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  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Signs Executive Order 25-24 Allowing Missourians Affected by Tornadoes and Severe Storms to Continue Receiving Prescribed Medications

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MAY 20, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-24 to further assist affected individuals whose prescriptions were lost or destroyed, whose records are not available, or whose original prescribing physician is unavailable, to be able to continue to receive prescribed medications.

    “To ensure the health and safety of those impacted by these recent devastating storms, we must ensure that Missourians are able to continue receiving prescribed medications in a timely manner,” Governor Kehoe said. “This executive order grants the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the State Board of Pharmacy discretionary authority to temporarily waive or suspend rules and regulations which will allow medical professionals to better assist those affected by storms. We thank the medical professionals across our state who are playing a critical role in helping Missouri communities recover.”

    Governor Kehoe first declared a State of Emergency on March 14, 2025, through Executive Order 25-19 in preparation for severe weather. The State of Emergency declaration in Executive Order 25-19 was subsequently extended by Executive Order 25-22 and Executive Order 25-23.

    Executive Order 25-24 will expire on June 30, 2025, unless otherwise terminated or extended. To view the Order, please click here.

    Additional May 16 Severe Storm Response Updates:

    Yesterday, Governor Mike Kehoe also requested President Trump issue a federal Emergency Declaration to expedite FEMA assistance and requested that FEMA participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessmentsfor City of St. Louis, St. Louis County, and 6 Southeast Missouri Counties.

    A federal Emergency Declaration provides federal resources to support state response operations to protect lives, safeguard public health and provide for public safety. It does not delay or affect the process of pursuing a federal Major Disaster Declaration, which would provide Individual Assistance to help homeowners and renters, and Public Assistance, which would reimburse local governments for emergency response costs, debris removal, and repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure. Individual Assistance and Public Assistance require joint preliminary damage assessments by teams made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local emergency management officials, extensive documentation, and a federal review process that can take weeks to complete.

    Beginning Wednesday, May 21, six teams will survey and verify documented damage in Cape Girardeau, Iron, New Madrid, St. Louis, Scott, Stoddard, and Wayne counties and the City of St. Louis to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses. Initial damage assessments for roads, bridges and other public infrastructure are ongoing, potentially resulting in a request for PDAs for Public Assistance in the future.

    Yesterday, Governor Kehoe also directed the Missouri National Guard provide a Liaison Officer (LNO) to assist the City of St. Louis with evaluating and advising local officials on potential appropriate missions for the Guard. This LNO reported to the St. Louis Emergency Operations Center this morning.

    The State of Missouri will continue to provide resources and personnel to St. Louis based on resource requests from the city and identified missions to meet the city’s needs. The Missouri National Guard maintains coordination with the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to respond if critical capability gaps occur in the local agencies’ response efforts.

    State assistance so far has included the Missouri State Highway Patrol assisting with law enforcement, search and rescue efforts and traffic control; an 84-person Type 1 Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) team from Missouri Task Force 1 assisting with highly technical search and rescue efforts; SEMA sending regional coordinators and specialized personnel to assist with mass care, feeding and housing, donations management, and volunteer management. SEMA has also sent tarps and other supplies to assist with immediate needs.

    SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or www.211helps.org or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

    For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, The Quilted Forest

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: The Quilted Forest of Winnebago County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties.
    “Since 1998, The Quilted Forest has woven creativity into the fabric of Forest City, celebrating a vibrant community of quilters,” said Chair Ernst. “From their in-person store on Main Street to their strong digital presence, the Robsons and their team have patched together a welcoming space that inspires folks to carry on the cherished tradition of quilting.”
    In 1998, Shelley and Dan Robson opened The Quilted Forest in Forest City, Iowa to create a one-stop shop for quilting kits, fabrics, and patterns. In 2004, Shelley launched Pieced Tree Patterns, a pattern design company that today sells custom quilt patterns both in store and nationwide. In 2021, Shelley started a YouTube channel, growing it to over 120,000 subscribers. On the channel, Shelley shared that she is creating a series of state quilt blocks to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday next year. This past March, The Quilted Forest celebrated its 28th anniversary.
    Stay tuned as Chair Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Announces Third Annual Entrepreneur Expo in Ames

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    Published: May 20, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced that she will host her third annual Entrepreneur Expo at Iowa State University on Tuesday, August 12.
    The event gives unprecedented access to opportunities across the federal marketplace with valuable networking opportunities and hands-on instruction on how Iowa small businesses can sell to America’s largest consumer – the federal government.

    Watch Senator Ernst’s remarks here.
    “This year’s expo theme is ‘Made in America,’ because innovation comes from the heartland and these opportunities should not be limited to Washington,” said Chair Ernst. “I’m honored to connect Iowa’s entrepreneurs and job creators and provide them with the ins and outs of federal opportunities.”
    Ernst’s Entrepreneur Expo will provide an opportunity to hear about how to engage in the federal marketplace, work with federal innovation-focused programs, and learn about federal manufacturing initiatives.
    Background:
    Last year, 40 federal agency departments and state entities came to Ernst’s Expo to connect with small business programs and help them unlock opportunities in federal contracting and innovation programs.
    Hundreds of Iowans attended Ernst’s 2023 Expo, which featured 31 federal agency departments and state entities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur, Khanna, Luna, And Biggs Introduce Bill To Codify Trump’s Executive Order To Lower Prescription Drug Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Washington, DC — Representatives Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), and Andy Biggs (AZ-05) introduced the bipartisan Global Fairness in Drug Pricing Act to codify the core provisions of President Trump’s Executive Order into law — ensuring lasting, enforceable reform that permanently delivers lower prices to Americans. 

    Americans pay the highest prescription drug prices in the world — in some cases, up to ten times more than patients in other comparably developed nations for the same exact medications. President Trump’s executive order, while a step forward, could be tied up in the courts and delayed indefinitely without action from Congress. 

    “It’s time to stand up to drug companies who are more worried about bolstering profits for their Wall Street investors, than making sure people can afford life-saving medication. The predatory pricing practices of giant, largely faceless, pharmaceutical corporations causes undue burden on Americans just trying their best just to get by,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “There is no reason my constituents should pay more for their medicine than our Canadian neighbors 59 miles away across our northern border. Our effort to guarantee lowest possible pricing will benefit the well-being of tens of millions of Americans. I’m grateful to Congressman Khanna, Congresswoman Luna, and Congressman Biggs for helping lead this bipartisan effort for the American people who need all the help they can get in lowering their prescription drug costs.”

    “Americans are getting ripped off. It’s deeply unfair that we’re paying significantly more for the same prescription drugs than people in other countries,” said Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17). “Pharmaceutical companies are raking in Billions while patients are rationing their medications or going into crushing debt to get the prescriptions they need. There is bipartisan outrage, and Congress must come together to act. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill with Reps. Luna, Kaptur, and Biggs to lower prices for Americans.” 

    “For decades, Big Pharma has lined its pockets by ripping off American consumers. Their extraordinarily profitable racket overcharged desperate Americans for life-saving medicine, while charging foreign consumers more reasonable prices,” said Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna FL-13). “I’m proud to reach across the aisle to codify President Trump’s executive order, which put an end to this disgusting practice. Congress must make sure that pharmaceutical companies are never allowed to extort the sick and needy again.”

    The Global Fairness in Drug Pricing Act legislation would:

    1. Direct HHS to propose rulemaking that imposes most-favored-nation price targets, aligning U.S. drug prices with those in peer countries;
    2. Authorize the FDA to consistently grant importation waivers for prescription drugs from countries with strong safety records and lower costs;
    3. Empower the FTC and DOJ to investigate and act on anti-competitive practices in the pharmaceutical industry using existing antitrust laws;
    4. Facilitate direct-to-consumer access to low-cost drugs at international benchmark prices;

    5. Require the Department of Commerce and USTR to assess policies that force Americans to subsidize global R&D or suppress fair pricing abroad.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Columbia Graduate School of Business in Conjunction With Gabelli Funds Selects Jennifer A. Wallace 2025 Recipient of Graham & Dodd, Murray, Greenwald Prize

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GREENWICH, Conn., May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gabelli Funds announces Jennifer A. Wallace as the 2025 recipient of the Graham & Dodd, Murray, Greenwald Prize for Value Investing. She was presented with the Prize at the firm’s fortieth client conference on Friday, May 16th in New York.  

    In announcing Jennifer Wallace as the 2025 recipient, Tano Santos, the Academic Director of the Heilbrunn Center for Graham & Dodd Investing at Columbia Business School stated, “Jennifer’s entire career has been devoted to elevating the field of value investing, from her early days working alongside Robert Bruce, to launching Summit Street Capital. Her focus has been consistently on evaluating companies through a value investor lens.”

    In 2009, she launched Summit Street Capital which employs a deep value investment approach using a concentrated portfolio of high-quality companies with strong balance sheets purchased at bargain prices.   Jenny earned a BA from Columbia College and an MBA from Columbia Business School where she received Beta Gamma Sigma honors

    In 2005, Gabelli created the annual prize to honor an individual, student, or practitioner who has made an outstanding contribution to enlarge the field of value investing. Known as the “Gabelli Prize”, the company funded the prize with $1 million and presents the award at its annual client meetings.

    GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI), through its subsidiaries, manages assets of private advisory accounts (GAMCO), mutual funds and closed-end funds (Gabelli Funds, LLC) and is known for its Private Market Value with a Catalyst™ style of investment.

    Contact:
    Douglas R. Jamieson
    President & Chief Operating Officer
    (914) 921-5020

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: First Busey Corporation Closes Depositary Share Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEAWOOD, Kan., May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Busey Corporation (“Busey”) (Nasdaq: BUSE), the holding company for Busey Bank and CrossFirst Bank, today announced the closing of its previously announced underwritten public offering of 8,600,000 depositary shares (inclusive of 600,000 depositary shares offered in connection with the partial exercise of the underwriters’ over-allotment option), each representing a 1/40th ownership interest in a share of its 8.25% Fixed Rate Series B Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, with a liquidation preference of $1,000 per share (equivalent to $25.00 per depositary share). As a result of the public offering, Busey received proceeds of approximately $207,477,500, net of estimated expenses and underwriting discounts and commissions.

    Piper Sandler & Co., Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. acted as joint bookrunning managers for the offering, and Janney Montgomery Scott LLC is acting as the co-manager.

    A shelf registration statement, including a prospectus, with respect to the offering was previously filed by Busey with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on September 21, 2023. A prospectus supplement relating to the offering has been filed with the SEC. The offering has been made by means of a prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to these securities may be obtained free of charge by visiting the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, Busey or any underwriter or any dealer participating in the offering will arrange to send you the prospectus supplement if you request it by emailing Piper Sandler & Co. at fsg-dcm@psc.com or calling Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC toll-free at 1-866-718-1649 or Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company at 1-800-966-1559.

    Corporate Profile
    As of March 31, 2025, First Busey Corporation (Nasdaq: BUSE) was a $19.46 billion financial holding company headquartered in Leawood, Kansas.

    Busey Bank, a wholly-owned bank subsidiary of First Busey Corporation headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, had total assets of $11.98 billion as of March 31, 2025. Busey Bank currently has 62 banking centers, with 21 in Central Illinois markets, 17 in suburban Chicago markets, 20 in the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area, three in Southwest Florida, and one in Indianapolis. More information about Busey Bank can be found at busey.com.

    CrossFirst Bank, a wholly-owned bank subsidiary of First Busey Corporation headquartered in Leawood, Kansas, had total assets of $7.45 billion as of March 31, 2025. CrossFirst Bank currently has 16 banking centers located across Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. More information about CrossFirst Bank can be found at crossfirstbank.com. It is anticipated that CrossFirst Bank will be merged with and into Busey Bank on June 20, 2025.

    Through Busey Bank’s Wealth Management division, Busey provides a full range of asset management, investment, brokerage, fiduciary, philanthropic advisory, tax preparation, and farm management services to individuals, businesses, and foundations. Assets under care totaled $13.68 billion as of March 31, 2025. More information about Busey’s Wealth Management services can be found at busey.com/wealth-management.

    Busey Bank’s wholly-owned subsidiary, FirsTech, Inc. (“FirsTech”) specializes in the evolving financial technology needs of small and medium-sized businesses, highly regulated enterprise industries, and financial institutions. FirsTech provides comprehensive and innovative payment technology solutions, including online, mobile, and voice-recognition bill payments; money and data movement; merchant services; direct debit services; lockbox remittance processing for payments made by mail; and walk-in payments at retail agents. Additionally, FirsTech simplifies client workflows through integrations enabling support with billing, reconciliation, bill reminders, and treasury services. More information about FirsTech can be found at firstechpayments.com.

    For the fourth consecutive year, Busey was named among 2025’s America’s Best Banks by Forbes. Ranked 88th overall, Busey was one of seven banks headquartered in Illinois included on this year’s list. Busey was also named among the 2024 Best Banks to Work For by American Banker, the 2024 Best Places to Work in Money Management by Pensions and Investments, the 2024 Best Places to Work in Illinois by Daily Herald Business Ledger, the 2025 Best Places to Work in Indiana by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, and the 2024 Best Companies to Work For in Florida by Florida Trend magazine. We are honored to be consistently recognized globally, nationally and locally for our engaged culture of integrity and commitment to community development.

    First Busey Corporation Contacts
    For Financials: For Media:
    Scott Phillips, Interim CFO Amy L. Randolph, EVP & COO
    First Busey Corporation  First Busey Corporation
    (239) 689-7167 (217) 365-4049
    scott.phillips@busey.com amy.randolph@busey.com
       

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to Busey’s financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance, and business. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations, and assumptions of Busey’s management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “position,” or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this document, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and Busey undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events.

    A number of factors, many of which are beyond Busey’s ability to control or predict, could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the following: (1) the strength of the local, state, national, and international economies and financial markets (including effects of inflationary pressures, the threat or implementation of tariffs, trade wars, and changes to immigration policy); (2) changes in, and the interpretation and prioritization of, local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and governmental policies (including those concerning Busey’s general business); (3) the economic impact of any future terrorist threats or attacks, widespread disease or pandemics, or other adverse external events that could cause economic deterioration or instability in credit markets (including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East); (4) unexpected results of acquisitions, including the acquisition of CrossFirst, which may include the failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisitions and the possibility that the transaction and integration costs may be greater than anticipated; (5) the imposition of tariffs or other governmental policies impacting the value of products produced by Busey’s commercial borrowers; (6) new or revised accounting policies and practices as may be adopted by state and federal regulatory banking agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; (7) changes in interest rates and prepayment rates of Busey’s assets (including the impact of sustained elevated interest rates); (8) increased competition in the financial services sector (including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and fintech companies) and the inability to attract new customers; (9) changes in technology and the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems; (10) the loss of key executives or associates, talent shortages, and employee turnover; (11) unexpected outcomes and costs of existing or new litigation, investigations, or other legal proceedings, inquiries, and regulatory actions involving Busey (including with respect to Busey’s Illinois franchise taxes); (12) fluctuations in the value of securities held in Busey’s securities portfolio, including as a result of changes in interest rates; (13) credit risk and risk from concentrations (by type of borrower, geographic area, collateral, and industry), within Busey’s loan portfolio and large loans to certain borrowers (including commercial real estate loans); (14) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance limits and may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (15) the level of non-performing assets on Busey’s balance sheets; (16) interruptions involving information technology and communications systems or third-party servicers; (17) breaches or failures of information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents; (18) the economic impact on Busey and its customers of climate change, natural disasters, and exceptional weather occurrences such as tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, blizzards, and droughts; (19) the ability to successfully manage liquidity risk, which may increase dependence on non-core funding sources such as brokered deposits, and may negatively impact Busey’s cost of funds; (20) the ability to maintain an adequate level of allowance for credit losses on loans; (21) the effectiveness of Busey’s risk management framework; and (22) the ability of Busey to manage the risks associated with the foregoing. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Secures Victory Against Swanky LLC for Deceptive Business Practices

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Secures Victory Against Swanky LLC for Deceptive Business Practices

    BOISE — Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced a default judgment entered in April 2025 against Swanky LLC, doing business as Swanky Steel, and its operator, Justin Bussard, for deceptive business practices that harmed consumers from out of state attempting to buy products from an Idaho business. 
    The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division filed a lawsuit in January 2025, alleging that Swanky LLC and Bussard accepted payments from consumers for custom-made vehicle parts but failed to deliver those products or issue refunds. The default judgment prohibits Bussard from operating any business involving custom-made vehicle parts or similar services unless he does so as an employee or agent under direct supervision.
    The judgment also orders restitution payments of $6,542.09 to affected consumers and imposes $10,000 in civil penalties.
    “This judgment ensures accountability for dishonest business practices and prevents further deceptive conduct which could ultimately harm Idaho families,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Our Consumer Protection Division works hard to uphold fairness in the marketplace and defend Idahoans from deceptive conduct.”
    Consumers who experience similar deceptive practices may file consumer complaints with the Consumer Protection Division. A complaint form is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: HTTPeak Launches “Lazy Admin,” an AI Solution That Saves Costs and Staff Hours, empowering business users with data insights and analysis in seconds, all via natural language

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HTTPeak introduces Lazy Admin, an AI-powered tool for Salesforce, enabling users to generate insights in seconds using natural language. This solution streamlines business operations, enhancing efficiency and decision-making, and positions HTTPeak as an emerging force in AI-driven business solutions.

    Photo Courtesy of Mustafa Parekh

    NEW YORK, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTTPeak, a thriving software company, has recently introduced Lazy Admin, an advanced yet simple AI-powered reporting and data analysis tool designed for Salesforce and custom applications. This cutting-edge solution helps users to generate reports and insights in seconds using natural language, significantly reducing the time and effort required for data insights and getting deeper analysis.

    This solution delivers a wide range of benefits designed to drive efficiency and smarter decision-making across the organization. It helps businesses save on costs and staff hours, while delivering faster insights—enabling teams to know more in less time. Users can explore the same data from multiple perspectives within seconds, empowering them to make informed decisions with confidence.

    With built-in data protection, seamless integration capabilities with external databases beyond Salesforce, and the ability to offer API access for partner apps, the solution not only strengthens internal operations but also extends its value across the tech ecosystem. Its intuitive interface makes it a cakewalk for everyone, regardless of technical expertise. Additionally, it can be trained to understand company-specific language and workflows, acting as a personalized data assistant—offering the power of a dedicated staff member at a fraction of the cost.

    HTTPeak’s launch of Lazy Admin marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to streamline business operations through AI-driven solutions. Mustafa Parekh, Founder of HTTPeak, notes, “Our goal with Lazy Admin is to democratize access to data insights, making it possible for anyone in the organization to analyze and understand their data without needing extensive technical expertise.”

    This approach aligns with the growing trend of AI adoption in business operations, where companies increasingly seek to leverage technology to enhance efficiency and decision-making.

    Lazy Admin is built on advanced algorithms that comprehend human language, allowing users to fetch reports and data insights quickly and efficiently. It not only organizes the data, but also helps to understand it much clearer by using a variety of visual charts. The tool supports both standard and custom Salesforce objects, enabling users to search data from leads, contacts, accounts, opportunities, and more. With the capability to get trained on the organization’s internal acronyms and business language, it enhances user interactions to feel more conversational, enabling an even more seamless and human-like experience for business users.

    For example, businesses can use Lazy Admin to analyze revenue segmented by stages or months or track cases closed by weeks, providing actionable insights that inform strategic decisions. The AI-powered Data Talk feature further enhances the analysis process by providing strategic recommendations and key takeaways, such as highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement, providing a clear understanding of current performance and future potential.

    It analyzes the overall trajectory of the business or dataset, offering strategic recommendations to optimize outcomes. Beyond just what’s visible in the data, it also considers external contributing factors—those not directly present in the dataset but highly relevant to the industry context and nature of the information. As a result, the insights generated support more effective, data-informed decision-making across the organization.

    In 2024, the software industry experienced significant growth driven by AI and cloud technologies. As businesses increasingly adopt AI solutions to enhance operational efficiency, tools like Lazy Admin are about to play a critical role. Mustafa Parekh emphasizes, “The integration of AI into business operations is not just about technology; it’s about empowering leaders with the insights they need to drive growth and innovation.” This integration is particularly important in today’s business environment, where timely and accurate data analysis can differentiate between success and stagnation.

    Lazy Admin offers a range of subscription options through quote-based pricing tailored to each organization’s unique needs. With features like inline record editing, custom object support, and premium customer service, the tool is designed to be both cost-effective and scalable. As adoption grows, the team remains focused on turning strong interest into long-term customer relationships.

    As the demand for AI-powered solutions continues to rise, HTTPeak is well positioned to capitalize on this trend. Mustafa Parekh adds, “We are committed to continuously improving Lazy Admin, ensuring it remains at the forefront of AI innovation in the Salesforce ecosystem.” This commitment to innovation is crucial in a dynamic market, where staying ahead of technological advancements is key to maintaining competitive advantage.

    Businesses interested in Lazy Admin can initiate the onboarding process through Salesforce AppExchange. Rather than a simple self-installation, the Lazy Admin team works closely with each organization to ensure a smooth and impactful implementation. This guided approach reflects our belief that businesses benefit from tailored support when adopting AI solutions. With the dynamic pricing customized to meet specific needs and usage patterns, Lazy Admin empowers organizations to maximize their Salesforce investment through seamless integration and powerful data analysis—without requiring deep technical expertise.

    Visit the Lazy Admin Website to learn how this innovative solution can transform your business operations.

    About HTTPeak
    HTTPeak is a software company that develops innovative AI-powered solutions for business operations. With Lazy Admin, HTTPeak aims to revolutionize data analysis and reporting, making it accessible and efficient for businesses worldwide. The company’s focus on AI-driven tools reflects its commitment to empowering businesses with cutting-edge technology that enhances productivity and decision-making.

    Contact information:

    Mustafa Parekh
    Founder, HTTPeak
    lazyadmin@httpeak.com
    https://lazyadmin.httpeak.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/00a67c9c-e353-4381-b8df-4c7b2b7c1807

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Brad Sherman & Judy Chu Host Congressional Roundtable on Fire Recovery with Los Angeles County Leaders

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) and Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) hosted a roundtable with California Members of Congress and Los Angeles County officials to discuss ongoing recovery efforts following January’s devastating Palisades and Eaton Fires. Together, these fires scorched more than 37,000 acres, destroyed over 13,000 homes, displaced tens of thousands of residents, and claimed 30 lives.                   

    The discussion offered an opportunity for the Members to hear directly from Los Angeles County leaders, including Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Chair of the Board and Supervisor for Altadena and Pasadena, about the ongoing challenges facing fire-impacted communities and the work being done to ensure communities can rebuild swiftly and safely. 

    During the roundtable, Members and LA County officials discussed the status of ongoing debris removal and mitigation, soil testing and remediation, utility restoration, social and medical services, and housing solutions for disaster victims.

    After the roundtable, Representatives Sherman and Chu released the following joint statement: “In response to the many challenges our communities face following the Los Angeles fires, we were grateful to host today’s roundtable to discuss solutions with LA County officials leading recovery efforts on the ground and advocate for the urgent support our communities need to rebuild.”

    The Members also emphasized the need to protect the federal agencies carrying out disaster recovery operations for their communities from the Trump administration’s mass layoffs of federal workers, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and AmeriCorps. 

    Lastly, the Members emphasized their commitment to securing additional federal disaster funding in Congress so that California disaster victims have the resources they need to rebuild their homes, businesses, and communities — just as Congress has done after every other major disaster across the country.

    Representatives Sherman and Chu concluded: “We have both consistently voted for disaster aid to Republican-led states regardless of whether we strongly disagreed with their policies, because disasters have no political affiliation. Our constituents have demonstrated so much strength and resolve throughout the course of this catastrophe, and they urgently need and deserve additional federal resources to rebuild their lives. Disaster relief is not and should never be a partisan issue, and we will continue to work with Congressional leadership and President Trump to deliver relief to our communities. Far too many families are still living in uncertainty as we work to rebuild after the fires. We are committed to working alongside our local partners to deliver every possible resource to help our communities recover.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 2025 State of Small Business Survey: Surge in AI, cybersecurity and social media demand

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: 2025 State of Small Business Survey: Surge in AI, cybersecurity and social media demand

    What you need to know:

    • Nearly half (47%) of SMBs updated their cybersecurity solutions to further protect their business. More than a third (38%) are actively using AI across multiple business functions, such as data analysis, marketing and customer service.
    • Over 56% of SMBs believe AI can help address issues with employee management and overall employee headcount.
    • 3 in 4 (76%) of SMBs agree that social media positively impacts their business performance.
    • But more than half (54%) of SMBs struggle to keep online content fresh and stay up to date with social media trends.

    NEW YORK, NY – Verizon Business today announced the findings of its sixth annual State of Small Business Survey, conducted by Morning Consult. The report shows small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are aggressively adopting technology to drive market growth and operational efficiency. The surge is fueled by increasingly accessible artificial intelligence (AI) and content creation tools, empowering SMBs to expand their marketing and sales capabilities and reach new markets.

    Social media is a critical driver, with 58% of SMBs now on TikTok, while 38% are actively integrating AI into their operations. This isn’t just a trend; it’s a fundamental transformation of how SMBs compete and thrive in the modern digital economy.

    “Small business owners are entering a new chapter of digital business with the rise of AI,” said Aparna Khurjekar, Chief Revenue Officer, Business Markets and SaaS, Verizon Business. “At Verizon, we are committed to supporting our SMB community in navigating their business through the latest technology to help deliver growth and protect their assets from emerging cyber threats.”

    Based on responses from 600 SMBs in the United States, the State of Small Business Survey identified the following key findings and insights:

    • Upgrading technology solutions for new ways of doing business. In the last year, almost half of small businesses (47%) implemented new technology platforms to bolster security for their increasingly digital operations. Social media continues to be a leading customer engagement tool among SMBs, with more than three in five decision-makers either launching content creation initiatives or increasing their investment in content creation during the past year.
    • AI adoption spreads in new ways. Today, 38% of SMBs are leveraging AI in one capacity or another. More than a quarter (28%) are using AI for marketing and social media, while 24% are using the technology for written communications. Nearly a quarter use AI to power digital personal assistants that can help them with customer service. Another 25% are using AI to boost their cybersecurity efforts. Meanwhile, SMBs are exploring AI for employee recruitment and retention, with 56% believing AI can help their business offset any pain points caused by reduced or frozen headcount and another 53% believing AI can help the business retain current staff.
    • SMBs turn to AI to help with employee management strategies. While more than two-thirds of decision makers surveyed believe employees need to be in-person for the business to function, they are turning to AI for support in navigating this new workforce. Nineteen percent (19%) of SMBs are using AI for recruitment and talent sourcing, and 56% believe AI can help their business offset any pain points caused by reduced or frozen headcount. More than half (53%) believe AI can help the business retain current staff.
    • Growing importance of cybersecurity. More than half of SMBs (52%) acknowledge that business growth likely increases the threat of cyberattacks on their business. Nearly half of the respondents (47%) invested in technologies to improve cybersecurity in the last year. A quarter of SMBs don’t believe their business is investing enough.
    • Content for social media continues to be king. Over the past year, SMBs have leaned heavily on social media as one of their leading customer outreach tactics. Facebook remains the number one most popular platform for these businesses, and 76% agree that social media positively impacts their business. A whopping 58% of them are on TikTok.

    As technology continues to evolve and become increasingly more accessible, many SMBs understand the vital importance of embracing the role of technology to grow and protect their business in this new era of digital transformation through AI.

    Visit our website to view the complete survey findings.

    For more information on Verizon’s Small Business Solutions, visit https://www.verizon.com/business/solutions/small-business/.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Campaigners stage ‘oil spill’ at Shell HQ to mark AGM and demand justice

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Striking visual protest staged by Amnesty UK, Fossil Free London, and Justice 4 Nigeria coalition coincides with Shell’s AGM

    This morning, activists from Amnesty International UK, Fossil Free London, and the Justice 4 Nigeria coalition staged a powerful protest outside Shell’s global headquarters in central London, demanding accountability for decades of oil pollution in Nigeria’s Niger Delta.

    Timed to coincide with Shell’s AGM – held in a Heathrow hotel protected by a court injunction against environmental protesters – the stunt featured dramatic visuals symbolising the ongoing environmental devastation Shell has caused.

    Campaigners in suits emblazoned with a flaming Shell logo poured fake oil onto a giant map of the Niger Delta. Seated protesters, wearing T-shirts reading “Decades of Oil Spills”, “Polluted Waters”, and “Devastated Communities”, represented those whose lives have been severely impacted by Shell’s operations. A striking red location pin declared: “It’s Hell in the Niger Delta”, while banners demanded: “Shell: Own up, Clean up, Pay up.”

    The protest drew strong media interest and public attention during the busy morning commute as Shell staff arrived for work.

    Shell’s operations in the Niger Delta have led to severe pollution of water, soil, and air, affecting the health and livelihoods of millions. Despite billions in profits and repeated court rulings, Shell has failed to adequately clean up the region or compensate those affected. Just this year, over 13,500 residents from Ogale and Bille filed claims against Shell in the UK High Court.

    Peter Frankental, Amnesty International UK’s Business and Human Rights Director, said:

    “Today’s protest was a stark reminder that Shell cannot simply wash its hands of decades of environmental devastation. Communities in the Niger Delta have suffered catastrophic harm – contaminated water, poisoned land, and shattered livelihoods – while Shell continues to make billions in profit.

    “The frustration and anger on display this morning reflect a wider truth: Shell must be held to account. It cannot walk away. The company must clean up its toxic legacy and provide full compensation to those whose lives it has wrecked.”

    Lazarus Tamana, Justice 4 Nigeria coalition co-founder, said:

    “Shell still refuses to clean up and pay up after so many years of Niger Delta people highlighting the damage Shell has caused. How is it still necessary for us to be here and call on Shell to clean up its mess? They have devastated our water, land, health and livelihoods and we continue to fight for justice.

    Shell admitted liability for their oil pollution in 2014, yet the Bodo community has had to drag Shell back to the courts here in London, just to get them to clean up. They must be held to account and compensate all affected communities.”

    Robin Wells, Director of Fossil Free London, said:

    “Year after year we have hit the front pages or millions of social media views holding Shell to account at their AGM, and we are sick to the back teeth. We’re not only sick of the devastation they cause, but we are sick of a system which rewards them handsomely for tearing down these fragile ecosystems that keep us all alive.

    Communities in the Niger Delta were some of the first to bear the brunt and we stand in solidarity with them as they fight for justice, but, make no mistake, like a Mexican wave of disaster, soon this climate meltdown will impact every single one of us.”

    Shell must not be allowed to walk away from its liabilities for the environmental destruction it has caused. Niger Delta communities will continue to demand full clean-up and compensation for the decades of harm that Shell has inflicted.

    For images contact the press office

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Awareness campaign on ‘investment’ scams using Artificial Intelligence (AI) – E-001920/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001920/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Costas Mavrides (S&D)

    Based on complaints from Cypriot citizens and the Cyprus Consumers Association, there has been an alarming increase in cases of fraud through misleading videos and other content created using Artificial Intelligence (AI). The material in question includes fake interviews, advertisements and videos, in which prominent and trustworthy individuals appear – without their knowledge or consent – presenting purported ‘investment opportunities’. These are essentially organised digital scams aimed at extorting money from unsuspecting citizens.

    Given that this is a rapidly evolving threat with cross-border dimensions, requiring immediate and long-term measures:

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to proceed with the design and implementation of an effective European cooperation framework, as well as the legal harmonisation of the Member States, to tackle such forms of digital fraud more effectively?
    • 2.Does the Commission intend to proceed immediately with information campaigns at EU level or otherwise, given that this concerns all European citizens, with the aim of properly informing, forewarning and protecting citizens from such misleading practices?

    Submitted: 14.5.2025

    Last updated: 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Societe Generale_ Combined General Meeting and Board of Directors dated 20 May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COMBINED GENERAL MEETING AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS DATED 20 MAY 2025

    Press release

    Paris, 20 May 2025

    Combined General Meeting

    The General Meeting of shareholders of Societe Generale was held on 20 May 2025 at CNIT Forest, 2, Place de la Défense, 92092 Puteaux and was chaired by Mr. Lorenzo Bini Smaghi.

    Quorum was established at 64,34% (vs 55.61% in 2024):

    • 687 shareholders participated by attending the General Meeting in person at the place where it was held on 20 May 2025;
    • 1,057 shareholders were represented at the General Meeting by a person other than the Chairman;
    • 13,140 shareholders voted online;
    • 2,400 shareholders voted by post;
    • 8,767 shareholders, including 2,500 online, representing 1.07% of the share capital, gave proxy to the Chairman;
    • A total of 26 051 shareholders were present or represented and participated in the vote.

    The agenda item, with no vote, was an opportunity to present and discuss with shareholders the Group’s climate strategy and social and environmental responsibility.

    In addition, 9 shareholders sent 56 written questions prior to the General Meeting. The answers were made public before the General Meeting on the institutional website.

    All the resolutions put forward by the Board of Directors were adopted, in particular:

    • The 2024 annual company accounts and annual consolidated accounts;
    • The dividend per share was set at EUR 1.09. It shall traded ex-dividend on 26 May 2025 and will be paid from 28 May 2025;
    • The renewal of two independent directors for 4 years: Mr. William Connelly and Mr. Henri Poupart-Lafarge;
    • The appointment of two independent directors for 4 years: Mr. Olivier Klein and Mrs. Ingrid-Helen Arnold;
    • The renewal of Mr. Sébastien Wetter’s mandate as Director representing the employee shareholders;
    • The compensation policy for the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, the Deputy Chief Executive Officers and the Directors;
    • The components composing the total compensation and the benefits of any kind paid or awarded for the 2024 financial year to the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer and the Deputy Chief Executive Officers;
    • The authorisation granted to the Board of Directors to purchase ordinary shares of the Company was renewed for 18 months up to 10% of the share capital;
    • The authorisation for capital increases, enabling the issue of shares in favour of employees under a company or group saving plan, was renewed for 26 months;
    • The amendments to the Articles of Association to take account of the entry into force of the “Loi Attractivité” (no. 2024-537 dated 13 June 2024).

    The detailed voting result is available this day on the Company’s website in the item “Annual General Meeting”.

    Board of Directors

    Following the renewals and appointments of directors, the Board of Directors is composed of 15 directors, including (i) 2 directors re-elected by the employees in March 2024 and (ii) 1 director representing employee shareholders appointed by the General Meeting and one non-voting director.

    Accordingly, the Board of Directors is composed as follows:

    • Mr. Lorenzo Bini Smaghi, Chairman;
    • Mr. Slawomir Krupa, Director;
    • Mrs. Ingrid-Helen Arnold, Director;
    • Mr. William Connelly, Director;
    • Mr. Jérôme Contamine, Director;
    • Mrs. Béatrice Cossa-Dumurgier, Director;
    • Mrs. Diane Côté, Director;
    • Mrs. Ulrika Ekman, Director;
    • Mrs. France Houssaye, Director elected by employees;
    • Mr. Olivier Klein, Director;
    • Mrs. Annette Messemer, Director;
    • Mr. Henri Poupart-Lafarge, Director;
    • Mr Johan Praud, Director elected by employees;
    • Mr. Benoît de Ruffray, Director;
    • Mr. Sébastien Wetter, Director representing employees shareholders;
    • Mr. Jean-Bernard Lévy, Non-voting Director (“censeur”).

    The Board of Directors is made up of 41,7% women (5/12) and 91,7% independent directors (11/12) if we exclude from the calculations the three directors representing the employees in accordance with paragraph 1 of Article L. 225-23 of the Commercial Code, paragraph 2 of Article L. 225-27 of the Commercial Code and the AFEP-MEDEF code. In order to ensure compliance with a forthcoming legislative change scheduled for mid-2026, the Board of Directors has already decided, for the General Meeting of May 2026, that shareholders will be invited to replace a man director, whose term of office will expire, by a woman director.

    The Board of Directors held after the General Meeting has decided that, as of 20 May 2025, the Board committees will be composed as follows:

    • Audit and Internal Control Committee: Mr. Jérôme Contamine (chairman), Mrs. Diane Côté, Mrs. Ulrika Ekman, Mr. Olivier Klein and Mr. Sébastien Wetter;
    • Risk Committee: Mr. William Connelly (chairman), Mrs. Ingrid-Helen Arnold, Mrs. Béatrice Cossa Dumurgier, Mrs. Diane Côté, Mrs. Ulrika Ekman, Mr. Olivier Klein and Mrs. Annette Messemer;
    • Compensation Committee: Mrs. Annette Messemer (chairwoman), Mr. Jerome Contamine, Mr. Benoit de Ruffray and Mrs. France Houssaye;
    • Nomination and Corporate Governance Committee: Mr. Henri Poupart-Lafarge (chairman), Mr. William Connelly, Mme Diane Côté and Mr. Benoit de Ruffray.

    Biographies

    Mr. William Connelly is a graduate of Georgetown University in Washington (US). He began his career in 1980 at Chase Manhattan Bank, where he worked for 10 years, before joining Baring Brothers from 1990 to 1995. He then held various executive positions within ING Group NV from 1995 until he became a member of The Management Board, where he was responsible for Wholesale Banking from 2011 to 2016. He was also the CEO of ING Real Estate from 2009 to 2015. In addition to his mandate as an independent director of Societe Generale since 2017, he currently is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Amadeus IT Group and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Aegon until the second half of 2025. He also served as an independent director of Singular Bank from February 2019 to April 2023. During its session on 10 April 2025, the Societe Generale Board of Directors selected William Connelly for the Chairmanship as of the General Meeting which will be held on 27 May 2026. He will succeed Lorenzo Bini Smaghi, who has been Chairman since 2015, and will have completed his third term.

    Mr. Henri Poupart-Lafarge, Graduate of École polytechnique, the École nationale des ponts et chaussées and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He began his career in 1992 at the World Bank in Washington D.C. before moving to the French Ministry of the Economy and Finance in 1994. He joined Alstom in 1998 as Head of Investor Relations and was in charge of Management Control. In 2000, he was appointed Chief Financial Officer of Transmission and Distribution at Alstom, a position he held until 2004. He was Chief Financial Officer of Alstom from 2004 until 2010 and became President of Alstom Grid from 2010 to 2011. On 4 July 2011, he became Chairman of Alstom Transport, before being appointed Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in February 2016, a position he held until June 2024. Since then, he has been Chief Executive Officer and Director of Alstom.

    Mr. Olivier Klein, Graduated from the Panthéon‑Sorbonne University in 1978 with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, from the National School of Statistics and Economic Administration (ENSAE) in 1980, and from HEC’s graduate course in Finance in 1985. He began his career at the BFCE in 1985 and served as manager of the Foreign Exchange and Rate Risk Management Advisory Department, then as Director of the BFCE’s Investment Bank, and finally as Regional Director of its corporate bank. He joined the Caisse d’Epargne group in 1998 and was Chairman of the Executive Board of the Caisse d’Epargne Ile‑de‑France Ouest from 2000 to 2007 and then of the Caisse d’Epargne Rhône‑Alpes from 2007 to 2009. In January 2010, he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Commercial Banking and Insurance of the BPCE group until September 2012. He was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the BRED group from October 2012 to May 2023. He was a Member of the Supervisory Board of BPCE and its Risk Committee between 2019 and May 2023. He is Chief Executive Officer of Lazard Frères Banque SA and Managing Partner since September 2023. Since 1986, He is teaching macroeconomics and monetary policy at HEC. He is a director of Rexécode since 2018.

    Mrs. Ingrid-Helen Arnold, Graduated from the University of Applied Sciences Ludwigshafen in 1997 with a master’s degree in economics. She began her career at SAP SE in 1996, where she held various responsibilities related to innovation and digital transformation. In 2014, she was appointed Chief Information Officer and Business
    Processes and extended Member of the SAPExecutiveCommittee. From 2016 to April 2021, she was President of SAP Business Data Network group in Palo Alto (United States) and SAP SE Walldorf (Germany). In 2021, she joined the Südzucker group as Chief Digital Officer and Information tehcnology and member of the Group’s Executive Committee. She is Chief Executive Officer of KAKO GmbH since June 2024. She was a member of the Supervisory Board and a member of the Heineken group Audit Committee from 2019 to 2023. She is a member of the TUI group Supervisory Board since 2020.

    Mr. Sébastien Wetter holds a Master degree in Fundamental Physics and graduated from the Lyons Business School (EM Lyon). He began his career at Societe Generale in 1997 in the Strategy and Marketing Division of Societe Generale’s retail bank. Working in the Group’s Organisation Consulting Department from 2002, he performed a range of roles in the Corporate & Investment Banking arm and helped roll out the Group-wide participatory Innovation programme. As of the end of 2005, he joined the Commodities Market Department as Chief Operating Officer holding a global remit, before becoming Head of Business Development in 2008. From 2010 until 2014, he served as General Secretary in the Group’s General Inspection and Audit Division. In 2014, he joined the Sales Division of the Corporate & Investment Bank arm where he held a number of positions: Head of marketing for major French and international clients, then in 2016, Global Chief Operating Officer responsible for the sales teams covering financial institutions. From 2020 to December 2022, he has been a banker managing Societe Generale’s relationship with international financial institutions. He has been a member of the of the Supervisory Board of the Fonds Commun de Placement d’Entreprise (FCPE) since May 2024.

    The regulatory declarations on the absence of conflicts of interest and the absence of convictions mentioned on page 140 of the Universal Registration Document filed by Societe Generale on 12 March 2025 with the French market authority (AMF) under number D.25-00088, relating notably to the three directors whose terms of office are renewed remain valid and the two new directors appointed with effect from the General Meeting of 20 May 2025 have made the same regulatory declarations.

    Press contacts:
    Jean-Baptiste Froville_+33 1 58 98 68 00_ jean-baptiste.froville@socgen.com
    Fanny Rouby_+33 1 57 29 11 12_ fanny.rouby@socgen.com

    Societe Generale

    Societe Generale is a top tier European Bank with around 119,000 employees serving more than 26 million clients in 62 countries across the world. We have been supporting the development of our economies for 160 years, providing our corporate, institutional, and individual clients with a wide array of value-added advisory and financial solutions. Our long-lasting and trusted relationships with the clients, our cutting-edge expertise, our unique innovation, our ESG capabilities and leading franchises are part of our DNA and serve our most essential objective – to deliver sustainable value creation for all our stakeholders.

    The Group runs three complementary sets of businesses, embedding ESG offerings for all its clients:

    • French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance, with leading retail bank SG and insurance franchise, premium private banking services, and the leading digital bank BoursoBank.
    • Global Banking and Investor Solutions, a top tier wholesale bank offering tailored-made solutions with distinctive global leadership in equity derivatives, structured finance and ESG.
    • Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services, comprising well-established universal banks (in Czech Republic, Romania and several African countries), Ayvens (the new ALD I LeasePlan brand), a global player in sustainable mobility, as well as specialized financing activities.

    Committed to building together with its clients a better and sustainable future, Societe Generale aims to be a leading partner in the environmental transition and sustainability overall. The Group is included in the principal socially responsible investment indices: DJSI (Europe), FTSE4Good (Global and Europe), Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index, Euronext Vigeo (Europe and Eurozone), STOXX Global ESG Leaders indexes, and the MSCI Low Carbon Leaders Index (World and Europe).

    In case of doubt regarding the authenticity of this press release, please go to the end of the Group News page on societegenerale.com website where official Press Releases sent by Societe Generale can be certified using blockchain technology. A link will allow you to check the document’s legitimacy directly on the web page.

    For more information, you can follow us on Twitter/X @societegenerale or visit our website societegenerale.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Pressley Calls for True Baby Bonds, Calls Out “MAGA Accounts”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    “Republicans are stealing a good idea and twisting it.”

    Baby Bonds Championed by Pressley & Booker Would Address Wealth Gap, End Cycles of Poverty, Help 18 Year-Olds Pay for College, Home, or Starting a Business

    Video (YouTube)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) delivered a floor speech in which she slammed the so-called “MAGA Accounts” proposal in Republicans’ reconciliation bill. Rather than support this regressive proposal, Congresswoman Pressley urged her colleagues to support Baby Bonds, her bicameral legislation with Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) to close the racial wealth gap, disrupt cycles of intergenerational poverty, and make economic opportunity a birthright for every child.

    A transcript of the Congresswoman’s remarks, as delivered, is available below, and the full video is available here.

    Transcript: Pressley Calls for True Baby Bonds, Calls Out “MAGA Accounts”

    House of Representatives

    May 19, 2025

    Mr. Speaker,

    I rise in support of investing in every child’s future.

    Six years ago, I joined Senator Booker to introduce Baby Bonds legislation to disrupt the cycle of intergenerational poverty, close the racial wealth gap, and ensure every 18-year-old has the financial opportunity to go to college, to buy a home, or to start a business.

    Now, Republicans are stealing a good idea and twisting it.

    The so-called ‘MAGA Accounts’ in their reconciliation bill are intentionally designed to help the rich get richer, while poor children are left further and further behind.

    Their proposal would weaponize the tax code to exacerbate wealth inequality, ignore the expertise of economists, and penalize states and non-profits that try to help low-income families.

    In America, a child born into poverty is likely to stay there through their adult lives.

    That is a policy choice – and a violent one.

    Our babies deserve better. Our babies deserve opportunity.

    I urge my colleagues to reject this regressive proposal and support true Baby Bonds.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan and Health Care Advocates Join Protect Our Care Virginia As Republicans Charge Ahead With the Largest Medicaid Cuts in History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (Virginia 4th District)

    GOP’s Proposed Cuts to Medicaid Would Throw 206,000 Virginians Off Their Health Care

    RICHMOND, Va. — In case you missed it, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) on Thursday joined Protect Our Care Virginia to discuss the latest developments in the GOP assault on Medicaid. 

    On Wednesday, the House Energy and Commerce Committee, on which Rep. McClellan serves, completed a 26-hour markup in which Republicans advanced the largest cuts to Medicaid in history in order to meet President Donald Trump’s demands to fund tax breaks for the wealthy. Republicans on the committee approved $715 billion in cuts to health care, mostly to Medicaid, and imposed new reporting requirements that are designed to throw people off the program. 

    Republicans on the House Budget Committee failed to advance the overall package on Friday, citing that they want to see even deeper cuts to Medicaid in Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.” 

    Using data from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis (TCI) estimated that 206,000 people will lose Medicaid in Virginia. Additionally, TCI found that 147,000 Virginians who have Medicaid would be subject to up to $35 copays for certain services. Republican Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09), who also sits on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, has defended raising out-of-pocket health care costs on Virginians. 

    Due to cuts to Medicaid and a change in a rule to the Affordable Care Act, 8.6 million people will lose their health care under the plan the committee advanced. A total of 13.7 million people will become uninsured when factoring in those who will no longer be able to afford to buy insurance through the ACA marketplaces due to the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits. Republicans are refusing to extend the tax credits past 2025. 

    “Due to these changes, you lose your health insurance under Medicaid, you lose your subsidy to be able to purchase insurance through the Marketplace,” said Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan. “That’s how we get to 13.7 million people who will lose health insurance. Those costs will go to the rest of us. Providers will feel the stress of that. We will have rural hospitals threatening to close again, like we did before we expanded in Virginia. About 200,000 Virginians stand to lose access to their health care here. And why? Why are we doing this? To fund tax cuts for the wealthiest 1% by making the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent …This is taking away from the least of these to help those who don’t need the help. And that is a big part of the story that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle don’t want to talk about.”

    “When all the proposals under the House Republican health care plan are fully implemented, approximately 206,000 Virginians will lose their health coverage,” said Ashley Kenneth, President of The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis. “The people poised to lose their health care already struggle with the high cost of living in our state and cannot afford to pay more for their health care. They will choose to go without insurance because they will have no other choice.”

    “Let me be clear, this is a direct threat to the health care access of tens of thousands of Virginians,” said Jamie Lockhart, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Virginia. “Nearly 25,000 people in Virginia relied on Planned Parenthood health centers last year for cancer screenings, STI treatment, birth control, and more. Medicaid is one of the primary ways those patients pay for care. If this proposal moves forward, they’re not just losing a provider. They’re losing the provider they trust.”

    “So I just want to tell Congress, don’t make it harder for people to get Medicaid, please don’t make it harder to stay on Medicaid, and please don’t question our work ethic, because that is insulting,” said Andrew Daughtry of Henrico County, who suffered multiple on-the-job injuries while working construction. “I couldn’t get health care through my job, but I need Medicaid to pay for the thousands of dollars of injuries that happened on the job. So please don’t pretend that people on Medicaid don’t want to work because I’ve given up my body and my health for the work.”

    “It is not rocket science to see that when people lose their health care, they’re going to start showing up in emergency rooms where hospitals are obligated to treat them. And if no one is reimbursing hospitals for that care, they will go into the red, and they will close,” said Jessica Lazerov, MD, MBA, a pediatrician from Fairfax. “And then everyone in that geographic area, regardless of whether they’re on Medicaid, is going to lose access to their closest hospital. And if these Republicans don’t understand that, then they’re simply not fit to govern.”

    “We love the work we do, and I want to be able to continue to do it for the rest of my life, but cuts in Medicaid may prevent us from doing so,” said SEIU Virginia 512 member Tony Hedgepeth of Richmond, a Medicaid-funded home care worker who cares for veterans.“Taking away Medicaid could sever 47,000 Virginia veterans from their health care or force them to pay more for it. These brave individuals have fought for our country, and we should fight to ensure that they can live and access the best possible quality of life, as they did for us.”

    “Medicaid provides health care to one in every five people in Virginia,” said Katie Baker, state director for Protect Our Care Virginia. “If you aren’t on Medicaid yourself, you know someone who is. Polling shows that the majority of voters believe we should be increasing funding for health care, not cutting it. Republicans are not with the public when it comes to taking away people’s health care.” 

    Event Assets and News Coverage

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Applauds SBA Rollback of Irresponsible Biden-Era Lending Changes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) released the following statement after Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler paused the Biden-era Community Advantage Small Business Lending Company (SBLC) program that was designed to provide taxpayer-backed 7(a) loans with riskier underwriting through non-profit mission-based lenders.
    The Community Advantage program generated a 7% default rate over the last 12 months – more than double that of the overall 7(a) loan portfolio.
    “SBA lending programs should be purely based on economic viability,” said Ernst. “The Biden SBA enabled risky lending practices while putting millions of worthy small businesses on the back burner. I am relieved to see Administrator Loeffler continue to restore fiscal responsibility to the agency’s flagship 7(a) lending program to ensure that taxpayers are not forced to foot the bill.”
    The conversion of Community Advantage lenders to Small Business Lending Companies is another example of the irresponsible management of the SBA’s loan programs by the Biden administration. This change was intended to make the Community Advantage Pilot Program permanent without Congressional authorization.
    Background:
    Ernst discussed undoing the damage of the Biden administration and fixing the financial integrity of the 7(a) loan program with Administrator Kelly Loeffler during her confirmation hearing.
    During a hearing earlier this year, Ernst detailed how the Biden administration’s loosening of rules and reckless expansion of the program increased the risk for American taxpayers. She went on to describe how the Trump SBA could fix the 7(a) program.
    In a letter to President Trump on his first day in office, Ernst highlighted Biden’s mismanagement of the program that threatened to force taxpayers to foot the bill.
    Ernst repeatedly raised concerns that the Biden administration’s rapid expansion of the 7(a) lending program was leaving taxpayers on the hook for risky lending practices by non-bank lenders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Calls on Trump Administration to Strengthen American Critical Mineral Supply Chain

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) submitted a letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce in response to their Section 232 National Security Investigation of Imports of Processed Critical Minerals and their Derivative Products calling on the Trump Administration to take strategic action to protect, invest in, and strengthen America’s critical mineral supply chain. The Senator also expressed concern that the Administration’s recent tariff policy has undermined our economic and national security.
    “First, critical minerals are deeply important to the economy of Nevada,” the Senator wrote. “It is not an understatement to say that the actions taken in this investigation could impact Nevada more than any other state in the country. Therefore, I encourage you to proceed in a cautious and consultative manner to ensure that any actions taken do not adversely impact my constituents and businesses. Second, I am concerned that President Trump’s trade actions to date work counter to U.S. economic and national security. Blanket tariffs on allies and the chaotic uncertainty of the administration’s trade policy undermine our ability to attract greater U.S. investment and strengthen U.S. critical mineral supply chains.”
    Within Nevada is the “lithium loop” – a region within 250 miles of Reno where critical minerals are mined, extracted, and processed; electric vehicles and batteries are produced; and lithium batteries and other materials are recycled. The state has 19 times more lithium deposits than the next highest state, and Nevada is home to Albemarle’s Silver Peak facilities – the only facility with commercial-scale lithium production in the U.S.
    “Instead of indiscriminate tariffs on allies, we should be imposing strategic tariffs on adversaries,” the Senator continued. “Instead of eliminating tax credits that catalyze investment and growth, we should be expanding tax credits to ensure America dominates the industries of the future. I stand ready to work with you and the administration on any policies that help Nevadans, particularly in these sectors and supply chains which are so key to my state’s economy.”
    Read the full letter here.
    Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to strengthen our national security and supply chains. Earlier this year, the Senator demanded Secretary of Defense Hegseth and Secretary of the Treasury Bessent provide answers on the national security impacts of President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods. She has consistently blocked burdensome taxes on mining and wrote important provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bolster Nevada’s critical mineral supply chain. She’s also introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the domestic supply chain for rare-earth magnets, which are critical components of cell phones, computers, defense systems, and electric vehicles, but are almost exclusively made in China.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Fox Business to Discuss the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ and Potential Coverup of Biden’s Health

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business this morning to discuss Joe Biden’s cancer announcement and the questions surrounding the timing of these revelations and the need to quickly pass President Donald Trump’s ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill.’

    You may click HERE or above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview on Fox Business.
    President Trump commented on Senator Marshall’s interview on Truth Social:

    Highlights from the interview include:
    On the next great cover-up from Joe Biden’s Administration:
    Senator Marshall: “What we do know is that, typically, this type of cancer takes at least two years to spread to the bones, at least two years, typically five years. It’s inconceivable to me that they weren’t doing PSA tests. If they were doing them, show them to us. If they weren’t, then show us that as well. All they have to do to dispel this rumor is show us the data. Show us the President’s records.
    “But the big issue here, to me is, what about six months from now when. Let’s just assume that Joe Biden will be completely mentally incapacitated in six months now they’re going to go back and say, Oh, these are metastases from the prostate, the cancer that caused this, not the Alzheimer’s that we’ve been seeing or the Parkinson’s, whichever it is, if not both of them, that’s been affecting his mental capacity now for several years.”
    On how this is seemingly yet another cover-up by the Biden Administration:
    Senator Marshall: “And they’ll continue the lie. The legacy media is complicit in all this, the White House, his White House, surrounding him, is complicit in this. Look, they’ve lied to us about Russia, Russia, Russia. They lied to us about the Hunter Biden laptop. They lied to us about all things COVID, and now there is one more cover-up.
    “Joe Biden has been out of office now for, what, not even six months a year, and there’s one more cover-up here. The great great cover-up is upon us. So coincidental, right after the Hur testimony comes out, that recording, which was way worse than I would have thought it would have been. Joe Biden had tangential thought processes going on. There is a classic sign of Alzheimer’s disease, as we know that he couldn’t complete sentences, really. He didn’t have any memory recollection beyond 2015 if you listen to that tape.”
    On how the cover-up put America and the world at risk:
    Senator Marshall: “Is there any doubt why Putin was not afraid to invade Ukraine? Is there any doubt why President Xi in China was going to walk all over us on trade agreements? All this points to we had a very weak leader. And again, who was running the country? And you’ve said this on your show so many times, who was running the country, who was signing those executive orders, who was signing the bills into law, all the people that he pardoned. Did you really know the story of who they were pardoning, but it was not the person that America elected.”
    On what’s next for the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’:
    Senator Marshall: “So I do have confidence, I have all the confidence in the world in Speaker Johnson, all the confidence world in leader, soon, if this is a ball game, we’d be in the third inning. The starting pitchers have both been knocked out. We’re into our middle relief, but we had the greatest closer of all time in Donald Trump. I mean, I think about Mario Rivera and his cutter fastball. That’s what President Trump has. I’m very confident. The big difference, I think, is this, the Republican Senate is more conservative than the House Republican caucus right now. We don’t have Senators from a SALT state.
    “Look, they’re probably trying to cut about one and a half trillion dollars. We think we need to cut at least a minimum of $2 trillion that’s probably the biggest difference between the two bills. The SALT is a great example. We don’t have a senator from a SALT state. What they’re talking about doing is going to cost American taxpayers a trillion dollars over the next 10 years. So, people from Kansas look like we’re supplementing folks from California, from Illinois, from New York, on this SALT deduction tax to the tune of a trillion dollars. We don’t think that that’s fair. So, they’ll get something across the finish line. Give it to us. We’ll make it better. We’ll work with President Trump and get him this One Big, Beautiful Bill.”
    On the importance of getting the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ across the finish line:
    Senator Marshall: “We don’t have any choice. We have to get this bill across the finish line, or we’re going to see the largest tax increase in American history, a $4 trillion tax increase. We have to get it across the finish line. President Trump says we need to take care of this ceiling, of this debt ceiling… To your point, if we don’t, then the Democrats will weaponize it against us. So, we have to take care of it now, and that’s going to allow us to work towards a balanced budget as we go forward. We need to get last year behind us, focus on the future, and start working towards a balanced budget.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Launches Onshoring Portal to Advance America’s Economic Comeback

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON — Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), announced the launch of the Make Onshoring Great Again Portal, a free tool designed to help small businesses identify U.S. manufacturers and producers. With a database of more than 1 million American suppliers, the searchable portal will empower job creators to source domestic suppliers to support their operations – which will in turn support American jobs, reconnect our supply chain with U.S-based production, and end our nation’s concentrated dependence on foreign suppliers and adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party.

    “The SBA is proud to support President Donald J. Trump’s mission to restore America’s economic resurgence by empowering small businesses with the resources to supercharge the return of Made in America,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “The Make Onshoring Great Again Portal will give job creators a direct line to more than one million domestic suppliers – replacing foreign dependence with access to American-made solutions. It’s a decisive step toward rebuilding our nation’s strength through stronger supply chains, better products, and a renewed commitment to American industry, small business, and workers.”

    The SBA is working with several private-sector cosponsors to provide public access to three free databases representing more than 1 million U.S. based manufacturers, producers, and suppliers. Not only will the portal enable small businesses to support American industry and workers – it will also benefit job creators by helping them source domestic supply chains that will deliver shortened lead times, improved quality control, and reduced exposure to overseas disruptions.

    The Made in America Onshoring Portal builds on the SBA’s ongoing commitment to revitalizing American industry. Earlier this year, the agency launched the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, which is aimed at expanding access to capital for U.S. manufacturers, promoting a skilled workforce, and cutting $100 billion in red tape. The agency has also endorsed recent bipartisan, bicameral legislation to double the SBA loan cap for small manufacturers in the effort to supercharge the return of American manufacturing dominance.

    For more information, please visit the Make Onshoring Great Again Portal at: www.sba.gov/priorities/american-manufacturers/make-onshoring-great-again-portal

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Revitalizing Long Island Downtowns

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 23 transformational projects on Long Island as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Eight projects were announced for Smithtown-Kings Park, the Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; eight projects were announced for Brookhaven-North Bellport, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and seven projects were announced for Mineola, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Long Island’s towns and villages represent the best of our state, and I’m investing in 23 transformation projects so they can continue to be the hubs of industry and culture we cherish,” Governor Hochul said. “These projects will make our communities stronger for generations of residents and businesses while honoring the historic character that makes New York special.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects – we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.” 

    Town of Smithtown – Kings Park

    The Town of Smithtown has already taken significant steps toward revitalizing Kings Park with aggressive housing and economic development goals to catalyze future transformation through the DRI. The DRI projects will help to support the Town’s vision to create a walkable, mixed-use business district centered around the Long Island Rail Road station with access to restaurants, commercial development, community space and new diverse housing opportunities.

    The 8 Smithtown DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Implement Main Street and Pedestrian Improvements ($4,500,000): Implement streetscape and pedestrian improvements to increase walkability and safety for both pedestrians and drivers along Main Street. Improvements may include utility line relocation on Main Street, bulb-outs, reduced curb cuts, widened sidewalks, accessible pedestrian ramps and high-visibility crosswalks. The streetscape improvements would also provide a reconfigured parking lot near 75 Main Street.
    • Install Town Green and Library Outdoor Learning Area with Connections to Local Trails ($1,435,000): Convert an underutilized municipal parking lot and parts of the library’s open space into a new park. The new, expanded park will feature a gazebo/stage, a multi-functional outdoor learning area, a new playground community garden and seating. The park will have expanded pathway connections to the Hike and Bike Trailhead.
    • Transform 26-34 Main Street into Mixed-Use Development ($900,000): Construct a three-story mixed-use development at the heart of Main Street with new retail and community facility spaces and approximately 16 apartments. Building will be further set back from Main Street to widen sidewalks and improve pedestrian experience by Russ Savatt Park.
    • Rehabilitate the Historic Mixed-Use Building at 4 Main Street ($850,000): Renovate the restaurant, apartments and outdoor seating areas of a historic building on Main Street’s most prominent corner. Exterior renovations include lighting, signage, landscaping, windows and insulation. Interior renovations include upgrades to HVAC, flooring, ceilings and equipment.
    • Restore the VFW Building for Community Events at 40 Church Street ($728,000): Complete restorations to enable community facility usage and events including roof, sidings, foundation sealing, windows, sewer connection, new signage and an awning. Interior work includes electrical, HVAC, flooring, painting, plumbing, generator and fire safety.
    • Establish a Small Project Grant Program to Support Capital Improvements ($600,000): Create a small grant fund that will help small businesses and property owners improve exteriors and interiors including signage and awnings, windows, entrances, patios, doors and sidings.
    • Implement Branding, Marketing and Signage Strategy for Kings Park ($400,000): Utilize marketing services to attract businesses and create a cohesive visual identity. This includes the re-design and installation of wayfinding signage, a new web and media presence and new programing strategies.
    • Create a Pedestrian Pathway from LIRR Main Street and Russ Savatt Park ($287,000): Create a pedestrian walkway from the LIRR Station to Main Street via Russ Savatt Park to guide pedestrians and visitors. The walkway will be improved with landscaping, crosswalks and lighting.

    Town of Brookhaven-North Bellport

    The Town of Brookhaven will use public/private partnerships to overcome inequities and strengthen the community. Through the development of NY Forward projects the Town will foster new affordable housing close and accessible to the LIRR station; a mixed-use business district; upgrade public amenities; building façade improvements; and streetscape enhancements to improve pedestrian safety.

    The 8 North Bellport NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Implement Sidewalks and Lighting Improvements ($1,300,000): Implement new sidewalks on Atlantic Ave from Provost to Station Rd and Post Ave from Patchogue to Montauk Hwy. Install lighting on Atlantic Ave from Station Rd to North Dunton Ave, Post Ave and Montauk Hwy.
    • Develop Affordable Homeownership on Ecke Avenue ($1,250,000): Construct 32 homes with 32 Accessory Apartments (ADU) (64 total units) on vacant land.
    • Create Storefronts and Office Space at 1700-1742 Montauk Highway ($786,855): Commercial development with first floor retail and second floor office and community space.
    • Renovate a School Annex at 1415 Montauk Highway ($446,000): Renovate a school annex for Pre-K to second grade classes. Space will host events and programs open to the public.
    • Upgrade Robert Rowley Park ($345,152): Park improvements including upgraded playground equipment and surfacing, landscaping, new benches, upgraded and increased lighting, pickleball courts, basketball court improvements and upgraded fencing and paving.
    • Enhance Bellport Station ($200,000): Improvements to Bellport Station including cleaned up vegetation and new landscaping.
    • Improve Outdoor Space at the Boys and Girls Club ($96,993): Improvements include backyard and playground upgrades, basketball court construction, parking lot lighting and a meditation garden.
    • Upgrade the Facade at 1414 Montauk Highway ($75,000): Reface the exterior of the building and add new lighting, store signage and a sidewalk complex sign.

    Village of Mineola

    The Village of Mineola has engaged in thoughtful planning and supportive zoning changes to attract new businesses and people to the downtown, which has helped create over 1,400 housing units during the last decade. The NY Forward projects will build on these important prior efforts by creating more public spaces in the downtown; developing vacant parcels into mixed-use buildings; and completing placemaking and pedestrian improvements.

    The 7 Mineola NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Redevelop Second and Main Street to Strengthen the Downtown Core ($1,300,000): Expand sidewalks on the north side of Second Street and east side of Main Street, install automatic bollards for temporary road closures, remove utility poles and bury power lines, and enhance streetscapes with landscaping and amenities.
    • Redevelop 199 Jericho Turnpike into a Mixed-Use Building that Preserves the Historic Façade ($1,000,000): Redevelop 199 Jericho Turnpike with a 40,000-square-foot mixed-use building featuring 30 residential apartments, including 15 affordable units and a 2,685-square-foot retail space, while preserving the historic bank façade and adding sidewalk pavers, street trees and parking.
    • Strengthen Pedestrian Streetscapes With a Focus on Lighting the Downtown Core and Installing Area-Wide Wayfinding ($850,000): Install wayfinding and gateway signage to promote Village identity and guide visitors to key destinations, while enhancing streetscapes with trees, planters, seating and the removal of cluttered poles.
    • Install a Public Mural on the Pavilion Garage and Activate Surrounding Public Space ($505,000): Install a large-scale mural on the north-facing wall of The Pavilion Parking Garage and transform the ground area into a flexible space with landscaping, lighting, seating and public amenities to create an inviting environment for events, commuters and residents.
    • Activate and Improve Connection from Station Plaza to Second Street Passageway ($417,000): Enhance pedestrian connectivity between the train station and Downtown Mineola by upgrading the Mineola Boulevard Bridge underpasses and Morgan Parc alleyway with improved lighting, public art and aesthetic enhancements.
    • Establish a Small Project Fund to Support Local Businesses and Improve the Public Realm ($300,000): Establish a fund to support property improvements within the NYF Area, offering grants for façade enhancements, signage, building renovations, accessibility upgrades, sustainability projects and public art, with tailored guidelines for private and non-profit applicants.
    • Renovate Facade of the St. James to Promote a More Vibrant Second Street ($128,000): Renovate the St. James façade to modernize its appearance with French sliding doors, updated lighting, new signage, an upgraded entryway and enhanced surface treatments to enhance customer experience and align with Second Street’s revitalization.

    In the FY25 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul made the “Pro-Housing Community” designation a requirement for cities, towns and villages to access up to $650 million in State discretionary programs, including the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward. To date, more than 300 municipalities across the State have become certified. To further support localities that are doing their part to address the housing crisis, Governor Hochul secured $100 million in the FY26 Enacted Budget to create a Pro-Housing Supply fund to assist certified Pro-Housing Communities with critical infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing, such as sewer and water infrastructure upgrades.

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike – laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.” 

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.”

     Empire State Development Board Chair Kevin Law said, “As a Long Islander, I’m especially proud to see these transformative investments in Kings Park, North Bellport, and Mineola. These awards demonstrate how targeted funding can reinvigorate commercial centers while preserving their distinct identities. These projects address critical needs—enhancing accessibility around transit hubs, diversifying residential options, and modernizing infrastructure—that will position these localities for long-term prosperity and fuel regional economic growth that will benefit Long Islanders for generations.”

    LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “From creating a walkable, transit-connected downtown in Kings Park to advancing affordable housing and public amenities in North Bellport, and mixed-use revitalization in Mineola, these projects are reshaping Long Island’s economic landscape. Through DRI and NY Forward, we’re delivering smart, community-driven investments that support small businesses, strengthen infrastructure, and foster vibrant, inclusive downtowns where residents and visitors alike can thrive.”

    State Senator Siela A. Bynoe said, “The seven NY Forward Projects planned in the Village of Mineola are a welcome investment in the future of the village and its residents. These grants stand as a testament to the forward-thinking work the Village of Mineola has engaged in to attract business and increase housing. It is an exciting opportunity for the village to now expand on that work with beautified streetscapes, improved lighting, support for local businesses, and increased walkability. I extend my gratitude to Governor Hochul for recognizing the transformational effect of investing in our downtowns.”

    Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said, “I’m incredibly proud and grateful to see Kings Park’s vision come to life through the $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative. From Main Street beautification, which includes the prospect for the highly sought-after utility line relocation, to the new Town Green, Library Outdoor Learning Area, trail access and pedestrian connections to the LIRR and Russ Savatt Park, these projects will give our downtown the vibrant facelift it truly deserves—right where our community gathers every day. This milestone reflects the hard work of a talented team of planners, environmental experts, consultants, and our partners in government. I want to sincerely thank Governor Kathy Hochul, Empire State Development, the Regional Economic Development Council, and especially the Kings Park community for their continued input and commitment throughout this incredible process.”

    Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Daniel J. Panico said, “The people and community of North Bellport have been and continue to be a priority of mine since being elected Supervisor of Brookhaven Town. This investment continues the positive momentum forward toward brighter days. I have long believed that people believe more of what they see with their eyes compared to what they hear with their ears. Accordingly, this investment will deliver tangible improvements and will enable us to continue our work in the North Bellport community. I thank the Governor, her staff, and all those who see the value in partnering with and investing in Brookhaven Town.”

    Village of Mineola Mayor Paul Pereira said, “The Village of Mineola is excited to get these transformational projects started. The NY Forward Program will help the village achieve its goals of revitalizing the downtown into the premier destination on Long Island that it deserves to be. The local planning committee worked tirelessly with the community and the state planners to present the most transformative projects possible. As these projects get under way, along with the projects that have already been approved locally, our residents can see the positive change that is happening. Thank you to the governor and her team for their continued support of our great community. We are excited to get to work.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

     About the 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 strengthen its economy, 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 nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program

    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Varney & Co. on Fox Business to Discuss Trump’s Capitol Hill Meeting on Reconciliation, GENIUS Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss President Donald Trump’s meeting on Capitol Hill on the budget reconciliation package, along with the GENIUS Act.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    Partial Transcript

    Hagerty on Trump’s meeting on Capitol Hill: “We’re watching what the president had to say coming out of the meeting. We’re very focused on this bill, making certain that it happens. But I’ll say this: a lot of the projections, a lot of the prognosticators are pointing to a growth in the deficit, revenue shortfalls, etc. I’ll take us back to 2017. If you think about what the Congressional Budget Office was saying, they were looking at a revenue decrease from President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. What happened? We actually had a revenue increase. They don’t capture the dynamics, as was mentioned before, tariff revenues, cost savings coming from the DOGE efforts and a lot of effort that’s going on within the agencies beyond DOGE. I think there’s a lot more to be captured here and the Senate is looking forward to getting our teams on this and looking for even more significant cuts than the House has delivered so far.”

    Hagerty on moving forward on the GENIUS Act in the Senate:     “I think we have broad agreement from a policy standpoint between Democrats and Republicans. We had a good evening last night, and I think there are actually a number of other folks that aren’t on the bill just yet that will become supportive of it. So, I feel very good about where we’re going. The momentum is very positive right now. All the feedback I’ve had since last night has been extremely positive. So, we’re going to be working at pace this week—we might even get it done this week—that would be great if we could.”

    Hagerty on the GENIUS Act’s impact on the financial system: “It puts our financial system and our payment system more specifically into the modern times. What we rely upon today was designed in the seventies and eighties. This is a chance to completely modernize our payment system to make sure that the innovation that’s happening around the entire industry stays here in America. And importantly, the stablecoin is dollar-denominated, that will perpetuate the dollar’s position, dollar’s dominance as the reserve currency of the world. And it will also increase demand for treasury bills here in America, which is a good thing as well […] The stablecoin legislation requires that each dollar stablecoin be backed fully by either a dollar in cash or short-term treasuries. To do that, the stablecoin issuer has to go and purchase short-term treasuries. Already, stablecoin issuers are large owners of treasuries, and by 2030, Citi projects that stablecoin issuers will be the largest owner of U.S. treasuries in the world.”

    Hagerty on the ability to buy stablecoins:     “You’ll be able to [purchase stablecoins] almost instantaneously. And again, the payment system is there. We just need to give a legal framework for it to thrive here in America. Otherwise, we’ll see what’s been happening. It’s going to keep moving offshore. This is a better way for us to protect consumers, and it’s certainly a better way for us to make certain that America remains the hotbed of competition and innovation in this space […] If you think about it, this is great for dollar dominance as well. We’ve seen a slight erosion, but this is going to make certain that the dollar is the currency of choice around the world, because that’s where all the digital trading is going to go. And again, enhancing the demand for treasuries helps us, particularly at a time when we’re trying to work this deficit down.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NFFE-IAM, IAM Union Welcomes MBDA Workers Back To Work After Court Injunction  

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, May 20, 2025—The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) and the IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) gathered outside the Department of Commerce today to welcome back the 35 employees at the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) who had been placed on administrative leave and faced a Reduction in Force (RIF) threat under a Trump administration Executive Order. 

    WATCH: NFFE-IAM, IAM Union Welcomes Minority Business Development Agency Employees Back to Work  

    VIEW PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT  

    NFFE-IAM members at the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) were able to return to work today after the Rhode Island U.S. District Court issued a preliminary injunction on May 7, 2025,  that protects the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) from an executive order calling for its dismantling. The court stated that the executive order violates the Administrative Procedures Act, separation of powers principles, and the Take Care clause of the U.S. Constitution.

    “I’m proud to stand here today on behalf of NFFE Local 2 to welcome our colleagues back to work,” said Angela Washington, Shop Steward for NFFE-IAM Local 2. “For two years, I’ve served as a steward for these employees, and I’ve seen firsthand their critical work. MBDA is one of 13 bureaus within the Department of Commerce, and it plays a vital role in supporting socially and economically disadvantaged communities by providing access to capital, contracts, and technical assistance. The return of these employees means a return to serving businesses that help create more than 14,000 jobs annually and over $2 billion in access to capital. This is a win for equity, workers, and the communities we serve.”

    The MBDA is the only federal agency solely dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of minority business enterprises (MBEs). It achieves this mission by funding a national network of business centers and providing technical assistance, access to capital, and market development services.

    “We are happy to welcome back NFFE-IAM members employed by MBDA,” said NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin. “Now they can return to their mission of fostering the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned businesses. We will continue to ensure they are treated with dignity and respect in the workplace.” 

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries. 

    goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Slams Republicans for Advancing Bill to Rip Health Care Away from Millions & Warns GOP Will Impose Higher Health Costs for All

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Republicans in the House Energy and Commerce and Ways and Means Committees voted along party lines to severely cut Medicaid and blow a hole in America’s health care system in order to provide bigger tax benefits to billionaires and big corporations.

    The House Republican plan would take health care away from millions of Americans, including children and seniors in nursing home, as well as people battling cancer or addiction, and working families who don’t receive health care through their employers.  It would result in 10.3 million people losing Medicaid coverage and 7.6 million people going uninsured, according to an analysis by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).

    Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed denounced the Republican plan to cut Medicaid, stating:

    “The American people want more people to have health insurance and for it to be more affordable.  Republicans apparently don’t agree and want to whack Medicaid so fewer people have coverage and costs go up.  These Trump inspired cuts will do real harm – pushing seniors out of nursing homes, increasing hospital closures, and denying families access to preventative care.  If you think the emergency room is crowded now, just wait until Trump’s Medicaid cuts happen.  

    “These cuts to Medicaid are extremely unpopular, which is why Republicans hope people don’t notice.  I urge citizens to look closely at what Congressional Republicans and the Trump Administration are trying to do here.  Get engaged before it is too late. 

    “Ensuring the health care system is strong, sustainable, affordable, and accessible to all will do more to save Americans their hard earned money, rather than a few dollars in tax cuts.  Congressional Republicans are trying to jam Medicaid cuts through without people noticing.  Trump Administration officials are trying to incorrectly brand Medicaid, which covers hundreds of thousands of Rhode Islanders, as ‘welfare.’  It’s not welfare – it’s a lifeline.

    “I will continue to sound the alarm and oppose it every step of the way.  We have a long way to go, and together, we can make a difference.  But ordinary people need to speak up and send a message that if Republicans cut Medicaid, they will be held accountable.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Be Aware of NBA Ticket Scams

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today warned basketball fans looking to purchase tickets to an NBA Eastern Conference Final game to be aware of potential scams. The New York Knicks reached the Eastern Conference finals for the first time in 25 years, and game one on Wednesday will be played at Madison Square Garden. Fans usually get excited about their favorite team and may decide to see them play live to be part of the experience, but it’s also an attractive opportunity for scammers to take advantage of high demand for tickets. Governor Hochul is urging consumers to follow tips provided by the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection to avoid event ticket scams leading up to the Knicks home games.

    “As the Knicks continue their incredible run, I understand the excitement and pride fans across New York are feeling — it’s electric,” Governor Hochul said. “But I want to remind everyone: don’t let that excitement make you a target. Be cautious when buying tickets and only use trusted sources. Scammers are out there, and we won’t let them take advantage of our fans.”

    Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “With the Knicks heading to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years, excitement for fans is through the roof, but so is the risk of scams. I urge all New Yorkers, and all sports fans alike, to follow our tips from the Division of Consumer Protection when purchasing tickets to this historic matchup to prevent scammers from stealing your shot at seeing the Knicks take home the championship title.”

    State Senator Rachel May said, “As many New Yorkers celebrate the Knicks’ big win and look forward to the next game, it’s important for fans looking for tickets to be vigilant and aware of potential scams. As Chair of the Consumer Protection Committee, I want Knicks fans to understand that this is an opportunity for scammers to take advantage of the excitement surrounding the team. Please pay close attention to the tickets you purchase because you don’t want to ruin your experience at the next big game with a fraudulent ticket.”

    Assemblymember Nily Rozic said, “While we cannot wait to see the Knicks-In-Four, it’s equally important that fans are not sidelined by scammers looking to take advantage of the moment. I applaud Governor Hochul for issuing this timely alert and urge all New Yorkers to follow these tips to protect themselves and their money when buying tickets.”

    TIPS TO AVOID TICKET SCAMS:

    Purchase from the venue: Many official ticket sales agents now offer secondary sales options, as well.

    Buy only from trusted sources: Buy only from vendors you know and trust. Be especially wary of online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and other social media sites, as they are ripe with scammers peddling bogus tickets. Also avoid the so-called ticket scalpers who approach you outside the event gates, since it’s easy for scammers to sell you a fake ticket and disappear.

    Watch out for fake tickets: Scammers often use fake services that mimic legitimate payment platforms to trick individuals into providing sensitive information or transferring funds.Beware of resellers that re-direct you to a different payment platform or a different website. Official digital payment platforms are designed to integrate with existing systems to facilitate seamless and secure payment processing and do not redirect you to a different website. The process of buying tickets and paying for the tickets are embedded allowing users to purchase tickets directly from within a website, without being redirected to a separate ticketing platform.

    Verify the seller: Research the seller and check for reviews and their reputation online. Check for a physical address and phone number. A legitimate seller will have a real address and a phone number where you can contact them. Also, verify the ticket details. Ensure the ticket details, such as the event name, date, and time, match the official event information. You can also look up the seller on VerifiedTicketSource.com to confirm you are buying from a National Association of Ticket Brokers member resale company, which requires its members to guarantee that every ticket sold on their websites is legitimate.

    Beware of low prices: Don’t let the excitement of finally finding a good deal on a ticket cloud your judgement. Many scammers use low prices and will try and pressure you into quickly buying the tickets. If it looks too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.

    Consider paying with a credit card: Credit cards generally offer more fraud protection than other payment methods like debit cards and payment apps if you ever need to dispute a charge. Scammers often want you to pay with payment apps, prepaid gift cards or cash since these payment methods are untraceable and may not allow you to stop payment or reverse a transaction.

    Use a strong password: Many stadiums and venues only accept digital tickets accessed through an app. Be sure to use a strong password to ensure a scammer can’t hack into your account and steal your ticket.

    Want to stream the game instead? Know your rights with free trials: If you sign up for a free trial on a streaming service to watch the game, keep track of when the trial ends and cancel beforehand to avoid paying for an unwanted subscription. New York State law requires businesses that offer automatically renewing subscriptions with free trials to outline how prices will change and how you can cancel the service.

    About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection

    Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, X and Instagram and check in every Tuesday for more practical tips that educate and empower New York consumers on a variety of topics. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here.

    The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides voluntary mediation between a consumer and a business when a consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection. The Division can also be reached via X at @NYSConsumer or Facebook.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bedner Growers, Inc. Recalls Cucumbers Because of Possible Health Risk

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    May 19, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    May 20, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Salmonella

    Company Name:
    Bender Grower’s, Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    No Brand Name

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Cucumbers

    Company Announcement
    Bedner Growers, Inc. of Boynton Beach, Florida is voluntarily recalling cucumbers sold at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market between April 29, 2025, and May 14, 2025 because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
    The recalled cucumbers were sold directly to consumers at the three Bedner’s Farm Fresh Markets locations in Florida (Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach). Because the recalled cucumbers do not bear any stickers or other labeling, customers should discard and not consume any cucumbers that were purchased at these locations between April 29, 2025, and May 14, 2025.
    The recalled cucumbers also were sold to a wholesale distributor, which has been directed to further contact its customers with recall instructions.
    The cucumbers are being recalled because they have been linked by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to a Salmonella outbreak that has resulted in 26 illnesses in AL, CA, CO, FL, IL, KS, KY, MI, NC, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, and VA.
    This recall does not include any cucumbers currently available for sale at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Markets after May 14, 2025, nor does it include any other agricultural products. All cucumbers currently available for sale at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Markets were not grown by Bedner Growers, Inc., as the company is no longer producing, packing, or selling any cucumbers because the growing season has concluded.
    Consumers who have purchased the recalled products may obtain additional information by contacting Bedner Growers, Inc. at 866-222-9180, M-F 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. EDT.
    Bedner Growers, Inc. is conducting this recall in coordination with the FDA.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Bedner Growers, Inc
    866-222-9180

    Content current as of:
    05/20/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Agent Singularity Summit: Advancing On-Chain AI with Sparsity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, Colo., May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At the Agent Singularity Summit, the energy was unmistakable. A vibrant community of over 300 developers, researchers, and infrastructure leaders came together for a full-day deep dive into AI agents and decentralized infrastructure. Hosted by Sparsity and co-presented by Sui and Virtuals, the summit explored how autonomous agents can operate on-chain in real time—pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in decentralized, verifiable computing.

    AI Agents, Live and On-Chain

    The event featured discussions from some of the most respected teams in AI and crypto, including Google DeepMind, a16z CSX, Mysten Labs, Coinbase, Solana Foundation and Virtuals. Sparsity’s own Justin Zhang and Conrad Shelton opened the day with a fireside chat, outlining their vision for scalable, AI-native computation. Backed by a16z CSX, Sparsity is pioneering a novel sparsity technique that enables high-throughput agent execution without compromising decentralization.

    Justin (right) and Conrad from Sparsity shared their vision on scalable computation for AI-driven decentralized systems.

    Key technical talks included:

    • Chi Wang (AG2, Google DeepMind): Introduction to AgentOS, an operating system for multi-agent systems.
    • Lincoln Murr (Coinbase Developer Platform): The importance of crypto-native frameworks for autonomous AI.
    • John Naulty (Mysten Labs): How Sui powers on-chain agentic workflows with native primitives.

    Chi Wang (AG2, Google DeepMind), Lincoln Murr (Coinbase), and John Naulty (Mysten Labs / Sui) speak at Agent Singularity Summit

    Sparsity: Powering the Intelligent Layer of Web3

    As a Layer N+1 execution protocol, Sparsity enables real-time, parallelized AI computation across any blockchain. At Agent Singularity, this infrastructure was demonstrated in action, allowing AI agents to execute logic and interact with on-chain environments without being constrained by L1 throughput or block finality latency.

    “AI agents are no longer theoretical in Web3—they exist. But they need infrastructure that can keep up,” said Justin Zhang, CEO of Sparsity. “That’s what Sparsity delivers: real-time compute, cross-chain composition, and customized validation.”

    Builders, Ecosystems, and Real-World Progress

    Panels throughout the day featured leaders from projects like Solana, Virtuals, Pond Protocol, Talus Network, and BitGPT, focusing on how autonomous agents are being built, deployed, and scaled today. A standout was Virtuals, a fast-rising project building agent-based automation for DeFi, emphasizing the real-world adoption of agent frameworks.

    Agent Singularity also hosted DevNet 1.0, a mini-hackathon where participants deployed AI x Web3 applications using Sparsity’s infrastructure. The depth of participation signaled strong builder interest in scalable agentic systems.

    A Collaborative, Interoperable Future

    The event was not just about technical discussions; it was a milestone in shaping the AI x crypto landscape. With attendees from Base, Sui, and other leading blockchain protocols, conversations spanned agent-governed DAOs, ZK-augmented logic, and AI orchestration at the protocol level.

    Chi Wang, founder of AG2 and a leading voice in autonomous agent architectures, played a pivotal role in shaping the discourse at the event. “Chi Wang’s contributions were instrumental in bringing Agent Singularity to life,” the Sparsity team noted. His work helped bridge the gap between speculative ideas and practical implementation, inspiring a new wave of AI-native founders and engineers.

    Great minds coming together to discuss the next frontier: Web3 and AI.

    The Future is Now

    A common theme emerged across all sessions: the agent economy is no longer speculative. With scalable compute, real-time coordination, and emerging interoperability standards, AI x crypto is entering a new phase of technical maturity.

    Sparsity is leading this shift, offering the speed, composability, and developer flexibility needed to build AI-native applications across chains.

    If you’re working on AI agents, decentralized compute, or high-performance blockchain infrastructure, visit sparsity.ai and get involved.

    Watch the Full Event
    The full recording of Agent Singularity is now available online:
    Watch here

    Follow Us
    Stay up to date with the future of on-chain AI — follow us on Twitter:
    @sparsity_xyz

    Memorable moments shared between our incredible audience and the organizing team – thank you all for making it happen!

    Sparsity links : Twitter – @sparsity_xyz

    Website – https://www.sparsity.ai/

    Contact Detail
    Lan X
    Business Development
    Email – lan@sparsity.xyz

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Sparsity. The 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/701d7b49-96c5-407c-bdfd-8a99203d7e64

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1d52a3bf-2629-4f86-8bed-86a6b33eb299

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6003b671-c2fc-4eff-bd08-1b451ce97e34

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/664402ee-4a49-475c-b59d-a7e773240414

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko Calls Out EPA Administrator Zeldin for Slashing Protections to Environment & Public Health

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko, Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment, today questioned Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin during an Environment Subcommittee hearing on the EPA’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget.

    Listen to Rep. Tonko’s opening remarks HERE and see below as prepared for delivery.

    President Trump’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for EPA has been called “problematic,” “an unserious proposal,” and “maybe a bridge too far to be achievable.”

    These were the reactions of Republican Appropriators last week, and I expect you will hear even less charitable reviews from Democrats on this Subcommittee today.

    This proposal includes a 55% reduction from FY25 levels, resulting in agency funding levels not seen since the mid-1980s.

    If enacted, this would fundamentally dismantle the EPA as we know it and cripple the agency’s ability to carry out its core mission of protecting the air we breathe and the water we drink.

    The request includes devastating cuts that will undermine states’ efforts to protect public health and carry out their obligations, including a $2.46 billion reduction to the State Revolving Funds for water infrastructure and a $1 billion reduction for categorical grants, which are critical to supporting staffing of state environmental agencies.

    I believe this is part of a disturbing trend we are seeing to force more costs onto state governments, as is being done with the proposed cuts to Medicaid in the majority’s reconciliation bill.

    Similar to these funding cuts, earlier this year the Administration expressed a desire to reduce EPA staffing levels by 65%, which would return the agency to 1971 personnel levels — the agency’s second year in existence.

    It is not credible to suggest that the agency can fulfill its statutory requirements — including all the major environmental laws and amendments to those laws that have been enacted since the 1970s — with these proposed staffing levels.

    Cuts of this magnitude would not only hollow out the agency’s expertise and capacity, but they are insensitive to the public servants who have dedicated their lives to supporting the agency’s mission.

    And it is worth reminding everyone of what that mission is: To protect human health and the environment.

    In just a few short months, I believe the agency, under Administrator Zeldin’s leadership, has lost sight of this mission.

    Mr. Zeldin launched the “Powering the Great American Comeback” initiative focused on American energy, auto manufacturing, and artificial intelligence dominance.

    And broadly speaking, I am not necessarily opposed to aspects of that agenda, but I also do not believe it is the appropriate role for our nation’s environmental regulator to be leading this effort.

    Because EPA’s contributions to those goals more or less translate to how can we reduce environmental protections and enforcements of those protections for the benefit of energy producers, the auto industry, and Big Tech, even if ordinary Americans will pay the price by breathing harmful air pollution, drinking contaminated water, and being exposed to dangerous chemicals.

    We have already seen a slew of agency actions that will result in greater pollution and reduce our scientific capacity to understand how that pollution will impact Americans’ health and well-being.

    This includes reconsidering rules that protect Americans from pollution from power plants, vehicles, and industrial facilities, and weakening standards to keep PFAS out of our drinking water.

    Each of these public health protections up for reconsideration went through robust rulemaking processes and economic analyses, which found that every one of these rules delivers greater benefits to the American people, in public health and economic benefits, than they cost.

    I am also concerned by EPA’s efforts to terminate previously awarded grants without producing any evidence of fraud, waste, or abuse.

    For each of those awards, the previous administration carried out competitive selection processes based upon requirements enacted by Congress.

    Whether or not Administrator Zeldin personally believes Congress was wasting taxpayer dollars when it directed EPA to carry out those funding opportunities is irrelevant.

    No Administrator should be the sole arbitrator of what is a good use of Congressionally-directed taxpayer dollars, and yet we have seen billions of dollars impounded without justification.

    Finally, I am very concerned by reports that EPA is planning to eliminate the Energy Star program, which is a voluntary, non-regulatory labeling program with strong support from industry and consumers.

    Energy Star has been incredibly effective at supporting American manufacturing, enabling people to lower energy bills, and reducing strain on our electricity system.

    This seems obviously in line with the President’s energy and economic agenda, and yet, there may be an effort underway to terminate the program.

    If we cannot even find common ground on a broadly popular, voluntary, low-cost program to benefit consumers, I have serious doubts that we will be able to find anything to agree upon this year.

    Mr. Administrator, I appreciate you being here, and I hope we can work together to ensure that your agency and this committee have a productive, transparent relationship that honors the critical public health and scientific mission of the EPA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PASSED: Fischer, Bennet Resolution Promoting Mental Health in Ag Industry and Workforce

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
    The Senate unanimously approved U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Michael Bennet’s (D-Colo.), bipartisan resolution designating May 29th as ‘Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day.’“Daily uncertainties and extreme stress lead to higher levels of anxiety and depression among Nebraska’s agricultural producers and workforce. Our resolution recognizes these unique challenges and supports the farmers, ranchers, and workers who perform the essential work of producing high-quality food, fuel, and fiber,” said Fischer.“From severe drought to increased costs, unprecedented challenges are taking a toll on the mental health of Colorado’s farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers. I’m grateful to stand with Senator Fischer and my Senate colleagues to raise awareness about our country’s mental health crisis and work together to expand access to care for communities across the country,” said Bennet.In addition to Fischer and Bennet, the resolution is cosponsored by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.). The full text of the resolution can be found here.
    Click 
    here to learn about national resources available for those in need of assistance.Click here to learn about Nebraska resources available for those in need of assistance.
    National Stakeholder Support: 
    Agricultural Retailers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, Farm Credit Services of America, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Corn Growers Association, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Union, National Pork Producers Council, and National Rural Health Association.Click here to view statements of support from national stakeholders.
    Nebraska Stakeholder Support:

    Nebraska Agri-Business Association, Nebraska Cattlemen, Nebraska Cooperative Council, Nebraska Corn Growers Association, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Nebraska Farmers Union, Nebraska Pork Producers Association, Nebraska Rural Health Association, Nebraska Soybean Association, and Nebraska Wheat Board. 
    Click here to view statements of support from Nebraska stakeholders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Introduces the Business Opportunity Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) led a introduced the Business Opportunity Protection (BOP) Act. This legislation would repealunnecessary and unused Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) discretionary authorities granted by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06), is the lead of BOP’s companion legislation in the House.
    “15 years is more than enough time for the SEC to evaluate the necessity of unused authorities,” said Ricketts. “But just because they haven’t been used does not mean they should remain on the books.”
    Senator Ricketts emphasized the danger of activist regulators weaponizing unused Dodd-Frankdiscretionary authorities to advance aggressive and sweeping ideological mandates on investors and businesses. Ricketts also highlighted the cost savings for businesses that would no longer need to plan for uncertain compliance requirements.
    “Unused discretionary authorities at the SEC create a regulatory overhang—businesses are forced to plan for rules and compliance burdens that could appear overnight,” continued Ricketts. “It’s time to restore balance, accountability, and certainty to the SEC and take unused discretionary authorities off the books for good.”
    “Dodd-Frank slowed our recovery from the 2008 recession and will go down as one of the biggest power grabs by federal regulators in history,” said Congressman Andy Barr, Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Financial Institutions. “More than 15 years later, I’m teaming up with Senator Ricketts to prevent the SEC from imposing any more regulations under Dodd-Frank that haven’t already been implemented.”
    Bill text can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Growing Colorado’s Semiconductor Industry: Gov. Polis Announces Okika Devices Expansion in Colorado

    Source: US State of Colorado

    COLORADO SPRINGS – Today, Governor Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced that Okika Devices, a producer of chips and software that enable custom and cutting-edge analog solutions and computing, has selected Colorado Springs for its new headquarters and research and development (R&D) center. 

    “We are thrilled to welcome Okika Devices to Colorado, the best place to live and do business. Okika will bring 20 new, good-paying jobs to Colorado Springs while advancing our state’s growing contributions to the semiconductor industry,” said Governor Polis. 

    In Colorado, Okika joins a semiconductor industry poised for growth. The Semiconductor Industry Association places Colorado in the top 10 states with the resources and business ecosystem to support a strong semiconductor industry. In addition to major fabrication facilities, Colorado businesses support the entire value chain from chip design and materials to fabrication and packaging. 

    Okika develops Field Programmable Analog Array (FPAA) integrated circuit products to deliver state-of-the-art analog integrated circuit solutions that address complex challenges from sensor processing to machine learning. In Colorado Springs, the company recognized an opportunity to connect to a strong workforce, build on local relationships established through previous industry experience, and establish new partnerships within the local ecosystem. 

    The company expects to create 20 net new jobs at an average annual wage of $104,250, which is 160% of the average annual wage in El Paso County. Hiring is underway for applications and quality engineers, sales, and procurement. 

    “Relocating Okika’s headquarters to Colorado Springs marks an exciting new chapter for our company. The business-friendly environment, along with the unwavering support from the city, county, and state—who truly bent over backwards to make this transition seamless—made our decision an easy one. Colorado Springs offers a rich pool of talented and committed professionals, and we’re proud to join a community known for innovation and excellence. Many of our senior executives, formerly of Ramtron, are thrilled to return and help launch Okika in a place that feels like home. We are looking forward to being back,” said William Staunton, Chairman and CEO of Okika.

     “Okika Device’s dedication to cutting-edge analog solutions and commitment to innovation will undoubtedly strengthen and advance our state’s growing semiconductor ecosystem, further solidifying Colorado’s position as a leader in the advanced industries, technology and strategic economic development,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman. 

    The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved up to $398,756 in a performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit for the company over an eight-year period. These incentives are contingent upon Okika Devices, referred to as Project Kokua throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting net new job creation and salary requirements. 

    Colorado Springs City Council approved $66,500 over a four-year period in performance-based incentives. The sales and use tax rebates apply to the purchases of construction materials, equipment, machinery, furniture, and fixtures. The City’s Economic Development Department also offered to support the company through its Rapid Response Program, as well as talent and workforce development support. 

    “Okika’s decision to establish its headquarters in Colorado Springs shows the confidence investors have in our region and speaks to Colorado Springs’ position as a dynamic hub for advanced manufacturing and semiconductor technology,” said Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President & CEO of Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC. This expansion will enhance our region’s capabilities in the analog integrated circuit market and strengthen our semiconductor supply chain, making Colorado Springs an ideal location for manufacturing businesses.” 

    “We are honored to welcome Okika Devices to Colorado Springs,” said Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “Their investment brings high-quality jobs, cutting-edge innovation, and strengthens our role in advancing technologies critical to national security. Choosing to expand in Olympic City USA speaks volumes about our city’s growing reputation as a hub for skilled workforce, business-friendly environment, and as a premier destination for tech companies looking to grow and thrive.” 

    “We are excited to welcome this innovative semiconductor company to the Pikes Peak region,” said Commissioner Carrie Geitner, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “Their expansion not only positions our region at the forefront of advanced technology but also brings high-quality jobs and new opportunities for our local workforce. El Paso County offers a supportive, business-friendly environment that enables companies like this to grow and thrive. We look forward to the positive impact they will have on our community and economy for years to come.” 

    El Paso County is the administrator for the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone (EZ), which offers state income tax credits to encourage business investment and job creation in economically distressed areas. Through this state program, Okika Devices may be eligible for up to $402,532.50 in EZ incentives, contingent upon final site selection within a designated Enterprise Zone and compliance with all program requirements. 

    In addition to Colorado, Okika Devices considered California and Arizona for expansion. Previously headquartered in California, the company has six employees, one of whom is in Colorado. 

    About Okika 

    Okika Devices Corporation (Okika) is an analog integrated circuit products manufacturing company committed to advancing and delivering transformative, analog processing solutions. By tackling the most complex analog challenges, Okika aims to unlock new frontiers for sensor processing, machine learning, control system and power management applications. For more information visit okikadevices.com. 

    About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade 

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

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    MIL OSI USA News –