to request federal assistance. Later in October 2024, FEMA authorized an initial obligation of $938,400 to implement disaster unemployment assistance in response to Tropical Storm Helene. 

    Supported by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, in coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Disaster Unemployment Assistance program provides funds to state unemployment insurance agencies to pay benefits and state administration costs under agreements with the Secretary of Labor.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Southern elephant seals are adaptable – but they struggle when faced with both rapid climate change and human impacts

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nic Rawlence, Associate Professor in Ancient DNA, University of Otago

    Wikimedia Commons/Antoine Lamielle, CC BY-SA

    Southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) are an iconic species of the Southern Ocean. But with rapid environmental changes in their ocean home, the seals’ population range has been shifting.

    Once spread across vast areas of the southern hemisphere, these apex predators are facing challenges from both climate shifts and human activities.

    Our new research examines ancient and modern DNA, archaeological records and ecological data.

    It reveals how these large marine mammals have adapted – and sometimes failed to adapt – to such pressures since the height of the last Ice Age thousands of years ago.

    A dynamic evolutionary history

    Today, the largest southern elephant seal populations are found on subantarctic islands, including South Georgia, Macquarie Island and the Falkland Islands. These colonies act as global strongholds for the species.

    Yet in the past, until just a few hundred years ago, many smaller populations existed on the Victoria Land Coast in Antarctica and closer to temperate zones, on mainland Australia and New Zealand.

    Our study focused on the Australasian lineage of southern elephant seals, drawing on samples from these ancient colonies. By analysing their genetic makeup, we pieced together a timeline of their biological heritage, including population expansions and contractions.

    This has crucial implications for understanding the resilience of elephant seals in the face of climate change.

    Subantarctic islands such as the Kerguelen islands remain strongholds for southern elephant seals.
    Antoine Lamielle, CC BY-SA

    From genetic clues in subfossil and archaeological remains, some thousands of years old, we found evidence of repeated population cycles. Expanding sea ice during cold glacial periods forced the seals northward, only for them to recolonise the Southern Ocean as sea ice retreated during warm interglacials.

    This history was particularly dynamic after the height of the last Ice Age 21,000 years ago. The planet started warming then, which led to dramatic ecological shifts.

    A mummified southern elephant seal found on the Victoria Land Coast in Antarctica.
    Brenda Hall, CC BY-SA

    Elephant seals likely expanded from ice-free refuges in temperate regions such as Tasmania and New Zealand into newly available subantarctic and Antarctic coastlines.

    However, this range expansion wasn’t permanent. As the current warm interglacial (the Holocene) progressed, new challenges arose: Indigenous hunting and, later, extensive European industrial sealing.

    For Indigenous communities in New Zealand and Australia, elephant seals were a part of their diet.

    We know this from seal remains in middens (rubbish dumps) and material culture, including necklaces made from elephant seal teeth which have been found in early Māori archaeological sites.

    Archaeological remains from coastal sites in New Zealand and Tasmania indicate significant hunting and reliance on seals by Indigenous populations. Along with human-driven environmental changes, this led to local extinctions.

    Impacts of humans and climate change

    Genetically, the seals from these ancient Australasian and Antarctic colonies were distinct but related. They formed a unique lineage in the Pacific that included Macquarie Island. This genetic diversity likely resulted from periods of isolation in separate refuges at the height of the last Ice Age.

    However, with modern climate shifts and human exploitation, much of this genetic diversity has been lost. The colonies that once thrived on the Victoria Land Coast in Antarctica are now extinct.

    Meanwhile, Macquarie Island is home to a significant breeding colony facing its own challenges. Changes in Antarctic sea ice are increasing the distance between breeding grounds on the island and feeding grounds at sea. This has affected the colony’s stability in recent decades.

    One of the most striking outcomes of our research is how quickly these large, long-lived animals can respond to environmental pressures. Seals adapted to a shifting climate by expanding their range in response to new habitats and retracting when conditions became unsuitable.

    This ability to move and adapt, however, was limited when confronted by the dual pressures of rapid climate change and human exploitation, which reduced their numbers and genetic diversity drastically over a short period.

    This schematic shows living (solid circles) and extinct (opaque circles) southern elephant seal populations and the extent of sea ice around Antarctica (opaque blue-grey) at the height of the last Ice Age.
    Berg et al (2025), CC BY-SA

    Can the Southern Ocean ecosystem adapt?

    As human-driven climate change continues, the Southern Ocean is expected to continue warming. This will cause further habitat loss for species that depend on sea ice and are affected by shifts in the availability of prey.

    The elephant seals’ history offers a window into how marine mammals may respond to these changes. But it also serves as a warning: human impacts, coupled with environmental pressures, can lead to swift, sometimes irreversible declines.

    Our research underscores the importance of conserving the genetic diversity and habitats of southern elephant seals. These seals are not just a testament to adaptability in a changing world; they are reminders of the vulnerability of even the most resilient species.

    Protecting their remaining strongholds and minimising human impacts on their food sources and breeding grounds will be crucial if we hope to avoid further contractions in their population.

    The story of the southern elephant seal is one of survival, adaptation and loss. As we face our own climate challenges, we must consider the lessons embedded in their genetic and ecological history.

    It’s a reminder that while nature often adapts to change and can weather some ecosystem threats, human-driven impacts can push even the most adaptable species beyond the point of recovery.

    Nic Rawlence receives funding from the Marsden Fund.

    Mark de Bruyn received funding from a Griffith University New Investigator grant.

    Michael Knapp 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. Southern elephant seals are adaptable – but they struggle when faced with both rapid climate change and human impacts – https://theconversation.com/southern-elephant-seals-are-adaptable-but-they-struggle-when-faced-with-both-rapid-climate-change-and-human-impacts-251820

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/HAITI – A network of paths for human and economic development in Pourcine Pic Makaya

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 19 March 2025

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    Pourcine (Agenzia Fides) – In Pourcine Pic Makaya, the sowing season is coming to an end. The next two months will be difficult for the people awaiting the harvest. They have “put everything they have in the form of money into the ground,” that is, they have used it to prepare the land and sow.”In the coming weeks, agricultural work will decrease significantly; the Community will be able to work on repairing some roads and paths that connect the village plateau with other towns,” writes Father Massimo Miraglio, a Camillian missionary in Haiti, to Fides.“With a salary for the people, organized into work teams, we can help several families in a very difficult economic time. The results we seek are twofold,” continues the Camillian parish priest of Notre Dame du Perpétuel Secours in Pourcine: “to improve the usability of some roads (also to make them safer for children going to school) and to financially assist more than 200 families with a small financial contribution from their work.”The village of Pourcine Pic Makaya is located on a plateau at an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters and surrounded by rugged mountains, where numerous hamlets are connected by difficult and steep paths. Just under 300 families live in Pourcine, with a total of almost 1,500 people; the hamlets, about 15 in number, are home to around 2,000 people. The village is the center of all the area’s inhabitants, and a market is held every Wednesday, the center of the area’s economic activity. In Pourcine, there are two schools, one public and one parish, and a small (informal) parish clinic. Paths lead from the plateau to all the other villages (some several hours’ walk away) and to the three main tracks that connect Pourcine to the rest of the region: the first to the town of Beaumont, the second to the adjacent Castillon valley, and the third to the valley floor and Jérémie.“This entire network of mountain roads plays a fundamental role,” explains Fr. Miraglio, “allowing people to travel from the center to the villages, to the land they cultivate, to the markets for local produce, and to the neighboring towns in the region. Unfortunately, due to the terrain, heavy rainfall, and poor maintenance, this network of roads is in poor condition and, especially during the rainiest periods, is often impassable. Rural roads in particular, which are especially valuable because they allow the transport of products on mule and ensure connections to neighboring areas, are in poor condition. On rare occasions, the local community organizes, with the limited resources at its disposal, to clear the roads and improve their viability.”To help the population, Father Máximo is working on a project to “rehabilitate and maintain the roads and mule tracks that connect the villages of the Pourcine-Pic Makaya mountain community.” This project will enable the population to travel more safely and quickly, using the mules available to transport more local products and essential goods for the community’s life. The project also aims to foster the economic and social development of the area, counteracting depopulation and promoting a participatory and sustainable work model.“The direct beneficiaries of the project will be 268 people,” reports the Camillian, “who will be directly involved in the cleaning and maintenance of the trails, while the indirect beneficiaries will be the entire population of Poucine Pic Makaya, who will be able to benefit from the improvements to the trail network. In particular, the children who daily walk the trails leading from the various villages to the plateau where the school is located will be able to travel more safely and quickly. The direct beneficiaries, men and women (coordinators, team leaders and laborers), will be chosen from among the residents of the most remote areas who most need these income-generating activities at a particularly difficult time for the farmers in the area.” (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 19/3/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Massive brain drain from EU universities is an existential threat to Europe’s future – E-001033/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001033/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Nikos Pappas (The Left)

    The European Union is facing a growing brain drain crisis, with the best young scientists, researchers and academics leaving Europe for countries such as the USA, Canada and China. This exodus undermines the EU’s strategic autonomy and its ability to innovate and compete globally.

    Despite investments through Horizon Europe and Erasmus+, the reality is that funding is not enough to make European universities competitive alongside the world’s top institutions. Low salaries, a lack of cutting-edge research opportunities and cumbersome bureaucratic procedures discourage young scientists from staying or returning to Europe.

    Given that this trend poses a serious threat to the EU’s knowledge economy and its leadership in key areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology and climate innovation:

    • 1.Does the Commission recognise brain drain from EU universities as a critical issue for the future of the Union?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to incorporate into the upcoming review of Horizon Europe mechanisms that will enhance the attraction and retention of scientific talent in Europe, preventing the brain drain of young researchers to third countries?
    • 3.Is the Commission considering the creation of specific funds or targeted programmes to support the European academic community?

    Submitted: 10.3.2025

    Last updated: 19 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement – E-000276/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    For more than a decade the EU has worked side-by-side with the United States (US) to design and implement the Paris Agreement, the crucial multilateral agreement in the fight against global warming.

    The Commission therefore regrets the announcement of the President of the US to once again withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement .

    The Commission will stay the course on the Green Deal as the EU’s growth strategy. The Commission will deploy its climate diplomacy to ensure that other major polluters also show ambition in reducing greenhouse gas emissions when presenting their Nationally Determined Contributions ahead of COP 30 in Brazil.

    The Commission’s focus will be on supporting and creating the right conditions for reaching its common goals. This means investing and ensuring access to cheap, sustainable and secure energy supplies and raw materials, including through the Clean Industrial Deal.

    The Clean Industrial Deal, announced in the Political Guidelines for 2024-2029, positions decarbonisation as a powerful driver of growth and prosperity for Europeans.

    Building on the Green Deal Industrial Plan[1], the Net Zero Industrial[2] and Critical Raw Materials Acts[3], it will have a particular focus on energy-intensive industries and the net-zero sector.

    Some of the measures will aim at lowering energy prices, developing lead markets for EU-made decarbonised products, and leveraging circularity for the availability of raw materials.

    All of these measures will support the EU economy, foster the green transition and contribute to the prosperity of EU citizens by creating new jobs.

    • [1] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal/green-deal-industrial-plan_en
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal/green-deal-industrial-plan/net-zero-industry-act_en
    • [3] https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/sectors/raw-materials/areas-specific-interest/critical-raw-materials/critical-raw-materials-act_en
    Last updated: 19 March 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Breaking Barriers: L-83 woman’s journey into project management

    Source: US International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

    The MOST Project Management course was developed in 2003, with the first class held in 2004, and nearly all the participants have been men. Over the past 20 years, Jess Mendenhall of Local 83 (Kansas City, Missouri) is only the second woman to take the course since its inception.

    Gerry Klimo, a retired member out of L-154 (Pittsburgh) who teaches the MOST Project Management course, was impressed with Mendenhall. 

    “I saw in her a very strong desire to progress and be great as a Boilermaker. It was evident watching her in the group. She’s outgoing and knowledgeable,” he said. “I’ve taught 30 or more of the classes. Sometimes there are people who really stand out, and to be a female in a male world personifies her as a strong person.”

    Mendenhall’s journey into the Boilermakers began when her eyes popped at the cost of college.

    “When I was 18, I did a semester in college. Then I got the bill for the next semester,” Mendenhall recalled. “I told my parents I’d join the Navy instead, but my dad suggested I try [the Boilermakers], so I did—and I’ve never looked back.”

    In 2012, Mendenhall indentured into Local 83.

    “I didn’t know anything,” she admitted. “I’m thankful and grateful I was taken under a couple of wings, and they showed me the ropes. I’ve never struggled with any brothers.”

    One of her most memorable jobs was an emergency rebuild after an explosion in Toledo, Ohio.

    “It was a complete rebuild on the fly—no planning,” she said. “It took about a month to six weeks to get it online. We rebuilt a fin fan at a refinery. I was over the towers. When the explosion happened, the I-beams were damaged, and we had to rebuild them. Normally, something like this takes six months to plan, but we had no plan. We were there on Christmas.”

    She joined Local 92 (Los Angeles) briefly, working in California for a few years before returning to the Midwest and Local 83. In California, she rose to become a foreman, leading teams of up to 20 men.

    Mendenhall took the Project Management course to further her education and expand her knowledge.

    “What we’re learning in the course pertains to our line of work, but college is more general.”

    She’s also a Certified Associate Welding Inspector, a credential that allows her to inspect welds and perform quality assurance in the welding industry. In addition, she’s studying business management and is close to completing her associates degree, with an end goal of earning a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

    “I’m able to pay for school in cash and do something I love,” she said. “I’m not in a losing situation whatsoever.”

    Mendenhall has primarily worked in refineries, but she’s also worked as a project coordinator for a subcontractor and the opportunity to be an instructor at the L-83 hall. She credits L-83 for being very supportive of women in the trade.

    Over the past three years, she has received strong support from IVP-GL Dan Sulivan; Tom Burgess, apprenticeship instructor at Local 83; Kayla Vander Molen at Local 146 (Edmonton, Alberta), pre-apprenticeship instructor and many brothers and sisters she has met locally and across the country. However, she acknowledges that challenges she’s faced have required perseverance.

    Her biggest struggle has been the lack of career progression and access to training opportunities.

    “While I’m passionate about this work, I believe mentorship for women should be a greater priority,” Mendenhall said. “Too often, my inquiries about educational opportunities go unanswered or are met with dismissal, while promised opportunities either never materialized or went to someone’s friend or relative.”

    She takes pride in seeing others succeed but finds it frustrating when advancement is based on connections rather than experience or commitment.

    “It’s even more disheartening when those who do move forward fail to support or uplift others in return.”

    Despite these challenges, Mendenhall continues to push forward, break barriers and advocate for greater opportunities within her trade. She believes that learning never stops in this craft.

    “There’s always something new or different to explore, whether it’s on the job or a type of work I haven’t done before.”

    Watch Jess’s video on Boilermaker Brotherhood

    watch video

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Good To Go! warns of scam texts

    Source: Washington State News 2

    OLYMPIA – Good To Go! is asking people to be cautious as scammers are impersonating toll agencies nationwide. They are attempting to trick people into making payments and sharing their banking information.

    Good To Go! is aware of fraudulent text messages claiming to be from Good To Go! and linking to a convincing fake website mirroring the official one for that payment. The text messages were not sent by Good To Go!. Good To Go! never sends texts asking for payment.

    People who suspect they’ve received a scam text should not click on any of the links. Instead, they should log into their account as any information Good To Go! would send about a toll bill will also be visible on your account. If you do not have a Good To Go! account Good To Go! would not send you a text. Good To Go! never asks customers to pay on websites other than Good To Go! and does not charge additional fees to make a payment.

    Good To Go! encourages anyone who received a fraudulent text to file a complaint with the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center. Be sure to include the phone number or email address from where the message was sent, and the website listed in the text of the message.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Measles Cases Spread, NYS Encourages Immunization

    Source: US State of New York

    Based on immunization registry data, the current statewide vaccination rate for babies up to two years old, excluding New York City, is 81.4 percent. This is the percent of children who have received at least one dose of the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccines. However, actual vaccination coverage among school-age children is higher, typically around 90 percent.

    Individuals should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine to be protected. Those who aren’t sure about their immunization status should call their local health department or health care provider. Those who were born before 1957 have likely already been exposed to the virus and are immune. Those born between 1957 and 1971 should check with a doctor to ensure they’ve been properly immunized as vaccines administered during that time may not have been reliable.

    Those who travel abroad should make sure they are vaccinated for measles. Babies as young as 6 months can get an MMR if they are traveling abroad. The babies should get their MMRs on schedule and need a total of three MMRs.

    The State Health Department is monitoring the situation very carefully, along with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Local health departments in each county are prepared to investigate cases and distribute vaccines or other protective measures as needed.

    “As measles outbreaks occur at home and around the globe, it’s critical that New Yorkers take the necessary steps to get vaccinated, get educated and stave off the spread of this preventable disease — the safety of our communities depends on it.”

    Governor Hochul

    NYC Health Department Acting Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said, “To date, the NYC Health department has confirmed three unrelated cases of measles in New York City. Disease surveillance and outbreak response readiness is at the heart of our agency’s operations. Measles is highly contagious and can be deadly. We strongly encourage people who have not been vaccinated to get vaccinated and make sure your children have received the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccines. Vaccination not only protects the person who gets vaccinated, but also contributes to community protections by helping stop the spread of the disease and keeping infants and others who can’t be vaccinated safe.”

    State Senator Gustavo Rivera said, “The four reported cases of measles in New York State this year are not only concerning but also, a stern reminder that we must keep our recommended immunizations up to date. I want to thank Governor Hochul and Commissioner McDonald for launching a portal to provide support to health care providers who are our first line of defense when it comes to public health. Measles could pose serious health risks for those who contract it and are not protected so it is critical that we follow the science and don’t fall behind on immunizations.”

    Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “The science is clear – the measles vaccine works. I encourage everyone to get vaccinated, and I appreciate Governor Hochul and State Health Commissioner McDonald’s efforts to provide New Yorkers and healthcare providers with the support, education, and resources for this lifesaving immunization.”

    Misinformation around vaccines has in recent years contributed to a rise in vaccine hesitancy, declining vaccination rates and a black market for fraudulent vaccination records. The Department takes an active role in combating vaccination fraud. This includes work by the Department’s Bureau of Investigations identifying, investigating, and seeking impactful enforcement actions against those who falsify vaccine records, as evidenced by several recent cases announced by the Department.

    Combating vaccine fraud is a collective effort that includes various stakeholders responsible for community health and safety. The Department works with schools to help them fulfill their responsibility of reviewing vaccination records for fraud. Additionally, the Department partners with the New York State Education Department, local health departments and school-nurse professional organizations around this critical effort. Moreover, the Department’s Bureau of Investigations, in particular, works to educate, engage and support police and prosecutors statewide regarding vaccination fraud, which under New York law is a felony-level criminal offense.

    Measles is a highly contagious, serious respiratory disease that causes rash and fever. In some cases, measles can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight other infections like pneumonia.

    Serious complications of measles include hospitalization, pneumonia, brain swelling and death. Long-term serious complications can also include  subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a brain disease resulting from an earlier measles infection that can lead to permanent brain damage.

    People who are infected with measles often get “measles immune amnesia,” which causes their immune system to lose memory to fight other infections like pneumonia. In places like Africa, where measles is more common, this is the largest driver of mortality.

    Measles during pregnancy increases the risk of early labor, miscarriage and low birth weight infants.

    Measles is caused by a virus that is spread by coughing or sneezing into the air. Individuals can catch the disease by breathing in the virus or by touching a contaminated surface, then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. Complications may include pneumonia, encephalitis, miscarriage, preterm birth, hospitalization and death.

    The incubation period for measles is up to 21 days. People who are exposed to measles should quarantine 21 days after exposure and those who test positive should isolate until four days after the rash appears.

    Symptoms for measles can include the following:

    7-14 days, and up to 21 days after a measles infection

    • High fever
    • Cough
    • Runny nose
    • Red, watery eyes

    3-5 days after symptoms begin, a rash occurs

    • The rash usually begins as flat red spots that appear on the face at the hairline and spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet.
    • Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots.
    • The spots may become joined together as they spread from the head to the rest of the body.
    • When the rash appears, a person’s fever may spike to more than 104° Fahrenheit.

    A person with measles can pass it to others as soon as four days before a rash appears and as late as four days after the rash appears.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Launches Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail. Officially opened today, the South Shore Trail runs from Bay Shore to Montauk and is intended to drive business and tourism to locations proudly serving and selling locally raised and wild-caught, sustainably harvested fish and shellfish while promoting Long Island’s seafood industry. The Trail is a part of the State’s Blue Food Transformation initiative, first announced in the Governor’s 2024 State of the State proposal, which was created to reinvigorate New York’s aquaculture and wild-caught seafood industries and strengthen local food systems.

    “Long Island’s aquaculture and seafood industries are vital to New York’s agricultural economy – they create jobs, support a healthy environment, and provide New Yorkers with fresh, nutritious seafood,” Governor Hochul said. “The Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trails highlight the amazing fish and shellfish harvested locally, showcase our outstanding small businesses, and attract more visitors to this incredible region.”

    Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trails

    Today’s announcement was made at a special ribbon cutting ceremony at The Snapper Inn in Oakdale where State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball joined representatives from Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Suffolk County, state and local elected officials, local business owners, and other partners to unveil the first of two planned Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trails. The Snapper Inn is on the western end of the South Shore Trail, which will include 20 official locations and other points of interest to spotlight New York’s seafood industry, and drive visitors to businesses that serve and sell locally wild-caught, sustainably harvested fish and shellfish. The North Shore Trail, which will run from Oyster Bay to Greenport, is under development and slated to launch in the coming months.

    The event also featured a sneak peek of the forthcoming Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail digital app, which will make it even easier for customers to discover Long Island establishments serving seafood-centric dishes. Currently under development, the app will guide customers to Long Island establishments where they can enjoy a fine local seafood meal, pick up a variety of oysters for a local oyster tasting, take-out a quick seafood lunch, or fillets from a local seafood shop to prepare a fish dinner at home. An online version of the app is available on the Long Island Seafood Trail website, and the mobile app is expected to be available on the Apple App Store and Google Play in the coming weeks.

    Visitors are encouraged to follow the trail for locations that are known to appreciate and celebrate the bounty of Long Island’s waters while boosting business and supporting local fishing communities. Regional points of interest and local events are also integrated into the app to support a full tourism experience. Visit the Seafood Trail page on the Local Fish website for more information.

    The Trail was created by CCE of Suffolk County’s Marine Program, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM). AGM additionally worked closely with the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) on the designation of the trails. A list of trail stops is available on the AGM website.

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Long Island’s waters are abundant with fresh, delicious fish and shellfish, and our seafood industry works tirelessly in harvesting and raising these local delicacies. I encourage New Yorkers to visit any number of the many stops on the new Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail to discover some delicious foods and help support our local aquaculture community.”

    Cornell Cooperative Extension Suffolk Executive Director Vanessa Lockel said, “The CCE Suffolk Marine Program plays a key role in preserving Long Island’s waterways through science, restoration, and education. We are proud to have partnered on the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail, a project that aligns with our mission by highlighting the region’s aquaculture and seafood industries—industries that are critical to both our economy and the health of our environment.”

    Seafood Processing Feasibility Study

    Also funded through the Governor’s Blue Food Transformation initiative, CCE of Suffolk County has engaged industry stakeholders and conducted research to define and mitigate challenges necessary to expand capacity for seafood processing on Long Island. The project examines operating models, locations, basic facility design, and capital budget as a baseline for standalone seafood processing facilities. A final draft report will be presented for industry feedback at the Long Island Seafood Summit this month.

    Inter-Agency Task Force

    In addition to the cuisine trails and feasibility study, the Governor also announced that AGM, the Department of Environmental Conservation, Empire State Development, Department of Health, New York Sea Grant, and other agencies involved in the production and marketing of seafood formed the New York State Seafood Interagency Workgroup. The group was tasked with evaluating and coordinating state policies and programs that impact aquaculture licensing, food safety, and economic development measures, and considering pathways for industry growth. The Workgroup’s final report is available online at the AGM website.

    New York State has a diverse sustainable wild-caught seafood industry and growing aquaculture industry that harvest a variety of products including finfish, kelp, and shellfish. Commercial fishermen on Long Island sustainably harvested over 16 million pounds of finfish in 2023, worth over $28 million dollars. Montauk, the state’s largest commercial fishing port, is 51st in the nation for wild-caught seafood based on poundage, and 53rd in the nation based on dollar value.

    From Long Island to the Finger Lakes, both small-scale and commercial-scale aquaculture operations grow fresh, safe, and sustainable seafood, and harvest wild-caught, sustainable fish. According to the most recent USDA Census of Agriculture, the aquaculture industry accounts for over 25 percent of farms on Long Island, with 155 operations in Suffolk County and 15 in Nassau County.​ Combined, the two counties generated over $14.5 million in sales in 2022.

    Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s sustained support and protection of the South Shore’s irreplaceable marine habitat and resources, the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trails initiative is gearing up to launch its first segment and celebrate the fantastic seafood associated with Long Island’s vibrant coastal culture and maritime traditions. DEC appreciates the work of our partners at the Department of Agriculture and Markets and their work to support local hatcheries, boosting the Long Island’s shellfish farming economy and complementing the State’s ongoing efforts to ensure the success of New York’s commercial fishing industry while protecting seafood for consumers.”

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Long Island is one of the epicenters of New York’s internationally recognized food and beverage industry, with its world-renowned vineyards, rich farmlands and storied fishing history. The Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail, which New York State DOT proudly supports, will enhance sustainable and healthy aquaculture and is a perfect way for South Shore residents and visitors to take in Long Island’s pristine beaches and native wildlife, while enjoying some of the most nutritious and delicious seafood anywhere in the world. See you on the Trail!”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The new Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail will showcase the world class culinary offerings available to residents and visitors alike across the South Shore. This will highlight the importance of the region’s aquaculture industry and introduce more people to the unique small businesses that are vital to local economies.”

    Long Island Farm Bureau Director Rob Carpenter said, “Commercial fishing and aquaculture are very important legacy industries on Long Island. Our fishermen, baymen, and oyster growers provide residents with some of the highest quality and most flavorful seafood found anywhere in the world. This seafood trail will help to promote the incredible restaurants, shops, and seafood products available right in our own backyard for residents to experience and enjoy.”

    Long Island Oyster Growers Association President Eric Koepele said, “If Dorothy hailed from Long Island, every oyster shell trail would skip Oz for a seafood paradise like The Snapper Inn—where local oysters are shining gems behind the curtain. I encourage visitors to check out more beautiful locations over the rainbow on the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail to sample the best of Long Island’s delicious, fresh, local oysters.”

    Long Island Commercial Fishing Association Executive Director Bonnie Brady said, “For far too long, consumers and visitors to Long Island had to be “in the know,” to find the local specials of the day from restaurants, seafood shops, and boat-to-table small businesses. Now with the app, anyone can find the freshest Long Island seafood meal, north or south, no matter which Fork they live on or are visiting!”

    Discover Long Island President and CEO Kristen Reynolds said, “Long Island’s rich maritime heritage and world-class seafood industry are key drivers of tourism and economic vitality for our region. As Long Island’s only accredited destination marketing organization with an audience of more than 10 million global viewers, we look forward to sharing this exciting new product, encouraging both locals and visitors to explore and support the small businesses, restaurants, and coastal communities that make our destination truly unique.”

    New York State Restaurant Association President and CEO Melissa Fleischut said, “With its vibrant culinary scene, Long Island is renowned for its outstanding restaurants, and we’re delighted to see Governor Hochul and other state leaders continue their support for local businesses across the state. The summer months are a peak time for tourism, making the launch of the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trails especially timely. We are eager to see the positive impact this initiative will have on the region’s restaurant industry, driving both awareness and visitors to these local establishments.”

    State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Cuisine trails are roadmaps to some of the best local food New York has to offer, guiding people to delicious meals and products while supporting the small businesses that serve them. The launch of the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trails adds a new layer to New York’s expanding food trail system and we were proud to move this initiative forward in last year’s budget. It’s exciting to see the trail come to fruition, knowing it will give locals and visitors the chance to try the freshest catches, explore new communities, and discover hidden gems along the way.”

    Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “I’m very pleased that the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail is up and running. We included the Blue Food Transformation Initiative in last year’s state budget to support New York’s aquaculture industry and initiatives like this. Cuisine Trails have proven to be very popular as they promote local food and farm businesses through agri-tourism. This new Trail and digital app will shine a spotlight on the locally raised and harvested fish and shellfish that Long Island is known for.”

    Assemblymember Jarett Gandolfo said, “Long Island’s seafood industry isn’t just a key part of our local economy, it’s part of who we are. From family-owned restaurants to hardworking fishermen, so many livelihoods depend on a thriving aquaculture industry. The launch of the Long Island Seafood Cuisine Trail is a great way to highlight and support these businesses while also giving residents and visitors the chance to experience the incredible seafood our waters provide. Investing in our local seafood industry means protecting jobs, strengthening Long Island’s tourism, and preserving a tradition that has been passed down for generations. I’m genuinely excited to see this take off and be able to see the positive impact it will have on our community.”

    Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter said, “Long Island’s waterways are one of our greatest natural resources, and initiatives like the Seafood Cuisine Trail not only celebrate our long-standing maritime heritage but also support the hardworking individuals who sustain our local seafood industry. Through our Town’s Shellfish Hatchery initiative, we are committed to protecting water quality, replenishing shellfish populations, and ensuring that locally harvested seafood remains a cornerstone of our economy and culture. I’m proud to stand alongside so many dedicated partners today as we continue working toward a thriving, sustainable future for Long Island.”

    The Blue Food Transformation Initiative was announced in the Governor’s 2024 State of the State proposal to increase consumer demand for local food and strengthen the local food system. The effort will include $5 million in infrastructure funding to bolster marine agriculture, promote a healthy natural environment, and provide New Yorkers with a nutritious source of locally grown seafood. These investments build on the Governor’s commitment to boost demand for New York agricultural products, bolster New York’s food supply chain, and ensure all New Yorkers can access fresh, local foods. This includes the Governor’s Executive Order 32 directing State agencies to increase the percentage of food sourced from New York farmers and producers to 30 percent of their total purchases within five years.

    New York State continues to prioritize increasing access to food for all New Yorkers and providing new markets for farmers through a number of programs and initiatives, including the enhanced FreshConnect Fresh2You initiative, the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs, the Urban Farms and Community Gardens Grants Programs, and more. The Department also administers the Nourish New York program, which is slated for an additional $5 million investment in the Governor’s proposed Executive Budget this year.

    The NYS 30 percent Initiative for schools, the State’s Farm-to-School program, and child nutrition programs administered by the State Education Department are focused on buying more local products from New York farmers and increasing healthy and nutritious local foods for New York school lunches.

    Additionally, the Governor is dedicating $50 million over five years to support regional cooking facilities that will facilitate the use of fresh New York State farm products in meal preparation for K-12 school children and a $10 million grant program to support the establishment of farm markets, supermarkets, food cooperatives, and other similar retail food stores, along with supporting infrastructure in underserved communities and regions of the State.

    Learn about the AGM’s programs and initiatives focused on providing new markets for farmers, increasing food access to underserved communities, and building healthier communities on the AGM website at the “Healthy Communities” page.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Canadian small businesses can expand into Asian markets and reduce their dependence on the U.S.

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Michael Joseph Dominic Roberts, Associate Dean & Associate Professor, Faculty of Business and Communications Studies, Mount Royal University

    The recent escalation of trade tensions under United States President Donald Trump has significantly increased uncertainty for Canadian SMEs (small- and medium-sized enterprises), particularly in the high-value service sector.

    Examples of this sector include financial technology and investment services, aerospace and advanced manufacturing, and clean technology sectors focused on renewable energy and sustainable resource management.

    For decades, Canadian businesses have relied on a stable trade relationship with the U.S. But under Trump’s “America First” protectionist policies, that stability has crumbled.

    With tariffs, trade barriers and shifting political dynamics making North American markets increasingly unpredictable, many Canadian businesses are searching for ways to reduce their dependence on the U.S. and expand elsewhere.

    Expanding into Asia

    Asia has emerged as an attractive alternative for businesses due to its rapidly expanding middle class, growing investments in infrastructure and technology, and rising demand for specialized expertise.

    This trend is particularly evident in the energy sector. The Asia-Pacific region — though currently accounting for only eight per cent of the global market — is expected to grow significantly as countries expand energy infrastructure and seek advanced technologies to improve resource extraction for environmental sustainability.



    Read more:
    Trump’s tariff threat is a sign that Canada should be diversifying beyond the U.S.

    This presents promising growth opportunities for Canadian businesses in sectors like engineering consulting, technology, energy and environmental services, where they already have a competitive edge.

    However, entering Asian markets presents unique challenges, requiring businesses to rethink their strategies.

    Breaking into Asian markets

    Expanding into Asian markets is no easy task for SMEs. These businesses face substantial barriers, including significant differences in regulatory environments, business practices and customer expectations.

    For service-based businesses, the challenge is even greater. Unlike physical products, which can be easily displayed and tested, services are harder to quantify and prove to new clients. This makes it more difficult for SMEs to build credibility and demonstrate their value in unfamiliar markets.

    Our recent study explored how Canadian SMEs in the service sector can successfully overcome these barriers when entering Asian markets like China, India and South Korea.

    We brought together industry experts, government officials and senior executives from SMEs already operating successfully in Asia for a two-day workshop. We analyzed their firsthand experiences, challenges and recommendations to develop a clear and actionable framework called the 4P strategy (potential, proposition, presence and policy).

    These four steps offer SMEs a structured approach to understanding local conditions, differentiating offerings, establishing trusted partnerships and gaining government support.

    1. Potential: Understand the local market

    SMEs must understand Asian market regulations, business culture and market structures. Unlike North America’s relatively stable environment, Asian markets often feature rapidly evolving regulations and unpredictable policy changes.

    Businesses should balance these regulatory uncertainties against economic opportunities and be prepared to swiftly adapt when necessary. For example, policy changes in Asian markets, such as shifting foreign investment regulations or evolving environmental standards, can create uncertainty for SMEs operating abroad.

    Companies must remain agile to navigate regulatory shifts while leveraging the relative economic stability of the region.

    Patience and flexibility are also critical. In many Asian markets, business deals take longer to close due to hierarchical, relationship-driven decision-making. SMEs should anticipate these extended timelines and factor them into their planning.

    Our study found that deals that might be finalized quickly in North America can take years to develop in Asia, requiring firms to exercise patience before realizing significant profits. Successful market entry depends on a long-term approach and the ability to adapt to extended gestation periods.

    2. Proposition: Adapt services to fit local needs

    SMEs need to localize their offerings beyond language translation, adapting their branding, marketing and customer-engagement strategies to fit local contexts.

    A clearly defined and differentiated service offering is critical. Businesses must clearly define what sets them apart from local competitors and ensure their services address specific market needs.

    Pricing strategies should also align with local market expectations. Many Asian markets, especially in business-to-business services, are highly price-sensitive. SMEs must balance competitive pricing with value.

    In some cases, businesses may need to use performance-based pricing models — where clients pay based on results rather than a fixed fee — to remain competitive while protecting profit margins.

    3. Presence: Build a local network and partnerships

    A strong local presence is vital for success in Asia. SMEs should invest in trusted local partnerships or regional offices to build credibility, facilitate smoother operations and better understand local customer needs.

    Relationships play a central role in doing business in Asia. Unlike in North America, where successful transactions often lead to partnerships, in Asia, relationships must be built first.

    This relationship-first approach is deeply embedded in business culture, requiring firms to prioritize long-term engagement over immediate gains. Research has shown that trust-building is essential for long-term success in Asian markets, as strong relationships ultimately lead to transactions.

    Canadian SMEs entering these markets should be prepared to shift their approach, recognizing that sustained commitment and relationship-building are key to unlocking business opportunities.

    4. Policy: Take advantage of government support

    Many Canadian SMEs underestimate the extent of available government support and miss out on resources that reduce risks and make it easier to establish a foothold abroad.

    Our study found that SMEs expanding to Asia can access valuable support from government departments and trade commissioners at Canadian embassies. In energy services subsectors, government and non-governmental organizations can assist SMEs in forming partnerships with Asian firms.

    Additionally, agencies like Export Development Canada offer training, financial support and market-entry resources that many SMEs overlook. Taking advantage of these programs can help businesses navigate regulatory challenges and accelerate their international expansion.

    Government-backed programs also support research, development and technology adaptation to help businesses tailor their services to local markets. Our study found that making use of these resources reduces barriers, lowers entry risks and significantly enhances businesses’ likelihood of success in Asia.

    Seizing the opportunity

    Rather than merely serving as an alternative to the increasingly restrictive U.S. market, Asia presents significant growth opportunities for Canadian SMEs but demands strategic patience, adaptability and sustained commitment.

    However, success in Asia won’t come overnight. Unlike the relatively familiar North American market, expanding into Asia requires a patience, adaptability and a willingness to learn a different business culture.

    By adopting the 4P strategies, Canadian businesses can effectively navigate market-entry barriers and position themselves for success in an era of shifting global trade dynamics.

    Etayankara Muralidharan receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

    Michael Joseph Dominic Roberts 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 Canadian small businesses can expand into Asian markets and reduce their dependence on the U.S. – https://theconversation.com/how-canadian-small-businesses-can-expand-into-asian-markets-and-reduce-their-dependence-on-the-u-s-251991

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s defiance of a federal court order fuels a constitutional crisis − a legal scholar unpacks the complicated case

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Cassandra Burke Robertson, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Professional Ethics, Case Western Reserve University

    The Supreme Court is seen on March 17, 2025, one day before Chief Justice John Roberts issued a rare rebuke of a president. Win McNamee/Getty Images

    President Donald Trump invoked the 1798 Alien Enemies Act on March 15, 2025, and deported about 200 Venezuelan immigrants his administration alleged have ties to a Venezuelan gang. U.S. District Court Judge James Bloasberg verbally issued an order that same day telling the government that the planes carrying the deportees must return to the United States.

    The U.S. government, though, allowed the flights to continue and for the Venezuelans to be detained at a facility in El Salvador infamous for its mistreatment of prisoners.

    The subsequent legal back-and-forth, which is still going on, intensified so quickly and dramatically that many legal scholars say the U.S. is past the point of a constitutional crisis, as the Trump administration appears to be defying a federal court order, for which Boasberg may hold the government in contempt. Trump has also called for Bloasberg to be impeached. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts then issued a rare public statement that day rejecting Trump’s statement.

    “For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision,” Roberts said in a written statement on March 18.

    Amy Lieberman, a politics and society editor at The Conversation U.S., posed a few questions to Cassandra Burke Robertson, a scholar of civil proceedings and legal ethics, to break down some of the dynamics of this complex, evolving case.

    President Donald Trump shakes hands with Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts in Washington, D.C., on March 4, 2025.
    Win McNamee/Getty Images

    Is it rare for a Supreme Court justice to weigh in on politicians’ activities or statements?

    It’s uncommon for a Supreme Court justice to publicly contradict a president. Roberts has typically shown great respect for the separation of powers between branches of government. He has also consistently recognized that presidents have broad authority to run the federal government.

    However, this isn’t the first time Roberts has spoken up to protect judicial independence. During Trump’s first term in 2018, the president criticized rulings as coming from “Obama judges.” Roberts responded publicly, and said, “We do not have Obama judges or Trump judges, Bush judges or Clinton judges. What we have is an extraordinary group of dedicated judges doing their level best to do equal right to those appearing before them.”

    Why is Roberts’ statement of note, and what influence does he have in this situation?

    Roberts leads the U.S. Supreme Court. He also oversees all federal courts across the country.

    Roberts takes this leadership role very seriously. He has been willing to speak up when he believes something threatens judicial operations and independence.

    Since Roberts was confirmed as chief justice in 2005, he has often spoken publicly about why judges need to remain independent from political pressure. He has pointed out four main threats to judges’ independence: “violence, intimidation, disinformation and threats to defy lawfully entered judgments.”

    When Roberts makes a public statement, it carries weight because he speaks as the top judicial officer in the country. His words are a reminder about the importance of keeping courts free from political interference.

    What is most important for people to understand about the Alien Enemies Act case that Judge Boasberg is currently considering?

    First, Trump is using a rarely used wartime law, the Alien Enemies Act. This law allows for deportations during a time of war without the normal legal protections like court hearings. Some legal experts argue that Trump doesn’t have the authority to use this law since the U.S. isn’t officially at war with Venezuela or with the gang the administration has cited, Tren de Aragua. They worry that invoking the Alien Enemies Act inappropriately expands presidential power beyond constitutional limits and could be misused to target other immigrant groups.

    Second, Boasberg ordered a stop to these deportations on March 15. But the Trump administration went ahead with the deportations anyway. It later claimed it did not violate the judge’s order because the planes were over international waters. Under our legal system, the executive branch must obey valid court orders. This case raises concerns about whether the president is respecting the authority of the courts.

    James E. Boasberg, chief judge of the District Court, District of Columbia.
    https://www.dcd.uscourts.gov/content/chief-judge-james-e-boasberg

    Third, Trump has publicly called for Boasberg to be impeached, saying the judge overstepped his authority by ruling against the president’s actions. There’s no evidence that Boasberg acted corruptly or improperly – he simply made a legal ruling the president disagreed with.

    The case touches on fundamental questions about the balance of power between presidents and courts, and what happens when an administration chooses not to follow a judge’s orders. This confrontation between branches represents one of the most direct challenges to judicial authority by a president in American history.

    What would it take for a judge to be impeached, and what is the precedent for doing so, based on disagreements about a case?

    Federal judges can only be impeached by Congress for “high crimes and misdemeanors.” That generally means serious wrongdoing, not just making unpopular decisions.

    The impeachment process for judges works just like it does for presidents.

    First, the House of Representatives votes to impeach, needing just a simple majority. Then, the Senate holds a trial where a two-thirds majority is needed to remove the judge.

    Only 15 federal judges have ever been impeached in the U.S., and of those, only eight were convicted by the Senate.

    The only two judicial impeachments during this century involved very serious misconduct – including a judge who lied about sexually abusing two female employees in 2009.

    Only judges who have serious misconduct have been impeached and removed from office – not those involved in cases of political disagreements about judicial decisions.

    What are the most important legal and ethical questions that this case raises?

    This case raises important questions about the rule of law in the U.S. A key American belief is that no one, not even the president, is above the law. As Thomas Paine famously wrote in 1776, “In America, the law is king.”

    This doesn’t mean every court decision is always right. That’s why the legal system has appellate courts, as Roberts pointed out – so decisions people disagree with can be challenged through an appeal in proper channels. My scholarly research on the right to appeal explores how this process serves as a crucial safeguard in the country’s legal system.

    Twenty years ago, Roberts also stressed how important the rule of law is, saying it “protects the rights and liberties of all Americans.”

    When a government chooses to ignore court orders instead of appealing them through the legal system, it creates a serious threat to this principle. The current situation raises concerns about whether the federal government will continue to respect the boundaries established by the Constitution in the country’s legal system.

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

    – ref. Trump’s defiance of a federal court order fuels a constitutional crisis − a legal scholar unpacks the complicated case – https://theconversation.com/trumps-defiance-of-a-federal-court-order-fuels-a-constitutional-crisis-a-legal-scholar-unpacks-the-complicated-case-252591

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Provincial secondary-suite pilot program update

    Due to uncertain financial times, and with the federal government committing to implement a similar program, the Province’s pilot secondary-suite incentive program will no longer be accepting applications after March 30, 2025.

    Funds allocated from this program will go toward other existing and future BC Housing programs and services aimed at delivering more affordable homes for people, including BC Builds.

    “As we face uncertain economic conditions and an unpredictable tariff situation with the United States, we’re making sure we deliver the best value for people,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “With the federal government committing to deliver a national secondary-suite program, we are ensuring that we are not duplicating programs so we can use those funds for other programs that give people more housing options.”

    Announced in 2023, the three-year pilot program was designed to provide assistance in the form of a forgivable loan to eligible homeowners who build a secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit on their property.

    In 2024, the federal government announced the intention to launch a similar program, the Canada secondary-suite loan program, enabling homeowners to access low-interest loans of up to $80,000 to add a secondary suite. Homeowners in B.C. who are interested in developing a secondary suite may have the opportunity to apply for loans through the federal program when it is launched.  Applicants who have started the process with the provincial secondary-suite incentive program and who have received all necessary permits and cost estimates will be able to submit their application until March 30, 2025.

    BC Housing will continue to work with approved applicants to process committed funds, register forgivable mortgages and carry out loan forgiveness over the coming years.

    The Province is continuing to focus on creating affordable housing and initiatives that address the housing needs of British Columbians. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes delivered or underway, with actions underway to help deliver thousands more.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the ending of the secondary suite program, visit: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/secondary-suite

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Celebrates Completion of Critical Water Infrastructure Projects in Rural Doña Ana County, Recognizes New Mexico Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Anthony, N.M. – On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) visited the Anthony Water Treatment Plant to celebrate the completion of two federally funded water infrastructure projects that he helped to fund in rural Doña Ana County. Senator Luján secured funding for the Border Environment Infrastructure Fund (BEIF), which allowed for the completion of these water infrastructure projects that have now connected rural homes to essential wastewater treatment services.

    “It was a privilege to celebrate the completion of two vital water infrastructure projects in Doña Ana County. I’m proud to have secured funding for these projects through the Environmental Protection Agency and its Border Environment Infrastructure Fund,”said Senator Luján. “Projects like these don’t happen without workers making them happen, and workers don’t work without projects like these.”

    “The new wastewater collection system in Sleepy Farms provides cleaner water, safer sanitation, and reduces the risk of groundwater contamination. In Anthony, the replacement of 23,000 feet of aging water lines ensures consistent, safe drinking water for 1,795 residents by preventing leaks, improving pressure, and reducing water loss,”continued Senator Luján. “Water is life in New Mexico, and we cannot afford to waste a single drop.”

    Project 1: Wastewater Collection System Extension and Improvements for Doña Ana County, New Mexico 

    The Project constructed a new wastewater collection system in an unincorporated area commonly known as Sleepy Farms, and rehabilitated a nearby Lift Station. Both components are near Vado in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. 

    The project will prevent groundwater contamination and reduce the risks of waterborne diseases by providing first-time wastewater collection services to 31 homes in the Sleepy Farms area and eliminating substandard and failing septic systems. The new system will collect an estimated 9,400 gallons per day (GPD) of wastewater for treatment and improve service for an additional 2,050 existing connections by increasing the reliability and efficiency of lift station #7, as well as preventing the risk of up to approximately 400,000 GPD of wastewater spills. 
     
    Project 2: Water Distribution System Improvements for Anthony, New Mexico 
     
    The project rehabilitated nearly 23,000 linear feet of deteriorated water distribution lines in Anthony, NM, to ensure reliable drinking water services for approximately 560 existing residential connections by reducing risks of leaks and line breaks.  An estimated 1,795 residents in Anthony will benefit from the project. 

    Anthony Water and Sanitation District (AWSD) provides water and wastewater services to the community of Anthony NM. AWSD currently provides services to approximately 2,900 residential connections or a population of approximately 9,950. Parts of the utility’s water distribution system date back to the mid-1900’s, have reached the end of their service life, and create maintenance issues for AWSD. 

    This project rehabilitated AWSD’s water lines in the Kaylar and Timbers Subdivisions, which had outdated pipes from the 1950s prone to frequent breaks and water losses. The area had issues with inadequate water flow, lack of fire suppression, and limited access to lines. Upgrades to the system will provide reliable drinking water for around 1,795 people, reduce water losses to under 20%, and improve overall water management, ensuring safer, more sustainable water services.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Joins Bipartisan Push to Deliver Combat-Injured Veterans Full Military Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Major Richard Star Act would provide combat-injured veterans with full earned disability compensation and retirement pay

    Española, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Rick Scott (R-FL) to introduce S. 1032, the Major Richard Star Act—bipartisan legislation to provide combat-injured veteran retirees their full benefits.

    Currently, only veterans with disability ratings above 50 percent and more than 20 years of service are eligible to receive the full amount of their Department of Defense (DOD) retirement and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability payments—leaving behind more than 50,000 combat-injured military retirees. The Senators’ Major Richard Star Act will fix this unjust policy for retired combat veterans—providing them their full VA disability and DOD retirement payments.

    “The men and women who risked their lives for our country and were injured in combat deserve the full benefits they have earned. Too many veterans have been left behind, and it’s far past time we correct this grave injustice,” said Senator Luján. “That’s why I am proud to stand with my colleagues working to fix the unjust veterans’ disability system.”

    “This measure corrects one of the deepest injustices in our present veterans’ disability system,” said Senator Blumenthal. “It is unacceptable that tens of thousands of combat-injured veterans are denied the full military benefits they earned. Our bipartisan bill will right this longstanding injustice and finally provide these military retirees who have already sacrificed so much their full VA disability and Defense Department retirement payments.”

    “The Major Richard Star Act corrects a severe injustice for combat-wounded veterans,” said Senator Crapo. “The support for this correction is clear.  Though the namesake of our legislation is no longer with us, I continue to press for its passage on behalf of the more than 50,000 veterans, including hundreds in Idaho, who stand to benefit.”  

    “Our veterans put their lives on the line for this country and it’s time our government gives them the full benefits they’ve earned,” said Senator Warren. “The Major Richard Star Act will ensure the federal government keeps its promise to our veterans by allowing them to collect both disability and retirement benefits they earned, even if combat injuries forced them to retire early.”

    “I am a proud veteran and the son of a World War II veteran, and I have immense respect for anyone who puts on the uniform to defend our nation,” said Senator Scott. “Our veterans are American heroes who have made countless sacrifices. The Major Richard Star Act ensures our veterans receive the full benefits they’ve earned through their service and sacrifice protecting our nation regardless of length of service. This legislation makes a critical change to treat our veterans fairly and support our nation’s heroes. I urge my colleagues to support its quick passage.”

    This bipartisan legislation is named in honor of Major Richard A. Star, a decorated war veteran who was forced to medically retire due to his combat-related injuries. Major Star sadly lost his battle with cancer on February 13, 2021. The legislation has 43 bipartisan cosponsors.

    The House companion version of this bill was introduced by Congressmen Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Raul Ruiz (D-CA), with 185 bipartisan cosponsors.

    The Senators’ bipartisan effort to provide combat-injured veterans their due benefits is supported by the Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA), Air & Space Forces Association (AFA), American GI Forum, The American Legion,American Military Society,American Veterans (AMVETS), Armed Forces Retiree Association, Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA), Association of Military Surgeons of the United States (AMSUS), Association of the United States Army (AUSA), Association of the United States Navy (AUSN), Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), Burn Pits 360, Chief Warrant Officers Association of the US Coast Guard (CWOA), Commissioned Officers Association of the U.S. Public Health Service, Inc. (COA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States, Fleet Reserve Association (FRA), Heroes Athletic Association, Gold Star Wives of America (GSW), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America (JWV), K9s for Warriors, Marine Corps League (MCL), Marine Corps Reserve Association (MCRA), Military Chaplains Association of the United States of America (MCA), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA), Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), Mission Roll Call, National Defense Committee, National Military Family Association (NMFA), Naval Enlisted Reserve Association (NERA), Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), Operation First Response, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA),Quality of Life Foundation, Reserve Organization of America (ROA), Stronghold Freedom Foundation, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), The Retired Enlisted Association (TREA), The Independence Fund (TIF), United States Army Warrant Officers Association (USAWOA), USCG Chief Petty Officers Association (CPOA), VetsFirst/United Spinal Association, Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Wounded Paw Project, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to North Dakota Private Nonprofits Affected by October Wildfires

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to North Dakota private nonprofit (PNP) organizations who sustained physical damages and economic losses from the wildfires and straight-line winds occurring Oct. 5–6, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers McKenzie and Williams counties.

    Under this disaster declaration, PNPs providing services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements might include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by any disaster.  

    The SBA also offers  Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs, such as ongoing operating expenses for PNPs.  EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the organization suffered any physical property damage. 

    Interest rates are as low 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

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

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is Sept. 24.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cooperation between SA and Japan to continue 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa and Japan continue to enjoy well-established diplomatic relations, which are particularly strong in the fields of trade and investment, science and technology and education, skills transfer and capacity building through development assistance. 

    This is according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was speaking during an interview with the Foreign Correspondence Club of Japan as part of a working visit to the East Asian nation. 

    Full diplomatic relations with Japan were established in 1992, while in 2010, relations between the two countries were upgraded to a Strategic Cooperation Partnership. 

    This year marks 115 years of relations between the two nations. 

    READ | South Africa strengthens ties with Japan  

    Mashatile told the attendees that South Africa and Japan cooperate within the framework of the Partnership Forum held at a ministerial level, which covers the entire spectrum of sectoral cooperation. 

    The 13th Partnership Forum was held in 2022 in Tokyo and South Africa is expected to host the next session. 

    “Over the years, we have witnessed enhanced cooperation to foster closer relations through high-level engagements between our two countries. Japan is one of South Africa’s major economic partners with a sizeable investment in the South African economy, and the potential for increased investment exists,“ Mashatile said. 

    He stated that Japan is the fourth largest economy in the world and total bilateral trade between the two countries in 2024 was at R132 billion, with South Africa recording a trade surplus of R52 billion. 

    Development cooperation between South Africa and Japan involves technical assistance, research partnerships, financial loans, supplementary budget support through international organisations, and grassroots projects in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). 

    In terms of multilateral cooperation, the Deputy President said Japan cooperates with Africa on the promotion of Africa’s developmental agenda, in line with Agenda 2063, through the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) framework. 

    In addition, he said the two countries cooperate in the Group of 20 (G20) framework to strengthen efforts towards advancing international economic cooperation for the achievement of sustainable development. 

    The Deputy President reiterated the South African government’s key objectives, which include reducing poverty and the cost of living, driving economic growth and job creation, and building a capable and ethical State. 

    “We are committed to making sure that our country prospers, not only for us to attract investments, but also to ensure that South Africans, have an improved quality of life.” 

    Meanwhile, the Deputy President said South Africa continues to pursue strong bilateral relations with the United States, despite the recent withdrawal of South Africa’s ambassador to the United States of America (USA). 

    “Acknowledging the recent withdrawal of our Ambassador from the USA, as a country we maintain the position that South Africa should maintain strong bilateral relations with the USA. As a country, we are committed to improving mutually beneficial trade, political, and diplomatic relations with the USA,” the Deputy President said on Wednesday. 

    At the weekend, the Presidency stated that it remains committed to building a relationship with the USA, despite the “regrettable“ expulsion of the Ambassador. 

    Additionally, the Deputy President expressed gratitude to all Ministers, Deputy Ministers, senior government officials, the South African embassy, and all counterparts for contributing to the success of his brief visit. 

    In the past three days, the team has met with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Chief Cabinet Secretary, members of business, academia, research and numerous other stakeholders. 

    The Deputy President’s visit which began on Sunday, will conclude on Wednesday, 19 March. –SAnews.gov.za 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Deimco Finishing Equipment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Deimco Finishing Equipment of Tama County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.
    “Since 1983, Deimco Finishing Equipment has specialized in American-made high-quality finishing systems that cater to the automotive, military, medical industries, and more,” said Chair Ernst. “With 99% on-time delivery on over 2,800 completed projects, Deimco Finishing Equipment sure knows how to engineer a smooth finish.”
    In 1983, Tom Deimerly established Deimco Finishing Equipment and grew it steadily until 2002 when Kirk and Cindy Shirar bought the business. Their vision to provide high-quality finishing systems and automation solutions steered the company to Tama, Iowa in 2003 to accommodate their expansion. In 2024, the Shirars passed the family business to their son and daughter-in-law, Jacob and Kyrsten, who manage the business today. This year, Deimco Finishing Equipment will celebrate its 42nd anniversary in Iowa. 
    Stay tuned as Chair Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Ernst Advocacy, USDA Reduces Regulatory Burden, Provides Certainty for Pork Processors

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – After years of continued pressure from U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it would maintain increased line speeds and reduce duplicative regulatory burdens on American pork and poultry processors.
    Under the new rulemaking, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) will extend waivers allowing pork and poultry facilities to operate under higher line speeds, ensuring they can meet demand without unnecessary bureaucracy.
    “After years of working to cut the red tape and reduce regulatory burdens on our pork processors, I’m thrilled President Trump and Secretary Rollins have taken quick action on this issue,” said Senator Ernst. “By integrating proven results from research into policy, we can increase processing capacity, expand options when selling hogs, decrease transportation costs, increase certainty for producers, and more. Iowa is proud to lead the nation in pork production, and now our producers can go the ‘whole hog’ without the burden of excessive government oversight.”
    Background:
    Senator Ernst has long been at the forefront of discussions to protect Iowa’s pork producers and ensure they can remain competitive. In 2021, she spoke up in defense of producers after an unfair court decision to vacate a portion of the New Swine Inspection System (NSIS) line speeds. Then in February 2023, Ernst took action again to secure an additional nine months for the NSIS trial. In November 2023, she once again renewed her call for an extension to maintain critical pork processing capacity.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Celebrates Iowa Agriculture on National Ag Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) celebrated National Agriculture Day in honor of the Iowa agriculture community that works so hard to feed and fuel our world.
    “Agriculture shapes our way of life in Iowa. Growing up on a farm in the Heartland, I have a deep-rooted understanding of all our farmers do to make sure folks have food on their tables, gas in their tanks, clothes in their closet, and so much more,” said Senator Ernst. “This year and every year, I am proud to celebrate National Agriculture Day to recognize our hardworking farmers and all those involved in Iowa agriculture.”
    Ernst poses with the Super Bull at the 2024 Iowa State Fair. Click here to download more agriculture photos featuring Senator Ernst.
    Background: 
    Ernst works tirelessly on behalf of Iowa farmers and producers.
    She has been a leading advocate for homegrown, Iowa biofuels, taken action to protect our farmland from foreign adversaries, and stood up for Iowa farmers on trade issues. Ernst has also been on the front lines of helping Iowa farmers get the resources they need to recover from natural disasters and is fighting back against the spread of foreign animal disease.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, 45 Colleagues File Amicus Brief To Protect Access To Reproductive Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    March 19, 2025

    HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.)  joined the Senate Democratic caucus in filing an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of protecting the right of millions of Americans to receive reproductive health care from the provider of their choosing. The case, Medina v. Planned Parenthood of South Atlantic, challenges South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster’s attempt to block in-state Medicaid program beneficiaries from accessing reproductive health care at the Planned Parenthood South Atlantic (PPSAT) affiliate’s health centers.
    The case is centered around whether individuals can privately enforce the “free-choice-of-provider provision” in the Medicaid statute, which gives Medicaid beneficiaries the right to choose among any qualified health care provider that agrees to participate in Medicaid. A loss at the Supreme Court would pave the way for states to arbitrarily exclude Planned Parenthood from the Medicaid program and deny tens of millions of Americans the ability to receive comprehensive, essential reproductive health care from the provider of their choosing.
    In their amicus brief, the senators argue that the plain text of the Medicaid statute and legislative history make clear that Congress enacted the free-choice-of-provider provision to provide any individual eligible for Medicaid with the right to choose among qualified health care and that Congress has provided beneficiaries the ability to enforce that right in court.
    “The right to select one’s own healthcare provider has been a core promise of the program ever since. And for decades, Congress has approved of — indeed, relied on — private enforcement in federal court as a critical means of protecting that right,” the senators wrote.
    The senators continued: “Limiting Medicaid beneficiaries’ access to healthcare providers who specialize in women’s health care — merely because they separately provide abortion services — limits their access to all healthcare and erects false barriers to care.”
    “Private enforcement enables Medicaid beneficiaries to hold states accountable when they accept federal taxpayer money while violating beneficiaries’ right to choose the providers on whom that money is spent. Without such individual enforcement, vital healthcare facilities shutter, leaving our least resourced without access to affordable or accessible healthcare,” the senators added.
    Close to 70% of Planned Parenthood’s health centers are located in communities with a shortage of primary care services and unmet health care needs. This makes them critical heath care access points for people across the country, providing a number of essential health care services from wellness exams, cancer screenings, contraception and more.
    “Congress intentionally established Medicaid beneficiaries’ right to receive health care services from the provider of their choice when it enacted the free-choice-of-provider provision nearly sixty years ago. That promise to Medicaid beneficiaries should be honored,” the senators concluded.
    U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) also joined the senators in filing the brief. 
    The senators’ amicus brief to the Supreme Court can be read in full HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Statement from Secretary Rubio and NSC Waltz on Call with Zelenskyy

    Source: The White House

    “Today, President Donald J. Trump and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a fantastic phone conversation.  President Zelenskyy thanked President Trump for a productive start for the work of the Ukrainian and American teams in Jeddah on March 11th. The meeting of the senior officials from both nations significantly helped in moving toward ending the war. 
     

    President Zelenskyy thanked President Trump for the support of the United States, especially the Javelin missiles that President Trump was first to provide, and his efforts towards peace. The leaders agreed Ukraine and America will continue working together to bring about a real end to the war, and that lasting peace under President Trump’s leadership can be achieved.
     

    President Trump fully briefed President Zelenskyy on his conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and the key issues discussed. They reviewed the situation in Kursk and agreed to share information closely between their defense staffs as the battlefield situation evolved.  President Zelenskyy asked for additional air defense systems to protect his civilians, particularly Patriot missile systems, President Trump agreed to work with him to find what was available particularly in Europe.

    The two leaders also agreed on a partial ceasefire against energy. Technical teams will meet in Saudi Arabia in the coming days to discuss broadening the ceasefire to the Black Sea on the way to a full ceasefire. They agreed this could be the first step toward the full end of the war and ensuring security. President Zelenskyy was grateful for the President’s leadership in this effort and reiterated his willingness to adopt a full ceasefire.

    President Trump also discussed Ukraine’s electrical supply and nuclear power plants.  He said that the United States could be very helpful in running those plants with its electricity and utility expertise.  American ownership of those plants would be the best protection for that infrastructure and support for Ukrainian energy infrastructure.

    President Zelenskyy also thanked President Trump for continuing to push humanitarian concerns, including the exchange of POWs.  He noted they had just had a successful exchange and thanked the President for his leadership.  President Trump also asked President Zelenskyy about the children who had gone missing from Ukraine during the war, including the ones that had been abducted.  President Trump promised to work closely with both parties to help make sure those children were returned home.  

    They agreed all parties must continue the effort to make a ceasefire work. The Presidents noted the positive work of their advisors and representatives, especially Secretary Rubio, National Security Advisor Waltz, Special Envoy Kellogg, and others.  The Presidents instructed their teams to move ahead with the technical issues related to implementing and broadening the partial ceasefire. The Presidents instructed their advisors and representatives to carry out this work as quickly as possible. The Presidents emphasized that in further meetings, the teams can agree on all necessary aspects of advancing toward lasting peace and security.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New method to keep protein-based drugs stable without refrigeration

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Researchers develop technique for storing life-saving drugs in environments without temperature control

    A team of researchers led by the recipient of a U.S. National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development grant has developed a new storage method for protein-based drugs that could potentially eliminate the need for refrigeration of important medicines. Using an oil-based solution and a molecule acting as a coating to enclose the proteins in these drugs, researchers demonstrated a technique to prevent the proteins from degrading rapidly — a protection that traditionally requires refrigeration.

    The research is led by Scott Medina at Pennsylvania State University and published in Nature Communications. It demonstrates a possible practical application to eliminate the need to refrigerate hundreds of life-saving medicines like insulin, monoclonal antibodies and viral vaccines.

    The work could eventually reduce the cost of refrigerating such drugs throughout the supply chain and enable greater use of protein-based therapies where constant refrigeration isn’t possible, including military environments. 

    “Over 80% of biologic drugs and 90% of vaccines require temperature-controlled conditions. This approach could revolutionize their storage and distribution, making them more accessible and affordable for everyone,” says Medina.

    To accomplish this, researchers created an oil-based solution using perfluorocarbon oil, finding that it was naturally sterile and could not be contaminated by bacteria, fungi or viruses, which require a water-based environment to grow and survive.

    The team also developed a surfactant — a molecule that coats the surface of the protein — to shield the surface of the protein in a way that would allow it to evenly disperse throughout the solution. The surfactant created a protective shell around the protein, keeping it stable and preventing it from breaking down even at temperatures up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, which would normally cause water to boil.

    “This method demonstrates a compelling potential approach to eliminating the need for cold storage of many life-saving drugs,” says Nitsa Rosenzweig, program director in the NSF Division of Materials Research. “Keeping these drugs stable without refrigeration could simplify our supply chain and improve healthcare in a wider range of conditions.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chainmail-like polymer could be the future of body armor

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Scientists created and imaged a 2D interlocked polymer that is lightweight yet flexible and strong — and contains the highest density of mechanical bonds ever achieved

    Researchers supported by grants and instrumentation provided by the U.S. National Science Foundation have created the first 2D polymer material that mechanically interlocks, much like chainmail, and used an advanced imaging technique to show its microscopic details. The material combines exceptional strength and flexibility and could be developed into high-performance and lightweight body armor that moves fluidly with the body as it protects it.

    The nanoscale material was developed by researchers at Northwestern University and the electron microscopy was conducted at Cornell University. The results are published in a paper in Science. 

    Credit: David Muller, Schuyler Shi and Desheng Ma/Cornell University

    The microscopic structure of a two-dimensional, mechanically interlocked polymer captured using an advanced electron microscopy technique.

    Groundbreaking in more ways than one, the paper describes a highly efficient and scalable polymerization process that could potentially yield high volumes of this material at mass scale. In addition to being the first 2D mechanically interlocked polymer, it also contains 100 trillion mechanical bonds per 1 square centimeter — the highest density of mechanical bonds ever achieved in a material.    

    “We made a completely new polymer structure,” says William Dichtel, a researcher at Northwestern University and one of the study’s authors. “It’s similar to chainmail in that it cannot easily rip because each of the mechanical bonds has a bit of freedom to slide around. If you pull it, it can dissipate the applied force in multiple directions.” 

    The creation process involves coaxing polymers to form mechanical bonds, a feat that has challenged researchers for years. The research team created a novel process to make these bonds happen: arranging ordered crystalline structures of polymer molecules and then causing the crystals to react with another molecule to create bonds inside the crystal’s molecules. The resulting crystals comprise layers and layers of 2D interlocked polymer sheets. 

    The polymer’s crystallinity and interlocking structure were confirmed at Cornell University, where an advanced electron microscopy method was used to atomically image a crystalline material for the first time. 

    “The results were remarkable — sharp and high-contrast — clearly revealing the structure,” says Schuyler Zixiao Shi, a doctoral student at Cornell University who conducted the imaging. 

    Dichtel credits the paper’s first author and doctoral candidate Madison Bardot for creating this innovative method for forming the mechanically interlocked polymer. “It was a high-risk, high-reward idea where we had to question our assumptions about what types of reactions are possible in molecular crystals,” says Dichtel. 

    Collaborators at Duke University tried adding the chainmail polymer material to Ultem, a strong and protective material in the same family as Kevlar. The researchers developed a composite material of 97.5% Ultem fiber and just 2.5% chainmail polymer that significantly boosted Ultem’s toughness.  

    “We have a lot more analysis to do, but we can tell that it improves the strength of these composite materials,” Dichtel said. “Almost every property we have measured has been exceptional in some way.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Wright Signs Export Authorization for Venture Global CP2 LNG

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today approved a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export authorization to the Venture Global CP2 LNG export project proposed for Cameron Parish, Louisiana. This action reflects another step in the Trump administration’s commitment to restoring American energy dominance.

    “The benefits of expanding U.S. LNG exports have never been more clear, and I am proud to be taking action to support the American people and our allies abroad with more affordable, reliable, secure American energy,” said Secretary Wright. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we are cutting the red tape around projects like CP2, unleashing our energy potential and ensuring U.S. can continue to meet growing energy demand for decades to come.”

    The issuance to CP2 marks the fifth LNG-related approval from DOE since President Trump took office, following an export approval to Commonwealth LNG on February 14, an order on rehearing removing barriers for the use of LNG as bunkering fuel announced on February 28, an approval providing the Golden Pass LNG terminal more time to commence exports issued March 5, and approval granting the Delfin LNG project additional time to commence exports issued on March 10.

    Once constructed, CP2, owned by Venture Global, will be able to export up to 3.96 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of LNG.

    “The CP2 project is another project that has been waiting too long for regulatory action at DOE, and I am glad to see that being corrected today” said Tala Goudarzi, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. “With Venture Global’s track record of getting projects constructed quickly, I look forward to seeing this project come to fruition before long.”

    Today’s authorization conditionally grants CP2 authorization to export LNG to non-free trade agreement countries from the proposed CP2 LNG project. In the order, DOE finds that LNG exports from CP2 LNG are likely to yield economic benefits to the United States, diversify global LNG supplies, and improve energy security for U.S. allies and trading partners over the course of the export term through 2050. DOE expects to issue a final order to CP2 LNG in the coming months.

    CP2 is the third LNG export project that has been developed by Venture Global, with the Calcasieu Pass project coming online in March 2022 and the Plaquemines LNG project beginning exports in late 2024. Accompanying the buildout of LNG export terminals is an increase of natural gas pipelines across the U.S., with approximately 8.5 Bcf/d of pipeline additions for delivery to LNG export terminals recently completed in Texas and Louisiana.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Preston Man Sentenced to Prison for Possessing Child Pornography

    Source: US State of Idaho

    [BOISE] – Attorney General Raúl Labrador has announced that Michael Thomas Baird, 35, was convicted of two (2) counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child by Possession of Sexually Exploitative Material. The Possession of Sexually Exploitative Material is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Baird was sentenced on March 13, 2025, by District Judge Cody L. Brower.
    “Removing these predators from our communities is a top priority for our office,” said Attorney General Labrador.  “Our ICAC prosecutors and investigators work tirelessly to deliver justice for these tragically young victims of abuse.  I’m continually grateful for the broad partnerships that have been built across the state to protect kids and put these offenders behind bars.”
    In July of 2024, the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit received a CyberTip that an account belonging to Baird had uploaded files containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). On August 20, 2024, officers executed a search warrant on Baird’s home and seized various digital devices. Forensic examiners from the Office of the Attorney General were able to locate various files containing CSAM on devices seized during the search warrant. These files depicted predominately female children between three and eleven (3-11) years of age. Many of the images depicted children engaged in sex acts with adults. Baird was on probation for felony Aggravated Assault and felony Malicious Injury to Property at the time of his arrest.
    Judge Brower sentenced Baird to a total of fifteen (15) years in prison. Baird will be eligible for parole after five (5) years, and he will have to register as a sex offender pursuant to Idaho law.
    The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General James Haws. The lead investigator on the case was Korey Payne from the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office who serves in the Attorney General’s ICAC Unit. The successful prosecution of this case was the result of a collaborative effort lead by the Attorney General’s ICAC Unit and assisted by various law enforcement agencies across the State, including the Preston Police Department, the Frankin County Sherrif’s Office, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho Fish and Game, and the Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

    MIL OSI USA News –