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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Key Portion of NASA’s Roman Space Telescope Clears Thermal Vacuum Test

    Source: NASA

    One half of NASA’s nearly complete Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope just passed a lengthy test to ensure it will function properly in the space environment. This milestone keeps Roman well on track for its target launch by May 2027, with the team aiming for as early as fall 2026.

    “This milestone tees us up to attach the flight solar array sun shield to the outer barrel assembly, and deployable aperture cover, which we’ll begin this month,” said Jack Marshall, who leads integration and testing for these elements at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “Then we’ll complete remaining environmental tests for the flight assembly before moving on to connect Roman’s two major assemblies and run the full observatory through testing, and then we’ll be ready to launch!”
    Prior to this thermal testing, technicians integrated Roman’s deployable aperture cover, a visor-like sunshade, to the outer barrel assembly, which will house the telescope and instruments, in January, then added test solar panels in March. They moved this whole structure into the Space Environment Simulator test chamber at NASA Goddard in April.
    There, it was subjected to the hot and cold temperatures it will experience in space. Next, technicians will join Roman’s flight solar panels to the outer barrel assembly and sunshade. Then the structure will undergo a suite of assessments, including a shake test to ensure it can withstand the vibrations experienced during launch.

    Meanwhile, Roman’s other major portion — the spacecraft and integrated payload assembly, which consists of the telescope, instrument carrier, and two instruments — will undergo its own shake test, along with additional assessments. Technicians will install the lower instrument sun shade and put this half of the observatory through a thermal vacuum test in the Space Environment Simulator.
    “The test verifies the instruments will remain at stable operating temperatures even while the Sun bakes one side of the observatory and the other is exposed to freezing conditions — all in a vacuum, where heat doesn’t flow as readily as it does through air,” said Jeremy Perkins, an astrophysicist serving as Roman’s observatory integration and test scientist at NASA Goddard. Keeping the instrument temperatures stable ensures their readings will be precise and reliable.
    Technicians are on track to connect Roman’s two major parts in November, resulting in a complete observatory by the end of the year. Following final tests, Roman is expected to ship to the launch site at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida for launch preparations in summer 2026. Roman remains on schedule for launch by May 2027, with the team aiming for launch as early as fall 2026.

    To virtually tour an interactive version of the telescope, visit:
    https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov/interactive
    The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is managed at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, with participation by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California; Caltech/IPAC in Pasadena, California; the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore; and a science team comprising scientists from various research institutions. The primary industrial partners are BAE Systems Inc. in Boulder, Colorado; L3Harris Technologies in Rochester, New York; and Teledyne Scientific & Imaging in Thousand Oaks, California.
    By Ashley BalzerNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
    ​​Media Contact:Claire AndreoliNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center301-286-1940

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming County, W.Va., Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) closing permanently Friday, May 9

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    HARLESTON, W.Va. – The FEMA-West Virginia Disaster Recovery Center in Wyoming County is closing permanently Friday, May 9, 2025, at 6 p.m.
    The center is located at: 

    Wyoming County Disaster Recovery Center

    Wyoming Court House
    24 Main Ave
    Pineville, WV 24874 
    Hours of operation:
    Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    Closing permanently at 6 p.m., Friday, May 9, 2025

    PLEASE NOTE: While the deadline to register for FEMA assistance was April 28, some centers are still open. Residents can visit and check on their application statuses, add required documents or appeal decisions.
    Residents of Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne and Wyoming counties can continue to visit recovery centers in McDowell and Mingo counties to talk face-to-face with FEMA staff. Center information is below:

    McDowell County Disaster Recovery Center 
    Mingo County Disaster Recovery Center

    Bradshaw Town Hall
    10002 Marshall Hwy
    Bradshaw, WV 24817 
    Hours of operation:
    Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    Closed weekends

    Williamson Campus
    1601 Armory Drive
    Williamson, WV 25661 
    Hours of operation:
    Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    Closed weekends

    DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
    Residents who live in one of the seven designated counties can visit any Disaster Recovery Center, regardless of the county it is in. Residents can go to fema.gov/drc to find their nearest recovery center.
    If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, contact FEMA to learn more about next steps.  DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.
    Survivors do not have to visit a disaster center to communicate with FEMA. They can call 800-621-3362 (FEMA). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. They can also go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app on their smartphone.
    For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
    ###
    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.
    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam.
    For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Glimpse of a Meatball

    Source: NASA

    The NASA “meatball” logo, mounted on the Flight Research Building at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, peeks through tree leaves in this June 10, 2016, photo. Built in the 1940s, the Flight Research Building, also known as the NASA Glenn Hangar, is a facility large enough to hold numerous aircraft of various sizes. It has been home to many unique and innovative aircraft over the years.
    Take a virtual tour of the Hangar.
    Image credit: NASA/Bridget Caswell

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Visualization From NASA’s Webb Telescope Explores Cosmic Cliffs

    Source: NASA

    In July 2022, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope made its public debut with a series of breathtaking images. Among them was an ethereal landscape nicknamed the Cosmic Cliffs. This glittering realm of star birth is the subject of a new 3D visualization derived from the Webb data. The visualization, created by NASA’s Universe of Learning and titled “Exploring the Cosmic Cliffs in 3D,” breathes new life into an iconic Webb image.
    It is being presented today at a special event hosted by the International Planetarium Society to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first public planetarium in Munich, Germany.
    The landscape of “mountains” and “valleys” known as the Cosmic Cliffs is actually a portion of the nebula Gum 31, which contains a young star cluster called NGC 3324. Both Gum 31 and NGC 3324 are part of a vast star-forming region known as the Carina Nebula Complex.
    Ultraviolet light and stellar winds from the stars of NGC 3324 have carved a cavernous area within Gum 31. A portion of this giant bubble is seen above the Cosmic Cliffs. (The star cluster itself is outside this field of view.)
    The Cliffs display a misty appearance, with “steam” that seems to rise from the celestial mountains. In actuality, the wisps are hot, ionized gas and dust streaming away from the nebula under an onslaught of relentless ultraviolet radiation.
    Eagle-eyed viewers may also spot particularly bright, yellow streaks and arcs that represent outflows from young, still-forming stars embedded within the Cosmic Cliffs. The latter part of the visualization sequence swoops past a prominent protostellar jet in the upper right of the image.

    [embedded content]
    In July 2022, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope made history, revealing a breathtaking view of a region now nicknamed the Cosmic Cliffs.This glittering landscape, captured in incredible detail, is part of the nebula Gum 31 — a small piece of the vast Carina Nebula Complex — where stars are born amid clouds of gas and dust.This visualization brings Webb’s iconic image to life — helping us imagine the true, three-dimensional structure of the universe… and our place within it.

    Produced for NASA by the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) with partners at Caltech/IPAC, and developed by the AstroViz Project of NASA’s Universe of Learning, this visualization is part of a longer, narrated video that provides broad audiences, including youth, families, and lifelong learners, with a direct connection to the science and scientists of NASA’s Astrophysics missions. That video enables viewers to explore fundamental questions in science, experience how science is done, and discover the universe for themselves.
    “Bringing this amazing Webb image to life helps the public to comprehend the three-dimensional structure inherent in the 2D image, and to develop a better mental model of the universe,” said STScI’s Frank Summers, principal visualization scientist and leader of the AstroViz Project.
    More visualizations and connections between the science of nebulas and learners can be explored through other products produced by NASA’s Universe of Learning including a Carina Nebula Complex resource page and ViewSpace, a video exhibit that is currently running at almost 200 museums and planetariums across the United States. Visitors can go beyond video to explore the images produced by space telescopes with interactive tools now available for museums and planetariums.
    NASA’s Universe of Learning materials are based upon work supported by NASA under award number NNX16AC65A to the Space Telescope Science Institute, working in partnership with Caltech/IPAC, Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian, and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
    The James Webb Space Telescope is the world’s premier space science observatory. Webb is solving mysteries in our solar system, looking beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probing the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international program led by NASA with its partners, ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).
    NASA’s Universe of Learning is part of the NASA Science Activation program, from the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters. The Science Activation program connects NASA science experts, real content and experiences, and community leaders in a way that activates minds and promotes deeper understanding of our world and beyond. Using its direct connection to the science and the experts behind the science, NASA’s Universe of Learning provides resources and experiences that enable youth, families, and lifelong learners to explore fundamental questions in science, experience how science is done, and discover the universe for themselves.
    To learn more about Webb, visit:
    https://science.nasa.gov/webb
    Downloads
    View/Download all image products at all resolutions for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.

    Laura Betz – laura.e.betz@nasa.govNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
    Christine Pulliam – cpulliam@stsci.eduSpace Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, Md.

    Explore more: Carina Nebula Complex from NASA’s Universe of Learning
    Read more: Webb’s view of the Cosmic Cliffs
    Listen: Carina Nebula sonification
    Read more: Webb’s star formation discoveries
    More Webb News
    More Webb Images
    Webb Science Themes
    Webb Mission Page

    What is the Webb Telescope?
    SpacePlace for Kids
    En Español
    Ciencia de la NASA
    NASA en español 
    Space Place para niños

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Statement on Appointment of New JPL Director

    Source: NASA

    The following is a statement from acting NASA Administrator Janet Petro on the appointment of David Gallagher as director of the agency’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Southern California. NASA JPL announced Wednesday Laurie Leshin would step down effective Sunday, June 1.
    “Laurie Leshin’s leadership at JPL has been nothing short of extraordinary. She brought a sharp scientific mind, a strong sense purpose, and a clear vision that helped propel the lab forward during a pivotal time. From groundbreaking missions to remarkable technological milestones, Laurie advanced JPL’s legacy of exploration and innovation. We are grateful for her service and wish her the very best as she continues to inspire in the next phase of her career.
    “I’m equally confident in Dave Gallagher’s ability to lead JPL’s next chapter. He brings decades of experience, a steady hand, and a deep understanding of what makes JPL unique. With Dave at the helm, JPL remains well-positioned to continue delivering for NASA and the nation – pushing the boundaries of science and discovery for the benefit of all.”
    For more information about NASA, visit:

    Home Page

    -end-
    Bethany Stevens / Amber JacobsonHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600bethany.c.stevens@nasa.gov / amber.c.jacobson@nasa.gov 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dave Gallagher Named 11th Director of JPL as Laurie Leshin Steps Down

    Source: NASA

    Laurie Leshin has decided to step down as director of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory on Sunday, June 1. David Gallagher, who has been serving as the Lab’s associate director for Strategic Integration, has been selected by Caltech to lead the federally funded research and development center. Caltech manages JPL for NASA.
    A distinguished geochemist, Leshin was named by Caltech to lead the lab in early 2022. Her career has spanned academia and senior positions at NASA. Several NASA missions managed by JPL have launched under her leadership, including EMIT, SWOT, Psyche, PREFIRE, Europa Clipper, and SPHEREx, with the NASA-Indian Earth satellite NISAR set for a June launch. In addition, JPL has advanced the development of NASA’s asteroid-hunting NEO Surveyor mission as well as the trio of CADRE lunar rovers, and it delivered the Coronagraph Instrument, a technology demonstration with NASA’s forthcoming Roman Space Telescope.
    “I am proud of the many things JPL has accomplished over the past three years,” said Leshin. “In addition to the long list of missions that have launched or moved toward launch during that time, we saved Voyager more than once and flew into history on Mars with Ingenuity. We have made more amazing scientific discoveries than I can name, including finding potential ancient Martian biomarkers with Perseverance. And we’ve driven the forefront of technology on Earth and in space. I know those achievements will continue under Dave’s capable leadership.”
    Leshin, who has also served as Caltech vice president, is stepping down for personal reasons and will remain a Bren Professor of Geochemistry and Planetary Science at Caltech.
    “While we respect Laurie’s decision to step away from her leadership position at JPL, we will miss her drive, compassion, and dedication,” Caltech President Thomas Rosenbaum said. “At the same time, we are grateful to Dave Gallagher for his devotion to JPL and his continuing leadership and partnership going forward. Dave’s experience working across multiple government and private sector entities will help secure ongoing support for America’s agenda in space, with JPL continuing to play an essential role.”
    Gallagher will draw on his deep experience at JPL to lead the lab into the future. He arrived at JPL 36 years ago, in 1989, and went on to hold numerous leadership positions. Along with having served as the director and deputy director for Astronomy, Physics, and Space Technology, he was manager of JPL’s Advanced Optical Systems Program Office. An electrical engineer, Gallagher also managed the Spitzer Space Telescope and, among other roles, led the team that built and tested the Wide Field/Planetary Camera 2 (WF/PC-2) — a critical instrument that corrected the spherical aberration on NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope.
    “Laurie has made a significant impact on energizing and focusing the lab, guiding it back on track after the Covid-19 pandemic. I wish her great success in this next chapter of her career, and I look forward to a very smooth transition at the lab,” said Gallagher. “We have exciting opportunities ahead helping to advance our nation’s space agenda and a fantastic team to help realize them.”
    Founded by Caltech faculty and students in 1936, JPL has been managed by Caltech on behalf of NASA since 1958.
    News Media Contacts
    Matthew Segal / Veronica McGregorJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.818-354-8307 / 818-354-9452matthew.j.segal@jpl.nasa.gov / veronica.c.mcgregor@jpl.nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Expands Youth Engagement With New Scouting America Agreement

    Source: NASA

    NASA and the Sam Houston Area Council (SHAC) of Scouting America signed a collaborative Space Act Agreement on December 17, 2024, expanding youth access to programs and opportunities with the Johnson Space Center’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) in Houston.
    The agreement forges the first formal partnership between NASA OSTEM and Scouting America. It will leverage NASA’s educational outreach programs to enrich scout activities and experiences while providing the agency with new opportunities to engage youth around its mission, vision, and goals.

    “Our ability to explore the unknown and innovate for the benefit of all humanity depends on a highly skilled and competitive STEM workforce,” said NASA Acting Associate Administrator Vanessa Wyche. “Together with SHAC, we can inspire future generations of explorers, scientists, and engineers to help us take the next giant leap toward exciting discoveries.”
    The agreement has already enabled NASA and SHAC to collaborate on a new space-focused summer experience at Camp Strake, the council’s premier camping facility in Southeast Texas. During the weeklong program, scouts will participate in hands-on STEM activities created in partnership with NASA, tour Johnson Space Center, attend robotics and space exploration workshops, and get an in-depth look at NASA’s current projects. SHAC serves approximately 25,000 youth in 16 counties in Southeast Texas.

    “NASA and SHAC share common goals of growing youth interest in science, technology, engineering, and math careers, and providing access to programs and experiences that prepare them to enter the STEM workforce,” said Gamaliel Cherry, director of Johnson’s Office of STEM Engagement. “We are excited to connect more students to NASA’s mission, work, and people through this partnership.”
    NASA OSTEM provides opportunities for the next generation of explorers to discover and hone the science, technology, engineering, and math skills needed for the agency’s bold exploration plans.
    For the latest NASA STEM events, news, and activities for students at any grade level, visit:
    https://stem.nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TSA Begins REAL ID Full Enforcement

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: TSA Begins REAL ID Full Enforcement

    lass=”text-align-center”>Travelers with a non-compliant ID will now face additional screening measures

     
    WASHINGTON — Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the implementation of its REAL ID enforcement measures at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints nationwide

    Most travelers won’t even notice a difference because 81% of travelers are already REAL ID compliant

    “REAL ID helps ensure that travelers are who they say they are and prevents fraud by criminals, terrorists, and illegal aliens,” said Secretary Kristi Noem

    “Enforcing federal law will help keep American travelers safe

    ”
    TSA will enforce REAL ID and ensure there is no impact to wait times or TSA screening applications, especially for those passengers who are prepared with their REAL ID, passport, or other acceptable form of ID

    Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area to receive additional screening

    TSA expects the number of passengers obtaining REAL IDs to steadily increase and will continue with additional screening measures for those without a REAL ID until it is no longer considered a security vulnerability

     
    More information on REAL ID can be found at this link TSA

    gov/real-id

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Eastern Tennessee Communities Awarded $2 Million for Helene Costs

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    he state of Tennessee and FEMA have awarded nearly $2 million for emergency and permanent work to repair bridges, restore utilities, remove debris and take measures to protect 14 Eastern Tennessee counties affected by Tropical Storm Helene.
    The major presidential declaration designated Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Sevier, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington counties for FEMA Public Assistance, a program that helps communities as they respond to declared disasters or emergencies. 
    In Cocke County, the City of Newport cleared more than 4,726 cubic yards of sand, soil and mud from streets and sidewalks after the storm. The city also contracted to have 4,156 cubic yards of vegetative debris and 570 cubic yards of mud, soil and sand removed from the public rights-of-way. 
    FEMA’s share for this project is $83,731; the nonfederal share is $27,910.
    The Public Assistance program reimburses communities for emergency work to save lives and protect property; remove debris; and repair roads, bridges, public buildings, utilities and parks. Because this is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of eligible costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.
    Below is a list of community projects, the total dollars awarded, and the category of Public Assistance funding:
    Carter County: First Utility District $4,966 for emergency protective measures.
    Hawkins County: Emergency Communications District $4,632 for emergency protective measures.
    Johnson County: $624,640 for Morefield Bridge repairs; $617,344 for Furnace Creek Bridge repairs; and $12,875 for Brownlow Utility District meter repairs.
    Sevier County: $34,524 for City of Pigeon Forge, $11,154 for Sevier County Utility District, and $196,489 for the county government, all for emergency protective measures.
    Unicoi County: Gas Utility District $27,949 for emergency protective measures; $39,335 for restoring gas service to residential customers; Sheriff’s Office $124,760 for emergency protective measures.
    Washington County: Johnson City Energy Authority $227,806 for emergency protective measures; the county Emergency Communications District $6,041 for emergency protective measures.
    Public Assistance is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30. The president approved a major disaster declaration for Tennessee on Oct. 2, allowing FEMA to pay for eligible costs associated with the emergency.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH NOW: Secretary Noem Calls Out Governor J.B. Pritzker’s and his Sanctuary Policies That Put Illegal Aliens Before Americans

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: WATCH NOW: Secretary Noem Calls Out Governor J

    B

    Pritzker’s and his Sanctuary Policies That Put Illegal Aliens Before Americans

    PRINGFIELD, IL – Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem hosts a press conference in Illinois Governor Pritzker’s backyard with Angel Families to call out the state’s sanctuary policies that undermine the rule of law and endanger fellow Americans

      
    Some of the Angel Families that will be in attendance are: 

    The family of Denny McCann: Denny was crossing the street when he was hit by a car in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood and dragged to his death by an illegal alien

    The driver was charged in the fatal crash, but after being released on bond, he disappeared

      
    The family of Jimmy Walden: Jimmy was killed by a twice deported illegal alien who crashed into Jimmy’s motorcycle

    He was killed in Maryland, but his father lives in Illinois

    You can watch the full press conference here

        
    “I am calling upon Governor Pritzker, and other leaders in the state of Illinois, to abandon these dangerous sanctuary policies,” said Secretary Kristi Noem

    “We need to return to law and order and put the safety of Americans first

    ”  
    Just this month, ICE arrested Mexican national, Martin Chavez-Lomeli Jr

    , convicted in 2023 of killing his father and was sentenced to 20 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC)

    After his conviction for second-degree murder, he was removeable from the country

    However, in 2023, ICE placed a detainer on Chavez-Lomeli Jr

    at Illinois Department of Correction and the State of Illinois elected not to honor the ICE detainer

    Chavez-Lomeli Jr

    was released from prison after serving less than 6 years of a 20-year sentence and was placed on parole

      
     
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Selects Winners of the 2024-2025 Power to Explore Challenge

    Source: NASA

    Explore This Section

    RPS Home
    About

    About RPS
    About the Program
    About Plutonium-238
    Safety and Reliability
    For Mission Planners
    Contact

    Power & Heat

    Overview
    Power Systems
    Thermal Systems
    Dynamic Radioisotope Power

    Missions

    Overview
    Timeline

    News
    Resources
    STEM
    FAQ

    3 min read
    NASA Selects Winners of the 2024-2025 Power to Explore Challenge

    Ten-year-old, Terry Xu of Arcadia, California; 14-year-old, Maggie Hou of Snohomish, Washington; and 17-year-old, Kairat Otorov of Trumbull, Connecticut, winners of the 2024-2025 Power to Explore Student Writing Challenge.
    NASA/David Lam, Binbin Zheng, The Herald/Olivia Vanni, Meerim Otorova

    NASA has chosen three winners out of nine finalists in the fourth annual Power to Explore Challenge, a national writing competition designed to teach K-12 students about the enabling power of radioisotopes for space exploration.

    “Congratulations to the amazing champions and all of the participants!

    Carl Sandifer II
    Program Manager, NASA’s Radioisotope Power Systems Program

    The essay competition asked students to learn about NASA’s radioisotope power systems (RPS), likened to “nuclear batteries,” which the agency has used discover “moonquakes” on Earth’s Moon and study some of the most extreme of the more than 891 moons in the solar system. In 275 words or less, students dreamed up a unique exploration mission of one of these moons and described their own power to achieve their mission goals.
    “I’m so impressed by the creativity and knowledge of our Power to Explore winners,” said Carl Sandifer II, program manager of the Radioisotope Power Systems Program at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.
    Entries were split into three groups based on grade level, and a winner was chosen from each. The three winners, each accompanied by a guardian, are invited to NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland for a VIP tour of its world-class research facilities this summer.
    The winners are:

    Terry Xu, Arcadia, California, kindergarten through fourth grade
    Maggie Hou, Snohomish, Washington, fifth through eighth grade
    Kairat Otorov, Trumbull, Connecticut, ninth through 12th grade

    “Congratulations to the amazing champions and all of the participants! Your “super powers” inspire me and make me even more optimistic about the future of America’s leadership in space,” Sandifer said.
    The Power to Explore Challenge offered students the opportunity to learn about space power, celebrate their own strengths, and interact with NASA’s diverse workforce. This year’s contest received nearly 2,051 submitted entries from all 50 states, U.S. territories, and the Department of Defense Education Activity overseas.
    Every student who submitted an entry received a digital certificate and an invitation to the Power Up virtual event held on March 21. There, NASA announced the 45 national semifinalists, and students learned about what powers the NASA workforce.
    Additionally, the national semifinalists received a NASA RPS prize pack.
    NASA announced three finalists in each age group (nine total) on April 23. Finalists were invited to discuss their mission concepts with a NASA scientist or engineer during an exclusive virtual event.
    The challenge is funded by the Radioisotope Power Systems Program Office in NASA’s Science Mission Directorate and administered by Future Engineers under a Small Business Innovation Research phase III contract. This task is managed by the NASA Tournament Lab, a part of the Prizes, Challenges, and Crowdsourcing Program in NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate.
    For more information on radioisotope power systems visit: https://nasa.gov/rps

    Karen Fox / Erin Morton
    Headquarters, Washington
    301-286-6284 / 202-805-9393
    karen.c.fox@nasa.gov / erin.morton@nasa.gov

    Kristin Jansen
    Glenn Research Center, Cleveland
    216-296-2203
    kristin.m.jansen@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom, Superintendent Thurmond announce over $618 million to support another 458 community schools

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    What you need to know: The State Board of Education voted today to approve funding to support 458 schools sites and build on the nation-leading community schools initiative, which provide families the resources and support they need to thrive, like health care and mental health and social service.

    Governor Gavin Newsom and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced today that the fourth and final round of community schools implementation grants – totaling more than $618 million – were unanimously approved at the May meeting of the State Board of Education earlier today.

    The $4.1 billion California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP) is the nation’s largest investment in dismantling barriers to learning that lead to inequitable student outcomes. Community schools partner with education, county, and nonprofit entities to provide integrated health, mental health, and social services alongside high-quality, supportive instruction with a strong focus on community, family and student engagement.

    “California continues to find and support innovative ways to make schools a place where every family and student can succeed. Today, we build on our nation-leading community schools program – more than 450 additional schools, offering everything from free meals twice a day to mental health counseling to before, after, and summer school programs to thousands more students.” 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    With the addition of today’s allocation, California is now funding a total of nearly 2,500 community schools to leverage community resources in support of student wellbeing and academic success. These schools represent some of the highest-need school communities in the state of California.

    California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond: “I am proud to see our Community Schools initiative continue to grow as the final cohort of grantees receive funds. These grants support our schools to address foundational needs for learning, making sure that our students are healthy and able to learn. Our Community Schools continue to serve as exemplars of programs that activate resources across the whole school community to educate the whole child. I am proud to see California continue to be at the forefront of recognizing that student wellness is a cornerstone of learning.”

    State Board of Education President Linda Darling-Hammond: “Well-resourced community schools have proven to increase attendance, achievement and attainment for students, transforming their lives and improving the well-being of families, thus uplifting entire communities. Children succeed in the classroom when they are healthy, happy, and in a learning environment where they are surrounded by knowledgeable and caring adults attuned to their needs. I appreciate Governor Newsom for continuing to prioritize the community school approach in California.” 

    Community schools initiative

    Community schools are a key initiative of California’s historic transformation of public schools that includes universal free school meals, universal transitional kindergarten, before- and after-school learning and investments in teacher training, coaching, recruitment and retention. Established in 2021 when the California Legislature passed the California Community Schools Partnership Act, and expanded in 2022, the CCSPP statewide technical assistance infrastructure supports schools and LEAs to coordinate the implementation of these initiatives for maximum impact and sustainability. 

    The Board’s action today awards more than $618 million to 121 LEAs across the state. Those funds will support a total of 458 schools in implementing a community schools approach at their sites. The list of awardees is available through the May 7, 2025 SBE Agenda (see Item 9, Attachment 1).

    Today’s allocation builds on nearly $1.3 billion that the SBE approved last year to support 998 school sites, the $750.5 million approved in ’22-23 to support 570 school sites, and the $625.5 million approved to support 458 school sites in ’21-22 – the first year of the program.

    Funding at work

    Elk Hills Elementary is a K-8 school in the Elk Hills Elementary School District in Kern County. The school, which received CCSPP funding in 2021, organizes its community school around five priority areas: (1) early childhood education, (2) expanded learning, (3) math and literacy education, (4) family and community engagement, and (5) social and mental health services. Through this approach, Elk Hills has gradually seen improvement in a number of areas, including math and ELA scores, according to last year’s data from the California School Dashboard. Included in those results was a significant decrease in chronic absenteeism attributed to relationship-centered structures and practices that aim to enhance school connectedness among students and families.

    Folsom Cordova Unified School District is a community schools district that uses “Coordination of Services Teams” to provide comprehensive support for students facing challenges. As a result of CCSPP funding, at Mills Middle School, reading outcomes have improved for five student groups in one year (African American, English Learners, Hispanic, Socioeconomically Disadvantaged, and Students with Disabilities). This engagement to support students has also supported staff retention, which has dramatically improved at this high-need middle school.

    Buena Vista Horace Mann is a K-8, Spanish dual immersion, community school in the Mission District of San Francisco. A first-round CCSPP implementation grant recipient, the school utilized funding for an on-site therapist, summer school and after-school enrichment programs. The school blends state and local funding sources to offer extensive basic needs, health, and wellness resources to students and families, including on-site behavioral and mental health services and a stay-over program for families experiencing homelessness, which supports stability and safety. This approach has enabled Buena Vista Horace Mann to dramatically reduce its chronic absenteeism rate.

    For more information on the California Community Schools Partnership Program, please visit CDE’s community schools webpage.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Associate Justice Helen Zukin as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four, Judge Mark Hanasono as Associate Justice of the Second…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: California and 16 other states today filed a federal lawsuit accusing President Trump of unlawfully withholding billions of dollars approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would reduce…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Despite the Trump Administration’s assaults, both California and Texas are working to build high-speed rail. But only one state has built anything: California. SACRAMENTO — What’s the main difference between California high-speed rail and…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces judicial appointments 5.7.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Associate Justice Helen Zukin as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four, Judge Mark Hanasono as Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three, and, pending confirmation of Justice Helen Zukin to the role of Presiding Justice, Judge Armen Tamzarian as Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four. 

    The Governor also announced his appointment of 12 Superior Court Judges: one in Fresno County; five in Los Angeles County; one in Orange County; one in Sacramento County; one in San Diego County; one in Santa Barbara County; one in Santa Clara County; and one in Ventura County.

    Second District Court of Appeal

    Associate Justice Helen Zukin, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four. She has served as an Associate Justice in Division Four since 2023. She served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court from 2018 to 2023. Justice Zukin was a partner at Kiesel Law LLP from 2006 to 2018. She worked as a Solo Practitioner at the Law Offices of Helen E. Zukin from 1995 to 2006. She was a partner at Simke, Chodos, Silberfeld & Anteau, Inc. from 1990 to 1995. Justice Zukin worked as an associate at Greene, O’Reilly, Agnew & Broillet from 1985 to 1990. Justice Zukin received a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Presiding Justice Brian Currey. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Justice Zukin is a Democrat.

    Judge Mark Hanasono, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as an Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three. He has served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2013. Judge Hanasono served as a Deputy Alternate Public Defender at the Los Angeles County Alternate Public Defender’s Office from 2004 to 2013. He was a Deputy Public Defender at the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office from 2000 to 2004. He was a Judicial Law Clerk in the District of Columbia Superior Court from 1999 to 2000. Judge Hanasono received a Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown University. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Luis A. Lavin. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Judge Hanasono is a Democrat.

    Judge Armen Tamzarian, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as an Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four. He has served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2013. Judge Tamzarian was a lead appellate court attorney at the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three from 2008 to 2013. He was an associate and later a partner at Case, Knowlson, Jordan & Wright LLP from 1997 to 2008. He was a research attorney at the Los Angeles Superior Court from 1996 to 1997. Judge Tamzarian received a Juris Doctor degree from Southwestern Law School. Pending her confirmation, he will fill the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Helen Zukin to Presiding Justice. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Judge Tamzarian is a Democrat.

    The compensation for each of these positions is $280,052.
     

    Fresno County Superior Court

    Melissa Baloian, of Fresno County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Fresno County Superior Court. Baloian has worked as a Solo Practitioner since 2023. She was a Supervising Attorney at The Matian Firm from 2022 to 2023. She worked as a Solo Practitioner at the Law Office of Melissa Baloian from 2011 to 2022. Baloian served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Madera County District Attorney’s Office in 2011. She worked as a Deputy District Attorney at the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office from 2007 to 2010. Baloian served as a Deputy City Attorney at the Fresno City Attorney’s Office from 2006 to 2007. She served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Fresno County Public Defender’s Office from 2004 to 2006. Baloian received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of San Francisco, School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Adolfo Corona. Baloian is registered as no party preference. 

    Los Angeles County Superior Court

    Syna Dennis, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Dennis has served as a Commissioner in the Los Angeles Superior Court since 2023. She has served in various roles at the Los Angeles County Counsel Office including as a Principal Deputy County Counsel from 2005 to 2023 and a Senior Deputy County Counsel from 1999 to 2005. She worked as an Associate Attorney at the Law Offices of Atkins and Evans from 1989 to 1999. Dennis received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Harvey A. Silberman. Dennis is a Democrat.

    Hoa Hoang, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Hoang has served as a Lead Appellate Court Attorney at the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Seven since 2018. Hoang served in various roles at the Second District Court of Appeals, including as a Senior Appellate Court Attorney from 2017 to 2018 and an Appellate Court Attorney from 2011 to 2017. Hoang worked as an Associate for Hogan Lovells US LLP from 2002 to 2010. She served as a Law Clerk at the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California from 2000 to 2002. Hoang received a Juris Doctor degree from UCLA School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Michelle W. Court to the Federal Court. Hoang is a Democrat.

    Lara Bazán, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Bazán has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office since 2012. She worked as an Associate at Jones Day from 2008 to 2012. Bazán received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Southern California School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Michelle C. Kim to the Court of Appeal. Bazán is a Democrat.

    Brenda C. Robinson, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Robinson has worked as a Senior Attorney at the Children’s Law Center of California since 2015. She served as a Senior Policy Deputy for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors from 2013 to 2014. Robinson worked at the Children’s Law Center as a Supervising Attorney from 2007 to 2012 and as a Staff Attorney from 2001 to 2007. Robinson was a Partner at Robinson, Wright, and Newsom from 1998 to 2001. Robinson received a Juris Doctor degree from Golden Gate University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Anne K. Richardson to the Court of Appeal. Robinson is a Democrat. 

    Maria Jhai, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles Superior Court. Jhai has served as an Assistant United States Attorney at the Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California since 2019. She worked as an Attorney for Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP from 2014 to 2019. Jhai held a temporary position as a Deputy City Attorney at the Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney in 2017. She served as a Law Clerk at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit from 2013 to 2014. Jhai served as a Law Clerk for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan from 2011 to 2013. Jhai received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Douglas W. Sortino. Jhai is a Democrat.

    Orange County Superior Court

    Michael Mooney, of Orange County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Orange County Superior Court. Mooney has served as a Senior Deputy Public Defender at the Orange County Public Defender since 2012. He worked as an Attorney at the Law Office of Thomas Johnson from 2011 to 2012. Mooney received a Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Julian W. Bailey. Mooney is a Democrat. 
     

    Sacramento County Superior Court

    Martin Tejeda, of Yolo County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Sacramento County Superior Court. Tejeda has served as a Commissioner at the Sacramento County Superior Court since 2023. He was a Sole Practitioner at the Law Offices of Martin Tejeda from 2005 to 2023 and an Associate at Kring and Chung from 2004 to 2005. Tejeda served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Sacramento Public Defender’s Office from 2001 to 2004 and as an attorney at the Law Office of James Kuppenbender from 2000 to 2001. Tejeda  received a Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Dena Coggins to the Federal Court. Tejeda is a Democrat.
     

    San Diego County Superior Court

    Jihan Maloney, of San Diego County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the San Diego County Superior Court. Maloney has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office since 2011. She received a Juris Doctor degree from California Western School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge David Gill. Jihan is registered as no party preference.
     

    Santa Barbara County Superior Court

    Teresa Martinez, of Santa Barbara County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Barbara County Superior Court. Martinez has served as Senior Deputy County Counsel at the Santa Barbara County Counsel’s Office since 2018. She was an Associate at Buynak, Fauver, Archbald & Spray LLP from 2017 to 2018. Martinez was a Solo Practitioner at Teresa Martinez Law from 2016 to 2017. She worked at California Rural Legal Assistance in various roles including Directing Attorney from 2013 to 2016 and staff attorney from 2012 to 2013. Martinez was a contract attorney at the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County from 2011 to 2012. She received a Juris Doctor degree from Cincinnati College of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Jean M. Dandona. Martinez is a Democrat.

    Santa Clara County Superior Court

    Christopher Van Meir, of Santa Clara County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Van Meir has served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Santa Clara County Public Defender’s Office since 2018. He served  as a Deputy Public Defender at the Monterey County Public Defender’s Office from 2013 to 2018 and as a Deputy Public Defender at the Placer County Public Defender’s Office from 2006 to 2013. Van Meir received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Jacquiline M. Arroyo. Van Meir is a Democrat.
     

    Ventura County Superior Court

    Carol Hubner, of Ventura County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Ventura County Superior Court. Hubner has served as a Commissioner at the Ventura County Superior Court since 2024. She served as a Commissioner at the Santa Barbara County Superior Court from 2022 to 2024. She was a Managing Partner at Kelly & Hubner, LLP from 2005 to 2022 and a Deputy County Counsel at the Santa Barbara Office of the County Counsel from 2001 to 2005. Hubner worked as an Associate at Hunt & Associates from 2000 to 2001 and as an Associate at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP from 1998 to 2000. Hubner served as a Staff Attorney at the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County from 1998 to 2000. She worked as a Law Clerk at the United States District Court for the Northern District of California in 1998. Hubner received a Juris Doctor degree from Santa Clara University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Nancy L. Ayers. Hubner is a Democrat.

    The compensation for each of these positions is $244,727.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: California and 16 other states today filed a federal lawsuit accusing President Trump of unlawfully withholding billions of dollars approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would reduce…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Despite the Trump Administration’s assaults, both California and Texas are working to build high-speed rail. But only one state has built anything: California. SACRAMENTO — What’s the main difference between California high-speed rail and…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: A new report details nearly $33 billion raised for climate projects and direct support for Californians funded by cap-and-trade, as Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders seek an extension of the program. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California sues Trump administration for illegally withholding billions in bipartisan infrastructure funds: ‘Another Trump gift to China’

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    What you need to know: California and 16 other states today filed a federal lawsuit accusing President Trump of unlawfully withholding billions of dollars approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would reduce toxic pollution, expand access to clean vehicles and create thousands of green jobs.

    SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced today that a multi-state lawsuit was filed in federal court challenging actions taken by President Trump’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to thwart Congress’s $5 billion program to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The Trump administration’s unlawful actions would cost Californians more than $300 million, eliminate thousands of good-paying jobs and hobble a critical, emerging tech industry. 

    On the first day of his administration, President Trump issued an executive order directing federal agencies to immediately stop releasing funds appropriated through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including $5 billion that Congress appropriated for electric vehicle charging stations under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. 

    Following that directive, FHWA effectively halted the NEVI Formula Program by, among other things, unlawfully withholding billions in funds that Congress had directed to the states for building EV infrastructure.

    When America retreats, China wins.

    President Trump’s illegal action withholding funds for electric vehicle infrastructure is yet another Trump gift to China – ceding American innovation and killing thousands of jobs.

    Instead of hawking Teslas on the White House lawn, President Trump could actually help Elon – and the nation – by following the law and releasing this bipartisan funding.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    California, Colorado, and Washington led a coalition of 17 states in suing FHWA. The lawsuit states that FHWA’s unlawful actions deprive the states of billions of dollars in appropriated funds, ignores Congressional mandates, violates the U.S. Constitution and will devastate the ability of states to build the charging infrastructure necessary for making EVs accessible to more consumers, combating climate change, reducing other harmful pollution, and supporting the states’ green economies. 

    “The President continues to roll back environmental and climate change protections, this time illegally stripping away billions of dollars for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, all to line the pockets of his Big Oil friends,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The facts don’t lie: the demand for clean transportation continues to rise, and California will be at the forefront of this transition to a more sustainable, low-emissions future. California will not back down, not from Big Oil, and not from federal overreach.” 

    California’s State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plan anticipated that California would need hundreds of thousands of additional EV charging ports to support passenger cars and trucks and incrementally more charging ports for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses to meet climate goals. The plan, approved by the federal government, would leverage public funding and private investment to build out a statewide charging infrastructure, including $384 million from the NEVI program.   

    The lawsuit requests the court to declare that President Trump’s directives are unlawful, vacate the actions and permanently stop the administration from withholding the funds. 

    A national leader in zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) and infrastructure

    California’s support for clean cars is unmatched, and the state is home to more than 30% of new ZEVs sold in the U.S. With the rise in EV and plug-in hybrid demand, the state is committed to rapidly deploying funds to develop and ensure a reliable and easy-to-use charging network. The state has doubled down on improving the charging network and making it even easier to buy an EV:

    • More than 178,000 public or shared private electric vehicle charging ports have been installed throughout California, plus more than 700,000 at-home charging ports. 
    • Grants and rebates for thousands of dollars are available for low-income Californians to purchase EVs. Learn more at ClimateAction.ca.gov or ElectricForAll.org.

    The work doesn’t stop with passenger electric vehicles — the state has been hard at work to cut emissions from trucks and buses. Recent efforts include:

    • More than $640 million toward the deployment of zero-emission truck and bus recharging and refueling infrastructure.
    • $500 million to put another 1,000 ZEV school buses on the road.
    • More than $1.3 billion for public transportation projects, including several that support zero-emission buses. 

    California’s strategy for a clean transportation transition

    In addition to advancing ZEVs, the Newsom Administration is prioritizing clean fuel production, public transit and rail infrastructure enhancements, and a cleaner, smarter electric grid to help power it all. As California works toward this clean transportation future, the state is also advancing efforts to prevent gasoline price spikes. 

    Standing up for California communities and businesses 

    Today’s lawsuit follows the Governor’s recent announcement that California is challenging President Trump’s authority to unilaterally enact tariffs. The Governor also intends to create new strategic trade relationships with international partners aimed at strengthening shared economic resilience and protecting California’s manufacturers, workers, farmers, businesses, and supply chains. The Governor has also announced a new international campaign to help maintain the strong tourism partnership between California and Canada.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Despite the Trump Administration’s assaults, both California and Texas are working to build high-speed rail. But only one state has built anything: California. SACRAMENTO — What’s the main difference between California high-speed rail and…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: A new report details nearly $33 billion raised for climate projects and direct support for Californians funded by cap-and-trade, as Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders seek an extension of the program. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    May 7, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 4-10, 2025 as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONChildren’s mental health has become an…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tale of two trains: California high-speed rail leaves Texas in the dust

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    What you need to know: Despite the Trump Administration’s assaults, both California and Texas are working to build high-speed rail. But only one state has built anything: California.

    SACRAMENTO — What’s the main difference between California high-speed rail and Texas high-speed rail? California’s system is under construction; Texas’ has yet to break ground. 

    California has transitioned from vision and ideas to active construction and tangible economic benefits, while the Texas project remains a dream mostly on paper. Despite the noise from Washington, California high-speed rail is becoming real. It’s another critical project part of the Governor’s build more, faster agenda delivering infrastructure upgrades and thousands of jobs across the state.

    The facts speak for themselves — here’s the progress since 2013 for both systems:

     

    California High-Speed Rail

     

    Texas Central

     
    Route 494 miles – San Francisco to Los Angeles/Anaheim via Central Valley 240 miles – Dallas to Houston, via Brazos Valley
    Construction Status ✅ 171 miles under active development; 119 miles under active construction; 52 major structures built; extensions to Merced and Bakersfield in design ❌ Not started
    Environmental Clearance ✅ 463 of 494 miles environmentally cleared by federal and state government  Federal clearance (less comprehensive and transparent)
    Station Development ✅ Merced, Fresno, Kings/Tulare and Bakersfield in advance design. ❌ Not started
    Funding Structure ✅ Public funding (state + federal) with potential for future private investment ❌ Private, federal funding pulled
    Projected Opening  ✅ Early Operating Segment: 2030-2033 ❌ Not established
    Jobs Created ✅ 15,000+ jobs ❌ None reported
    Economic Benefits

    ✅ The project has already generated nearly $22 billion in economic output, boosting the state’s economy. The full San Francisco-Los Angeles system is estimated to support $221.8 billion in economic output once it’s in operation.

    		 ❌ No current data. The project is anticipated to generate $36 billion in economic impact over the next 25 years.
    Environmental Benefits

    ✅ Estimated to reduce California’s greenhouse gas emissions by 0.6 to 3 million MTCO2e annually – this is the equivalent of removing 142,000 to 700,000 cars off the road.

    Diverted 95% of construction waste from landfills by recycling, reusing or composting.  

    		 ❌ No current data
    Integration with Existing Transit ✅ Future connections to Caltrain, ACE, High Desert Corridor, Brightline West, Metrolink ❌ Standalone

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: A new report details nearly $33 billion raised for climate projects and direct support for Californians funded by cap-and-trade, as Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders seek an extension of the program. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    May 7, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 4-10, 2025 as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONChildren’s mental health has become an…

    May 6, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Paul Henderson, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California African American Museum Board of Directors. Henderson has been the Executive Director at the San Francisco…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State invests nearly $33 billion in cap-and-trade dollars to make communities cleaner and healthier

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    What you need to know: A new report details nearly $33 billion raised for climate projects and direct support for Californians funded by cap-and-trade, as Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders seek an extension of the program.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that nearly $33 billion has been raised from polluters to fund climate solutions in communities across the state with money from the state’s cap-and-trade program, according to a new report published by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

    The annual report provides detailed information about California Climate Investments (CCI), which distributes funds generated by cap‑and‑trade to 117 climate programs across the state.

    “California is proving that cutting pollution creates jobs and boosts communities. By holding polluters accountable, we’re sending billions of dollars back to communities and back to people’s wallets through credits on utility bills. And we’ve got the receipts: healthier and cleaner communities and thousands of good paying jobs.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    CARB oversees CCI, which puts cap‑and‑trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health — particularly among communities and households facing greater economic and environmental challenges. 

    In 2024, cap-and-trade investments went to nearly 12,000 new projects using $1.9 billion in funding, with $1.2 billion directly benefiting communities and households. The investments are a key part of Governor Newsom’s build more, faster agenda delivering infrastructure upgrades and creating jobs across the state. 

    Since the program’s inception 11 years ago, over $18 billion in funding has been awarded, with nearly $13 billion of that having already gone to over half a million projects that are complete or in progress. Project funding already on the ground is expected to wipe out emissions equivalent to taking more than 80% of the state’s gas cars off the road for a year, with billions of dollars more in the process of being disbursed. 

    Examples of investments include:

    In addition to community investments, cap-and-trade has also delivered $15 billion in bill credits back to utility customers and is reducing carbon pollution from industry investments in cleaner, more advanced technologies directly at their emission source.

    “California is proud of how we’ve invested billions of cap-and-trade dollars across the state over the last decade,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph. “From individual incentives for cleaner cars and water-efficient appliances, to forest health programs that help safeguard communities from wildfire, these programs provide benefits to all Californians. In addition, cap-and-trade has also delivered $15 billion in bill credits back to utility customers. It’s climate policy that pays.” 
     

    Extending the cap‑and‑trade program

    Cap-and-trade is a foundational part of California’s climate policy portfolio. To help achieve the state’s goal of net-zero carbon pollution by 2045, this program must be extended beyond the current sunset date of 2030.

    Governor Newsom recently announced that he, alongside legislative leaders Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, will seek an extension of the cap‑and‑trade program during this legislative year. Extending the program in 2025 can provide the market with greater certainty, attract stable investment, further California’s climate leadership, and set the state on a clear path to achieve its 2045 carbon-neutrality goal.
     

    How cap-and-trade works

    Cap-and-trade establishes a declining limit on major sources of carbon pollution throughout California. It covers the largest polluters, including large factories, energy companies, and oil and gas suppliers – accounting for 80% of the state’s total climate emissions.

    The program creates a powerful economic incentive for polluters to invest in cleaner, more efficient technologies and energy, or continue to pay for carbon emissions they produce with the funding raised from the payments used to invest in carbon reduction projects. 
     

    California’s climate leadership

    Pollution is down and the economy is up. Greenhouse gas emissions in California are down 20% since 2000 – even as the state’s GDP increased 78% in that same time period.

    The state continues to set clean energy records. Last year, California ran on 100% clean electricity for the equivalent of 51 days – with the grid running on 100% clean energy for some period three out of every five days. Since the beginning of the Newsom Administration, battery storage is up to over 13,000 megawatts – a 1,600%+ increase.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 4-10, 2025 as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONChildren’s mental health has become an…

    May 6, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Paul Henderson, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California African American Museum Board of Directors. Henderson has been the Executive Director at the San Francisco…

    May 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Governor attended the annual ceremony, honoring the 232 fallen CHP officers since the Department’s establishment in 1929. Sacramento, California – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom attended the California Highway Patrol Memorial Ceremony,…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom proclaims Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 4-10, 2025 as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.”

    The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

    PROCLAMATION

    Children’s mental health has become an increasingly urgent issue – with 20% of adolescents in the United States now reporting unmet mental health care needs. There is a continuing rise in children’s mental health diagnoses, and a growing concern over the impact social media is having on our kids. Adolescents who spend more than 3 hours a day on social media face double the risk of mental health problems. Between 2018 and 2021, suicide was the second leading cause of death among young adults in California, accounting for 20% of all deaths in this age range. Nationally, suicide rates among adolescents aged 10-24 years increased by 62% from 2007 to 2021, and suicide rates increased 8.2% annually from 2008 to 2022 among preteens aged 8 to 12 years.

    The data supports what we all know: we must check in with our kids and take action to provide those struggling with the support they need. In California, we take the mental health and well-being of our children seriously, and we’re working to provide young people with the resources they need to thrive in body and mind.

    California’s approach, outlined in the Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health, coordinates our child-serving systems, streamlining efforts in pursuit of a shared vision and shared goals, with shared accountability. We are committed to providing all Californian families and their children access to quality behavioral health services, training and developing a larger workforce that better reflects our communities.

    The cornerstone of the Master Plan is the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI), designed for and by youth and families. Working across all aspects of life, from schools to health care, CYBHI is transforming California’s behavioral health system that prioritizes prevention and early intervention. With initiatives like CYBHI and the Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind campaign, California is reminding people that mental health is as important to our overall well-being as physical health.

    Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week, the first week of Mental Health Awareness Month, is an opportunity for people to talk to each other, sit down with their kids, and reach out for help. I urge all Californians to learn about the resources and services available to support children’s mental health at www.chhs.ca.gov/youthresources. 

    NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim May 4-10, 2025 as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.”

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 4th day of May 2025.
     

    GAVIN NEWSOM
    Governor of California

    ATTEST:
    SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.
    Secretary of State

    Press Releases, Proclamations

    Recent news

    May 6, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Paul Henderson, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California African American Museum Board of Directors. Henderson has been the Executive Director at the San Francisco…

    May 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Governor attended the annual ceremony, honoring the 232 fallen CHP officers since the Department’s establishment in 1929. Sacramento, California – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom attended the California Highway Patrol Memorial Ceremony,…

    May 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: From October 2023 to December 2024, participants collected data on arrests, referrals, charges, convictions, and sentencing related to organized retail crime. Sacramento, California – Last month, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the results…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Uzbekistan removal flight

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Watch this newly released video of our historic removal flight of Uzbekistan nationals, which was partially funded by their government.

    ICYMI, the press release about this flight is in our newsroom: www.ice.gov/news/releases/ice-philadelphia-supports-large-effort-remove-more-130-illegal-aliens-central-asia

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9s32FvFgEc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Yemen, Sudan, Occupied Palestinian Territory & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (7 May 2025)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Stephanie Tremblay, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General’s Travel
    Yemen
    Sudan
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Ukraine
    Haiti
    Security Council
    Science, Technology and Innovation Forum

    SECRETARY-GENERAL’S TRAVEL
    The Secretary-General is Denmark today, where tomorrow he will chair the meeting of the Chief Executives Board of the United Nations which brings together the heads of the UN system. 
    Earlier today, the Secretary-General met with Ms. Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of Denmark. The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Denmark’s steadfast cooperation with and support for the United Nations, including for its role as host of UN agencies as well as its constructive role as a non-permanent member of the Security Council.
    The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Denmark’s steadfast cooperation, as well as its constructive role as a non-permanent member of the Security Council. 
    Prior to meeting the Prime Minister, the Secretary-General toured UN City, the compound in Copenhagen that houses United Nations offices in the Danish capital. During a townhall meeting, the Secretary-General congratulated the staff for the work they are doing. 
    This evening, the Secretary-General and the heads of the United Nations system are attending a welcome diner hosted by the King and Queen of Denmark.

    YEMEN
    The UN welcomes the announcement made by the Sultanate of Oman regarding an agreement between the United States and the Houthis in Yemen on 6 May, and commend Oman for its efforts in this regard.
    The UN had consistently called for restraint and de-escalation in and around Yemen and the wider region. We also have called for an immediate cessation of Houthi attacks against merchant and commercial vessels in line with relevant Security Council resolutions. We reaffirm the need for all to respect the rights and obligations relating to maritime navigation in accordance with international law. We remain committed to supporting the Yemeni parties to reach a negotiated political settlement to end the conflict.
    The UN encourages all parties to engage constructively with UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg to this end.

    SUDAN
    Moving to Sudan, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, expressed deep concern over the ongoing drone strikes in Port Sudan, which is a hub for our humanitarian operations and key entry point for aid.
    Mr. Fletcher stressed that international humanitarian law must be respected and that constant care must be taken to spare civilians and civilian infrastructure.
    Flights of the UN Humanitarian Air Services – or UNHAS – to and from Port Sudan have been suspended since May 4th. The World Food Programme, which manages UNHAS, says it will resume air operations as soon as conditions allow.
    These disruptions are impacting the movement of humanitarian personnel into Sudan and onward to other parts of the country, further straining the delivery of urgently needed assistance. Meanwhile, OCHA reports that drone attacks have also affected the states of Kassala and River Nile. Earlier this week in Kassala, strikes near the airport displaced about 2,900 people and led to the temporary suspension or relocation of some aid activities.
    Meanwhile, River Nile State is still facing a power blackout following a drone strike on the transformer station in Atbara on April 25th. The outage is contributing to growing fuel and bread shortages and long queues at petrol stations and bakeries.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    Turning to the situation in Gaza, our colleagues from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warn that the situation there is growing worse by the day. Yet we and our partners are committed to staying and delivering to help alleviate the suffering of the people exhausted by many months of fighting.
    Attacks on schools sheltering displaced people continue to be reported, leading to casualties. Yesterday in Deir al Balah, an UNRWA school in Al Bureij camp was hit twice in several hours, with dozens of people reportedly killed, including women and children. Another school in Gaza city sheltering displaced people was also struck yesterday, with reports that 20 people were killed.
    Across Gaza, community kitchens serving hot meals continue to shut down, as they use up their last remaining supplies. As of yesterday, one in every three community kitchens supported by the UN and our partners in Gaza has closed.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=07%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4A1_sSsDPg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Glad You Asked: How to Get Started with Your Benefits

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    In the first episode, Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., explains how to apply for VA benefits—especially for those who served many years or even decades ago. He walks viewers through exactly how to get started today.

    For more information, please visit: https://www.va.gov

    #VeteranBenefits #VeteranAffairs #VAHealthcare

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Flying soon? Make sure your ID’s not offsides! #traveling #hockey

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Starting today, you’ll need a REAL ID (yes, the one with the star  ) to fly within the U.S.

     

    Skip the travel penalty box, check your ID now and avoid a last-minute goal-tastrophe. No one wants to get benched before their breakaway.

     

    Whether you’re heading home or chasing the Stanley Cup of vacations, don’t wait for the final buzzer. Suit up now and get a play-by-play on how to get your REAL ID here: 

    https://www.tsa.gov/real-id 

     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQn9CQHidYY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Wright’s Opening Remarks to House Appropriations Subcommittee on FY26 Budget – May 7, 2025

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKmri1Wf6Yo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Noem to Host Press Conference in Springfield, IL

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem will hold a press conference in Springfield, IL, Wednesday, May 7 at 10 a.m. CT/11 a.m. ET.

    This press conference will highlight how sanctuary policies in Illinois have unleashed violence on American citizens — including rape, sexual assault, murder, shoplifting, and more — while shielding illegal aliens responsible from facing consequence.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=io7j7RrsP-k

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Know2Protect® and John Rich: A Conversation about Online Safety

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    In honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, DHS Special Agent Dennis Fetting and country music star John Rich, both fathers, discuss how to keep kids safe in the digital world. This candid conversation covers the real dangers kids face online and ways parents and trusted adults can protect them. This livestream is intended for adults and teens.

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What is a Black Hole? We Asked a NASA Expert

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    What exactly is a black hole? Well, they’re not holes at all, rather incredibly dense regions in space with gravity so strong, not even light can escape.

    There are stellar-mass black holes, which form when massive stars collapse and explode in a supernova, and supermassive black holes, which are millions to billions of times more massive and sit at the centers of galaxies.

    Scientists know these cosmic powerhouses shape galaxies and influence how the universe evolves. But how do supermassive black holes form? That’s still one of astronomy’s biggest mysteries. A NASA scientist explains what we know (and don’t know) about these cosmic gargantuans.

    Explore more on black holes: https://www.nasa.gov/black-holes

    Producers: Scott Bednar, Pedro Cota, Jessie Wilde
    Editor: Daniel Salazar

    Credit: NASA

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJXTZ5jpSmk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Kennedy Visits Treatment Center In Nashville, TN

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    “Addiction isn’t just a personal crisis—it’s a public health crisis. At Tree House Recovery in Nashville, I saw firsthand a holistic approach that seeks to heal people physically, mentally, and spiritually, empowering them to build lives of purpose and strength. The future of recovery is real community, real connection, real hope.” – Secretary Kennedy

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omhMGwASPR4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Kennedy Visits Senator Tim Scott in Charleston, SC

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    “In Charleston, I joined Senator Tim Scott and Jennelle Stephenson to announce a historic step forward in the fight against sickle cell disease. Thanks to a first-of-its-kind partnership between HHS, drugmakers, insurers, providers, and patient advocates, we’re making life-changing gene therapy available to Americans on Medicaid — at low cost, and with the potential to cure. Already, 35 states have opted into this initiative. Our goal: all 50 by the end of the year. Jennelle’s story is proof — this isn’t just about saving money. It’s about saving lives, restoring hope, and letting our children dream again” – Secretary Kennedy

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAYsmrnp9k0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – AFET hearing on EU-US political relations – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    AFET hearing on EU-US political relations © Image used under the license from Adobe stock

    On 13 May 2025, the Committee on Foreign Affairs will hold a public hearing on the political relations between the European Union and the United States of America. Members will have the possibility to discuss with a panel of three distinguished experts on transatlantic relations about the current state of relations and prospects for future developments.

    The public hearing will feed into the preparation of the AFET own-initiative report on EU-US political relations by AFET Standing Rapporteur on the United States, Michal Szczerba.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – AFET hearing on EU-US political relations – 13-05-2025 – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    AFET hearing on EU-US political relations © Image used under the license from Adobe stock

    On 13 May 2025, the Committee on Foreign Affairs will hold a public hearing on the political relations between the European Union and the United States of America. Members will have the possibility to discuss with a panel of three distinguished experts on transatlantic relations about the current state of relations and prospects for future developments.

    The public hearing will feed into the preparation of the AFET own-initiative report on EU-US political relations by AFET Standing Rapporteur on the United States, Michal Szczerba.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Panetta Announces Student Winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced the winners of the annual Congressional Art Competition held for local high school students.  Claire Hamilton from San Lorenzo Valley High School earned first place for her piece titled, “Hearts at Rest.”  Claire’s artwork will be proudly displayed in the United States Capitol alongside winning submissions from across the country.

    The Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide tradition that began in 1982.  Since then, more than 650,000 high school students have participated. Each spring, congressional offices select a winning piece to be displayed in the United States Capitol.  First-place winners and a family member are invited to Washington, D.C. for a special ceremony honoring their achievement.  This year, 21 students from every county in the 19th Congressional District submitted original artwork for the competition.

    “Through their expression, these high school artists reflected the beauty, diversity, and shared values of our home in California’s 19th Congressional District,” said Rep. Panetta.  “I’ll see Claire’s artwork every day as I walk through the Capitol and feel a deep sense of pride for the young people that I represent.  Our community is stronger, and our democracy is healthier when young people comprehend what it means to engage, whether through art, service, or civic participation.”

    The full list of winners and honorees for the 2025 Congressional Art Competition is below:

    • First Place: Claire Hamilton, San Lorenzo Valley High School, “Hearts at Rest”
    • Second Place: Daeun Jung, California School of Art and Design, “In a Mother’s Eye”
    • Third Place: Vivian Ming, Pacific Grove High School, “A Brilliant, Billion of Stars”
    • Honorable Mention for Composition: Finn Maxwell, San Lorenzo Valley High School, “Remembering Something in Spring”
    • Honorable Mention for Creative Vision: Seta Nicholson, Harbor High School, “The Privation”
    • Honorable Mention for Distinctive Style: Sophia Spivey, Pacific Grove High School, “What Becomes of Roads No Longer Traveled”

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    MIL OSI USA News –