NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: Israel accepts US special envoy S. Witkoff’s proposal for ceasefire in Gaza – media

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, May 29 (Xinhua) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that the Jewish state’s government has accepted the proposal of U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East Steven Witkoff for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages, Israeli state television Kan TV reported.

    According to the TV channel, B. Netanyahu made the corresponding statement during a meeting with the families of the Israeli hostages, who are presumed dead. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter secures 24-month extension for federal funds to rebuild after Hurricanes Irma, Matthew

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

    Headline: Carter secures 24-month extension for federal funds to rebuild after Hurricanes Irma, Matthew

    Carter secures 24-month extension for federal funds to rebuild after Hurricanes Irma, Matthew

    Washington, May 29, 2025

    ATLANTA – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today secured a 24-month extension for the state of Georgia to use funds allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to rebuild following the destruction of Hurricanes Irma and Matthew.


    The extension period will be used to complete five open projects related to Hurricane Matthew and eight open projects related to Hurricane Irma.


    “The state of Georgia has faced extreme natural disasters, causing damage statewide that cannot be rebuilt overnight. I’m proud to have secured additional time for Georgia’s Emergency Management Agency to continue rebuilding our state so that it is better prepared for future storms. The progress that’s already been made has been tremendous, and there is more work to be done to ensure that we are ready the next time a Hurricane strikes,”     said Rep. Carter.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Los Angeles, multiagency taskforce case results in 14 arrests on complaints alleging more than $25 million in COVID-19 relief, small business loans fraudulently obtained

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LOS ANGELES — Fourteen defendants — including San Fernando Valley and Glendale residents — were arrested May 28, on two federal criminal complaints alleging they fraudulently obtained more than $25 million in taxpayer-funded COVID-19 relief funds and federally-guaranteed small business loans.

    This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General and El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, a multiagency task force that includes federal and state investigators who are focused on financial crimes in Southern California.

    “This transnational criminal network sought to defraud the government of millions of dollars and almost succeeded,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco. “Through the diligent work of the El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force and our federal partners, ICE HSI is continuing to identify these criminal groups looking to profit from the pandemic and will use all available resources to hold them accountable, to include removing them from the country when applicable.”

    The 18 total defendants named in the complaints — four defendants are believed to be in Armenia — are charged with conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to claims; false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims; wire fraud and attempted wire fraud; bank fraud and attempted bank fraud; money laundering conspiracy; laundering of monetary instruments; engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity; and/or structuring financial transactions to evade reporting requirements.

    The defendants arrested May 28 include:

    • Vahe Margaryan, aka “William McGrayan,” 42, of Tujunga, who allegedly orchestrated a scheme to defraud numerous banks and the Small Business Administration’s Preferred Lender Program, a program designed to help small businesses that otherwise might not obtain financing. McGrayan allegedly directed owners of sham corporations to open bank accounts, make false statements, and concoct documents, including phony resumes and financial statements, to support loan applications to buy other sham corporations. McGrayan allegedly paid for phony tax returns that falsely reported millions in revenue and tens of thousands in tax due and owing. McGrayan, whose alleged criminal activity lasted from 2018 until January 2025, then directed the laundering of millions in fraud proceeds through various bank accounts.
    • Sarkis Gareginovich Sarkisyan, 37, aka “Samuel Shaw,” of Glendale, who allegedly, among other offenses, submitted a false application and bogus documents to obtain a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program which provided low-interest, forgivable loans to help small businesses retain their workforce and cover expenses. Sarkisyan allegedly applied in April 2021 on behalf of a fake business that received more than $700,000 in PPP funds.
    • Mery Babayan, 32, aka “Mery Diamondz,” of Van Nuys, together with co-defendants Margaryan and Hovannes Hovannisyan, 48, aka “John Harvard,” of Panorama City, in May 2021 allegedly defrauded a bank by representing the nonexistent sale of a sham business to another sham company to obtain an approximately $3 million federally guaranteed loan through the SBA’s Preferred Lending Program.
    • Felix Parker, 77, of North Hollywood, who in January 2023 allegedly made false statements and submitted fraudulent documents, including fake tax returns that falsely reported that his shell company, Canmar Promo, earned millions of dollars annually and owed tens of thousands in federal income taxes. Parker allegedly obtained more than $2 million in government-guaranteed funds earmarked to help small businesses.
    • Axsel Markaryan, 47, aka “Axel Mark,” of Pacoima, who in June 2023 allegedly fraudulently obtained more than $5 million in SBA loans via the submission of false statements and the submission of fake documents, including bogus tax returns. After the loans were obtained, Markaryan and his co-schemers in November 2023 laundered the money, including sending at least $100,000 to a co-schemer in Armenia.

    Law enforcement seized approximately $20,000 in cash, two money-counting machines, paper cash bands or currency straps in denominations of $2,000 and $10,000, multiple cell phones, multiple laptops, two loaded semi-automatic 9mm handguns, and boxes of 9mm ammunition.

    “Today’s enforcement action is intended to send a message to all criminals who take advantage of government programs designed to help those who need them most,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “If you took COVID-19 or SBA money you weren’t entitled to, your door could be the next one we visit. Together with our law enforcement partners, my office will aggressively prosecute individuals who cheat the system meant to protect and support law-abiding citizens.”

    “Scheming to fraudulently obtain federal funds that were meant to provide assistance to the nation’s small businesses is unacceptable,” said the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General Western Region acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Huang. “OIG will continue to ardently investigate fraudulently obtained SBA program funds, including COVID-19 pandemic-related loans, to protect taxpayers from fraud, waste, and abuse. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.”

    “Today, 14 individuals were arrested in connection with a fraudulent loan scheme in which they allegedly obtained in excess of $25 million through the SBA Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs, and other federal funding programs,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, Los Angeles Field Office. “These programs were established to assist individuals and businesses in need of financial assistance and instead were pilfered by the named defendants. IRS-CI is dedicated to identifying and dismantling criminal organizations that prey on assistance programs set up for the benefit of our law-abiding citizens.”

    A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted, each defendant would face a statutory maximum sentence of decades in federal prison.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Mark Aveis and Gregg E. Marmaro of the Major Frauds Section and Maxwell Coll of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section are prosecuting these cases.

    Individuals across the world can report suspicious criminal activity to the ICE Tip Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 866-DHS-2-ICE. Highly trained specialists take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on more than 400 laws enforced by ICE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Los Angeles, multiagency taskforce case results in freight forwarding company exec arrest on federal indictment alleging massive scheme to avoid customs duties payments

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LOS ANGELES – The chief financial officer at a downtown Los Angeles-based shipping company was arrested May 27 on a 22-count federal grand jury indictment charging him and the company’s CEO with using fraudulent documents, shell companies, bribes to public officials, and kickbacks to Mexican drug cartels to smuggle billions of dollars’ worth of goods from the United States into Mexico, repeatedly lying to U.S. customs officials and defrauding Mexico out of hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of duties owed. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, IRS Criminal Investigation and the DEA are investigating this matter.

    Ralph Olarte, 55, of Glendale, the CFO of Sport LA Inc., was arrested May 27 at Los Angeles International Airport. He made his initial appearance and was arraigned May 28 in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    Also charged in the indictment is Humberto Lopez Belmonte, 53, of Mexico City, who was arrested and arraigned on May 27 in Los Angeles federal court. Lopez pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and a July 21 trial date was scheduled. A federal magistrate judge ordered Lopez released on $100,000 bond.

    Olarte and Lopez are charged with one count of conspiracy to smuggle goods from the United States. Both defendants and their company, Sport LA Inc., also are charged with one count of smuggling goods from the United States, three counts of knowingly submitting false and misleading export information, five counts of wire fraud for false information submitted to CBP, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud against Mexico, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and seven counts of international promotional and concealment money laundering.

    Sport LA is charged with three counts of making false statements to a government agency. The other defendant companies — H&R Logistics Inc. and Olarte Transport Service Inc. — are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.

    According to the indictment returned on April 30 and unsealed May 27, Olarte and Lopez, from at least 2013 to the present, operated a lucrative international shipping enterprise. Through shipping companies they controlled, Olarte and Lopez smuggled billions of dollars’ worth of goods from and through the United States into Mexico. Many times, they concealed the nature of the shipped goods, some of which contained contraband.

    The companies allegedly submitted millions of false and misleading statements to U.S. customs officials, used shell companies in Mexico to shield their true customers, and created and presented false documents – including sham certificates for paid Mexican import taxes. They also bribed Mexican customs officials, paid kickbacks to drug cartels — including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel — to operate the scheme and smuggled bulk cash into the U.S. to avoid reporting requirements.

    Olarte and Lopez then laundered the proceeds of their scheme back from the true Mexican customers, through the shell companies, and ultimately into the companies’ U.S. bank accounts. As a result of the conspiracy, Olarte and Lopez personally received millions of dollars in illicit proceeds.

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

    If convicted, Olarte and Lopez would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count of wire fraud- and money laundering-related count, up to five years in federal prison for each smuggling- and false statements-related count, and up to two years in federal prison for each count of knowingly submitting false and misleading export information.

    This investigation is led by HSI’s El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, a multiagency task force that includes federal and state investigators who are focused on financial crimes in Southern California.

    The Transnational Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Birthday 250 Troop Card

    Source: United States Army

    Guidance:

    • Public Affairs posture is active. The world is watching; and you will represent America’s Army in all that you say and do. Your command presence will be the display of pride, discipline and fitness.
    • Be aware of national and world press and social media influencers in and around your locations to/from and throughout DC. Welcome media and designate a representative. Stay positive; and if you don’t want to be interviewed – politely decline.
    • Unit leaders at all levels should keep HQDA 250 Birthday Public Affairs Guidance on-hand.
    • Focus comments on your participation in the festival and parade; and what you do in the Army.
    • Share your once-in-a-lifetime experience on your social media platforms. THINK, TYPE, POST.
    • For interviews, avoid commenting and speculating about any current world events, political situation(s), or ongoing missions. A good response could be the following: ‘that question is better answered by others in my chain of command; I don’t speak on politics, or I don’t want to speculate.’ Then, talk about your message and what you do know.
    • Refer questions outside of your role to your chain of command. For command representatives and PAOs, HQDA-level media questions should be referred to this number, 703-220-9044.

    Messages/Talking Points:

    • We are focused on ensuring that the U.S. military remains the world’s most combat-credible fighting force capable of maintaining peace through strength.
    • One year older than the nation it defends, the United States Army has dedicated itself to fighting and winning the nation’s wars for 250 years.
    • As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Army, we reflect on the rich history and legacy of service, sacrifice, and dedication. From the Revolutionary War to present-day missions, our Soldiers have consistently demonstrated their resolve to defend freedom at home and abroad.
    • I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN SOLDIER BECAUSE:
    • I JOINED THE ARMY TO:
    • I AM PROUD TO REPRESENT AMERICA TODAY ESPECIALLY BECAUSE:

    Army Birthday Information: https://www.army.mil/1775/

    Refer questions outside of your role to your chain of command.

    For command representatives and PAOs, HQDA-level media questions should be referred to this number: 703-220-9044.

    Click here for a downloadable version of the Troop Card [PDF – 101.5 KB]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Awards Approximately $700,000 to Whistleblower

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    Washington, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today announced a whistleblower award of approximately $700,000. The whistleblower information prompted the CFTC to open the investigation and described the misconduct that ultimately appeared in the order. The whistleblower also provided substantial assistance and helped the Commission conserve resources during the investigation. The award was reduced because of an unreasonable delay in reporting the violations and the whistleblower’s culpability.
    “Whistleblowers often provide the most valuable evidence about wrongdoing,” said Brian Young, director of the Division of Enforcement. “Today’s award recognizes the courage it takes to come forward to the CFTC, as well as the critical role whistleblowers play in the CFTC’s enforcement efforts.”
    “We appreciate that the Commission granted this award to a whistleblower who provided key evidence and helped the CFTC interpret it,” said Cynthia Lie, acting director of the CFTC’s Whistleblower Office. “The Whistleblower Office is committed to rewarding whistleblowers for their significant contributions in identifying fraud, manipulation, and abuse in commodity markets.”
    Acting Associate Director Dan Schiffer and Senior Attorney Advisor Laurence Tai of the Whistleblower Office handled this whistleblower award.
    About the CFTC’s Whistleblower Program
    The Whistleblower Program was created under Section 748 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010. Since issuing its first award in 2014, the CFTC has granted whistleblower awards amounting to approximately $390 million. Those awards are associated with enforcement actions that have resulted in monetary sanctions totaling over $3.2 billion. The CFTC issues awards related not only to the agency’s enforcement actions, but also in connection with related actions brought by other domestic or foreign regulators, if certain conditions are met.
    The Commodity Exchange Act provides confidentiality protections for whistleblowers. Regardless of whether the CFTC grants an award, the CFTC will not disclose any information that could reasonably be expected to reveal a whistleblower’s identity, except in limited circumstances. Consistent with this confidentiality protection, the CFTC will not disclose the name of the enforcement action in which the whistleblower provided information or the exact dollar amount of the award granted.
    Whistleblowers may be eligible to receive between 10 and 30 percent of the monetary sanctions collected. All whistleblower awards are paid from the CFTC’s Customer Protection Fund, which was established by Congress, and is financed entirely through monetary sanctions paid to the CFTC by violators of the CEA. No money is taken or withheld from injured customers to fund the program.
    * * * * *
    Anyone with information related to potential violations of the CEA or the CFTC’s rules and regulations can submit a tip electronically by filing a Form TCR (Tip, Complaint or Referral) online.
    Visit Whistleblower.gov for more information about CFTC’s Whistleblower program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Appoints Lyudmyla Lishchuk to the Morgan County Court

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis appointed Lyudmyla (“Milla”) Lishchuk to the Morgan County Court in the 13th Judicial District. The vacancy is created by the retirement of the Honorable Dennis L. Brandenburg and is effective July 1, 2025.

    Ms. Lishchuk is a County Court Judge in Baca County, a position she has held since 2021. Her docket consists of criminal and civil matters. Ms. Lishchuk is also a Hearing Officer II for the Colorado Department of Revenue, Hearing Divisions, a position she has held since 2020. Previously, Ms. Lishchuk was an Attorney and Hearings Manager for the Board of Assessment Appeals (2011-2019); Part-Time Attorney with the Law Offices of Alan G. Molk (2012-2015); Part-Time Attorney with Michael Dowling and Associates (2011-2015); Attorney with Reilly Pozner LLP (2010-2011); and Judicial Clerk for Judges Mark Hannen and Robert Russell and Magistrate Kara Martin (2010). Ms. Lishchuk earned her B.A. from the Metropolitan State College of Denver in 2007, and her J.D. from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law in 2009.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: InnerFrame Launches in La Plata County, Advancing Mental Wellness and Job Creation through Rural Jump-Start Program

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DURANGO — The Business Funding & Incentives Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade (OEDIT) announced today that Durango-based InnerFrame, a media technology company focused on personal development and mental well-being, has been accepted into the Rural Jump-Start Program.

    InnerFrame is an innovative technology company leveraging artificial intelligence to transform digital media into a tool for personal growth and mental wellness. Drawing from neuroscience and behavioral psychology, the company’s proprietary video platform delivers emotionally resonant, highly personalized content designed to support intentional living and self-development. By reimagining screen time as a meaningful, science-backed ritual, InnerFrame helps users align with their goals and reinforce positive daily habits through immersive visual storytelling.

    “Our Rural Jump-Start Program continues to support businesses like InnerFrame and strengthen local economies across Colorado,” said Governor Jared Polis. “InnerFrame will bring good-paying jobs to the region and contribute to the state’s tech industry through its digital innovations.”

    Over the next four years, the company plans to create more than 20 high-quality jobs in La Plata County, with wages exceeding the regional average. As it continues developing its AI-powered tools, InnerFrame plans to support both individual well-being and the region’s growing tech ecosystem.

    “At InnerFrame, we’re redefining screen time as a powerful tool for personal growth,” said Erica Hines, CEO of InnerFrame. “We’re drawing on the science of neuroplasticity and using media more intentionally through content that’s personalized, reflective, and grounded in what matters. We’re also deeply committed to creating meaningful jobs in our region to support local economic growth and give back to the community that has supported us from the start.”

    “We are delighted to see InnerFrame grow in La Plata County,” said Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of OEDIT. “Colorado is a leader in tech innovation, and InnerFrame’s presence in the Southwest will help ensure rural communities benefit from the industry’s expansion and job creation.”

    As the first company in La Plata County to be accepted into the Rural Jump-Start (RJS) Program, InnerFrame is eligible for significant tax benefits, including relief from state business income tax, sales and use tax, and local business personal property taxes. Eligible employees will also receive a state personal income tax exemption. In addition, the company will receive $15,000 in grant funding to support the launch of its operations. These benefits are intended to encourage economic development and job creation in economically distressed, rural counties of Colorado.  

    Regional partners, including the Region 9 Economic Development District and the Southwest Colorado Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs (SCAPE), played a vital role in identifying InnerFrame as an RJS candidate and will continue supporting its long-term success.

    “As the first RJS business in La Plata County, InnerFrame is a perfect fit for the program, and SCAPE is excited to support their growth,” said Elizabeth Marsh, Executive Director of SCAPE. “We are grateful for state programs that recognize the importance of cultivating new businesses.”

    “Region 9 Economic Development is thrilled to welcome its first RJS business in La Plata County,” added Laura Lewis Marchino, Executive Director of Region 9 EDD. “We look forward to supporting InnerFrame as they develop a truly unique product and service in our region.”

    To learn more about the Rural Jump-Start program, please contact Quina Weber-Shirk at quina.webershirk@state.co.us.

    About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

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

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Medicare Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A Missouri man pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a scheme to defraud Medicare by unlawfully billing millions of dollars in claims for cancer genetic testing and cardiovascular genetic testing. 

    According to court documents, Jamie P. McNamara, 49, of Kansas City, operated several laboratories in Louisiana and Texas, which obtained doctors’ orders for genetic testing from telemarketers and call centers that used aggressive telemarketing campaigns to induce Medicare beneficiaries to agree to receive genetic testing. Orders for genetic testing were signed by purported telemedicine doctors who were not the beneficiaries’ treating physicians, did not perform consultations with the beneficiaries, and did not follow up with the beneficiaries after the testing was performed. To obtain the orders, McNamara paid illegal kickbacks and bribes, which he disguised through sham contracts. In furtherance of the scheme, he also shifted the billing between his laboratories to evade scrutiny from Medicare and law enforcement and concealed his ownership and control of the laboratories by falsely listing the names of his family members as owners and company representatives on Medicare and other documents. In approximately one and a half years, the laboratories operated by McNamara submitted over $174 million in claims to Medicare for genetic testing and received over $55 million in reimbursements. The government previously seized several luxury vehicles and over $7 million in bank accounts.

    “The defendant used illegal payments and lies to fraudulently bill Medicare over $174 million,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Health care fraud harms patients, drains government resources, and violates the public trust. The Criminal Division is fully committed to uncovering and aggressively prosecuting these schemes.”    

    “This guilty plea marks the conclusion of a meticulous and complicated prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Medicare fraud schemes profoundly erode taxpayer confidence and faith in our medical institutions. Schemes such as these must be rooted out, investigated and prosecuted, not only for the monetary loss triggered by the fraud, but also to preserve the public’s trust. Our office, along with our investigative partners, will continue to work diligently to maintain taxpayer confidence in our federal institutions and seek justice for all victims of fraud.”

    “McNamara lined his pockets by preying on vulnerable Americans concerned about their health. The genetic tests Medicare patients were lured into receiving did not provide them with any answers on their predisposition to life threatening illnesses and cost taxpayers millions of dollars,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “Today’s plea is the culmination of thorough investigative work and partnership between the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) to protect the public and ensure that justice is served.”

    “Misleading patients with fraudulent genetic testing schemes to exploit the Medicare program is not just unethical — it’s criminal,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of HHS-OIG. “Today’s plea reflects HHS-OIG’s steadfast commitment to holding those who deceive patients and seek to cripple the integrity of our nation’s federal health care programs accountable. We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to investigate such schemes and bring those responsible to justice.”

    While on pretrial release, McNamara violated his bond conditions by, among other things, fleeing from a DUI arrest and cutting off an ankle monitor. He was subsequently detained.

    McNamara pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 9 and faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    HHS-OIG and the FBI are investigating the case.

    Assistant Chief Justin M. Woodard and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Moses for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: TGS to Participate at United States (U.S.)-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) 2025 Amid Growing Data-Driven Activity in Africa

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    Download logo

    The U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF), taking place in Houston on August 6-7, 2025, is pleased to announce Kristian Johansen, Chief Executive Officer of TGS, as a featured speaker. TGS is a global leader in energy data and subsurface intelligence, with an expanding footprint across Africa supporting exploration and investment in oil, gas and renewable energy. 

    As African nations prepare for new licensing rounds, farm-outs and energy diversification, access to high-quality seismic data and digital solutions is proving vital in attracting global capital. TGS’ work across the continent – from deepwater seismic reprocessing to renewable resource assessments – is enabling governments to present technically de-risked, investment-ready acreage to the market. 

    Recent activity spans some of Africa’s most promising and underexplored regions. In Angola, TGS has reprocessed legacy data in a block previously relinquished by Shell, unlocking new geological insight. In the Republic of Congo, the company is supporting digitalization to enhance transparency and efficiency in upstream development. Expanded seismic coverage in Tanzania and Benin is helping to bring new frontier acreage to market, while in Mauritania, TGS is growing its multi-client 3D seismic library across more than 101,000 square-kilometers offshore – cementing its role in advancing exploration in high-potential deepwater zones. Meanwhile in Cabo Verde, the company is assessing renewable energy opportunities, including offshore wind, as part of its support for Africa’s broader energy transition. 

    TGS’ growing presence in Africa highlights the critical role of data in enhancing the technical credibility and commercial appeal of emerging energy opportunities. By equipping governments and investors with deeper geological insight and actionable intelligence, the company is enabling faster, more confident decision-making – especially as exploration budgets tighten globally. With multiple licensing rounds anticipated across the continent, TGS continues to serve as a strategic data partner, supporting African markets in presenting transparent, competitive and technically validated acreage. 

    For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com or visit USAfricaEnergy.com. Join us in Houston to connect with the leaders shaping Africa’s energy landscape and experience the momentum that drives ECP’s events worldwide. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Makes Statement on Trump Revoking Visas for Chinese Students

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Larsen Makes Statement on Trump Revoking Visas for Chinese Students

    Washington, D.C., May 29, 2025

    Today, Representative Rick Larsen released the following statement:

    “The Trump administration’s plan to revoke visas for Chinese students is xenophobic and weakens U.S. national security. This policy will force promising young people to study elsewhere, diminishing American global leadership and causing long-term economic harm. If this Administration is serious about competing with China, American higher education needs to attract the world’s best students, not turn them away because of where they were born.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Investor Advisory Committee to Examine Pass-Through Voting and Other Means of Reaching the Ultimate Beneficial Owner; Discuss Market Perspectives on Non-GAAP Financial Disclosures at June 5 Meeting

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Investor Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting at the SEC Headquarters in Washington D.C. on June 5, 2025, at 10 a.m. ET. The meeting will also be webcast on the SEC website.

    The committee will host two panels:

    • Engaging with Beneficial Owners: Exploring Pass-Through Voting and Other Means of Reaching the Ultimate Beneficial Owner; and
    • Beyond the GAAP: Market Perspectives on Non-GAAP Financial Disclosures

    The committee will also discuss a potential recommendation from the committee’s disclosure subcommittee regarding Examining the Use of Mandatory Arbitration Clauses by SEC Registered Investment Advisers.

    The Investor Advisory Committee, which focuses on investor-related interests, advises the Commission on regulatory priorities and various initiatives to help protect investors and promote the integrity of the U.S. securities markets. Established by statute, the committee is authorized by Congress to submit findings and recommendations to the Commission.

    For morning information about the Investor Advisory Committee and the full agenda for the meeting, visit the committee’s webpage.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 2351, a bill to direct the Commandant of the Coast Guard to update the policy of the Coast Guard regarding the use of medication to treat drug overdose, and for other purposes

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 2351 would direct the Coast Guard (USCG) to carry naloxone and similar overdose medications at all of its facilities, implement a system to track their distribution, and report on those efforts to the Congress. The bill also would codify existing policies prohibiting the manufacture or distribution of controlled substances aboard vessels.

    Under current law, the USCG is not required to carry naloxone; however, all designated law enforcement units are currently equipped with it. Using information from the Coast Guard, CBO estimates that it would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period for the agency to supply naloxone to additional facilities. CBO estimates that maintaining the tracking system and other reporting requirements would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. In total, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 2351 would cost $1 million over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Kelly Durand and Aaron Krupkin. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 2384, Financial Technology Protection Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 2384 would establish a working group within the Department of the Treasury to research terrorists’ use of new financial technologies, including digital assets, and report on its findings. The working group would comprise 11 senior-level representatives from specified agencies in the federal government and 5 people representing businesses and other interested organizations. The bill would require the working group to report within 180 days of enactment on the evasion of sanctions using digital assets to the Congress and to report annually to the Congress and other executive branch agencies about its findings. Under the bill, the working group would sunset four years after enactment.

    Using information about the costs of similar working groups, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 2384 would cost less than $500,000 annually, totaling $1 million over the 2025-2030 period for administrative costs; any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Matthew Pickford. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Changing Range: USGS initiatives support resilient ecosystems and economies on the Colorado Plateau

    Source: US Geological Survey

    USGS research allows NPS and BLM managers and ranchers to make informed planning decisions about current and future livestock stocking rates to maintain their livelihood and economic well-being. 

    Results from this research helps ensure that ranchers, recreationists, and public land stewards have the information they need to adapt and thrive in the face of increasing drought and changing land use.

    The Colorado Plateau, known for its dramatic rock formations and hardy desert ecosystems, is facing increasing pressure from more frequent and severe droughts. 

    This iconic landscape supports rangelands where grasses and other vegetation are critical for ranching, tourism, and other culturally and economically important activities that Department of the Interior (DOI) lands support. 

    According to the Department of the Interior Economic Benefit Report, total economic contributions in fiscal year (FY) 2019 from recreation on DOI lands totaled $60.59 billion and public land grazing leases created 2.21 billion.

    In FY 2019 in Utah, recreation brought in $2.72 billion, creating 26,675 jobs. And grazing and timber generated $170 million, which created 4,444 jobs. In southeastern Utah, National Park visitors spent $397.6 million in local communities in 2023.

    That spending supported 5,122 jobs in the region and had a cumulative benefit to local economies of $486.1 million.

    Over the past two decades, the region has experienced three droughts so extreme they are considered 1-in-100-year events based on long-term climate records. 

    These conditions are placing stress on native plant communities and posing serious challenges for the ranching and tourism economies that rely on healthy, functioning lands.

    To address these challenges, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in collaboration with the National Park Service (NPS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), The Nature Conservancy (TNC), universities, and others, is leading long-term research to understand how drought affects vegetation and landscape health in southeastern Utah and seeking adaptation strategies.

    A series of USGS drought experiments have shown that grasses that typically emerge early in the spring (called “cool-season” grasses) struggle to survive in extreme drought conditions when compared to grasses that emerge later in the summer (warm-season grasses) or woody vegetation like shrubs. 

    These cool season grasses are particularly important because they grow early in the spring, protecting soils from erosion, and providing forage for livestock and wildlife. Researchers observed similar patterns from experimentally imposed seasonal droughts and in monitoring studies from region.

    Seeking solutions to limit or adapt to negative impacts of drought is also an important aspect of the work USGS is conducting on the Colorado Plateau.

    For example, USGS is working with NPS to test new restoration techniques to address drought-driven land degradation in Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, which together welcomed over 1.5 million visitors in 2024. 

    Across both national parks, staff aim to restore degraded grasslands by seeding and transplanting warm-season grasses and woody shrubs which are more likely survive future extreme droughts.

    Researchers are also testing different simulated grazing strategies within drought experiments to assess how grazing timing or deferment may minimize drought impacts. This research helps identify when and where grazing should be adjusted based on grass availability and drought severity.

    Finally, working with TNC, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) Jornada Experimental Range and Oklahoma and Central Plains Ag Research Center, universities and others, the USGS is testing heritage cattle breeds that are potentially more adapted to the changing vegetation and warmer conditions brought on droughts on the Plateau. 

    These heritage breeds appear better suited to browse on woody vegetation and travel further from water sources to forage, which may make them a more ecologically and economically sustainable breed in a potentially hotter and less productive Colorado Plateau.

    By providing timely, reliable science, USGS research supports long-term productivity of America’s public lands.

    Findings from our research are shared with local and regional ranchers, NPS, and BLM through a variety of outreach events, including scientific and public presentations, work with University Extension specialists, through field tours, and scientific publications. 

    By connecting scientific insight with on-the-ground decision-making, this research is helping DOI land managers and ranchers support thriving and resilient landscapes on the Colorado Plateau.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Announces Settlement with Kootenai County Contractor

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Announces Settlement with Kootenai County Contractor

    BOISE — Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced a settlement with Coeur d’Alene contractor Connell (Neal) R. Foster and his company, Prime Builders, for deceptive construction-related business practices that resulted in substantial consumer losses.
    Foster has agreed to cease all advertising, negotiating, or entering into construction-related contracts with Idaho consumers unless he does so as an employee acting under the direction of a supervisor or third-party who is directly responsible for his actions. The settlement also prohibits Foster from engaging in construction business under the name of his spouse, Monica R. Foster.
    “This case is a reminder that Idaho contractors must be held to high standards of honesty and accountability,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Our office will continue to take decisive action against those who take advantage of Idaho families through fraud or deception.”
    The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division received seven complaints against Foster, with consumers alleging losses totaling more than $325,000. Under the business registration of his spouse, Foster operated Prime Builders from Mullan, Idaho, and conducted construction work in both Idaho and Washington. Consumers reported that Prime Builders accepted payments for home additions, decks, sheds, and other structures—many of which were never delivered, only partially completed, or refunded.
    The court approved the settlement on March 6, 2025. Foster is required to begin making restitution payments to affected consumers within 30 days. He has agreed to a court-approved payment plan that will remain in effect until the restitution is paid in full.
    Attorney General Labrador urges consumers seeking a contractor’s services, please utilize these tips to avoid fraudulent business practices: 

    Read the Contractor’s business profile on the Better Business Bureau’s Website, paying particular attention to any unresolved complaints, its rating, and the business’s responses provided to the Better Business Bureau. 
    Check with the Attorney General’s Office or the Department of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) at Welcome to Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses for any information regarding the Contractor and its business practices within the State of Idaho. 
    Review Idaho Code § 48-525 to understand what information a contractor is required to disclose. 
    Verify the contractor has liability and worker’s compensation insurance to avoid liability for work-related injuries and the contractor’s recklessness or negligence.
    If possible, obtain a surety bond, title insurance, and a lien waiver to cover potential losses, loss of title, and to prevent lienholders placing liens on the project for nonpayment. 

    Consumers who incurred losses because of Foster’s construction practices may file consumer complaints with the Consumer Protection Division. A complaint form is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt Briefs Members of the Media, May 29, 2025

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    The White House

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8tKKyrCmSY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: USDA Releases First $1 Billion in Livestock Disaster Assistance Targeting Losses from Wildfire & Drought

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    05.29.25

    ELRP Using LFP Application Data to Streamline Assistance; Additional Livestock Aid to be Released Later this Summer

    BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released $1 billion in disaster relief for livestock producers impacted by wildfire or drought in 2023 or 2024. The Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) funding comes as part of the $21 billion in weather-related assistance that Hoeven worked to include in the year-end legislation passed by Congress in December. The details of ELRP are as follows:

    • This is the first of two assistance programs addressing losses impacting livestock producers.
      • Additional ELRP assistance for other losses, including flooding, will be released later this summer, bringing the total livestock set-aside to $2 billion.
    • The Farm Service Agency (FSA) will use existing Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) data to streamline payment calculations and expedite relief.
      • This follows Hoeven’s work encouraging Agriculture Secretary Rollins to utilize a streamlined application process to help ensure an efficient and timely process.
    • Emergency relief payments are automatically issued for producers who have an approved LFP application on file for 2023 and/or 2024.
      • Producers do not have to contact USDA to receive payments.
    • Additional information and resources are available to producers on USDA’s website here: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/resources/programs/20232024-supplemental-disaster-assistance.

    “This first round of $1 billion in emergency livestock assistance specifically targets wildfire losses, bringing needed relief to, and aiding the recovery of, ranchers in North Dakota,” said Hoeven. “We appreciate Secretary Rollins for working with us to get this assistance out the door and to streamline the process for our producers, both under today’s ELRP funding and the ongoing market-based assistance program. We look forward to USDA advancing the remaining assistance and delivering all $34 billion in disaster aid to help ensure a resilient farm economy, while we continue working to strengthen the farm safety net on a long-term basis.”

    Hoeven also continues working with USDA to advance the remaining $20 billion in weather-related assistance for losses in 2023 and 2024, following his efforts to advance the $10 billion in market-based assistance. North Dakota producers have since received nearly $565 million under the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Arbor Day Tree Giveaway in Wascana Centre

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 29, 2025

    You’d better be-leaf it! Celebrate Arbor Day on May 30 with a free tree seedling from Wascana Centre. Guests can choose between a Scots Pine or a Blue Spruce. 

    “On Arbor Day, we are reminded that every tree in the Wascana Centre canopy was hand planted with the goal of making our capital city beautiful,” Minister Responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission (PCC) Eric Schmalz said. “We hope that these free seedlings being offered help their new owners create a beautiful, treed oasis in their own backyard.”

    PCC staff will be handing out seedlings in the Willow Island parking lot starting at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, May 30. Trees will be available while quantities last and there is a limit of one per person.

    The PCC is responsible for the maintenance and future of the urban forest located within the Wascana Centre and Government House boundaries. The urban forest is monitored continually for overall health of the tree canopy cover.  

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smith and Members of Washington Delegation Demand Answers regarding ICE Raid in Kent

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Adam Smith (D, WA-09), Suzan DelBene (D, WA-01), Pramila Jayapal (D, WA-07), Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), Emily Randall (D, WA-06), and Marilyn Strickland (D, WA-10) wrote to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons, and IRS Acting Commissioner Michael Faulkender to express deep concern over the recent immigration enforcement raid in Kent, Washington and to demand immediate answers regarding the nature of the raid and individuals detained.

    The letter is copied in full below.

    Dear Secretary Noem, Acting Director Lyons, and Acting Commissioner Faulkender,

    We write to express our deep concern over the recent immigration enforcement raid in Kent, Washington and demand immediate answers regarding the nature of the raid and individuals detained.

    On May 20, officials from four federal agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation Division, arrested 17 people at Eagle Beverage and Accessories Products in Kent. Notably, this appears to be one of the first immigration raids involving IRS personnel.

    The Trump administration has repeatedly sought to portray its immigration enforcement efforts as focused on deporting violent criminals. Yet federal authorities have not noted any sort of violent criminal connection serving as a motivating factor behind the raid. Raids like this which arbitrarily target hardworking community members only serve to tear families apart, stoke fear, and undermine trust in local law enforcement. These actions inevitably have ripple effects throughout our country, causing people to avoid going to work or school out of fear and crippling our local economies.

    We request that you immediately provide answers to the following questions:

    1. How many individuals were arrested as part of the May 20 raid in Kent? Please provide details on their gender, age, nationality, immigration status, and reason for their arrest.
    2. Were there any collateral arrests?
    3. Had any of the arrested individuals previously received a form of prosecutorial discretion?
    4. Did any of the arrested individuals have a pending asylum claim?
    5. Are the arrested individuals now in custody at Northwest ICE Processing Center (NWIPC)? If not, where are they currently being held?
    6. Have the arrested individuals been given the opportunity to contact attorneys and family members?
    7. Have the arrested individuals been scheduled for a court date?
    8. Did ICE collaborate with state or local law enforcement agencies?
    9. What role did IRS personnel play in the raid?
    10. What training did IRS personnel receive to participate in the raid?
    11. Did the IRS share the taxpayer data of any of the individuals arrested with DHS prior to the arrests?
    12. How is the IRS’s participation in immigration raids impacting the agency’s ability to carry out its mission of investigating criminal violations of the Internal Revenue Code?

    We thank you for your attention to this matter and look forward to receiving your response.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Deer Lake  — Deer Lake RCMP investigates robbery at Irving Big Stop gas pumps, man arrested

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Deer Lake RCMP is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the gas pumps of the Irving Big Stop gas station on May 29, 2025. Twenty-six-year-old Bobby Sheppard was arrested and is charged with multiple criminal offences.

    Shortly after 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, Deer Lake RCMP responded to an alarm that was activated by an employee at the Deer Lake Irving Big Stop on the Trans-Canada Highway. While on route to the scene, police learned that a robbery had occurred outside the business. The investigation determined that the robbery occurred inside a vehicle that was parked at the gas pump and involved occupants of the vehicle. The suspect, who was identified as Bobby Sheppard, allegedly held the driver at knifepoint, robbed the victim of personal property, slashed one of the vehicle’s tires and fled the area prior to police arrival.

    Sheppard was located a short time later at a residence and was arrested without incident. He appears in court today and is charged with the following criminal offences:

    • Robbery
    • Possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose
    • Mischief under $5,000.00 – damaged to property
    • Assault with weapon
    • Failure to comply with a release order
    • Failure to comply with a probation order

    The investigation is continuing.

    During the crime, a number of individuals were present both at the gas pumps and on the parking lot of the business. Anyone who may have witnessed this incident is asked to contact Deer Lake RCMP at 709-635-2173.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Taylor Introduces Connor’s Law, Requiring English Proficiency for CDL Drivers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02) and Representative Harriet Hageman (WY-AL) today announced the introduction of Connor’s Law, which will codify President Trump’s Executive Order requiring CDL drivers to maintain a basic proficiency in English in order to be licensed to drive on American roads. This bill includes an out-of-service provision, which will revoke CDL licensure from any current license holders who fail to adhere to language requirements. Representatives Mike Collins (GA-10), Paul Gosar (AZ-08), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), and Brad Finstad (MN-01) joined Congressman Taylor in the introduction of this bill.

    In 2017, an 18-year-old named Connor Dzion was killed in an automobile accident in Northern Florida by a distracted truck driver who was found unable to speak English or read signs warning of upcoming traffic. Although English standards were initially included in the qualification process for commercial drivers, previous Democratic administrations removed violations of English Language Proficiency (ELP) from the out-of-service criteria. This action made CDL requirements more lax and increased the risk of accidents on the road, like the one that resulted in Connor’s death. Due to this, Congressional action is needed to restore proper CDL requirements and ensure safety on American roads. 

    “It’s Ohio common sense that if you want to drive trucks on our Nation’s roads, you should be able to read the road signs,” said Congressman Taylor. “Tragic deaths like Connor’s are absolutely preventable, and it starts with ensuring drivers operating large and heavy commercial vehicles are capable of being alerted to hazards and updates on the road. President Trump demonstrated leadership through his executive order requiring CDL drivers to speak English, which paved the way for driver safety, and I’m proud to introduce this bill to codify it and do the same.”

    “Requiring truck drivers to be proficient in reading and speaking the English language is just common sense,” said Rep. Harriet Hageman. “Driving some of the biggest rigs on our highway systems, often in inclement weather, creates risk enough, but this liability is exacerbated when truck drivers can neither read our highway signs nor clearly communicate with others on the road, thereby putting everyone in danger. I’ve heard from our trucking community and law enforcement officers alike emphasizing the need for this legislation, so today I am proud to join Congressman Taylor in its introduction.”

    “Families are being torn apart, the trucking industry is suffering, and the American people are less safe with non-English speakers behind the wheel. The motoring public deserves to know that the folks they share the road with can comprehend English and understand our rules,” said Rep. Mike Collins. “As a trucker, I applaud Rep. Taylor for his work to reverse this terrible Obama-era rule and make our roads safer.”

    “The ability to read road signs, understand the rules of the road, and communicate with law enforcement officials is vital to ensuring the safety of all motorists. That’s why English proficiency is a requirement for operating a commercial motor vehicle,” said Henry Hanscom, Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs for the American Trucking Association. “ATA has raised concerns that conflicting guidance and uneven enforcement have sparked confusion over this law that has been in place since the 1930s.  We welcomed President Trump’s recent executive order that provides much-needed clarity, and we commend Reps. Taylor and Hageman’s effort to codify an objective, consistent, and effective standard.”

    “OOIDA and the 150,000 truckers we proudly represent strongly support the enforcement of English proficiency requirements for commercial drivers because it saves lives,” said Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association President Todd Spencer. “Basic English skills are essential for reading critical road signs, understanding emergency instructions, and interacting with law enforcement. Road signs are effective—but only when they’re understood. We thank Representative Taylor for his leadership on this issue because English proficiency is not optional—it’s crucial for keeping America’s roads safe for the entire traveling public.”

    If enacted, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, part of the Department of Transportation, will establish guidelines and enforcement mechanisms for the English proficiency of CDL drivers. 

    Initially enacted in 1937 with the establishment of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), 49 CFR §391.11(b)(2) created general qualifications for commercial motor vehicle drivers. Among these qualifications was a requirement stating that drivers must be able to “read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language, to respond to official inquiries, and to make entries on reports and records.”

    However, in 2016, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration released guidance titled “English Language Proficiency Testing and Enforcement Policy MC-ECE-2016-006,” which removed the requirement to place drivers out of service for ELP violations.

    Specifically, Connor’s Law would:

    • Codify ELP into law as a requirement for individuals issued a commercial driver’s license, and;
    • Put CDL drivers violating the ELP requirement out of service.

    The American Trucking Association (ATA), Small Business in Transportation Coalition (SBTC), and Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) are supporting organizations of this bill.

    Congressman Taylor serves on the Highways and Transit Subcommittee of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. 

    The full text of Connor’s Law is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: El EBT de Verano para los niños en edad escolar regresa por segundo año

    Source: US State of Oregon

    a Transferencia Electrónica de Beneficios de Verano de Oregon (Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer, EBT de Verano por sus siglas en inglés) es un programa de beneficios de alimentos que ayuda a reducir el hambre cuando los niños están de vacaciones de verano y no tienen acceso fácil a las comidas saludables en la escuela. El EBT de Verano da 120 dólares por niño eligible para comprar alimentos.

    Este es el segundo año del programa de EBT de Verano de Oregon. El 22 de mayo de 2025 alrededor de 336,000 niños recibieron el beneficio en una tarjeta de EBT de Oregon. Las familias deben revisar el saldo de su tarjeta de EBT en www.ebtedge.com para confirmar si lo recibieron.

    Las familias que no recibieron el EBT de Verano automáticamente el 22 de mayo de 2025 deben consultar los requisitos del programa en ebtv.oregon.gov o comunicarse con el Centro de Llamadas de EBT de Verano al 833-673-7328. El Centro de Llamadas está abierto de lunes a viernes de 8:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m., Hora de Verano del Pacífico (PDT). Presente su solicitud en línea en inglés o español o descargue una solicitud de papel en varios idiomas en ebtv.oregon.gov.

    “Cuando las escuelas cierran en el verano, la necesidad de comidas saludables regulares no desaparece. El año pasado, el programa de EBT de Verano ayudó a miles de familias en Oregon, reemplazando las 10 comidas esenciales por niño por semana que reciben cuando están en la escuela,” dijo la Dra. Charlene Williams, Directora del Departamento de Educación de Oregon (Oregon Department of Education, ODE por sus siglas en inglés). “Estamos orgullosos de continuar esta colaboración con el Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon (Oregon Department of Human Services, ODHS por sus siglas en inglés) no solo para alimentar niños sino también para desarrollar su potencial durante los meses importantes de su crecimiento. Nuestro compromiso continuo garantiza que el verano sea una época de crecimiento y oportunidad para todos los niños sin importar su situación económica.”

    En 2024, alrededor de 362,000 niños participaron y recibieron 43 millones de dólares en beneficios de EBT de Verano que sus familias gastaron en sus tiendas locales de alimentos, mercados agrícolas y otros lugares.

    “El EBT de Verano es una forma más de prevenir que los niños pasen hambre cuando no hay clases. El EBT de Verano es un programa basado en la evidencia que se ha comprobado que reduce el hambre en los niños y apoya las dietas más saludables,” dijo Fariborz Pakseresht, Director de ODHS. “El hambre en los niños puede tener efectos duraderos en la salud y los logros académicos. Conectar a todos los niños elegibles con el EBT de Verano ayudará a que los niños de Oregon tengan éxito durante todo el año y mientras crecen.”

    ¿Quién es eligible para los beneficios de alimentos de EBT de Verano?

    Las familias encontrarán los detalles sobre el EBT de Verano en ebtv.oregon.gov.

    Es posible que su niño en edad escolar sea automáticamente eligible si:

    • Su familia recibió beneficios de EBT de Verano en 2024 a través de una solicitud aprobada.
    • Su familia recibe el Programa de Asistencia para Nutrición Suplementaria (SNAP por sus siglas en inglés), la Asistencia Temporal para Familias Necesitadas (TANF por sus siglas en inglés) o el Plan de Salud de Oregon (Medicaid) y cumple con las normas de ingresos.
    • Su niño recibe comidas escolares gratuitas o a precios reducidos y cumple con las normas de ingresos.
    • Su niño está en cuidado de crianza, en educación para migrantes, en un programa de Head Start calificado, experimenta la falta de vivienda o es parte del Programa de Distribución de Alimentos en Reservas Indígenas (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, FDPIR por sus siglas en inglés).

    Los niños que son automáticamente elegibles recibieron el EBT de Verano el 22 de mayo de 2025.

    Su niño en edad escolar puede ser eligible al presentar una solicitud si:

    • Su familia cumple con los requisitos federales de ingresos para recibir comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido en la escuela, y
    • Su niño asiste a una escuela que participa en el Programa Nacional de Almuerzos Escolares (National School Lunch Program, NSLP por sus siglas en inglés) o el Programa de Desayunos Escolares (School Breakfast Program, SBP por sus siglas en inglés).

    Las familias deben de presentar sus solicitudes antes del 3 de septiembre de 2025.

    Recibir el EBT de Verano no afecta la participación en otros programas de alimentos de verano.

    Los beneficios de EBT de Verano no se toman en cuenta en la prueba de carga pública y están disponibles para los niños sin importar su estatus migratorio.

    ¿Cómo recibirán las familias los beneficios de alimentos de EBT de Verano?

    Los beneficios se colocarán en una tarjeta de EBT de Oregon y se pueden usar en la mayoría de las tiendas de alimentos, mercados agrícolas y más.

    Las familias que necesitan una tarjeta nueva deben llamar al 855-328-6715, de lunes a viernes, de 8:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m., Hora de Verano del Pacífico (PDT).

    Las familias que creen que sus niños podrían ser elegibles y no reciben beneficios el 22 de mayo deben presentar una solicitud antes del 3 de septiembre. Si se les aprueba, recibirán una tarjeta de EBT de Oregon por correo postal.

    Los beneficios de EBT de Verano robados no se reponen.

    Puede proteger su tarjeta de EBT de Oregon y sus beneficios del robo electrónico siguiendo algunos consejos sencillos.

    ¿Dónde pueden las familias obtener más información?

    Para obtener más información o presentar una solicitud, visite ebtv.oregon.gov.

    Llame al Centro de Llamadas de EBT de Verano al 1-833-673-7328 de 8:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m., Hora de Verano del Pacífico (PDT) de lunes a viernes. Aceptamos todas las llamadas de retransmisión.

    Más sobre el EBT de Verano

    El programa de EBT de Verano se convirtió en un programa permanente para los estados y ciertas organizaciones tribales indígenas a través de la Ley Federal de Asignaciones Consolidadas de 2023. La mayoría de los estados empezaron a ofrecer estos beneficios en junio de 2024. La participación de Oregon fue posible gracias a una inversión de 12 millones de dólares hecha por la Legislatura del Estado de Oregon. Esta inversión permitirá que el estado de Oregon reciba 83 millones de dólares en fondos federales, la mayoría en la forma de beneficios de alimentos que las familias usarán en sus comunidades.

    Recursos adicionales para ayudarle a satisfacer sus necesidades básicas

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Chair Powell’s meeting with the President

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Official websites use .govA .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

    Secure .gov websites use HTTPSA lock (
    Lock
    Locked padlock icon

    ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Leads Effort to Improve the Veteran Readiness and Employment Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani introduced a new, bipartisan effort to increase oversight and improve of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program. 

    The Veterans Readiness and Employment Program Integrity Act (H.R. 3579) would ensure veterans are receiving the proper support and resources they need from the VR&E program to successfully transition back to civilian life while also adding needed oversight of taxpayer dollars. It does so by requiring the VA to report: 

    • Employment numbers and annual wages of VR&E participants to ensure veterans are achieving meaningful employment in successful careers. 

    • Average wait times between a veteran’s application submission until their first meeting with a counselor to address reported multi-month wait times. 

    Additionally, this bill will require a third-party review of each VR&E track and provide recommendations on ways to improve and modernize each track.  

    “When our veterans hang up their uniform, they deserve to receive the support, opportunities, and trainings they need to successfully transition back to civilian life and beyond,” said Ciscomani, who represents nearly 80,000 veterans in AZ-06. “This includes improving job training programs, educational opportunities, and employment accommodations to empower our veterans and set them up for success in their new careers. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort to increase accountability and ensure that the VR&E program provides a good return on investment and adequately serves America’s heroes – our veterans.” 

    The VR&E program helps veterans with job training, educational opportunities, and employment accommodations. Currently, the VR&E program lacks performance measures and employment outcomes, which makes it difficult to assess whether the program provides a good return for our veterans. 

    Ciscomani is joined by Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) in this effort.  

    “Any hero who fought for our country should be supported as they transition back to civilian life. That starts with making veterans’ job training, education, and employment accommodations more efficient,” said Cherfilus-McCormick. “This is a bipartisan solution that will help ensure the VR&E program is providing a good return on investment and is fully serving the brave men and women who served us.” 

    Find the full text of the bill here.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Your chance to see the brand new Women’s Rugby World Cup in Sunderland

    Source: City of Sunderland

    People will be able to have their photo taken with the brand new Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy when it visits Sunderland next Friday 6 June.

    The iconic silverware is putting in a special appearance between 12 noon and 4pm in Keel Square on the first day of the three-day Sunderland Food and Drink Festival. 

    World Rugby unveiled the new trophy earlier this month to tie in with the start of the 100-day countdown to the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup kicking off in Sunderland on Friday 22 August which will see England’s Red Roses take on the USA at the Stadium of Light.

    The trophy’s visit marks the culmination of a nationwide tour of all eight host cities and towns as excitement continues to build for the record-breaking tournament.

    The 2025 tournament is already on course to become the biggest Women’s Rugby World Cup in history after selling more than 300,000 tickets – more than twice the total attendance at the last tournament in New Zealand in 2021.

    People visiting Keel Square next Friday will be able to see the new Women’s Rugby World Cup and the bespoke RWC 2025 Defender Trophy Tour Vehicle and have their photo taken with the trophy.

    Councillor Michael Mordey, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to have the trophy visiting Sunderland as we count down to hosting the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup on 22 August.

    “Having the opening match here is a brilliant opportunity to showcase our city on the international stage. We’re really looking forward to welcoming the Red Roses and the USA teams to Sunderland, along with home-grown rugby fans and those from across the world.”

    Councillor Beth Jones is Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism: “With excitement continuing to build now that we’re less than 100 away from the tournament kicking off in Sunderland, this is a brilliant opportunity to have your photo taken with the trophy that the top women’s rugby teams in the world are going to be competing for this summer,” she said.

    “It’s also a great chance to find out more about the sport and how you can get involved, so I’d encourage everyone to come down, have your photo taken with the trophy and enjoy a fantastic time at the Food and Drink Festival while you’re here.”

    Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director, Sarah Massey, said: “Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 promises to be a landmark tournament for the sport and the trophy tour to our host locations provides a brilliant opportunity to ignite excitement across England.

    “We look forward to celebrating with fans and encouraging even more people to be a part of this unforgettable tournament.”

    Sunderland Food & Drink Festival is set to take place across Keel Square, High Street West and Market Square from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 June.

    Featuring food from across the world including street food and artisan produce, visitors will also be able to enjoy the live stage programme in Keel Square from 11am to 7pm every day.

    For more information on the food and drink festival visit https://sunderlandfooddrinkfest.co.uk/live-entertainment/

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Made in Saskatchewan Program Sees Success in Cleaning Up Inactive Oil Wells

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 29, 2025

    For the second straight year, the number of inactive oil wells in Saskatchewan has been reduced through the Inactive Liability Reduction Program (ILRP), which is administered by the Ministry of Energy and Resources. As of January 2025, there were 1,083 fewer inactive wells compared to when the ILRP was first launched in 2023.

    “In addition to responsibly developing Saskatchewan’s natural resources, our ministry is the provincial oil and gas regulator, a role we take extremely seriously,” Energy and Resources Minister Colleen Young said. “The ILRP shows how we regulate the sector in a way that shields taxpayers from liability risks, protects the environment and facilitates growth. We are fortunate to have reliable oil producers in our province who ensure they are investing in responsible and sustainable resource development.”

    The ILRP sets spending targets for oil producers to manage and decommission inactive facilities in a timely and responsible manner. In 2024, oil producers spent more than $228 million on these costs, nearly doubling the ministry target of $116 million. 

    “Saskatchewan’s oil and natural gas producers continuously strive to lower the environmental footprint of their operations and the ILRP enables industry to manage facilities through the final stage of the project lifecycle,” Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers President and CEO Lisa Baiton said. “Reducing the number of inactive wells and facilities in the province is an incredibly important responsibility for oil and gas producers, and their commitment to the program was demonstrated by the industry nearly doubling the ministry’s funding target. The success of the ILRP in its first two years is an example of how the best solutions come when industry and government work together.”

    The Ministry of Energy and Resources has a successful track record of developing and administering several different clean-up programs for the oil and gas sector. Since 2010, the Saskatchewan oil and gas orphan fund secures contractors using industry funding to properly decommission orphaned oil facilities. Additionally, the Accelerated Site Closure Program, which closed in 2023, allocated $400 million in federal funding to properly decommission 9,823 oil wells in the province, along with thousands of other related facilities and sites. 

    For more information about the Government of Saskatchewan’s liability management programs, please visit saskatchewan.ca.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Huizenga Leads 100+ Members of Congress in Bipartisan Effort to Save Family Farms, Enact H-2A Wage Freeze

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)

    Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced he was joined by over 100 of his colleagues on a letter recently sent to House Appropriations leaders requesting an H-2A visa guestworker wage freeze in upcoming appropriations legislation. This simple policy fix would lower input costs for the agricultural community and save family farms across the nation. The level of support for freezing the H-2A wage rate is significant because it is bipartisan and represents the majority of the House Republican Conference (111). Last Congress, Huizenga led the charge to help family farms and achieved a policy win in legislation that passed the House Appropriations Committee.

    The “Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR),” or the required wage that farm employers must pay H-2A workers, more than doubled since 2005, making agricultural labor and its products more unaffordable. With the nation’s average AEWR reaching $18.12/hr in 2025 (more than a 3% increase year over year) on top of other input costs including fuel, housing, and fertilizer also rising, many farms are in danger of going out of business. In Michigan, the AEWR is a steep $18.15/hr, while our Canadian neighbors pay their agricultural workers closer to $12/hr, or just a few dollars in Mexico. A temporary wage freeze is a reasonable way to alleviate this skyrocketing financial burden and give our farmers a chance to compete, stay in business, and put food on the table for millions of Americans and the world.

    A signed copy of the letter is available here.

    “In Michigan and across our nation, family farms are struggling due in part to soaring H2A labor costs,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “Washington should be working to help American farmers lower costs, not crushing them with outdated mandates that balloon their expenses and make it more difficult for these multigenerational farms to keep the lights on. I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort, which includes the majority of House Republicans, to provide the most immediate, practical, and agreed-upon way to enact relief and stop farms here in Michigan and around the country from shutting down their operations.”

    “I have met with fifth and sixth-generation Michigan farmers who are worried they will be the last in their families to farm unless the Labor Department ends the policies making it harder for them to do business. An AEWR freeze, like the one in my Supporting Farm Operations Act, is a common-sense solution widely supported by the agriculture community. Thank you to Congressman Huizenga for leading this letter with dozens of members supporting our efforts. As our state’s only member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for much-needed relief for farmers,” said Congressman John Moolenaar.

    “Michigan farmers are beginning another season filled with the hope of delivering safe, plentiful, and affordable crops for consumers. Nonetheless, the farm families and agricultural guest workers crucial for cultivating these crops find themselves in uncertainty due to unsustainable adverse effect wage rates. It is essential for farmers and workers to have a dependable and sensible method for calculating this mandated wage. The Michigan Farm Bureau commends Congressman Huizenga and Congresswoman Scholten for spearheading this effort, alongside many of their colleagues, to instigate necessary changes that will offer relief to America’s farm families,” said Matt Smego, Director of Public Policy & Commodity Division, Michigan Farm Bureau.

    “Representative Bill Huizenga refuses to turn his back on Michigan and US vegetable and fruit growers.  The AEWR must be paused to continue domestic vegetable and fruit production.  The H-2A guest worker program functions pretty well, but the mandated AEWR no longer functions as envisioned.  There is not enough of a domestic workforce left for the AEWR to prevent guest workers taking employment opportunities from the domestic workforce,” said Greg Bird, Executive Director of Michigan’s Vegetable Council.

    “The bipartisan effort to freeze H-2A wages for farmworkers is encouraging to the Michigan Apple industry, with lawmakers from both parties showing an understanding of the unsustainable increases in costs to growers, as well as support for producers of food here in our state and across the country,” said Diane Smith of the Michigan Apple Association. “With labor costs accounting for approximately 56 percent of total production expenses for Michigan Apple growers, the Adverse Effect Wage Rate increases over the last 10 years threaten to put growers out of business.  Most apple growers are losing money at this point – more than $1,800 per acre, as production costs continue to rise. We are so grateful for the continued support of the Michigan congress members, Representative Huizenga and Representative Scholten, who co-lead the effort, as well as other Michigan congress members from both sides of the aisle who have supported agriculture.”

    “Michigan asparagus growers are facing a breaking point under the weight of the skyrocketing Adverse Effect Wage Rate,” said Jamie Clover Adams, CEO of the Michigan Asparagus Association. “Labor already accounts for nearly 60% of our growers’ total costs, and wage hikes—disconnected from market realities—are putting multi-generational family farms and rural economies at risk. We deeply appreciate Congressman Huizenga’s leadership in rallying bipartisan support for an H-2A wage freeze and urge Congress to act swiftly to support farms that grow hand-harvested fruits and vegetables.”

    “An H-2A wage freeze provides cost predictability for our farmers, allowing them to budget and manage labor resources while ensuring they can continue to employ the necessary labor force for crop planting and harvest while a more permanent solution is investigated,” said Kelly Turner, Ed.D, CAE. Manager, Potato Growers of Michigan.

    “Input costs, including labor, continue to rise as farm families struggle in this troubling farm economy. Without immediate action, these conditions threaten the livelihoods of farmers and their employees. Thankfully, members of Congress are willing to support critical relief until durable reforms are achieved. We are grateful for the consistent leadership of Rep. Huizenga and this bipartisan group of legislators who are standing against the status quo.” John Walt Boatright, American Farm Bureau Federation Director of Government Affairs

    “AmericanHort commends Reps. Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), for leading this bipartisan letter with over 100 Members of Congress requesting to freeze the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR),” said Ken Fisher, President and CEO, AmericanHort. “As labor and affiliated costs continue to put pressure on our growers and the horticulture industry, placing a freeze on the AEWR will ease the high cost of labor and aid growers in planning for the future.”

    “International Fresh Produce Association members need Congress to rise to the occasion to prevent crippling cost increases that will put farms out of business and Congressman Bill Huizenga is leading the charge to do just that. By addressing the single biggest complaint from H-2A program users – uncontrollable wage labor costs – Congressman Huizenga’s bipartisan appropriations language will provide the relief we need today, while we work together to seek broader program reforms.” Rebeckah Adcock, Vice President, US Government Relations, International Fresh Produce Association

    “Congress’ failure to modernize the H-2A visa program has led to unsustainable, perpetual annual wage increases that are driving American farmers out of business,” said Kasey Cronquist, president of the North American Blueberry Council. “Congressman Huizenga’s bipartisan effort to pause the Adverse Effect Wage Rate is more critical than ever. On behalf of the many blueberry growers across the country who rely on the H-2A program to harvest their crops, we thank every member of Congress who is standing up for American farmers by supporting this appropriations request,” said Kasey Cronquist, President of The North American Blueberry Council (NABC).

    “We greatly appreciate Rep. Huizenga for leading this bipartisan effort to address the single biggest challenge facing apple growers nationwide. The unsustainable cost of the H-2A program is forcing multi-generational family farms to question whether they can keep going, let alone pass their operations on to the next generation. We urge Congress to enact this freeze and pursue common-sense H-2A reforms so we can continue supplying the world with America’s favorite fruit.” Jim Bair, President & CEO, U.S. Apple Association

    “Out of control AEWR increases have made it nearly impossible for custom harvesters to afford the labor necessary to meet the harvest needs of our farmer customers across the country.  Congress needs to act to provide H-2A wage relief as soon as possible,” said Paul Paplow, President U.S. Custom Harvesters Inc.

    “Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) thanks Congressman Bill Huizenga for working in a bipartisan fashion to raise concerns on the skyrocketing Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) and its impacts on hardworking farm and ranch families,” said TFB President Russell Boening. “While TFB readily recognizes the need for comprehensive long-term H-2A labor reform, a freeze on the AEWR will provide critical short-term relief. If action is not taken, many farmers and ranchers will be forced out of business, putting our national food security at severe risk. We thank all the members of Congress who signed the letter and recognize the direness of the situation. TFB looks forward to our continued work with Congress on agricultural labor reform.”

    Joining Congressman Huizenga on the letter are Representatives: Hillary Scholten (D-MI)[Co-Lead], Rick Crawford (R-AR)[Co-Lead], Patrick Ryan (D-NY)[Co-Lead], Rick Allen (R-GA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Troy Balderson (R-OH), Andy Barr (R-KY), Tom Barrett (R-MI), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA), Cliff Bentz (R-OR), Jack Bergman (R-MI), Sheri Biggs (R-SC), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Mike Bost (R-IL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Kat Cammack (R-FL), Earl Carter (R-GA), Michael Cloud (R-TX), Andrew Clyde (R-GA), Mike Collins (R-GA), James Comer (R-KY), Monica De La Cruz (R-TX), Scott DesJarlais (R-TN), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Gabe Evans (R-CO), Mike Ezell (R-MS), Pat Fallon (R-TX), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Russell Fry (R-SC), Russ Fulcher (R-ID), Craig Goldman (R-TX), Lance Gooden (R-TX), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Mike Haridopolos (R-FL), Pat Harrigan (R-NC), Mark Harris (R-MD), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Kevin Hern (R-OK), Clay Higgins (R-LA), J. Hill (R-AR), Erin Houchin (R-IN), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), Brian Jack (R-KY), Ronny Jackson (R-TX), John James (R-MI), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), John Joyce (R-PA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Trent Kelly (R-MS), Mike Kennedy (R-UT), Jennifer Kiggans (R-VA), Brad Knott (R-NC), David Kustoff (R-TN), Darin LaHood (R-IL), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), Nicholas Langworthy (R-NY), Robert Latta (R-OH), Michael Lawler (R-NY), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), Frank Lucas (R-OK), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), Nancy Mace (R-SC), John Mannion (D-NY), Michael McCaul (R-TX), Addison McDowell (R-NC), John McGuire (R-VA), Mark Messmer (R-IN), Daniel Meuser (R-PA), Mary Miller (R-IL), Max Miller (R-OH), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), Cory Mills (R-FL), Barry Moore (R-AL), Blake Moore (R-UT), Nathaniel Moran (R-TX), Gregory Murphy (R-NC), Troy Nehls (R-TX), Ralph Norman (R-SC), Zachary Nunn (R-IA), Gary Palmer (R-AL), August Pfluger (R-TX), Josh Riley (D-NY), Mike Rogers (R-AL), John Rose (R-TN), David Rouzer (R-NC), Maria Salazar (R-FL), Austin Scott (R-GA), Keith Self (R-TX), Pete Sessions (R-TX), Jefferson Shreve (R-IN), Adrian Smith (R-NE), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), W. Steube (R-FL), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Glenn Thompson (R-PA), William Timmons (R-SC), Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ), Randy Weber (R-TX), Daniel Webster (R-FL), Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Roger Williams (R-TX), Joe Wilson (R-SC), and Rudy Yakym (R-IN).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabinet welcomes reset of SA-US Relations

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Cabinet has welcomed the reset of strategic relationships between South Africa (SA) and the United States (US) during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s working visit to the United States of America.

    Speaking during a post-Cabinet briefing in Cape Town on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the SA and US teams will finalise the details of the trade deal between the two countries. 

    “It is safe to emphasise that the objectives that SA had set for the trip have been met. Cabinet looks forward to the continued participation of the US administration in the G20, including the possible attendance of President Trump to the G20 Leaders’ Summit,” the Minister said.

    President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded a working visit to Washington DC in the United States last week Wednesday. The meeting at the Oval House was attended by senior US and South African officials. 

    READ I SA and US have ‘everything to gain’ from closer relations

    The South African delegation consisted of several Cabinet Ministers, notable business figures, and prominent South Africans.

    President Ramaphosa was flanked by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, Minister Ntshavheni, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen. 

    In addition, the President was accompanied by Johann Rupert, the Founder of Richemont and Chairman of Remgro. Vice President of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) Adrian Gore and President of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) Zingiswa Losi also formed part of the delegation.

    South African pro golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen were also in attendance. 

    President Trump was flanked by several key officials including Vice President JD Vance, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Special Government Employee Elon Musk, and Dr Massad Boulos, who serves as a Senior Advisor for Africa as well as on Arab and Middle Eastern Affairs.

    South Africa – France Relations

    Cabinet has also welcomed the working visit by Deputy President Paul Mashatile aimed at strengthening relations between South Africa and France. 

    READ I Deputy President concludes working visit to France

    The Deputy President and the SA delegation also attended the SA-France Investment Conference with a view to improving investments by French Companies into South Africa and vice versa and also establishing partnerships between South African and French companies in joint investments through the African Continental Free Trade Area. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Bean Announces Launch of Congressional App Challenge to Inspire the Next Generation of Innovators

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Aaron Bean Florida (4th District)

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) today announced the launch of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Florida’s Fourth Congressional District. 

    The annual competition challenges students to create an original software application.  The winner will be eligible to have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol, featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website, and will be invited to attend the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill reception.

    “The Congressional App Challenge is an exciting opportunity for students to explore the world of coding, creativity, and innovation. By participating, young innovators can develop original apps that solve real-world problems, sharpen their STEM skills, and become the tech leaders of tomorrow. I encourage all eligible students to take part in this competition and turn their ideas into reality. The future of innovation starts with you,” said Congressman Bean.

    OVERVIEW

    The Congressional App Challenge is an opportunity for students to test their abilities in coding and computer science, hone their skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) disciplines, and begin exploring potential future career paths.

    The Congressional App Challenge is open to all middle and high school students in the Fourth Congressional District.  Students may begin registering for the event today on the Congressional App Challenge website. The deadline to submit an original app is October 30, 2025.

    For complete details about the rules and requirements, please click HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –