NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: $22 Million Renovation to Dietz Stadium

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of renovations to Robert H. Dietz Memorial Stadium in the City of Kingston as part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. The $22 million project, which was kick-started with $2.5 million from the City of Kingston’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative award, included interior and exterior Grandstand renovations with upgraded locker rooms and athletics facilities, new track and turf field, greener and more accessible parking areas, new concession areas and restroom facilities, a new scoreboard and LED stadium lighting.

    “The revitalization of Dietz Stadium marks a new era for the City of Kingston – where state-of-the-art athletic facilities meet community pride and regional opportunity,” Governor Hochul said. “Through our Downtown Revitalization Initiative, we’ve transformed this historic venue into a modern hub for sports, recreation and public gatherings, all while preserving its legacy and strengthening accessibility, sustainability and economic vitality for generations to come.”

    Dietz Stadium is a 2,000-seat facility with an outdoor field and track that is a major venue for organized sports both locally and regionally. The stadium is used daily for Kingston City School athletics for practices and competitions. The stadium is home to Kingston Stockade Football Club, a semi-professional soccer team, and hosts several regional and statewide competitions each year, including the New York State Field Band Conference’s Fall Fanfare. The stadium grounds, pool, basketball court and track are popular for recreational use by the public.

    The Dietz Stadium renovation project was part of a multi-phased, comprehensive restoration of the larger complex, which included the Andretta Pool Improvements Project that began in spring 2020 and was completed in 2023. Improvements included a new roof and masonry repairs at the pool house, pool lining repairs, a new pump and filter, and a splash pad.

    The Dietz Stadium improvements included:

    • Exterior renovations of the grandstand, including improved accessibility, a 50-yard line access tunnel to the locker rooms, new benches, and press box upgrades
    • Interior renovations of the grandstand, including upgrades to the restrooms, new locker rooms, new mechanical/electrical services, coaches offices, training room, and improved storage facilities
    • New track surfacing, new turf field, and new LED stadium lighting
    • New scoreboard with large screen broadcasting
    • All new underground utilities: water, sewer, storm, electric & communications
    • Removal of the old concession building and admin building and construction of a new 100’ x 36’ open-air pavilion with food truck hook-ups, concession booth, and referee locker room
    • Visitor side concession area with two restrooms
    • Expanded grassed practice area with a track & field equipment storage building
    • New gated ticket booth grandstand entrance
    • Bus parking at stadium entrance, new parking lots with green infrastructure
    • Improved access loop road and sidewalks around the stadium
    • Two-way access/egress to Hurley Avenue as well as Joys Lane
    • Relocated basketball court with benches and lighting
    • Pedestrian access/egress walk to Joys Lane near Forsyth Nature Center
    • New stadium perimeter fencing
    • Improved Wi-Fi and security cameras
    • Landscaping, including 120+ new trees

    Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “Dietz Stadium is a tremendous asset to the City of Kingston, and we are proud to celebrate its official reopening after extensive renovations and improvements. This is more than just a stadium, it is a neighborhood hub where families gather, students grow and residents show community pride. Congratulations to the City of Kingston on their continued efforts toward creating a more vibrant and thriving city!”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Projects like this are at the heart of our community redevelopment efforts and encourage new investments that support regional economic growth. Dietz Stadium is a Kingston landmark, and the upgrades made possible through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative will ensure that it continues to welcome fans and athletes for generations to come.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “When ‘climate smart’ cities like Kingston prioritize green infrastructure improvements and sustainable solutions, like these at Dietz Stadium, the entire community benefits. DEC is proud to partner with the Department of State and our fellow state agencies to support this exciting renovation project and contribute to the city of Kingston’s ongoing efforts to enhance resiliency and improve quality of life for everyone who calls this community home.”

    Environmental Facilities Corporation President and CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, “The transformation of Dietz Stadium is a powerful example of how strategic investments in green infrastructure can revitalize community spaces while protecting our environment. EFC is proud to support projects like this that not only enhance public amenities but also advance New York State’s resilience and sustainability goals through cleaner water management and improved accessibility.”

    Representative Pat Ryan said, “I pushed hard for this project, both as County Executive and as a member of Congress – I’m incredibly proud to announce renovations are complete! This is a win for our entire Kingston community – from the student athletes that will utilize the new top-tier facilities, to the families and community members who will enjoy the space. I can’t wait to visit with Theo and Cam soon!”

    State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Dietz Stadium is a Kingston landmark and a cornerstone of life in our community, where generations have come together to compete, celebrate, and get a front row seat to watch our semi-pro Stockade FC make us proud. We’ve driven major state investment toward Dietz’s revitalization, and I’m proud to have been part of that effort. These renovations will help carry Dietz into its next 100 years, and it’s been incredible to see the positive impact on local families, athletes, and our business district since its opening.”

    Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger said, “Dietz Stadium is a beloved community asset that has been used by generations of residents for community recreation, school athletic practices and competitions, graduations, and special events, and more recently, as the home field for Kingston’s very own semi-pro soccer team, the Kingston Stockade FC. The improvements to the stadium are spectacular and will benefit the community for generations to come. I want to thank the Department of State for the Downtown Revitalization Initiative award, which provided funding to kick-start this project, and I want to express my appreciation to Mayor Noble, the Common Council, and the Kingston City School District for their vision, leadership, and commitment to making this project happen. I look forward to seeing the Kingston Stockade play on the new field!”

    City of Kingston Mayor Steven T. Noble said, “I want to thank the Governor and the Department of State for seeing our vision for Uptown Kingston, believing in our community, and providing the funding through the DRI program that kick-started this massive renovation project of our beloved Dietz Stadium. With the state-of-the-art upgrades, this complex will now be able to host regional sporting competitions and large-scale events, which we know will be a boon to our Stockade Business District and beyond. We are thrilled to have robust support from the State and are proud to welcome the public to the new and improved Robert H. Dietz Memorial Stadium today.”

    Kingston City School District Superintendent Dr. Paul J. Padalino said, “We are incredibly thankful to New York State for providing the financial support to complete the renovations of the new and improved Dietz Stadium. This stadium is a tremendous asset to both KCSD and the City of Kingston. KCSD students have already been making great use of the stadium and we look forward to making more memorable moments here. This project is an example of effective cooperation between the State, City and School District. We are grateful to have worked collaboratively with our state and local governments to make this dream a reality.”

    The City of Kingston was named the Mid-Hudson Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) winner in Round Two. Dietz Stadium and the larger complex, including Andretta Pool received $2.5 million from the DRI, as well as grants for green infrastructure improvements from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the Environmental Facilities Corporation. In addition to Dietz Stadium, other projects awarded DRI funding include $2.38 million for transportation upgrades in the Stockade District; $473,000 to create open space in Frog Alley; $3.8 million to incorporate public improvements into the Kingstonian Mixed-Use Development Project; and $600,000 for a Small Grants Program to support smaller projects in the City’s Stockade Business District.

    Downtown Revitalization Initiative
    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through eight rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 89 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 3, 2025 1300 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 031250

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0750 AM CDT Sat May 03 2025

    Valid 031300Z – 041200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ACROSS PARTS OF
    THE CAROLINAS…MID-ATLANTIC STATES…AND NEW ENGLAND…

    …SUMMARY…
    Strong to severe storms are possible this afternoon into evening
    from parts of the Carolinas into the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. An
    isolated severe threat may develop across the Southeast, and also
    across parts of the Great Basin.

    …Carolinas/Mid-Atlantic States to Southern New England…
    Thinking remains that the primary severe risk will focus today
    across parts of the Mid-Atlantic into southern New England,
    including western/northern Virginia and parts of West
    Virginia/Maryland into southern/eastern Pennsylvania to southeast
    New York and southern New England. Even with higher-level cloud
    cover spreading into the region, ample heating will occur within the
    prefrontal warm sector, generally coincident with near 60/lower 60s
    F surface dewpoints in the lee of the Appalachians, with upwards of
    1000 J/kg MLCAPE possible especially across parts of
    Virginia/Delmarva into southeast Pennsylvania and New Jersey. A belt
    of moderately strong mid-level southwesterly flow in advance of the
    slow-moving mid/upper trough will provide sufficient deep-layer
    shear for some storm organization, coincident with the moderately
    buoyant warm sector.

    Organized cells/clusters should develop during the afternoon from
    the Mid-Atlantic into southern New England, as a frontal wave
    and modestly enhanced low-level jet move northeastward across the
    region. These storms will pose a threat of damaging winds and
    isolated hail, and possibly some localized tornado potential.

    Farther south, scattered storm development is expected during the
    afternoon near/east of the Blue Ridge. Moderate buoyancy/shear and
    relatively steep low-level lapse rates will support a threat of
    damaging wind and hail with the strongest storms.

    …Southeast States/Tennessee Valley…
    Several linear bands of storms and possibly multiple weak MCVs are
    ongoing this morning across the Florida Panhandle, eastern Alabama,
    into western/northern Georgia. An isolated severe risk may exist
    early today primarily across the Florida Panhandle with an ongoing
    linear cluster of storms. Otherwise, subsequent later-day
    destabilization is uncertain in the wake of this convection. Some
    increase in deep-layer shear and cooling temperatures aloft will
    accompany the approaching mid/upper trough, and adequate
    heating/destabilization could result in redevelopment of strong to
    locally severe storms along the cold front during the afternoon and
    evening. This could potentially include parts of Alabama, eastern
    Tennessee, northern Georgia and eastern Mississippi.

    …Nevada into Oregon/Idaho…
    Scattered thunderstorms are expected this afternoon across the
    northern Great Basin and vicinity, as favorable large-scale ascent
    and steep mid-level lapse rates overspread the region. Buoyancy will
    generally remain modest (MLCAPE around 500 J/kg or less), but
    moderate deep-layer shear and steep low-level lapse rates could
    support a few stronger storms capable of localized severe wind gusts
    and small to marginally severe hail.

    …Parts of the Texas Big Bend/Trans-Pecos region…
    Very isolated storm development is possible during the afternoon and
    evening, within a post-frontal regime across parts of west Texas.
    Guidance varies somewhat regarding the magnitude of destabilization
    across the region, though MLCAPE may remain rather modest (around
    500 J/kg). Veering wind profiles will support sufficient deep-layer
    shear for storm organization, and if somewhat greater instability
    materializes, severe probabilities might need to be introduced for
    isolated supercell/related hail potential.

    ..Guyer/Jewell.. 05/03/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1630Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 664

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 664

    Mesoscale Discussion 0664
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1058 AM CDT Sat May 03 2025

    Areas affected…the western Carolinas and southwest VA

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch possible

    Valid 031558Z – 031800Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…40 percent

    SUMMARY…An isolated damaging wind and small to marginal severe
    hail threat should develop across parts of the western Carolinas
    into southwest Virginia this afternoon. Uncertainty exists over the
    degree of severe-storm coverage and intensity for a possible watch.

    DISCUSSION…Initial shower development is underway across the
    western Carolinas and should be the primary corridor of isolated to
    scattered storms this afternoon. This activity is within more muted
    boundary-layer heating with greater insolation/warmth eastward in
    the Piedmont to Coastal Plain. With weak mid-level lapse rates, it
    may take a few hours for cells to intensify to marginal severe
    levels. Amid a fairly unidirectional, south-southwesterly wind
    profile, storms may eventually spread towards steeper low-level
    lapse rates over the Piedmont. Primary severe threat is expected
    from localized strong gusts to around 60 mph producing isolated
    damaging winds.

    ..Grams/Gleason.. 05/03/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…RAH…RNK…CAE…GSP…

    LAT…LON 37398016 37497956 37337912 36377943 34658023 33938090
    33798147 34438184 35208198 36258137 37048061 37398016

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…UP TO 60 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…UP TO 1.25 IN

    Top/All Mesoscale Discussions/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 218 Status Reports

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Watch 218 Status Reports

    Watch 218 Status Message has not been issued yet.

    Top/Watch Issuance Text for Watch 218/All Current Watches/Forecast Products/Home

    Weather Topics:Watches, Mesoscale Discussions, Outlooks, Fire Weather, All Products, Contact Us

    NOAA / National Weather ServiceNational Centers for Environmental PredictionStorm Prediction Center120 David L. Boren Blvd.Norman, OK 73072 U.S.A.spc.feedback@noaa.govPage last modified: May 03, 2025
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 218

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL8

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 218
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    110 PM EDT Sat May 3 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Northern Connecticut
    Massachusetts
    Far Southern Maine
    Southern New Hampshire
    Southern New York
    Southern Vermont

    * Effective this Saturday afternoon and evening from 110 PM until
    800 PM EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible
    Scattered large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
    A tornado or two possible

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms should continue to increase in coverage and
    intensity in a narrow southwest-to-northeast corridor this
    afternoon. Scattered damaging winds and occasional severe hail
    should be the main threats with this activity.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
    statute miles north and south of a line from 30 miles west of
    Poughkeepsie NY to 25 miles east southeast of Concord NH. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU8).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 60 knots. A
    few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean storm motion vector
    25035.

    …Gleason

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW8
    WW 218 SEVERE TSTM CT MA ME NH NY VT 031710Z – 040000Z
    AXIS..40 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    30W POU/POUGHKEEPSIE NY/ – 25ESE CON/CONCORD NH/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 35NM N/S /34N SAX – 25ESE CON/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 25035.

    LAT…LON 42217446 43647104 42487104 41057446

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU8.

    Watch 218 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (5%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Low (20%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (70%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cook, Four Guides for the Journey Ahead

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Huge congratulations to Michigan State University’s James Madison College Class of 2025!1 It is an honor to speak to this inspiring and talented graduating class. Before I address the graduates, I would like to thank those who helped you get here: the parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles, friends, teachers, and mentors. Congratulations and thank you to all who lifted up the Class of 2025.
    As a professor’s kid and as an MSU professor, I have come to treasure commencements as important milestones. It is wonderful to be with you today. The flowers are starting to bloom in Beal Garden, the lawns around Beaumont Tower are turning the perfect shade of Spartan green, and the ducklings are making their appearance on the Red Cedar. After another chilly winter, campus is reaching peak beauty—just in time for you to leave Michigan State.
    I am full of optimism about everything that lies ahead of you. Despite any sense of angst you may feel about moving on from Madison, I hope that you are filled with optimism, too. Spring is a time of new beginnings. You are ready for the next step. Today marks both the completion of a tremendous accomplishment, and an exciting new beginning. Some of you may be feeling uncertain. That is natural. Others of you may have detailed plans that you are ready to execute. Remember, if you keep your head down and your eyes fixed only on the map, you may miss unexpected opportunities. Life—like Michigan weather—is going to surprise you. As you leave here, I want you to remain optimistic and have confidence, because you are ready.
    When I was in your shoes, graduating from Spelman College, I remember feeling unsure of what the world would have in store for me. I did not imagine I would be a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, or even an economist. (I started Spelman as a physics and philosophy major.) I only came to see economics as a potential route several years after my graduation, following a chance encounter. At the time, I was continuing my studies in philosophy in Senegal and was struggling to find the right prism through which to explore big questions that interested and motivated me. I decided to set out for an adventure of a lifetime: hike Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. As luck would have it, during that journey I met a British economist. By the end of the trek, he convinced me that economics held the tools to address the questions I cared about deeply. Within months, I moved back home, enrolled in classes to prepare for a Ph.D. in economics, and began a path that ultimately led me to both Michigan State and the Federal Reserve.
    Today, you are leaving the safe harbor of Case Hall and East Lansing, ready to depart on your next adventure. As you do, I would like to offer four guides for you to navigate your journey ahead: hope, curiosity, persistence, and a commitment to public service.
    HopeMy first guide for you is hope. Hope is a value instilled in me from a very young age. I saw my parents and family members face difficult challenges. They persevered because they held out hope that their actions would lead to a better future, not only for themselves, but for me and my sisters, our community, and ultimately all of society. I am proud to have followed in their footsteps.
    As James Madison graduates, I know each of you has some corner of the world in which you have made a difference or wish to make a difference. It could have been through debate, JMC Senate, ASMSU, 4-H, ROTC, peer mentoring, Fed Challenge, a public service sorority or fraternity, or Model UN, among many other organizations. Whatever issue interests you, to make progress, you must undertake the difficult work of casting off old ways that no longer serve us, and adopting new ideas, new methods, and new technologies. This process requires faith put into action. Optimism expressed through effort. The daily choice to believe that you can make a difference. So, as you proceed, when you feel unsure, I urge you to guard your sense of hope. Let hope guide you to a better future.
    CuriosityMy next guide for you is curiosity. I encourage you to remain curious, for your attention and your time are among your most precious resources. From your first-year seminar, through your methods courses, to your senior seminars, your studies honed your capacity to seek new insights. I urge you to ask questions, hunt for the best available information, reason through it, and listen carefully to other points of view.
    Remain curious about what others can teach you, and do not settle for easy answers. It is imperative that you continue to be filled with wonder about the world so that you can make it better. Curiosity is magical, but it takes vigilance, practice, and study to avoid stagnation, and to reach new insights. Curiosity will lead you to wonderful opportunities if you trust its guidance.
    PersistenceThat leads me to my third suggestion for your journey ahead: be persistent. As Madison graduates, you know about preparation. To be persistent in your efforts, you need to continually prepare yourself for the next steps, even if you do not know the destination. It means grounding what you think and say in deep and informed knowledge, acquired through effort and reflection.
    You are graduating at a unique time in the history of the world. We have access to unprecedented quantities of data. We have tools to gather and analyze these data to understand and improve the world. I encourage you to view learning as a lifelong pursuit. I ask you to familiarize yourself with new technologies and tools, such as artificial intelligence, and incorporate them into persistent preparation as a companion, not as a substitute, to live an informed, productive, and fulfilling life.
    ServiceMy final guide for you is a call to service. I know you understand this as James Madison students. Public service is woven into the culture here. Historically, Madison graduates have entered public service jobs immediately after graduation in large numbers, including with the Peace Corps, Teach for America, nonprofits, and local, state, and federal agencies.
    Over the course of my life, many of my proudest and most enriching memories were opportunities to serve. (Were any of you in 4-H like I was? Do you remember the pledge? It is “Head, Heart, Hands, and Health.”) Whether it was my time as a page in the Georgia legislature, interning on Capitol Hill, serving on the Executive Committee of the American Economic Association (AEA), working at the U.S. Treasury and the White House, leading the AEA Summer Program at MSU, or now, as a member of the Federal Reserve Board, these opportunities to use my knowledge, skills, and time to try to improve the world have been invaluable to me.
    As proud James Madison graduates, look for different opportunities to serve the greater good over the course of your lives. Public service is not always easy, but it is always meaningful and deeply rewarding. That could involve working in education or government, conducting research to expand our knowledge, inventing new technologies, volunteering for a nonprofit organization, or mentoring more junior colleagues. There are many ways—big and small—to serve. So, as you navigate your lives, ask yourself which paths will allow you to contribute to the greater good.
    ConclusionGraduates—Spartans—you are entering the wider world, one filled with pressing needs, and countless opportunities. As you make your way, let hope be your constant companion. Heed your curiosity. Honor deep knowledge and thorough, persistent preparation. Embrace public service, however you define it.
    Growing up, I was often inspired by a poem, popularized by the scholar and spiritual mentor to Martin Luther King, Jr., Howard Thurman: “I’m tired of sailing my little boat far inside the harbor bar. I want to go out where the big ships float, out on the deep where the great ones are. Should my frail craft prove too slight for those waves that sweep the billows o’er, I’d rather go down in the stirring fight than drowse to death by the sheltered shore.”2
    Graduates, I urge you to plumb the depths of the deep oceans, where you will find the great questions that excite, challenge, and motivate you. You will face rough waters, the route will change, and your destination is not entirely known. As I said, life—like Michigan weather—is going to surprise you. But you are prepared. Your education and your experiences here have armed you with specific knowledge and skills, but also—more importantly—with a honed capacity to be curious, to persistently adapt, to serve, and to hope.
    Congratulations, Class of 2025! I cannot wait to see what you will discover on your way.

    1. The views expressed here are my own and are not necessarily those of my colleagues on the Federal Reserve Board or the Federal Open Market Committee. Return to text
    2. Daisy Rinehart, “The Call of the Open Sea,” Munsey’s Magazine, October 1905, 36, quoted in Howard Thurman, “Finding God,” in Religion on Campus: The Report of the National Student Conference, Milwaukee, December 28, 1926 to January 1, 1927, ed. Francis P. Miller (Association Press, 1927), 48. Return to text

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Discusses Strengthening Nebraska’s Water Infrastructure at Environment and Public Works Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, discussed improvements to Nebraska’s water infrastructure, including irrigation, during a committee hearing. Witnesses included Tom Goulette, City Administrator and Utility Superintendent for the City of West Point, NE. Ricketts said the following to Goulette:

    “[Nebraska is one of] the largest irrigation states in the country. I was just in Scottsbluff last week, where the Gering-Fort Laramie Canal collapsed while I was Governor. We worked to get some temporary repairs in place there. It’s owned by the Bureau of Reclamation, but through a program, they built the canal there 100 years ago, and when it collapsed, it cut off about 55,000 acres of Nebraska farmland from getting irrigation water.

    “That obviously, is just huge for a state like Nebraska, where agriculture is our biggest industry in the state,” Ricketts continued. “We’re going to be looking for opportunities to have the federal government partner with us to get the permanent repairs on that done, because right now it’s operating at about 80% capacity.”

    Click here to watch the hearing.

    TRANSCRIPT:

    Senator Ricketts: “Great. Thank you very much, appreciate it.

    “Well, welcome to all of our witnesses today.

    “I appreciate taking the time and Tom, great to have you here to be able to represent Nebraska.

    “Tom brings just a wealth of information to this committee.

    “If there is a job involving water in the state of Nebraska, over the last 40 years, Tom has done that job.

    “He has been, obviously, currently in West Point and great community there in Cuming County.

    “But just your depth of expertise is amazing.

    “I’m actually going to read all some of the stuff because it’s pretty impressive.

    “Served as Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Council for Drinking Water, Chairman of the Municipal Energy Agency of Nebraska, Chairman of the League of Nebraska Utilities of Nebraska Utility Section, and President of Nebraska Rural Water. 

    “Just to name a few.

    “You’re currently the Chairman of the Nebraska League of Municipalities, Small Cities Legislative Committee say hi to Lynn for me.”

    Tom Goulette: “I will do that.”

    Senator Ricketts: “And if you’re not busy enough, you’re very you’re engaged very civic engagements, where you’ve served as a Utility Superintendent for the City West Point since 1993 and added City Administrator to your business card in 2001 and you still got both those titles today, right?”

    Tom Goulette: “Yes, yeah.”

    Senator Ricketts: “So it just shows again, small towns people wear a lot of hats.

    “And before the committee today, your post is the Nebraska Rural Water Association.

    “You’ve been on the board there since 2005 and currently serving on the executive committee.

    “So, thank you again, Tom for being here.

    “Really, really appreciate your experience that you bring to this committee.”

    Tom Goulette: “Thank you, sir.”

    Senator Ricketts: “So, welcome.

    “And what I’d like to talk a little bit about is many small and rural communities face significant challenges in accessing and managing the federal infrastructure dollars due to limited staffing and technical expertise.

    “We saw this in other areas as well, like the Department of Transportation, and so forth.

    “When we met in February, the Nebraska Rural Water Association Chair shared some of these barriers, what type of resources or policy changes could Congress consider making to federal programs to make them more efficient for small and rural communities?”

    Tom Goulette: “You know, a lot of it comes down to the simplifying the application requirements for those small communities. 

    “Typically, they know best of what their needs are going to be when it comes to upgrading your systems or changing the equipment and that type of thing, along with the assistance from, you know, the Nebraska Rural Water Association or Circuit Riders are there lending assistance in quantifying that.

    “And then once they get to that point, once they can get to some type of formulation of what that community needs, that’s when an application needs to go in, and then that should allow for some additional engineering. 

    “Then at that stage, once that project is identified, and the community can have some buy in, for lack of a better term.

    “The other thing is that reducing those match requirements, a lot of small rural communities, they stretch every dollar they have.

    “So, when, when they’re looking at this, and they’re looking at the match requirements to comply with that, it becomes difficult.

    “Then they’ve got to balance out where the priorities lie within the financial capabilities of that community. So consequently, some of those projects get on, put on the shelf, then at that point.”

    Senator Ricketts: “Yeah, and it’s not so true for West Point, because West Point is really doing well.

    “But what we see is it fair to say, in a lot of our rural communities, we see that as the younger people move away and you’re left with declining population of older folks at bases, that just adds to the complication of being able to get these water projects done?”

    Tom Goulette: “It does.

    “And along with that, is our aging workforce.

    “You know, we see a lot of operators aging out those, those are one and two main operations.

    “So, you know, once that that legacy leaves that community that they’re difficult to replace.

    “So that makes the challenge even more difficult to make to help sustain that community.”

    Senator Ricketts: “Is there, again, is there something we could do in Congress to be able to help with some of those workforce challenges?”

    Tom Goulette: “One of the things is the apprenticeship program that Senator Capito put in place a few years ago, and we need to get that moving in Nebraska.

    “We need to get that funding moving in Nebraska.

    “We need to get an apprenticeship program and start that process to engage those communities and show them options and bring trained operators to the facilities.

    Senator Ricketts: “Can you just give us a briefly, just how some of these federal funding programs have made otherwise cost prohibitive projects in small towns and rural communities possible?”

    Tom Goulette: “Yeah, I mean, basically, when you’re looking at the projects themselves, and you’re looking at the market based on interest rates and that type of thing, and the longevity, it makes it more economically feasible for those small communities, there’s the grant basis that they also can qualify for, which also helps them.”

    Senator Ricketts: “Can you give me an example of specific project off the top of your head?”

    Tom Goulette: “You know that the easiest example right now is the city of West Point.

    “You know, we did the water project here a few years ago where we had a $2.7 million water treatment plant.

    “Of that $2.7 million, 553,000 of that was loan forgiveness, and then in addition to that, was the one and a half percent interest rate, plus the administrative fee for the state.”

    “So it makes it very economically feasible to get those programs in place rather than going out to the open market.”

    Senator Ricketts: “All right, great.

    “Well, oh, we lost our chair, so I guess I’m in charge of the Republican side now.

    “I’m going to take a moment just to talk a little bit as well about an important project not specifically related to the drinking water, but access to water in general, in our state is obviously important. 

    “We’re the largest irrigation state in the country, and I was just in Scottsbluff last week, and theGering-Fort Laramie Canalcollapsed while I was Governor, and we worked to get some temporary repairs in place there. 

    “It’s owned by the Bureau of Reclamation, but through a program, they built the canal there 100 years ago, and when it collapsed, it cut off about 55,000 acres of Nebraska farmland from getting irrigation water. 

    “And that obviously, is just huge for a state like Nebraska, where irrigation, or irrigation is big, but also agriculture is our biggest industry in the state.

    “And so, we’re going to be looking for opportunities to be able to have the federal government partner, to be able to get the permanent repairs on that done, because right now it’s operating, like, about 80% capacity.

    “And I was just talking to folks about, again, just getting to this idea of, like, how expensive it is for these projects, and how with the drinking water and making it possible in West Point, but the cost that would be for those farmers to be able to pay the extra fees to be able to get those total repairs done would be really, really challenging.

    “So that’s another project in our example how the federal government can help partner with states and local communities to be able to get these water projects done.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Intervention Circle offers culturally sensitive supports, enhances safety for Gitanmaax

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Gitanmaax First Nation is implementing an Intervention Circle in the Gitxsan Territory to provide culturally appropriate supports for people at risk of harm, victimization or entering the justice system, and to help build a safer and healthier community.

    The Intervention Circle will bring together community-based frontline service providers from the public-safety, health and social-service sectors. They work collaboratively to reduce the over-representation of Indigenous Peoples in the justice system by preventing crime, reducing harm and increasing community safety.

    “It’s crucial that people have access to culturally sensitive supports when and where they need them,” said Garry Begg, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “Ensuring public safety and advancing meaningful, lasting reconciliation are interconnected. The Gitanmaax-led Intervention Circle will help people find culturally sensitive pathways to healing in their own community and prevent incarceration of Indigenous peoples.” 

    Community-centred Intervention Circles incorporate Indigenous social and cultural institutions with in-community service providers to connect vulnerable people with preventative supports.

    “At Gitanmaax First Nation, we understand the importance of fostering a collaborative environment that reflects our values of unity, respect, and restorative justice,” said Jason Wong, chief executive officer, Gitanmaax First Nation. “We believe that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and healing, and we are committed to addressing difficult situations with a focus on community wellness and reconciliation. By embracing a restorative-justice approach, we aim to bring people together, address underlying issues and promote healing over punishment.”

    The Province is providing $50,000 to support the implementation of the Intervention Circle. The Province will also provide funding to train community partners participating in the Intervention Circle.

    The Intervention Circle advances the Safer Community Action Plan’s goal of creating safe, healthy communities for everyone. It also responds to recommendations from several reports, including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the First Nations Justice Strategy.

    Quote:

    Judith Sayers, director, B.C. First Nations Justice Council —

    “The B.C. First Nations Justice Council is grateful for the leadership of First Nations who are implementing Intervention Circles in their communities and advancing their self-determination over community safety, healing and justice. The aims of the B.C. First Nations Justice Strategy specifically support First Nations in the restoration of their justice systems and legal traditions. Intervention Circles allow First Nations to shift from punitive responses towards a proactive intervention model that integrates their culture, teachings and values. Through their Intervention Circles, Gitanmaax First Nation, along with Esk’etemc and Witset First Nations, are prioritizing the healing pathways and cultural needs of their at-risk members and are forging a new way forward for justice and healing in their communities.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The Gitanmaax First Nation Intervention Circle is the third initiative of its kind in B.C.
    • Gitanmaax is one of six First Nation communities belonging to the Gitxsan Nation.
    • Indigenous people make up only 6% of British Columbia’s population but account for 35% of people in provincial custody.
    • The B.C. First Nations Justice Strategy is designed by and for Indigenous Peoples to reform the colonial justice system and revitalize Indigenous legal practices.
    • The strategy was endorsed by the Province and the B.C. First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) in 2020.
    • The Declaration Act Action Plan, developed in consultation and co-operation with Indigenous Peoples, outlines 89 specific actions every ministry in government will take to create a better province for Indigenous Peoples in B.C.

    Learn More:

    To read the B.C. First Nations Justice Strategy, visit: https://bcfnjc.com/landing-page/justice-strategy/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Nearly 300 new homes coming to Victoria

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People in Victoria will soon have access to nearly 300 new homes as construction begins on two developments that offer affordable rental and supportive housing.

    “We know that different people have different housing needs, and we’re working on every front to help everyone find a place to call home,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “During a time of economic uncertainty, these homes will lower rental costs for working people and families while bringing people sheltering outside indoors so they can have stability, dignity and support they need to move forward.”

    To help families and individuals, including those at risk of or experiencing homelessness, a provincial investment of nearly $100 million is funding the construction of 295 new homes across two separate developments on Pandora Avenue and Discovery Street.

    This includes a new 21-storey building at 926/930 Pandora Ave., replacing the existing vacant structures with 158 affordable rental homes, 47 supportive homes and a community space expected to include child care services.

    Construction will begin soon, with the homes expected to be completed by spring 2029. The Capital Region Housing Corporation (CRHC) will manage the affordable rental homes, and an experienced non-profit operator will oversee the supportive housing.

    “These new homes will provide families and individuals with a place to call home, in their communities and close to their jobs and their support systems,” said Nina Krieger, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. “By offering a mix of affordable and supportive housing, we’re helping ensure that everyone can find stability, comfort and a sense of belonging in Victoria.”

    Additionally, construction is set to start in May on 90 new supportive homes at 726 Discovery St. for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The eight-storey, steel-frame building will feature 90 studio units, each with a private bathroom.

    This project is expected to be completed by mid-2027. Our Place Society will operate the supportive housing at Discovery Street, offering residents daily meals, laundry facilities and a range of 24/7 on-site support services. These will include life-skills training, employment assistance and counselling, as well as access to physical and mental-health care, addiction treatment and recovery services. The building will also feature safety measures such as fenced grounds, a single point of entry, 24/7 staffed reception, security cameras and lighting.

    These projects are part of a $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway, including more than 4,120 homes in Victoria.

    Quotes:

    Julian Daly, CEO, Our Place –

    “We’re happy to see construction begin on the Discovery Street supportive-housing project, which Our Place Society will be operating. This much-needed resource will provide 90 supportive homes for people in Victoria, offering stability and services to help them thrive. It’s a vital step forward for those we serve and for access to housing in Victoria. The whole community benefits from this.”

    Marianne Alto, mayor of Victoria –

    “Breaking ground on this project, working with provincial, regional and non-profit partners, is a significant step forward as we address our complex housing crisis. These 295 affordable homes will provide the stability and opportunity needed for more people to build community roots and thrive in Victoria.”

    Zac de Vries, chair, Capital Region Housing Corporation –

    “Since 2019, with our funding partners, the CRHC has introduced more than 800 new affordable homes to the region, and we won’t stop there. Projects like Pandora show the powerful possibilities of partnership, and the CRHC is excited to get another 158 affordable homes underway in the city of Victoria.”  

    Learn More:

    To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for people in British Columbia, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/ 

    A map showing the location of all announced provincially funded housing projects in B.C. is available here: https://www.bchousing.org/projects-partners/Building-BC/homes-for-BC

    To learn how BC Housing is helping to build strong, inclusive housing communities, visit: https://www.bchousing.org/podcast

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: No KYC, Double Deposit Bonus, $50 Welcome Bonus, and 100x Leverage Crypto Trading on BexBack

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the price of Bitcoin surpassing the $95,000 mark, many analysts believe that Bitcoin will enter a long-term high volatility market. Holding spot positions may not be consistently profitable in the short term. BexBack exchange is stepping up its efforts to provide traders with irresistible preferential packages. The platform now offers a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 new user welcome bonus, and 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, creating unparalleled trading opportunities for investors.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $60,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $63,000, your profit will be (63,000 – 60,000) * 100 BTC / 60,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform that offers 100x leverage on BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP,and 50+ others futures contracts. It is headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. It holds a US MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. Accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are no deposit fees, and traders can get the most thoughtful service, including 24/7 customer support.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC and 1M USDT in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up on BexBack now, claim your exclusive bonus and start accumulating more BTC today!

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com 

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. he statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2bc597a9-d5a5-4c87-a7c9-4a408b15d2eb

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f84970b5-5af6-4121-b977-32af58005274

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9c80d988-e506-4489-96d7-36281b8d5f26

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d2d8511-5e7b-4888-a795-8e6d0ce1b248

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Looking Ahead: Dean Hritcko is Reappointed to the UConn School of Pharmacy

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Dean Hritcko speaks to pharmacy students during their professionalism ceremony in 2019 (UConn Photo)

    In 2019, Dean Hritcko took the stage to give a speech to students during their professionalism ceremony. Recently appointed, the Dean inspired ambitious pharmacy students to start their journey with passion and determination. The Dean’s goals have been clear from the start: “I look forward to leading the UConn School of Pharmacy through its accreditation cycle while continuing to grow its research, faculty, and stature.” After five years, the Dean has delivered on these promises and much more.  

    Dean Hritcko earned his bachelor’s degree in pharmacy and his Pharm.D. from the Albany College of Pharmacy in New York. He has held numerous professional roles, including clinical pharmacy specialist in the VA Connecticut Healthcare System, district pharmacy supervisor, pharmacy manager, and registered pharmacist for CVS pharmacy. He also holds several professional certifications and affiliations, including with the American Pharmacists Association and American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.  

    “I feel very passionate about the school itself and UConn, and I want to make sure that we continue on an upward trajectory.”  

    Dean Hritcko joined Husky Nation over 21 years ago, initially hired as the Director for Experiential Education. Over his two-decade-long journey at UConn, he has served in various roles: Assistant Dean of Experiential Education, Associate Dean for Admissions and Student Affairs, Interim Dean, and finally Dean. When the previous dean of the School of Pharmacy stepped down, Hritcko saw an opportunity to step into this role and was eager to showcase his passion for the School in such an impactful way.

    Headshot of Dean Hritcko (UConn Photo)

    Dean Hritcko’s biggest challenge came in his first year when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Unable to conduct in-person lectures or labs, the School of Pharmacy and its students adapted to online teaching and learning. The transition back to in-person learning proved to be just as challenging, as both teachers and students were just becoming comfortable with online learning. Despite these difficult transitions, Dean Hritcko credits his phenomenal leadership team, faculty, and staff for their perseverance and adaptability.  

    When asked what he’s most proud of, Dean Hritcko passionately explains the new curriculum in the School of Pharmacy’s professional program, which was recently approved by the faculty. This curriculum change, now in the early stages of implementation, will help future students become better prepared for the demands of practicing as contemporary pharmacists. The Dean expects to see real change reflected in future North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) scores, a licensing board exam pharmacy students take to become licensed pharmacists.  

    In addition to the new curriculum, Dean Hritcko is grateful to celebrate the UConn School of Pharmacy’s 100th year of excellence, innovation, and care in his leadership role. During the past century, the UConn School of Pharmacy has been at the forefront of education, innovative research, and health care. 

    “I happen to be here during the Centennial year, which is another great opportunity for our School to celebrate where we are now and where we want to go into the future.” 

    Throughout the last five years, the School of Pharmacy has seen tremendous growth in both its research and its opportunities to change pharmacy practice within Connecticut. As emphasized by Dean Hritcko, these advances are the result of phenomenal researchers and innovative pharmacy practice faculty who have influenced state regulations related to pharmacy practice.  

    Dean Hritcko with Jonathon the Husky

    Raising over 17 million dollars for philanthropy, Dean Hritcko’s steady leadership has deepened the School’s enterprise, strengthened academic pathways, and has expanded its statewide impact. Under his leadership, the School has earned full eight-continued accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and updated the School’s Professional Program Curriculum.  

    The 2021 year was a testament to the excellence of UConn’s School of Pharmacy and Dean Hritcko’s leadership: the School received the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Lawrence C. Weaver Transformative Community while Dean Hritcko’s public engagement and health advocacy was celebrated and honored in the Hartford Business Journal and he received a Healthcare Heroes Award in the category of Community Service – Advocacy/Policy. 

    Looking to the next five years, Dean Hritcko aims to continue the School’s leadership in several areas, increase research capabilities for faculty in both practice and pharmaceutical sciences, facilitate further collaborations between faculty and the private industry (including working with companies and external entities), and find addition scholarship support for students. Additionally, the Dean looks forward to continuing to lead advocacy efforts in the areas of pharmacy practice and reimbursement for pharmacist services. By providing education to Connecticut’s legislators regarding pharmacist services and pharmacy education, the School will continue to exemplify UConn’s status as a land-grant university and its commitment to community impact.  

    Rooted in the accomplishments Dean Hritcko has achieved over the past five years, and in those he strives for in the next five years, is his passion for supporting students. In his various roles at UConn, the Dean has seen students struggle and strive to overcome numerous barriers, especially when affording a college education. By helping the students through scholarships and encouraging alumni and friends of UConn Pharmacy to contribute, the Dean has found a way to fulfill his passion for accessible education.  

    “It is our number #1 priority to help our students, in any way we can, to be successful.”  

    Dean Hritcko’s biggest takeaway from his time as Dean has been the people, “What they contribute to the success of our school is a privilege to be a part of.” These individuals have made the School successful, and the Dean is grateful to have worked with them. He will continue to value those around him in his next term while implementing his vision for all of what UConn Pharmacy is capable of! 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Illuminate NYS Landmarks for Fallen Firefighters

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced 15 State landmarks will be illuminated red on the evening of May 3 in honor of Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters.

    “New York will never forget the sacrifice, bravery, and selfless commitment of the brave men and women we honor this Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend,” Governor Hochul said. “We stand with the families and loved ones of the fallen, and with all New Yorkers who put their lives on the line every day, running towards danger to keep our communities safe.”

    Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters is recognized nationally to honor the fallen and their families and to recognize National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.

    Sunday, May 4th is International Firefighter’s Day, a day to recognize the dedication, bravery, and commitment of firefighters who work tirelessly to protect lives and property. It is also a time to remember and pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty. Coinciding with this significant day is the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony, held at the U.S. Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

    Among those being honored this year is Chief Thomas Wutz from the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, who succumbed to an illness related to his participation in the Office’s response to the attacks of September 11, 2001.

    Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “We offer our heartfelt thanks to Chief Wutz for his service and his selfless dedication to his community as he is honored at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony. Those who choose a life of service in firefighting embody bravery and courage as they face the daily challenges of their profession. We are grateful to all of those who do this work and everything that they do to protect us.”

    State Fire Administrator James Cable said, “New York State’s firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect their communities. We remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and were lost in the line of duty.”

    Landmarks to be lit include:

    • 1WTC
    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    • Kosciuszko Bridge
    • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
    • State Education Building
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    • Empire State Plaza
    • State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
    • Niagara Falls
    • The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
    • Grand Central Terminal – Pershing Square Viaduct
    • Albany International Airport Gateway
    • MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
    • Moynihan Train Hall

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation case is more about individual rights than the Trump administration’s foreign policy

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Chimene Keitner, Martin Luther King, Jr. Professor of Law, University of California, Davis

    U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, right, meets with Kilmar Abrego Garcia in San Salvador, El Salvador, on April 17, 2025. Photo by Sen. Van Hollen’s office via Getty Images

    Trump administration officials have repeatedly claimed that judges who order the administration to take action to bring deported Venezuelans back from the El Salvador prison where the U.S. sent them are meddling in the conduct of foreign policy.

    “The foreign policy of the United States is conducted by President Donald J. Trump − not by a court − and no court in the United States has a right to conduct the foreign policy of the United States,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on April 14.

    His comments refer to cases including that of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 29-year-old Salvadoran man who was deported to El Salvador on March 15, 2025, without any due process. The Trump administration says it will not bring him back to the U.S., despite a Supreme Court order to facilitate his return.

    A reporter on April 30 asked Rubio about whether he has been in touch with El Salvador regarding Abrego Garcia’s potential release from a maximum security prison there.

    “Well I would never tell you that and you know who else I would never tell? A judge. Because the conduct of our foreign policy belongs to the president,” Rubio said.

    Rubio made a similar point on April 14, posting on X, “No court in the United States has a right to conduct the foreign policy of the United States. It’s that simple. End of story.”

    The legal cases of Abrego Garcia and other noncitizens deported to El Salvador are far from simple. Chimène Keitner, a scholar of international law and civil litigation, answers a few key questions about the power that U.S. judges actually have in these wrongful deportation cases.

    The Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C., on April 28, 2025, with construction scaffolding on the facade.
    Brendan Śmiałowski/AFP via Getty Images

    Are these cases really about foreign policy or something else?

    These wrongful deportation cases aren’t primarily about foreign policy, despite what Trump officials have said − they’re about the protection of individual rights, including the right to due process.

    The Trump administration is arguing that courts cannot grant relief to individuals challenging their deportation and detention if those individuals are sent to another country and imprisoned there. Under that argument, even a wrongfully detained and deported U.S. citizen would be out of luck. That can’t, in my understanding, be right.

    In Reid v. Covert, a foundational case from 1957, the Supreme Court made clear that the government cannot deprive U.S. citizens of due process by entering into an agreement with a foreign country.

    Now, noncitizens are being detained in El Salvador under arrangements concluded between Rubio and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele in February 2025.

    So far, the relevant agreements have not been disclosed to Congress, arguably in violation of U.S. law. They also have not been disclosed to courts that have sought answers about relevant details.

    Following an April trip to El Salvador, U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat from Maryland, said that the U.S. will pay El Salvador $15 million to imprison the deported noncitizens − and that El Salvador is imprisoning these men only because the U.S. is paying for it.

    What are other important elements to understand about these cases?

    The Trump administration is arguing that a judge or the Supreme Court cannot order it to return noncitizens to the U.S., because detention operations in El Salvador, a sovereign country, are beyond the reach of U.S. courts.

    However, the U.S. decisions to arrest, detain and deport noncitizens to El Salvador, and to pay for their incarceration there with U.S. taxpayer dollars, are not foreign policy decisions that cannot be reviewed by any judge.

    They are, I would argue, governmental deprivations of the individual right to due process.

    A U.S. court does not have power over the government of El Salvador. However, it can order the U.S. government to request an individual’s return. The Supreme Court has ordered the government to “facilitate” the return of Abrego Garcia.

    The government has argued that “facilitate” in this context simply requires removing domestic U.S. legal obstacles. However, given that Abrego Garcia is being detained in El Salvador, any effective remedy would require the U.S. government to request his return under the detention agreement between the two countries.

    Another federal judge made this clear in an April order requiring the government to make a “good faith request” to El Salvador to release a different wrongfully deported 20-year-old.

    Meanwhile, Trump has stated that his administration is exploring the idea of extending the El Salvador detention agreement to encompass U.S. citizens. Judges have already expressed concern that U.S. citizens, including children, are being removed from the country “with no meaningful process.”

    These actions cannot be shielded from judicial review on the grounds that they involve foreign policy.

    President Donald Trump shakes hands with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele at the White House on April 14, 2025.
    Win McNamee/Getty Images

    Could the Trump administration legitimately claim that judges cannot rule on its foreign policy decisions?

    The Constitution gives foreign affairs powers to both the executive and legislative branches. Judges can’t conduct foreign policy. They can, however, decide cases that may affect foreign policy, especially when individual rights are at stake.

    Another country’s involvement in a case doesn’t prevent U.S. courts from protecting individual rights.

    Can these court orders to bring back wrongfully deported individuals be enforced?

    The Trump administration is currently trying to portray judges as spreading “lawlessness” with these court orders, in the words of Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller. But I would argue that the opposite is true. If the White House disagrees with an order by a district court or court of appeals, it can seek review by the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, it is obliged to obey lower court orders absent a stay, or pause, of their implementation.

    Courts can do their part to reject claims that the executive branch is entitled to act without regard for legislative or judicial limits by issuing strongly worded orders and even holding officials in contempt. At the end of the day, however, only Congress is empowered to remove a president who refuses to comply with the law.

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

    – ref. Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation case is more about individual rights than the Trump administration’s foreign policy – https://theconversation.com/kilmar-abrego-garcias-wrongful-deportation-case-is-more-about-individual-rights-than-the-trump-administrations-foreign-policy-255067

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Labor routs the Coalition as voters reject Dutton’s undercooked offering

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    In a dramatic parallel, what happened in Canada at the beginning of this week has now been replicated in Australia at the end of the week.

    An opposition that a few months ago had looked just possibly on track to dislodge the government, or at least run it close, has bombed spectacularly. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has lost his Queensland seat of Dickson, as did the Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in Canada.

    Far from being forced into minority government, as most observers had been expecting, Labor has increased its majority, with a substantial swing towards it.

    Its strong victory reflects not just the the voters’ judgement that the Coalition was not ready to govern. It was worse than that. People just didn’t rate the Coalition or its offerings.

    Multiple factors played into this debacle for the Coalition.

    A first-term government historically gets a chance of a second term.

    The Trump factor overshadowed this election. It made people feel it was best to stick with the status quo. People also were very suspicious of Dutton, whom they saw (despite disclaimers) as being too like the hardline US president.

    After the last election, Dutton was declared by many to be unelectable, and that proved absolutely to be the case, despite what turned out to be a misleading impression when the polls were so bad for Labor.

    Even if they’d had a very good campaign, the Coalition would probably not have had a serious chance of winning this election.

    But its campaign was woeful. The nuclear policy was a drag and a distraction. Holding back policy until late was a bad call. When the policies came, they were often thin and badly prepared. The ambitious defence policy had no detail. The gas reservation scheme had belated modelling.

    The forced backflip on working from home, and the late decision to offer a tax offset, were other examples of disaster in the campaign.

    Dutton must wear the main share of the blame. He kept strategy and tactics close to his chest.

    But the performance of the opposition frontbench, with a few exceptions, has been woeful. Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor and finance spokeswoman Jane Hume have been no match for their Labor counterparts Jim Chalmers and Katy Gallagher.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Labor ran a very disciplined campaign. Albanese himself performed much better than he did in 2022.

    Labor was helped by an interest rate cut in February and the prospect of another to come later this month.

    Albanese transformed himself, or was transformed, from last year to this year.

    The cost of living presented a huge hurdle for Labor, but the government was able to point to relief it had given on energy bills, tax and much else. The Coalition had opposed several of Labor’s measures and was left trying to play catch-up at the end.

    The Liberal Party now has an enormous task to rebuild. The “target the suburbs” strategy has failed. At the same time, the old inner-city Liberal heartland is deeply teal territory.

    Hume said, in an unfortunately colourful comment, on Friday, “You do not read the entrails until you have gutted the chicken”.

    The chicken has now been gutted. There will be a much more bitter post mortem than in 2022. The leadership choices are less than optimal for the party: Angus Taylor? Andrew Hastie? Sussan Ley?

    An interesting thought: if Josh Frydenberg had held his seat in 2022, and led the Liberal party to this election, would be result have been better? One thing is clear: Frydenberg took the right decision in not recontesting Kooyong, which teal Monique Ryan has held.

    Anyway, who would want to lead the Liberals at this moment?

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

    – ref. Labor routs the Coalition as voters reject Dutton’s undercooked offering – https://theconversation.com/labor-routs-the-coalition-as-voters-reject-duttons-undercooked-offering-255617

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement by Prime Minister Carney on World Press Freedom Day

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, issued the following statement on World Press Freedom Day:

    “In this time of crisis, we must protect what it means to be Canadian. A strong, independent, and free press both defines and defends our values. My new government will protect reliable Canadian public forums, so we can tell our own stories in our own languages.

    “Central to this work is strengthening our public broadcaster, CBC/Radio-Canada, which has stitched this nation together, reporting from Corner Brook to Trois-Rivières to Whitehorse to Comox, bringing Canadians together at critical moments. My new government will also protect and fund more local news, including those with Indigenous perspectives.

    “In a sea of foreign media and disinformation, we need Canadian voices more than ever.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor routs the Coalition as voters reject Dutton’s undercooked offering

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    In a dramatic parallel, what happened in Canada at the beginning of this week has now been replicated in Australia at the end of the week.

    An opposition that a few months ago had looked just possibly on track to dislodge the government, or at least run it close, has bombed spectacularly. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has lost his Queensland seat of Dickson, as did the Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre in Canada.

    Far from being forced into minority government, as most observers had been expecting, Labor has increased its majority, with a substantial swing towards it.

    Its strong victory reflects not just the the voters’ judgement that the Coalition was not ready to govern. It was worse than that. People just didn’t rate the Coalition or its offerings.

    Multiple factors played into this debacle for the Coalition.

    A first-term government historically gets a chance of a second term.

    The Trump factor overshadowed this election. It made people feel it was best to stick with the status quo. People also were very suspicious of Dutton, whom they saw (despite disclaimers) as being too like the hardline US president.

    After the last election, Dutton was declared by many to be unelectable, and that proved absolutely to be the case, despite what turned out to be a misleading impression when the polls were so bad for Labor.

    Even if they’d had a very good campaign, the Coalition would probably not have had a serious chance of winning this election.

    But its campaign was woeful. The nuclear policy was a drag and a distraction. Holding back policy until late was a bad call. When the policies came, they were often thin and badly prepared. The ambitious defence policy had no detail. The gas reservation scheme had belated modelling.

    The forced backflip on working from home, and the late decision to offer a tax offset, were other examples of disaster in the campaign.

    Dutton must wear the main share of the blame. He kept strategy and tactics close to his chest.

    But the performance of the opposition frontbench, with a few exceptions, has been woeful. Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor and finance spokeswoman Jane Hume have been no match for their Labor counterparts Jim Chalmers and Katy Gallagher.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Labor ran a very disciplined campaign. Albanese himself performed much better than he did in 2022.

    Labor was helped by an interest rate cut in February and the prospect of another to come later this month.

    Albanese transformed himself, or was transformed, from last year to this year.

    The cost of living presented a huge hurdle for Labor, but the government was able to point to relief it had given on energy bills, tax and much else. The Coalition had opposed several of Labor’s measures and was left trying to play catch-up at the end.

    The Liberal Party now has an enormous task to rebuild. The “target the suburbs” strategy has failed. At the same time, the old inner-city Liberal heartland is deeply teal territory.

    Hume said, in an unfortunately colourful comment, on Friday, “You do not read the entrails until you have gutted the chicken”.

    The chicken has now been gutted. There will be a much more bitter post mortem than in 2022. The leadership choices are less than optimal for the party: Angus Taylor? Andrew Hastie? Sussan Ley?

    An interesting thought: if Josh Frydenberg had held his seat in 2022, and led the Liberal party to this election, would be result have been better? One thing is clear: Frydenberg took the right decision in not recontesting Kooyong, which teal Monique Ryan has held.

    Anyway, who would want to lead the Liberals at this moment?

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

    – ref. Labor routs the Coalition as voters reject Dutton’s undercooked offering – https://theconversation.com/labor-routs-the-coalition-as-voters-reject-duttons-undercooked-offering-255617

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor wins surprise landslide, returned with a thumping majority

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    With 52% of enrolled voters counted, The Poll Bludger has Labor ahead in 92 of the 150 House of Representatives seats, the Coalition in 43, the Greens in two, independents in 11 and others in two. In called seats, Labor is on 76 (already a majority), the Coalition 32, independents six and others two.

    Labor has gained ten seats and the Coalition has lost ten, including Peter Dutton’s Dickson to Labor. It’s amazing that Labor has held the Victorian seat of Aston, which they had gained from the Coalition during Labor’s honeymoon period.

    The Poll Bludger gives Labor a projected national two-party preferred vote of 54.5–45.5, a 2.4% swing to Labor since the 2022 election. Current primary votes are 34.7% Labor (up 2.3%), 30.5% Coalition (down 3.9%), 12.8% Greens (up 0.3%), 6.2% One Nation (up 1.3%), 2.0% Trumpet of Patriots (new), 8.1% independents (up 4.5%) and 5.8% others (up 0.6%).

    I believe this election result was mostly because Dutton became too close to One Nation and Donald Trump for the Australian people to tolerate. Dutton would have done better to have stuck to the cost-of-living issue and avoided culture wars.

    With the addition of the YouGov poll below, Albanese finished the campaign at a net -4.2 using an average of five polls in the final week that asked for leaders’ ratings. Dutton finished at -20.8.

    The Canadian election on Monday and now Australia’s election demonstrate the left’s ability to win elections. Many thought Trump’s election would herald an era of right-wing dominance, but both Canada’s Conservatives and Australia’s Coalition lost what had looked like wins two months ago. Both leaders also lost their seats.

    Before the 2022 Australian election, I wrote that Australia and Canada could be strong for the left owing to big cities that make up a large share of the population in both countries. The right’s gains in the last decade have been biggest in regional areas.

    The polls understated Labor at this election, with none of the ten polls by different pollsters conducted in the final week putting Labor’s two party share above 53%. The Morgan poll that was conducted April 14–20 gave Labor a 55.5–44.5 lead, but Morgan’s final two polls retreated back to a 53–47 Labor lead.

    The Ipsos poll below that gave Labor just a 51–49 lead and the Freshwater poll that gave Labor a 51.5–48.5 lead were particularly poor. I will give a full assessment of the polling when the results are nearly complete.

    This is the poll graph I’ve been publishing with the provisional Labor two-party win by 54.5–45.5 marked.

    More final polls

    The polls below were not released in time for Friday night’s final poll wrap.

    The final national YouGov non-MRP poll, conducted April 24 to May 1 from a sample of 3,000, gave Labor a 52.2–47.8 lead, a 1.3-point gain for the Coalition since the April 17–22 YouGov poll.

    Primary votes were 31.4% Coalition (up 0.4), 31.1% Labor (down 2.4), 14.6% Greens (up 0.6), 8.5% One Nation (down two), 2.5% Trumpet of Patriots (up 0.5), 6.7% independents (up 1.7) and 5.2% others (up 1.2). By 2022 election flows, Labor would lead by 54.2–45.8.

    Anthony Albanese’s net approval was up one point to -6, with 49% dissatisfied and 43% satisfied. Peter Dutton’s net approval slumped six points to a record low in YouGov of -24. Albanese led Dutton as better PM by 51–34 (50–35 previously).

    A national Ipsos poll for The Daily Mail was released Friday without fieldwork dates provided, but the sample was 2,574. Labor led by 51–49 from primary votes of 33% Coalition, 28% Labor, 12% Greens, 8% One Nation, 2% Trumpet of Patriots, 12% for all Others and 5% undecided.

    Ipsos has conducted Australian polling before, but this was its only voting intentions poll this term. Its previous two polls for The Daily Mail had only asked about the leaders’ ratings.

    The final wave of the tracking poll of 20 marginal seats by Redbridge and Accent Research for the News Corp tabloids gave Labor a 53–47 lead across these seats, a 1.5-point gain for the Coalition since the previous week.

    Primary votes were 34% Coalition (steady), 33% Labor (down two), 12% Greens (down two), 6% One Nation (down one) and 15% for all Others (up five). These seats voted for Labor by 51–49 at the 2022 election, so this poll has a 2% swing to Labor across these seats.

    Labor won nationally in 2022 by 52.1–47.9, so this poll implies about a 54–46 Labor national margin.

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

    – ref. Labor wins surprise landslide, returned with a thumping majority – https://theconversation.com/labor-wins-surprise-landslide-returned-with-a-thumping-majority-255518

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: UnitedStaking.com Launches Advanced Crypto Staking Platform with Global Reach and Real-World Impact

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Washington, D.C., May 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    UnitedStaking.com, a global leader in blockchain-based financial services, has officially launched its all-in-one crypto staking platform designed to provide secure, flexible, and rewarding opportunities for digital asset holders around the world.

    The platform supports over 176 cryptocurrencies, boasts 300,000+ active users, and has distributed more than $40 million in staking rewards to date. With daily payout plans, a simple sign-up process, and global availability in over 120 countries, UnitedStaking delivers a frictionless experience tailored to individual and institutional investors.

    “Our goal was to remove the guesswork and make staking as accessible as holding a savings account,” said Ashley Brown, CEO of UnitedStaking. “In today’s volatile markets, staking has become one of the few predictable, passive income options available. But most platforms either overcomplicate it or lack transparency. We’re here to change that.”

    The platform also impacts beyond financial returns by allocating a portion of staking yields to social and environmental causes, including reforestation and clean water projects.

    The platform offers sign-up bonuses for newly registered users of UnitedStaking to get a free bonus of $100 without depositing any money. With this bonus, investors can try staking without any risk. Any profit a user makes with this bonus is theirs!

    “Staking is evolving,” Ashley Brown added. “It’s no longer just about earning yield—it’s about participating in a decentralized ecosystem that can generate wealth and impact. We’re proud to give users a platform that does both.”

    UnitedStaking simplifies the staking experience by offering a user-friendly dashboard and a one-click “Stake Now” feature. New users can sign up using just an email address and immediately access a variety of staking plans tailored to different risk levels and capital amounts. 

    From a 1-day free trial pool to high-return options like Ethereum (up to $156,600 in 58 days), Dogecoin ($405,000 in 90 days), and Uniswap ($1.71 million in 150 days), the platform provides transparent returns with daily payouts. Additionally, users can earn 5% referral commissions, and through the Million Bounty Program, receive up to $1,000 per promotional task across platforms like YouTube, X, and Medium.

    “Staking is no longer just a crypto trend—it’s become a preferred wealth-building strategy,” said Ashley Brown, CEO of UnitedStaking. “But too many platforms are either too complicated or not trustworthy. We built UnitedStaking to offer reliable staking with real transparency and lasting value. Whether you’re new to crypto or managing large portfolios, our platform is designed to help your assets grow safely and effortlessly.” 

    With added support for institutional staking through partnerships with top-tier exchanges, advanced fund security measures like 2fa and cold wallets, and upcoming features such as NFT staking and tokenised asset plans, UnitedStaking is poised to lead the next wave of growth in decentralised finance.

    What truly sets UnitedStaking apart is its mission-driven approach. A percentage of platform revenue is committed to funding sustainability and social development projects, such as reforestation, renewable energy, clean water access, and blockchain education. Its Carbon Staking Pools allow users to offset emissions while earning returns, offering a unique opportunity to combine financial growth with environmental impact. 

    As UnitedStaking also supports institutional staking through custodial exchange integrations, enabling hedge funds, family offices, and fintech firms to access secure, regulated staking-as-a-service (StaaS) infrastructure with performance dashboards and flexible portfolio tools. The company will further expand into NFT staking, tokenised asset pools, and enterprise white-label solutions by the end of 2025.

    About UnitedStaking

    Founded in 2021, UnitedStaking is a global crypto staking platform committed to security, simplicity, and sustainability. With support for over 156 crypto assets and services available in 120+ countries, UnitedStaking empowers individuals and institutions alike to earn passive income while contributing to a more equitable and environmentally-conscious blockchain ecosystem.

    MEDIA CONTACT
    Name: Ashley Brown, CEO
    Email: info@unitedstaking.com
    Website: www.unitedstaking.com
    Address: 1000 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Canada: Expert Picks 7Bit as the Top Casino for Canadian Players

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EDMONTON, Alberta, May 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — After using several online casinos in our quest for the ultimate gaming platform, we ended up at 7Bit Casino, and its bonuses and rewards were mindblowing. The welcome package, offering up to C$10,800 and 250 free spins, set an incredibly high standard from the start.

    Ongoing promotions, cashback deals, and a rewarding loyalty program kept us engaged, while over 7,000 games and lightning-fast payouts, especially for cryptocurrency users, solidified 7Bit Casino’s place as a top choice among the best online casinos Canada offers.

    SIGN UP AND UNLOCK AMAZING REWARDS AT 7BIT CASINO!

    The Rise Of Online Casinos In Canada

    The online gambling industry in Canada has seen tremendous growth, with players increasingly turning to digital platforms for convenience and variety. According to industry reports, the Canadian online casino market is thriving, driven by advancements in technology and a growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies.

    7Bit Casino has capitalized on these trends, positioning itself as a leader among the best online casinos in Canada by offering a crypto-friendly platform alongside traditional payment methods. Its ability to cater to diverse player preferences has made it a go-to destination for Canadians seeking quality entertainment.

    Canadian’s Unique Gambling Landscape

    The introduction of iGaming has transformed the online gambling scene. The province requires casinos to hold an iGaming license to operate legally. While 7Bit Casino is not licensed by iGaming, it remains accessible to players in the province, though with potentially fewer legal protections compared to licensed operators.

    For those seeking the best online casinos in Canada, it’s crucial to understand these regulatory nuances. Players outside Canada can enjoy 7Bit Casino’s offerings with confidence, knowing it operates under a reputable Curacao eGaming license.

    Pros And Cons Of 7Bit Casino

    Before diving into the specifics, let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of playing at 7Bit Casino to help you make an informed decision.

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    Advantage Description
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    Generous Welcome Bonus Up to C$10,800 + 250 free spins across the first four deposits, providing a significant bankroll boost.
    Cryptocurrency Support Accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and more, ensuring fast, secure, and private transactions.
    User-Friendly Interface Intuitive website design with mobile optimization for seamless gaming on smartphones and tablets.
    24/7 Customer Support Dedicated support via email and live chat, with a comprehensive FAQ section for quick answers.
    Licensed and Secure Licensed by Curacao eGaming, with 128-bit SSL encryption to protect player data.
    Responsible Gambling Tools Offers deposit limits, loss limits, wagering limits, and self-exclusion to promote safe gaming.


    Cons

    Disadvantage Description
    Restricted Countries Some countries are restricted, but use VPN instead
    Limited Language Options Available only in English, German, French, and Russian.


    Why Choose 7Bit Casino as the Best Online Casino for Canadian Players?

    7Bit Casino’s appeal lies in its ability to combine a vast game selection, robust security, and player-centric features, making it a standout among the best online casinos in Canada.

    Here’s why it’s a top choice:

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    Operating under the Curacao eGaming Control Board, 7Bit Casino ensures a fair and secure gaming environment. All games utilize random number generators (RNG) or provably fair algorithms, guaranteeing unbiased outcomes.

    The Curacao license enforces transparent deposit and withdrawal processes, protecting players from hidden terms. While it lacks eCOGRA certification, regular audits ensure game fairness, providing peace of mind for players.

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    With over 5,000 games from industry giants like NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, Microgaming, and Betsoft, 7Bit Casino offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic slots, skill-based table games, or immersive live dealer experiences, the casino’s diverse library ensures endless entertainment. The inclusion of exclusive crypto games further enhances its appeal to digital currency users.

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    Payment Options Available at 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino offers a diverse range of payment methods, catering to both cryptocurrency enthusiasts and traditional fiat users. While it doesn’t support PayID, it provides plenty of options popular in Canada, making it a convenient choice for players seeking a pay ID casino equivalent.

    Cryptocurrencies

    The casino is crypto-friendly, accepting:

    • Bitcoin (BTC)
    • Ethereum (ETH)
    • Litecoin (LTC)
    • Dogecoin (DOGE)
    • Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
    • Tether (USDT)

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    Fiat Currencies

    Supported fiat currencies include:

    • Canadian Dollar (CAD)
    • Euro (EUR)
    • US Dollar (USD)
    • Australian Dollar (AUD)
    • Norwegian Krone (NOK)
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    Traditional Payment Methods

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    • Mastercard
    • Skrill
    • iDebit
    • Payz
    • Bank Transfer
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    Deposit And Withdrawal Details

    Payment Method Min. Deposit Withdrawal Time
    Visa C$1 1-3 business days
    Mastercard C$1 1-3 business days
    Skrill C$1 Instant
    iDebit C$1 Instant
    Payz C$10 Instant
    Bank Transfer C$10 1-3 business days
    Bitcoin C$10 Instant
    Dogecoin C$10 Instant
    Litecoin C$10 Instant

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    Best Games At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino’s game library is a major highlight, featuring over 5,000 titles from top providers. Below are some of the best games, along with brief definitions for clarity.

    Slots

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    Table Games

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 3, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

     For best viewing experience, please enable browser JavaScript support.

    May 3, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Sat May 3 05:46:16 UTC 2025 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 030546

    Day 2 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1246 AM CDT Sat May 03 2025

    Valid 041200Z – 051200Z

    …THERE IS A MARGINAL RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM THE FLORIDA
    EAST COAST INTO SOUTHERN PENNSYLVANIA…AND ACROSS EASTERN NEW
    MEXICO…

    …SUMMARY…
    Isolated strong to severe thunderstorms are possible along the
    Florida east coast into the North Carolina/Virginia Piedmont and
    southwestern Pennsylvania. Additional severe thunderstorms are
    possible across eastern New Mexico.

    …Synopsis…
    The upper-level pattern will feature two cutoff lows, one in the
    lower/mid Ohio Valley and another that will develop near the lower
    Colorado Valley. A surface low in the central/northern Appalachians
    will slowly fill during the day. A cold front will slowly progress
    eastward through parts of the Southeast into the Blue
    Ridge/Piedmont. In New Mexico, weak moisture return and upslope flow
    will occur in the southern Rockies.

    …Florida…
    With the front pushing into portions of the northern Gulf, weak warm
    air advection and mid-level ascent on the southern periphery of the
    upper low may promote showers/thunderstorms into the eastern Gulf
    and perhaps the western Florida Peninsula. This activity plus cloud
    cover associated with the subtropical jet will impact the degree of
    destabilization that occurs in some areas. Still, the pattern favors
    thunderstorm along the eastern sea breeze boundary during the
    afternoon. 1000-1500 J/kg MLCAPE along with 25-30 kts effective
    shear across the sea breeze will promote supercells. Temperatures
    aloft are expected to be -12 to -14 C. Large hail and damaging winds
    would be possible with the strongest storms. A tornado would be
    possible with a supercell favorably interacting with the sea breeze
    boundary. Additional storms are possible along the front in the
    eastern Florida Panhandle/North Florida. Shear will be stronger
    closer to the upper low, but convergence is not overly strong along
    the front. Storm development will depend on local areas of stronger
    heating/convergence.

    …Georgia into Piedmont/Blue Ridge and upper Ohio Valley
    Vicinity…
    Precipitation will likely be ongoing for most of these areas early
    Sunday morning. With at least low 60s F dewpoints extending into
    much of the Mid-Atlantic, destabilization is expected behind the
    morning activity. Confidence in sufficient destabilization is
    greatest from eastern Georgia into the Carolinas as the
    precipitation should move out sooner. Potentially lingering
    precipitation and cloud cover cast more uncertainty on the severe
    potential for the Mid-Atlantic into the upper Ohio Valley region.
    500-1000 J/kg MLCAPE appears possible during the afternoon.
    Effective shear of 35-40 kts will promote a few marginally organized
    cells capable of marginally severe hail and isolated damaging winds.

    …New Mexico…
    With the cold front having moved into the northern Gulf, moisture
    return along the western flank of the surface high will be weak. Mid
    to upper 40s F dewpoints can be reasonably expected. However,
    temperatures of -14 to -16 C at 500 mb will allow weak buoyancy to
    develop. Mid-level ascent from subtle shortwaves and upslope flow
    will promote widely scattered to scattered storms in the southern
    Rockies. A belt of stronger mid-level winds will promote at least
    modest storm organization despite limited buoyancy. Small to
    marginally severe hail and isolated strong winds would be possible
    with this activity.

    ..Wendt.. 05/03/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1730Z

    Top/Latest Day 1 Outlook/Today’s Outlooks/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 3, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 030600

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0100 AM CDT Sat May 03 2025

    Valid 031200Z – 041200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM THE CAROLINA
    PIEDMONT INTO PARTS OF THE MID ATLANTIC AND NEW ENGLAND…

    …SUMMARY…
    Strong to severe storms are possible later today into this evening
    from parts of the Carolinas into the Mid Atlantic and Northeast. A
    more isolated severe threat may also develop across the Southeast
    and Ohio Valley, and also across parts of the Great Basin.

    …Synopsis…
    A slow-moving mid/upper-level cyclone is forecast to develop across
    parts of IL/MO later today. This cyclone will be embedded within a
    broad mid/upper-level trough covering much of eastern CONUS. A
    slow-moving cold front will gradually progress southeastward from
    parts of the Ohio Valley into the Mid Atlantic and Northeast. One
    frontal wave may move east-northeastward during the day toward
    southern New England, while the primary surface low gradually
    consolidates over the OH/TN Valleys. The western portion of the
    front will continue to move across Deep South TX into the lower MS
    Valley.

    For the western CONUS, a mid/upper-level trough will amplify and dig
    southeastward into parts of the Southwest and Great Basin. A cold
    front will move eastward across parts of the Great Basin in
    conjunction with this system.

    …Parts of the East…
    The greatest relative severe threat within the broad prefrontal
    region across the East is currently expected from the Carolina
    Piedmont into parts of the Mid Atlantic and southern New England,
    where somewhat stronger diurnal heating/destabilization is currently
    expected. A belt of moderate midlevel southwesterly flow in advance
    of the slow-moving mid/upper trough will provide sufficient
    deep-layer shear for some storm organization within a moderately
    buoyant environment.

    Organized cells/clusters may develop during the afternoon from the
    northern Mid Atlantic into southern New England, as a frontal wave
    and modestly enhanced low-level jet move northeastward across the
    region. These storms will pose a threat of damaging winds and
    isolated hail, and perhaps some localized tornado potential.

    Farther south, scattered storm development is expected during the
    afternoon near/east of the Blue Ridge. Moderate buoyancy/shear and
    relatively steep low-level lapse rates will support a threat of
    damaging wind and hail with the strongest storms.

    Uncertainty is greater regarding potential for destabilization in
    the wake of morning storms across parts of eastern MS into AL/GA and
    FL Panhandle. However, some increase in deep-layer shear and cooling
    temperatures aloft will accompany the approaching mid/upper trough,
    and adequate heating/destabilization could result in redevelopment
    of strong to locally severe storms along the cold front during the
    afternoon and evening. Portions of the Southeast may require greater
    severe probabilities if trends begin to support stronger instability
    in advance of the cold front.

    …Parts of NV into OR/ID…
    Scattered thunderstorms are expected this afternoon across the
    northern Great Basin and vicinity, as favorable large-scale ascent
    and steep midlevel lapse rates overspread the region. Buoyancy will
    generally remain modest (MLCAPE around 500 J/kg or less), but
    moderate deep-layer shear and steep low-level lapse rates could
    support a few stronger storms capable of localized severe gusts and
    small to near-severe hail.

    …Parts of the TX Big Bend/Trans-Pecos region…
    Isolated storm development is possible during the afternoon and
    evening, within a post-frontal regime across parts of west TX.
    Guidance varies somewhat regarding the magnitude of destabilization
    across the region, though MLCAPE may remain rather modest (around
    500 J/kg). Veering wind profiles will support sufficient deep-layer
    shear for storm organization, so if somewhat greater instability
    materializes compared to current expectations, then a supercell or
    two with some hail potential could evolve with time.

    …Deep South TX…
    Strong storms could be ongoing near the cold front across a small
    part of Deep South TX at the start of the forecast period, though it
    is also possible that the front and any remaining severe threat will
    have already passed through the region. Any remaining storms this
    morning could pose a threat of isolated hail and damaging gusts.

    ..Dean/Moore.. 05/03/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1300Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Sat May 3 07:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Sat May 3 07:07:02 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Sat May 3 07:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Sat May 3 07:07:05 UTC 2025 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Energy Secretary Visits Appliance Manufacturing Facility in Georgia to Mark 100 Days of Unleashing American Energy

    Source: US Department of Energy

    GRIFFIN, GA— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today visited Rinnai America Corporation’s manufacturing facility for non-condensed tankless gas water heaters in Griffin, Georgia, to celebrate the first 100 days of the Trump Administration’s efforts to unleash American energy and innovation. The visit underscored the Department of Energy’s commitment to protecting consumer freedom, defending American manufacturing jobs, and restoring American energy dominance.

    “President Trump was elected to bring back common sense—to get the barriers out of the way and let Americans pursue their own dreams,” said Secretary Wright. “In these first 100 days, that’s exactly what we’ve started doing. Rinnai America is a perfect example of what’s at stake when Washington pushes reckless regulations, bureaucrats tried to end hundreds of jobs with a rule no one asked for, slipped in the day after Christmas—without a single consideration for the people it would hurt. But these workers stood strong. They didn’t back down and because of their courage and hard work, we won this battle together. What they build here changes lives—millions of people choose these products to make their lives better. That’s worth fighting for. Let’s stand together for our dreams, for the American Dream.”

    Rinnai is the only company manufacturing non-condensing tankless water heaters in the United States—an energy-efficient technology targeted by a Biden-era rule that would have effectively banned the product and forced this facility to shutter its doors. The Department’s swift action to halt the rule has saved more than 200 Georgia jobs and preserved an affordable, high-efficiency option for American families. 

    “We were honored to host Secretary Wright and are grateful for the Department’s decisive actions to support American manufacturing and consumer freedom,” said Frank Windsor, President of Rinnai America Corporation. “By preserving access to high-efficient, cost-effective tankless water heaters, the Department is helping companies like ours continue to innovate, grow, and serve American families.” 

    “It was an honor to welcome U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright to Georgia’s 3rd Congressional District to celebrate the repeal of a job-killing Biden regulation that endangered Rinnai America Corporation’s manufacturing plant in Griffin,” said Congressman Brian Jack. “Secretary Wright is the first Cabinet Member to make an official visit to Spalding County, and I am excited to continue making history with him throughout President Trump’s second term!” 

    Secretary Wright’s tour of Rinnai America served as a powerful symbol of what the Department of Energy has achieved in its first 100 days: 

    • Defended U.S. manufacturing by pausing appliance mandates that threatened job losses and factory shutdowns. 
    • Restored market freedom by allowing consumers and companies to choose the technologies that work best for them. 
    • Accelerated innovation by supporting advanced energy products made here in America. 
    • Cut costs for families by rolling back burdensome regulations that would have raised prices across the board. 
    • Strengthened global energy leadership with record LNG export approvals and policies that support the production of affordable, reliable and secure American energy 

    Read more about the Department of Energy’s 100 Day Accomplishments here. To watch Secretary Wright’s full remarks, click here. 

                                                                                                ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement From Energy Secretary Chris Wright on President Trump’s 2026 Budget

    Source: US Department of Energy

    The Department of Energy (DOE) today released the following statement from U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright on President Trump’s 2026 Budget released this morning:

    Energy.gov

    May 2, 2025

    WASHINGTON— The Department of Energy (DOE) today released the following statement from U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright on President Trump’s 2026 Budget released this morning:

    “This is a consequential moment in American history—thanks to President Trump’s leadership, the Energy Department has an opportunity to help the nation restore energy dominance, lead the world in innovation, and modernize our nuclear weapons stockpiles. To succeed, we must instill a culture of transparency, performance, and common sense. This administration’s budget proposal for the Energy Department supports those efforts and will ensure that the Department accomplishes its mission while also fulfilling President Trump’s promise to restore the responsible stewardship of the American taxpayer’s dollars.”

    Background:

    The Department of Energy is working to advance its critical mission of unleashing affordable, reliable and secure energy for all Americans while increasing efficiency and promoting better stewardship of taxpayer dollars. The President’s 2026 Budget for DOE will help accomplish this mission while ending inefficient Green New Scam spending that supports more expensive, less reliable energy sources. For more details, view the budget here.

                                                                                                      ###

    Energy Secretary Visits Appliance Manufacturing Facility in Georgia to Mark 100 Days of Unleashing American Energy

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse Voices Support for NOAA and NIST: “We’ll continue to do our part to defend these laboratories.”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Lafayette, CO — After addressing concerned constituents outside the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) facilities in Boulder, Colorado, Congressman Joe Neguse released the following video. In the recording, Neguse reaffirmed his support for the scientists and civil servants who have dedicated themselves to advancing discoveries in weather forecasting, climate monitoring, emergency preparedness, cybersecurity, and more. He also committed to pushing back against the Trump Administration’s proposed deconstruction of these critical institutions. 

    Watch the video HERE.

    NEGUSE: Hey, everybody. Joe Neguse here. I’m standing outside of the NOAA and NIST headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. 

    Earlier today, we heard a lot of reports from folks in the community who were concerned that personnel from DOGE had arrived here on the NOAA and NIST campus.

    Of course, we know that DOGE has worked to dismantle government agency after government agency. We’ve seen that at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Department of Education, the list goes on and on. So, we were rightfully concerned. And the community is rightfully concerned, about what may be happening at NOAA and at NIST.

    I was here today and had an opportunity to go onto the campus to visit with personnel from both agencies and was told that DOGE’s personnel were not on scene today and have not entered the campus. 

    That being said, we know that NOAA, NIST, and our federal labs remain targets of DOGE and this administration in their efforts to deconstruct the laboratories and the agencies that are serving the American public. And, of course, NIST and NOAA are the crown jewels of the national laboratory system. And, of course, here in Colorado. 

    So, make no mistake, we’re going to continue to stay on it. We’re going to do everything that we can to prevent the disastrous cuts that the Trump administration has proposed. And we’ll continue to do our part to defend these laboratories. 

    Thanks so much—and to be continued. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse Joins Colleagues in Urging Trump to Reverse AmeriCorps Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Lafayette, CO — Congressman Joe Neguse, Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Federal Lands, joined Congresswoman Doris Matsui, Co-Chair of the Bipartisan National Service Caucus, and 148 of their colleagues from the House and Senate in sending a letter to President Donald Trump defending AmeriCorps and NCCC AmeriCorps members and calling on him to reverse cuts to the program made last week by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). 

    In Colorado, AmeriCorps volunteers help communities respond to and recover from natural disasters, including wildfires. They also address local needs, and their work in the state has been instrumental in connecting veterans to services, combating the opioid epidemic, supporting older adults in aging with dignity, and improving the physical and mental well-being of Americans nationwide. Last year, more than 6,600 AmeriCorps volunteers served at 700 local sites across the state—from schools, food banks, and homeless shelters to health clinics, youth centers, veterans’ facilities, and more. 

    “We are deeply concerned by reports that a majority of AmeriCorps staff have been placed on administrative leave and that more than 750 NCCC members have already been recalled from their field assignments. Many of these volunteers were working in disaster response roles, including building homes for individuals who lost theirs in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. If not reversed, these recent actions will both stop current programs and prevent timely and efficient execution of the agency’s fiscal year 2025 appropriations, delaying or even halting the recruitment and deployment of new AmeriCorps members around the country. We are deeply concerned that is the goal: to eliminate AmeriCorps, in direct conflict with recently enacted appropriations. However, even delays will disrupt programs Americans rely on for their health, education, and safety. We urge you to reverse these actions and instead work with Congress on bipartisan improvements to AmeriCorps so that more Americans have the opportunity to serve their communities,” wrote the lawmakers.  

    Read the full text of the letter HERE. 

    Programs such as AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors deploy more than 200,000 Americans annually to carry out results-driven projects at over 35,000 locations across the country. Working in partnership with thousands of non-profit, faith-based, and community organizations, these dedicated volunteers and workers help promote employment opportunities, strengthen the workforce, and support those in need.   

    Background

    Congressman Neguse has been a staunch supporter of AmeriCorps and is the proud sponsor of legislation to reimagine a 21st-century Civilian Climate Corps. His proposal draws inspiration from FDR’s New Deal program to recreate the corps of the 1930s, which built Red Rocks, roads, trails, and campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park, and supported other projects throughout Colorado—creating new jobs and driving major investments in wildfire resiliency, mitigation, and adaptation.

    He also joined Americans in celebrating President Joe Biden’s decision to establish the American Climate Corps, a program that mobilizes people in response to the climate crisis and creates a 21st-century, climate-focused workforce—preparing a new generation of workers for good-paying jobs in a clean economy.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Neguse, Bennet, Hickenlooper Demand Commerce Department Reverse Planned Cuts to NOAA and Colorado-Based Research Centers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    In a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik the lawmakers underscored the importance of Cooperative Institutes at Colorado State University and the University of Colorado Boulder. 

    Lafayette, CO — Following public reports of President Trump’s expected effort to implement disastrous funding cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in his upcoming budget proposal, Colorado lawmakers—Congressman Joe Neguse and Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper—moved quickly to defend the agency and its Cooperative Institutes (CIs).  

    Colorado is the only state in the nation to house two such Cooperative Institutes, which are academic and non-profit research centers that provide invaluable support to NOAA’s mission. The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES), located at the University of Colorado Boulder, is the oldest and largest CI. It employs nearly 800 researchers, support staff, and students focused on research related to drought, wildfire, and space weather. The Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA), located at Colorado State University, employs nearly 200 individuals who are working to improve weather and fire forecasting.

    In an effort to push back on the proposed cuts, Neguse, Bennet, and Hickenlooper penned a letter to Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick condemning any plan to terminate funding for these institutions, calling the alleged proposal short-sighted and costly, and underscoring the important work that is ongoing at both CIRES and CIRA.  

    “Many of NOAA’s CIs have been around for decades and the work they do has been helping our communities for just as long. Cuts to funding, furloughs or layoffs will have devastating impacts on the important work the CIs do. CIs are home to experienced researchers and long-standing data collection programs with major impacts on human societies, moreover they are instrumental in training future generations of workers who continue to contribute to societal needs. It is our fear that if sweeping cuts are made, the damage will be irreversible. Even short-term interruptions in their research could threaten the safety and economies of the communities that CIs serve across the nation,” wrote the lawmakers. 

    They continued: “Cooperative Institutes are integral to solving some of our biggest problems and making all of us safer and better prepared for short-term and long-term hazards. Any plan to terminate funding for NOAA CIs would be detrimental not just to the people of Colorado, but to people across the entire country. As such, we implore you to reconsider any plans to substantially diminish these powerful and important capabilities.”

    Read their full letter HERE and below: 

    April 23, 2025

    The Honorable Howard Lutnick

    Secretary 

    U.S. Department of Commerce 

    1401 Constitution Ave. NW

    Washington, DC 20230

    Dear Secretary Lutnick,

    We write regarding a new proposal from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to terminate funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Cooperative Institutes (CIs). We strongly condemn any such plan and believe terminating this funding would be extremely short-sighted and costly to the American people and economy in the long run.

    Colorado is fortunate to be the only state to house two Cooperative Institutes and the largest of the CIs. The Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA), housed at Colorado State University, employs 193 staff working on developing algorithms for weather forecasting and fire weather forecasting. The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) housed at the University of Colorado Boulder is the oldest and largest CI, established in 1967. CIRES is focused on research into drought, wildfire, and space weather, among other important issues. It employs nearly 800 researchers, support staff and students who are working each day to improve our understanding of Earth systems for the benefit of people across Colorado and the nation.  

    Our CIs have real world impacts and benefits that span beyond the borders of our state. CIRA was involved in the development of the Hurricane Intensity Prediction System (HIPS), a tool that helps predict how strong hurricanes will become, as well as TORUS (Targeted Observations by Radars and Unmanned Aircraft to Study Tornadoes and Supercells) project, which focuses on collecting data to improve tornado and storm prediction. CIRES is, among its many important contributions, helping to enhance drought monitoring and prediction on the Colorado River, aiding water managers in the region. Indeed, some of the greatest beneficiaries of CIRES water and drought analyses reside in Wyoming, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas. CIRES also received the 2022 Colorado Governor’s Award for High-Impact Research for their rapid response to the Marshall Fire, the most damaging wildfire in our state. The results from the CIRES work on the fire have informed responses to other large fire events elsewhere in the nation, benefiting many thousands of citizens.

    Many of NOAA’s CIs have been around for decades and the work they do has been helping our communities for just as long. Cuts to funding, furloughs or layoffs will have devastating impacts on the important work the CIs do. CIs are home to experienced researchers and long-standing data collection programs with major impacts on human societies, moreover they are instrumental in training future generations of workers who continue to contribute to societal needs. It is our fear that if sweeping cuts are made, the damage will be irreversible. Even short-term interruptions in their research could threaten the safety and economies of the communities that CIs serve across the nation. 

    Cooperative Institutes are integral to solving some of our biggest problems and making all of us safer and better prepared for short-term and long-term hazards. Any plan to terminate funding for NOAA CIs would be detrimental not just to the people of Colorado, but to people across the entire country. As such, we implore you to reconsider any plans to substantially diminish these powerful and important capabilities.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse & Rep. Velasquez Demand Trump Administration Protect Small Businesses from Tariff Chaos

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Lafayette, CO — Congressman Joe Neguse and Small Business Committee Ranking Member Nydia Velasquez sent a letter to the Trump Administration calling on them to reconsider the imposition of on-again, off-again tariffs following the fallout on small businesses. 

    A recent survey of local business leaders in Colorado—including participants from industries such as manufacturing and farming—revealed a steep dive in the state’s economic confidence, citing “uncertainty surrounding new federal policies.”

    “Taxes on imported goods hit small businesses the hardest, with 88 percent of small firms relying on imports for the goods they produce and sell. These companies operate on thinner margins and do not have the sophisticated supply chain management staff that larger firms do, putting them at a competitive disadvantage. Small firms also lack leverage in negotiating more favorable terms when they attempt to shift supply chains. The result will spike consumer and input prices across the board, reducing their affordability for everyday Americans and the Main Street businesses they support in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis,” wrote Congressman Neguse and the lawmakers. 

    In closing, they stated: “The uncertainty and chaos emanating from these choices, and their timing, create undue anxiety for small employers, workers, and customers alike in nearly every industry. When consumers tighten their belts, small businesses will be the first to experience a decrease in demand, as they shift their spending to larger discount retailers. Main Street America cannot afford yet another recession under President Trump’s watch.” 

    The lawmakers’ letter also urges the administration to engage with small businesses, assess the damage caused by current trade policy, and provide clear, consistent support to those trying to navigate the current economic landscape. 

    Read the lawmakers’ full letter HERE. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal Lands Ranking Member Neguse: “In Colorado, we see things very differently. We treasure the public lands that we’re so lucky to have.”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Washington, D.C. — Yesterday, Congressman Joe Neguse, Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Federal Lands, participated in a legislative hearing on a series of bills relating to land restoration, reforestation, and more. Neguse used this opportunity to speak up for the interests of Coloradans and defend this nation’s public lands—namely from efforts led by the Trump Administration and Congressional Republicans to strip land management agencies of their funding and sell said treasured spaces to help pay for the disastrous budget reconciliation package currently making its way through the Congress.

    Watch Congressman Neguse’s remarks HERE. 

    NEGUSE: “I spent the last few weeks back in Colorado. And as you may know, I represent a very large district in Northern and Western Colorado—spans 12 counties, three national forests—Arapahoe, Roosevelt, White River, which is, of course, the most visited National Forest in the United States. And Routt National Forest. And I can tell you that having traveled my district and holding multiple town halls in every corner of my district, folks are deeply concerned and frustrated by the actions of this administration with respect to the gutting, in their view, and in my view, of the Forest Service. 

    “For years we have worked in partnership with folks at the Forest Service, as we protect our treasured public lands that we’re so blessed to have in our state, and to see the way in which this administration is gutting the federal workforce, not just, of course, with respect to the Forest Service, but the National Park Service, a variety of other agencies in the land management context is unconscionable. And it is having a real-world dramatic effect in Colorado, as I suspect you’re probably aware of. 

    “And I’ll just give you one example. I was in Yampa, in the Yampa Valley and visiting with the Yampa Valley Sustainability Council in Routt County. They had a planned collaborative reforestation project for wildfire impacted lands planned for this spring. I know we’re talking about reforestation today with respect to one of the bills that we’re considering. That project was canceled because of the various cuts, and, drawbacks and rollbacks at the Forest Service.  

    “This project would have planted 100,000 seedlings in the burn area. And the future viability of this project is now in question. So, I know, you know, [Ellen Shultzabarger, Associate Deputy Chief for National Forest System], of course, are a career official. And I appreciate your commitment to the Forest Service and to our country.

    “But I have to level with you on behalf of my constituents. And I hope you will convey back to your colleagues at the Forest Service and management at the Forest Service, that what is happening is having real world consequences on the ground across western United States.” 

    Other excerpts from the hearing can be found below: 

    NEGUSE: “Reports indicate that the Republicans, the House Republicans, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, intend to engage in a wholesale fire sale of our public lands to fund, the reconciliation plan that they’re pursuing. In Colorado, we see things very differently. We treasure the public lands that we’re so lucky to have.” 

    NEGUSE:  “I think [Matthew McCombs, Colorado State Forest Service State Forester and Director] articulated so well the ethos that certainly [he] and I share. And frankly, I suspect the vast majority of Americans share. And I would just say, as you noted, conservation, stewardship of our public lands has largely and long been a bipartisan value. It is only recently, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle seem to have abandoned that principle.

    “We’re going to have an opportunity here in a week’s time, for my colleagues to, I hope, pull back from the brink and not allow the debasement and wholesale sale of our public lands continue, under the plan that House Republicans have, at least thus far, seem to have articulated. Again, we’ll learn more here in the coming days.”

    You can also watch Rep. Neguse’s line of questioning with Colorado State Forest Service State Forester and Director, Matthew McCombs, HERE.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –