NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Impact on citizens of the Green Deal, the Clean Industrial Deal and a possible carbon levy – E-000911/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Industry in Europe is under pressure, due to several factors, including high energy prices, international competition amidst rising geopolitical tensions, and overcapacities in third countries[1]. Decarbonising our economies is a global challenge that can be an economic opportunity, as flagged in the Draghi Report[2]. The European Green Deal[3] and the recent Clean Industrial Deal[4] provide the toolbox to strengthen the business case for decarbonisation in Europe .

    The Clean Industrial Deal puts forward concrete actions to turn decarbonisation into a driver of growth for European industries. Specific measures include the Affordable Energy Action Plan[5], aimed at lowering energy bills while promoting the necessary transition to a low-carbon economy, and the upcoming Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act, which will increase demand for EU-made clean products. The Clean Industrial Deal identifies seven indicators to measure progress, such as the annual installation of renewable electricity capacity and investment volumes under InvestEU[6] supporting industrial transition.

    The Commission is not considering the introduction of a direct carbon levy for citizens on top of the EU Emissions Trading System[7].

    • [1] 2025 Annual Single Market and Competitiveness Report: https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/publications/2025-annual-single-market-and-competitiveness-report_en .
    • [2] https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-competitiveness/draghi-report_en.
    • [3] https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en.
    • [4] https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-competitiveness/clean-industrial-deal_en.
    • [5] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/strategy/affordable-energy_en.
    • [6] https://investeu.europa.eu/index_en.
    • [7] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-emissions-trading-system-eu-ets_en.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Roadmap towards phasing out animal testing – E-001354/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    In line with its communication responding to the European Citizens’ Initiative ‘Save Cruelty Free Cosmetics — Commit to a Europe Without Animal Testing’[1], the Commission intends to finalise the roadmap by the first quarter 2026 at the latest.

    Following the publication of the roadmap, the implementation phase will commence. It will start immediately, following a gradual approach. For some roadmap actions, e.g. recommendations to replace more complex endpoints, where no suitable or validated non-animal methods are currently available, the implementation will require years since progress will depend on the development and validation of such alternatives.

    The roadmap will serve as a structured action plan that outlines the steps necessary for implementation, offering inter alia concrete recommendations for the integration of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) across 15 legislative areas that currently require animal testing for chemical safety assessments, not limited to the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) Regulation[2]. Its implementation will therefore be relevant to a broader set of EU chemicals legislation.

    The Commission also intends to better integrate NAMs into the ongoing revision of the REACH Regulation, where scientifically and legally feasible, and in line with the outcomes of the roadmap development process.

    • [1] https://citizens-initiative.europa.eu/initiatives/details/2021/000006_en.
    • [2] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/chemicals/reach-regulation_en.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Tackling child abuse by parents or guardians – E-000872/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The protection of children’s rights is a priority for the Commission, as confirmed in the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child[1], and the Commission Recommendation on integrated child protection systems[2], which calls on Member States to protect children from all forms of physical or mental violence, including corporal punishment and by actively raising awareness of the rights and needs of children among those who are in contact with children, including parents and care givers.

    In addition, the Victims’ Rights Directive[3] recognises the special needs of child victims and the pending revision proposes an improved access to integrated and multidisciplinary support and protection services, to ensure that child victims are better supported and protected.

    The directive on combating violence against women and domestic violence — which Member States need to transpose by June 2027 — equally recognises the need to protect child victims of domestic violence.

    Reporting procedures need to be accessible in a child-friendly manner, the child shall be assisted by a trained professional and authorities shall implement state-wide effective, comprehensive and coordinated policies.

    The Commission is fully committed to monitor implementation of the above-mentioned recommendation, pursue the adoption of the revision to the Victims’ Rights Directive and ensure the timely and appropriate implementation of the Violence Against Women Directive, which aims to ensure a speedy and coordinated response to domestic violence by competent authorities.

    • [1] EU strategy on the rights of the child (COM(2021) 142 final), https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52021DC0142.
    • [2] Commission Recommendation (EU) 2024/1238 of 23 of April 2024 on developing and strengthening integrated child protection systems in the best interests of the child, http://data.europa.eu/eli/reco/2024/1238/oj.
    • [3] Directive 2012/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime, and replacing Council Framework Decision 2001/220/JHA, OJ L 315, 14.11.2012, p. 57, http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2012/29/oj.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The Emilia Romagna Region’s LGBTQ+ tourism initiative’s potential violation of the principle of non-discrimination – E-001022/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission would like to inform the Honourable Member that according to the Emilia Romagna managing authority, this regional initiative is not financed by the European Regional Development Fund nor by the Recovery and Resilience Facility but through regional resources.

    According to its Article 51(1), the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union[1] is addressed to the Member States only when they are implementing EU law. In cases falling outside the scope of EU law, such as the present one, it is for Member States, including their judicial authorities, to ensure that fundamental rights are effectively respected and protected in accordance with their national legislation and international human rights obligations.

    • [1] Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, OJ C 326, 26.10.2012, p. 391-407.
    Last updated: 28 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: DOC reveals surprising toilet paper stats

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  29 May 2025

    The North Canterbury ranger’s job is to not only clean public toilets at DOC sites but also replace the toilet paper.

    Now DOC has revealed how much toilet paper was ordered by regional offices around Aotearoa for the 2024/2025 period, a whopping 15.5 million metres nationally.

    That’s roughly 15,500 kilometres of paper which would stretch the length of New Zealand nearly ten times.

    The figures reveal across DOC’s operational regions the most toilet paper was ordered by the Southern South Island which includes Fiordland and the Great Walks (3,103,037 metres), followed closely by the Northern South Island which includes Abel Tasman Great Walks and the iconic Tōtaranui campground (3,069,369) and in third place, Hauraki Waikato Taranaki (which includes the Coromandel) 2,727,160 metres.

    Daryl Sweeney looks after DOC sites in Canterbury including the toilets at the hugely popular and culturally significant Kura Tāwhiti/Castle Hill on the highway to Arthurs Pass and the West Coast.

    “What we do outdoors makes all the difference for New Zealand’s unique nature. This includes toileting responsibly. How and where we go is key to ensuring we do no harm to our great outdoors.

    “Visitors are encouraged to go to the toilet before they start their trip and plan stops at toilets along the way. Those heading further into the backcountry need to know what to do when there’s no toilet – you can find this advice on DOC’s website.”

    And it’s not just about using the facilities provided, says Daryl Sweeney.

    “It’s shocking how much toilet paper is used. Sometimes it’s piled up beside the toilet in a mountain. The state some of the toilets are left in is also appalling to be honest,” he says.

    “You wouldn’t do this at home so why would you do it in public toilets. Everyone has a role to respect the natural environment and not leave rubbish in and around these places.”

    North Canterbury Operations Manager Leeann Ellis says Daryl is just one of the hard-working rangers nationally who drive kilometres every day across multiple sites to replace toilet paper and keep facilities clean, including over the weekends and on public holidays.

    “Many people don’t realise this is a core role DOC undertakes. It takes a huge amount of time for our rangers and some of what they deal with would turn your stomach,” she says.

    With the opening of bookings for all the Great Walks this month, and on the eve of Kings Birthday holiday weekend, DOC says it’s a timely reminder for people to look after public facilities at DOC sites, to read the signs and not leave rubbish around for others to pick up.

    Daryl Sweeney says everyone has a part to play in looking after nature and says it would be a huge bonus for him if the toilets were left in a better state.

    “I’m answering other people’s calls of nature,” he jokes, “but it’s about time people answered their own, and respected the amazing places they are visiting. I feel like if people had to do my job for a day, they’d understand. My message is use the toilets provided, use less toilet paper, put it in the toilet or the bin and leave the toilet in a tidy state. It’s simple.”

    Find out more on the DOC website.

    Poo in a loo – and be prepared for when there isn’t one: Know before you go

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government welcomes passage of Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government welcomes passage of Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025Issued at HKT 19:54

    The Government welcomed the passage of the Air Passenger Departure Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025 by the Legislative Council today (May 28) to implement the proposal in the 2025-26 Budget to increase the air passenger departure tax (APDT) from $120 to $200 per passenger. It is anticipated that government revenue will increase by about $1.6 billion per year. The new tax rate will be applicable to air tickets purchased on or after October 1, 2025.

    A Government spokesperson said, “The Government has struck a balance between increasing revenue and minimising the impact on passengers when considering increasing the APDT. The impact of the increase on the overall cost of travelling for air passengers (including tourists) is minimal.”

    The Bill also streamlines the Government’s financial arrangement for paying administrative fees to the airlines and helicopter company. It empowers the Financial Secretary to approve their retention of part of the APDT collected for offsetting the administration fees payable by the Government to them, and provides that the retained fees do not form part of the general revenue under the Public Finance Ordinance (Cap. 2).

    The Bill passed will be gazetted on June 6.

    Ends/Wednesday, May 28, 2025
    Issued at HKT 19:54

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Clearest-ever images of sun’s corona captured with new optical technique

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Scientists remove blur caused by Earth’s atmosphere, revealing a sharp view of the sun’s explosive turbulence

    Using a new optical system, scientists at the U.S. National Science Foundation National Solar Observatory and the New Jersey Institute of Technology have captured the most detailed images of the complex movements in the sun’s atmosphere, the corona. The technology will allow scientists to better understand the extreme nature of the corona and produce computer models that more accurately predict space weather and potential Earth-impacting solar flares.

    The researchers developed the new coronal adaptive optics system at the NSF-funded Goode Solar Telescope in California. Similar to a camera’s “autofocus” feature, the adaptive optics system continuously adjusts to counteract the blurring effect of the Earth’s atmosphere while isolating and zooming in on dynamic coronal features. The results of the study were published in Nature Astronomy.

    Plasma movement in the sun’s corona

    Credit: Schmidt et al./ NJIT/ NSO/ AURA/ U.S. National Science Foundation

    This time-lapse video of a solar prominence shows how plasma “dances” and twists with the sun’s magnetic field. This video was taken by the Goode Solar Telescope at Big Bear Solar Observatory using the new coronal adaptive optics system Cona.

    “Observing the sun’s corona requires specialized optical capabilities because details are easily overpowered by the brightness of the sun and blurred from view by Earth’s atmosphere,” says Carrie Black, program director for the NSF National Solar Observatory. “This makes coronal adaptive optics all that much more technologically miraculous, and we expect they will help us better understand the dynamics of the corona and create more accurate predictive models for space weather.”

    The sun’s corona — the outermost layer of its atmosphere, visible only during a total solar eclipse — has long intrigued scientists due to its extreme temperatures and violent Earth-sized eruptions.

    Coronal rain

    Credit: Schmidt et al./ NJIT/ NSO/ AURA/ U.S. National Science Foundation

    Coronal rain forms when hotter plasma in the sun’s corona cools down and becomes denser. Like raindrops on Earth, coronal rain is pulled down to the surface by gravity. Because the plasma is electrically charged, it follows the magnetic field lines, which make huge arches instead of falling in a straight line.

    In addition to recent advancements in detailed solar magnetic field mapping, this latest technology is a major development in ground-based solar astronomy. Researchers aim to pair the adaptive optics technology with the more powerful NSF Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope in Hawaii to deliver increasingly detailed coronal mapping.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Celebrate World Otter Day May 28 at N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Celebrate World Otter Day May 28 at N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

    Celebrate World Otter Day May 28 at N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
    jejohnson6

    PINE KNOLL SHORES

    Guests to the N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores will have an opportunity to watch some exciting otter enrichment during World Otter Day on May 28 with North American river otters Eno, Pee Dee, and Rocky. The Aquarium is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    The World Otter Day celebration at the Aquarium will include some otter-inspired activities in the Discovery Classroom and a special enrichment for the three otters at 11 a.m.

    “Otters have such a playful nature — the littlest thing makes them happy. They are charismatic animals and watching them always rejuvenates me. We should celebrate World Otter Day every day,” said Kristen Cook, NCAPKS otterkeeper. “Watching the otters inspires me and our guests to help protect them and their habitats.”

    Otters at the N.C. Aquariums

    All three N.C. Aquariums are home to different otter species that inspire guests to appreciate and conserve otters worldwide. Both N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island care for North American river otters. N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher has a family of Asian small-clawed otters.

    There are 14 species of otter around the world and World Otter Day was founded by the International Otter Survival Fund to highlight and bring awareness to threats otter species are facing.

    While North American river otters are listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened species, their numbers had been reduced significantly in the late 1800s due to over-trapping and habitat degradation and are still not found living in the entirety of their historic range. Their population made a comeback from the brink of extinction in the 1900s thanks to conservation and reintroduction efforts.

    What can you do?

    While one person can’t do everything, everyone can do something — individual actions in your community can protect local species and they can create a ripple effect that can lead to protections for species across the globe

        • Keep local watersheds clean from litter and pollution.

        • Join a local trash pick-up or beach clean-up event.

        • Find a citizen science monitoring opportunity to help researchers and conservation gain more insight on otters.

        • Buy bird-friendly coffee—it’s produced on farms with a shade cover that provides important habitat for different species, preventing deforestation and destruction of homes for animals like Asian small-clawed otters.

        • Don’t ever support illegally traded wild animals as pets.

    Advanced Tickets Required
    Summertime is always busy at the Aquarium and otters are always a guest favorite. Seeing a special enrichment may increase interest and make the day busier than normal. For an enhanced visitor experience, get tickets online and in advance at www.ncaquariums.com/tickets-pks

    About the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
    The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is five miles west of Atlantic Beach at 1 Roosevelt Blvd., Pine Knoll Shores, N.C. 28512. The Aquarium is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Its mission is to inspire the appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments and animals. The Aquarium is under the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information, please visit www.ncaquariums.com/pine-knoll-shores or call 252-247-4003.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    May 28, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nearly 2,000 Acres Adjacent to Moores Creek National Battlefield Added to N.C. Natural Heritage Areas Registry

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Nearly 2,000 Acres Adjacent to Moores Creek National Battlefield Added to N.C. Natural Heritage Areas Registry

    Nearly 2,000 Acres Adjacent to Moores Creek National Battlefield Added to N.C. Natural Heritage Areas Registry
    jejohnson6

    Almost 2,000 acres of forestlands adjacent to the National Park Service’s Moores Creek National Battlefield in Pender County were recently added to the State of North Carolina’s Registry of Natural Heritage Areas. The registry is managed by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Natural Heritage Program. The newly conserved lands are on five tracts of properties owned and managed by the Clint North family.

    Inclusion of properties on the Registry of Natural Heritage Areas recognizes their value as important natural areas. The registry is a voluntary pledge by landowners to remain conscientious stewards of important natural areas under their safekeeping. A registry agreement signed by the landowner declares their intention to continue to protect and manage the special biological assets and other ecological characteristics of their property.

    During a May 22 meeting at the Battlefield, Charles (Chuck) Roe, the founding director of North Carolina’s Natural Heritage Program, presented a certificate of recognition to the North family for their efforts to conserve these important properties.

    Moores Creek National Battlefield is also on the state’s Registry of Natural Heritage Areas, as one of the early sites to be registered. At the May 22 meeting, another certificate of recognition was presented by Roe to NPS Moores Creek National Battlefield superintendent Matthew Woods, duplicating the award presented by Roe to National Park Service staff in 1986 for inclusion of the battlefield’s natural habitat areas on the state’s registry of protected natural areas.

    Presentations of the Natural Heritage Areas Registry certificates were made on the fortieth anniversary of the North Carolina Nature Preserves Act, signed by Governor James Martin on May 22, 1985.

    About the Registry of Natural Heritage Areas
    The Registry of Natural Heritage Areas is administered by North Carolina’s Natural Heritage Program, which is a unit of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Division of Land and Water Stewardship. The property of an interested landowner is evaluated by staff of the Natural Heritage Program for the presence and condition of natural habitats and biotic resources of exceptional quality or uniqueness. For more information, please contact the N.C. Natural Heritage Program (www.ncnhp.org).

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    May 28, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “Where’s Joey?”: A sister’s promise echoes through a Wyoming military tribute 

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    Wyoming Veterans Commission 

    By Joseph Coslett Jr. 

    CHEYENNE, Wyo. – It was May 1968. The air was warm, and the laughter of children echoed through an alley in a quiet Wyoming neighborhood. That’s when two men in uniform appeared, walking toward a family’s future, carrying with them the unbearable weight of final news. 
     
    “We got excited to see them,” the sister said, her voice trembling but sure, as she stood before the crowd gathered for the Gold Star Tribute Ceremony. “We just knew Joey would be right behind them.” 
     
    But Pfc. Joseph Padilla would not come home from Vietnam. 
     
    The sister, only nine years old at the time, shared her story as if it happened yesterday. Her voice, filled with childlike innocence and lifelong grief, painted a portrait of the moment her world changed. 
     
    “We thought maybe Joey was hiding—playing hide-and-seek like he always did,” she said. 

    But that game would end in a silence no child should endure. 

    East High School ROTC Color Guard presents the colors while the East High School Choir Abby Petri and Kourtney Keller sing the National Anthem. Community members gather to honor Gold Star families during the 3rd Annual Honoring Our Veterans Memorial Day Joseph A. Padilla Tribute in Cheyenne, Wyoming, May 22, 2025. Gold Star families are those who have lost an immediate family member in military service—bearing the enduring weight of sacrifice and the legacy of their loved one’s courage. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Joseph Coslett Jr.)

    As the ceremony unfolded, her words reached the hearts of every listener. “I remember him saying, ‘You found me,’ and I began to cry.” That memory became a promise: To never forget Joey or anyone like him. 
     
    That promise bloomed into the Joseph A. Padilla Military Tribute Project. A banner initiative honoring the fallen, created not for attention, but for remembrance. Each banner carries a name, a face, a life given in service. 
     
    With support from First Lady Jennie Gordon, Gold Star Families, and Blue Federal Credit Union, the banners now hang with solemn pride. “They welcomed us with open arms,” she said. “This is our third year. I will forever be grateful.” 
     
    Maj. Gen. Greg Porter, Wyoming’s Adjutant General, followed her. “Memories, unless they’re shared, can’t be passed on,” he said. “Ceremonies like this matter because they keep the stories alive.” 
     
    He reminded the audience of the quiet strength behind every Gold Star Family: the parents, siblings, children and spouses who bear the burden of remembrance. Quoting President Reagan, Porter asked the question that begins our national anthem: “Does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave? 
     
    “It’s not a certainty,” he said. “It’s a commitment. One we must all renew.” 

    Maj. Gen. Greg Porter, Wyoming’s adjutant general, addresses attendees during the ceremony, encouraging all to “remember through action, not just words.” Community members gather to honor Gold Star families during the 3rd Annual Honoring Our Veterans Memorial Day Joseph A. Padilla Tribute in Cheyenne, Wyoming, May 22, 2025. Gold Star families are those who have lost an immediate family member in military service—bearing the enduring weight of sacrifice and the legacy of their loved one’s courage. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Joseph Coslett Jr.)

    That theme—commitment—ran through every speaker’s message. Retired Master Sgt. Russell Telander, with over five decades in the American Legion, read a poem written with the whispered memories of a veteran. Its lines carried both sorrow and hope:  
    What force inside me made me choose 
    to fight a war I knew I’d lose, 
    to seek the truth I feared to see? 
    What sort of demon was in me? 

    What force inside made me think, 
    in terms of hell, I would not sink? 
    And then, once engulfed by its ways, 
    who would count my remaining days? 

    Who picked me up when I fell flat 
    and said I was better than that? 
    And as I chose to end the fight, 
    who thanked me and said I was right? 

    Who chose the path that I would draw on, 
    who left when I said—when I said “gone”? 
    And when I knew the time was near, 
    who held my hand and calmed my fear? 

    What force inside me made me trust 
    that what I did was good and just, 
    and for the rest of life I’d see, 
    there was no demon inside of me. 

    Community members gather to honor Gold Star families during the 3rd Annual Honoring Our Veterans Memorial Day Joseph A. Padilla Tribute in Cheyenne, Wyoming, May 22, 2025. Gold Star families are those who have lost an immediate family member in military service—bearing the enduring weight of sacrifice and the legacy of their loved one’s courage. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Joseph Coslett Jr.)

    Telander invited the public to help place over 5,000 flags across five Cheyenne cemeteries to honor the silent rows of the departed. 
     
    Sheriff Brian Kozak echoed the theme of shared duty. “Nearly half of our deputies are Guard members or veterans,” he said. “When you’re in need—call us. We ride for the brand too.” 
     
    Then Nick Warren, survivor outreach service coordinator and the final speaker, came the charge to live worthy lives in the wake of sacrifice. “They gave every day,” he said. “Let us dare to be great.” 
     
    Near the ceremony’s end, silence settled as names were read. Each followed by the quiet nod of those who remembered.  The Gold Star isn’t a title anyone wants. It is a mark of tragedy transformed into honor. A blue star in a window becomes gold when a life is lost. But in that gold, there is something sacred—something eternal. 

    East High School ROTC Color Guard presents the colors while the East High School Choir Abby Petri and Kourtney Keller sing the National Anthem. Community members gather to honor Gold Star families during the 3rd Annual Honoring Our Veterans Memorial Day Joseph A. Padilla Tribute in Cheyenne, Wyoming, May 22, 2025. Gold Star families are those who have lost an immediate family member in military service—bearing the enduring weight of sacrifice and the legacy of their loved one’s courage. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Joseph Coslett Jr.)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Matador Technologies Inc. Announces Closing of Final Tranche of Non-Brokered Private Placement to Support Bitcoin Acquisition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRES

    TORONTO, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Matador Technologies Inc. (“Matador” or the “Company”) (TSXV: MATA, OTCQB: MATAF), a Bitcoin-focused technology company, is pleased to announce that it has closed the second and final tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the “Offering”), pursuant to which it has issued an additional aggregate of 2,588,955 units (the “Units”) at a price of $0.55 per Unit, for aggregate gross proceeds of C$1,423,925. In total with the first tranche closing of 2,863,818 Units on May 26, 2025, the Company has issued an aggregate of 5,452,773 Units pursuant to the Offering to raise aggregate gross proceeds of $2,999,025. This is the final tranche for the financing announced by the Company on May 9, 2025.

    Each Unit consists of one common share and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Warrant”). Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one additional common share of the Company at a price of $0.75 for a period of twelve (12) months from the date of issuance.

    The Warrants are subject to an acceleration clause: in the event that the closing price of the Company’s common shares on the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV”) is equal to or exceeds $1.05 for five (5) consecutive trading days at any time following the date which is four months and one day after the closing date, the Company may accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants to the date that is thirty (30) days following the dissemination of a press release announcing such acceleration (the “Acceleration Provisions“).

    The securities issued in connection with the second tranche of the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period expiring on September 29, 2025. In connection with the second tranche closing, the Company paid aggregate finders fees of $27,588 and issued an aggregate of 50,160 broker warrants to eligible finders, each broker warrant entitling the holder to acquire one common share of the Company at $0.75 for a period of one year, subject to the Acceleration Provisions.

    The net proceeds of the Offering are expected to be allocated approximately one-third to each of the following: (i) the purchase of Bitcoin; (ii) advancing the Company’s gold acquisition and Grammies business initiatives; and (iii) general corporate purposes.

    Insiders of the Company subscribed for an aggregate of 200,000 Units in connection with the second tranche closing. Such participation is considered to be a “related party transaction” within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101-Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101“). The Company has relied upon on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of all related party participation in the Offering as neither the fair market value (as determined under MI 61-101) of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the transaction, insofar as it involves interested parties, exceeds 25% of the Company’s market capitalization (as determined under MI 61-101).

    The Offering is subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

    For additional information, please contact:

    Media Contact:
    Sunny Ray
    President
    Email: sunny@matador.network

    Phone: 647-496-6282

    About Matador Technologies Inc.

    Matador Technologies Inc. is a publicly traded Bitcoin ecosystem company that holds Bitcoin as its primary treasury asset and builds products to enhance the Bitcoin network. Through a self-reinforcing model that combines strategic Bitcoin accumulation, Bitcoin-native product development, and participation in digital asset infrastructure, Matador aims to grow long-term shareholder value without dilution.

    The Company’s flagship offering, the Digital Gold Platform, allows users to buy, sell, and trade 1-gram gold units inscribed as Bitcoin Ordinals—bridging traditional value with decentralized technology. With a Bitcoin-first strategy, a debt-free balance sheet, and a clear focus on innovation, Matador is helping shape the future of financial infrastructure on Bitcoin.

    Learn more at www.matador.network.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

    Forward Looking Statements – Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including risks associated with the implementation of the Company’s treasury management strategy, receipt of regulatory approvals, and the launch of its mobile application as currently proposed or at all. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, including with respect to the potential acquisition of Bitcoin and/or US dollars, the pricing of such acquisitions and the timing of future operations. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Health Organization (WHO) launches “Roda de Saúde”: A platform for dialogue on health in Angola

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

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    The World Health Organization (WHO) in Angola is pleased to announce the launch of “Roda de Saúde”, a new monthly series of public conversations aimed at informing, involving, and empowering Angolan institutions and society around the main public health challenges and potential solutions.

    The first edition of Roda de Saúde will take place at the Private University of Angola (UPRA) on Friday, May 30, 2025, between 10:00 and 11:30. Under the theme “Celebrating the Nursing Workforce: The Role of Nursing in Reducing Maternal and Neonatal Mortality”, the event will bring together WHO experts, representatives of the Angolan Order of Nurses, UPRA lecturers and students, as well as nurses working on the front line who will share their experience in the field. This first edition aims to celebrate International Nurses’ Day, which falls on May 12th.

    With the “Wheel of Health”, the WHO aims to help promote open dialogue between decision-makers, experts, and civil society, foster informed public debate on critical health issues, and strengthen health literacy based on scientific evidence. The organization also aims to bring the population closer to trusted experts, including UN agencies and national health and academic institutions, and to strengthen collaboration between the WHO, multilateral and private sector partners, academia, and civil society.

    Inspired by the traditional Angolan “Rodas de Conversa”, this platform values knowledge sharing, inclusion, and community participation as pillars for identifying lasting solutions to address Angola’s public health challenges.

    By celebrating nursing professionals and their crucial role in maternal and newborn health, the first edition of “Roda de Saúde” lays the foundations for an ongoing movement of positive transformation in health in Angola.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Angola.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi appointed World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), May 28, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board today appointed Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi as Regional Director of WHO African Region following his nomination during a Special Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa held on 18 May 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

    “I offer my warm congratulations to Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, and to the government and people of the United Republic of Tanzania, on your appointment by the Executive Board as Regional Director for Africa,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “We are grateful for your leadership and experience as we work together to navigate the challenges we face, and position our Organization to be stronger, more sustainable and more effective, using the current crisis as an opportunity.” 

    Professor Janabi expressed gratitude and pledged to intensify efforts to improve the health of the people of the African Region.

    “It is with profound humility and a deep sense of responsibility that I accept the honour of serving as the new Regional Director for Africa. I’m deeply honoured and sincerely grateful for the trust and confidence you have placed in me,” said Professor Janabi. “Strengthening the foundation of WHO’s work in the region remains a core priority for me. By aligning every action we take with country priorities we can deliver measurable, lasting impact that transforms lives.”

    A prominent cardiologist, health strategist and global health diplomat, Professor Janabi has dedicated his career to strengthening health systems, advancing equitable care, and championing innovation and collaboration to improve health outcomes in Africa.

    Professor Janabi will lead WHO’s work in supporting the 47 Member States of the African Region in their efforts to improve the health and well-being of the population. Along with partners, WHO in Africa works across a range of areas — from health system strengthening, to disease prevention and emergency response — to promote, protect and provide health for all.

    His term begins on 30 June 2025 for the next five years and is eligible for reappointment once. He succeeds Dr Matshidiso Moeti, who led WHO in the African Region since 2015.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Cabinet decision to increase MSP of kharif crops will raise farmers’ income: PM Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the Cabinet’s decision to increase the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 14 Kharif crops will help boost crop production and raise farmers’ incomes.

    “We are fully committed to the welfare of our farmer brothers and sisters across the country. In this direction, an increase in the MSP of 14 crops—including paddy, oilseeds, and pulses—has been approved for the Kharif season of 2025–26. This will enhance the production of these crops and increase the income of farmers,” the Prime Minister said in a post on X.

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister, approved the hike in MSP for 14 Kharif crops for the 2025–26 marketing season. The government said the increase aims to ensure remunerative prices for farmers’ produce.

    India follows three cropping seasons: Summer, Kharif, and Rabi. Kharif crops are sown in June–July and depend on monsoon rains, with harvest in October–November. Rabi crops are sown in October–November and harvested from January onwards, while Summer crops are grown between the Rabi and Kharif seasons.

    ANI

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Vice Premier Welcomes US Financial Institutions’ Participation in China’s Capital Market Development

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with Dan Simkowitz, co-president of U.S. investment bank Morgan Stanley, in Beijing on Wednesday.

    He Lifeng, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said China’s commitment to promoting high-quality development through high-level opening up will inject energy and new impetus into the Chinese and global economies.

    The Vice Premier called on more US-invested financial institutions and US long-term capital, including Morgan Stanley, to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with China and actively participate in the construction and development of China’s capital market.

    D. Simkovitz, for his part, expressed satisfaction with the significant progress made in the trade and economic negotiations between the United States and China. He said that he would continue to pay close attention to the Chinese market and provide high-quality services to promote investment cooperation between American and Chinese enterprises. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Calls for Establishment of High-Level Military Training Support System

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) — Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission (CMC), has called for accelerating efforts to build a high-level military training support system.

    Zhang Youxia, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, made the call during a two-day inspection and seminar on the construction of combined arms training grounds held by the People’s Liberation Army from Tuesday to Wednesday.

    Zhang Youxia said efforts should be focused on improving the quality and effectiveness of training and enhancing combat capability.

    It is necessary to direct efforts to ensure combat training to comply with the standards and requirements of real combat operations, to support comprehensive joint training, to expand capabilities and increase efficiency through information technology, emphasized the deputy chairman of the Central Military Commission.

    He added that priority should be given to the construction of large training bases and the creation of conditions for training in new areas and with new quality, and also called for continuous improvement of the support system. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Vice Premier Calls for Stepping Up Efforts to Combat Desertification

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    HOHHOT, May 28 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng has called for greater efforts and more pragmatic measures to achieve new important results in the Three Norths Program, the world’s largest forest planting program to combat desertification in northwest, north and northeast China.

    He Lifeng, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks at a meeting on combating desertification in the Yellow River Bend area held in Bayannur, north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, on Tuesday.

    The Yellow River is the second longest river in China after the Yangtze. Areas near its bend are among the three key areas for combating desertification under the Three Norths program.

    The Vice Premier visited the areas of the water conservancy project, the Yellow River quicksand control project and the new energy storage project.

    Pointing out at the meeting that significant progress has been made in advancing the Three Norths program over the past two years, He Lifeng noted that the program is currently at a key stage, stressing the need to clearly understand the current situation and challenges, and steadily implement the important strategic instructions given by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

    The Three Norths program was launched in 1978 and is scheduled to be completed by 2050. Its goal is to restore greenery in desertification-prone areas in three northern regions of China.

    By 2030, the country aims to achieve significant results in combating desertification in three regions through the Three Norths program: the Hexi Corridor and Taklamak Desert, the Khorqin and Hongshandak sandy lands, and areas near the Yellow River bend. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russia offers Ukraine to continue direct talks in Istanbul on June 2 — Russian Foreign Minister

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, May 28 /Xinhua/ — Russia is ready to provide Ukrainian negotiators with its memorandum on the terms of the conflict settlement during direct talks on June 2 in Istanbul, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday.

    “Our delegation, headed by V. R. Medinsky, is ready to present this memorandum to the Ukrainian delegation and provide the necessary clarifications during the second round of resumed direct negotiations in Istanbul next Monday, June 2,” reads a statement by S. Lavrov published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    According to the head of the Russian Foreign Ministry, the memorandum sets out Russia’s “position on all aspects of reliably overcoming the root causes of the crisis.”

    “We hope that all those who are sincerely, and not just in words, interested in the success of the peace process will support holding a new round of direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations in Istanbul,” concluded S. Lavrov. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Vice Premier Calls for Healthy Development of Platform Economy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SHANGHAI, May 28 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has stressed efforts to promote the healthy development of the platform economy and maintain a fair and orderly market environment.

    Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks during an inspection tour of the east Chinese city of Shanghai from Tuesday to Wednesday.

    During his visit to online retail, live streaming e-commerce and food delivery companies, Zhang Guoqing pointed out that the platform economy plays an important role in stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship and strengthening internal circulation. He called on relevant companies to devote more resources to providing high-quality products and services.

    When developing platform rules, it is necessary to strictly adhere to the principles of openness and honesty, decisively suppressing unfair competition using bargain prices and low-quality goods, the Deputy Prime Minister of the State Council pointed out.

    Zhang Guoqing said all platforms should use positive and beneficial algorithms while ensuring reasonable and transparent pricing standards. He called for stronger measures to crack down on violations, including price manipulation, false advertising and sales inflated prices.

    Zhang Guoqing called for more efforts to eliminate regulations and practices that hinder the establishment of a unified market and fair competition, and stressed the need to crack down on illegal extortion from enterprises to maintain a favorable market environment.

    In addition, the Vice Premier of the State Council called on market regulators to accelerate the implementation of new technologies, particularly in the field of big data and artificial intelligence, in order to improve the quality and effectiveness of regulation. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Mississippi Businesses and Residents Affected by the March Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – In response to an Presidential disaster declaration issued May 21, 2025, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest disaster loans for Mississippi businesses and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding occurring on March 14-15.

    The declaration covers Covington, Grenada, Issaquena, Itawamba, Jefferson Davis, Leflore, Marion, Montgomery, Pike, Smith and Walthall counties which are eligible for both Physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Small businesses and most private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA EIDLs: Amite, Attala, Calhoun, Carroll, Choctaw, Forrest, Holmes, Humphreys, Jasper, Jones, Lamar, Lawrence, Lee, Lincoln, Monroe, Newton, Pearl River, Prentiss, Rankin, Scott, Sharkey, Simpson, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tishomingo, Warren, Washington, Webster, Yalobusha and Yazoo in Mississippi, Franklin and Marion in Alabama, Chicot in Arkansas, as well as East Carroll, Tangipahoa and Washington in Louisiana.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage, upgrading to wind rated garage doors, and installing a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms, based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    “SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face-to-face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

    Beginning Wednesday, May 28, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Walthall County to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.  

    The BRC hours of operation are listed below:

    Business Recovery Center (BRC) 
    Walthall County

    Walthall County Armory

    Conference Room

    908 Armory Road

    Tylertown, Mississippi 39667

    Opening:  Wednesday, May 28, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

    Hours: Monday – Friday -9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    Closed: Sunday

    Permanently Closing: July 21, at 4 p.m.

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.

    With the changes to FEMA’s Sequence of Delivery, survivors are now encouraged to simultaneously apply for FEMA grants and the SBA low-interest disaster loan assistance to fully recover.  FEMA grants are intended to cover necessary expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. The SBA disaster loan program is designed for your long-term recovery, to make you whole and get you back to your pre-disaster condition.

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

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 21, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or 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: ICE conducts worksite inspections in New Orleans

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEW ORLEANS — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with the support of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations, arrested 15 illegal aliens May 27 during a targeted worksite enforcement operation at construction sites in the New Orleans area.

    The multiagency operation, directed by ICE Homeland Security Investigations New Orleans, led to the arrest of 15 illegal aliens from Nicaragua, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

    “Worksite enforcement investigations focus on reducing illegal employment, holding employers accountable and protecting employment opportunities for the country’s lawful workforce,” said ICE HSI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune. “HSI New Orleans will continue protecting public safety by enforcing the immigration laws of our nation.”

    The main function of ICE HSI’s worksite enforcement program is to assist the field in maintaining the integrity in the U.S. immigration system, ease pressure at the borders, promote self-compliance in the business community, and protect employment opportunities for the nation’s workforce.

    ICE HSI conducts investigations that target egregious worksite violators. These investigations lead to criminal, civil, or administrative judgments against employers who knowingly hire unauthorized workers. These actions seek to deter employers who hire unauthorized workers. Investigations often uncover multiple forms of criminal activity, such as human smuggling, document fraud, human rights abuses and other violations linked to the employment of unauthorized workers.

    ICE officials have continually emphasized the agency’s continued focus to identifying public safety and national security threats. Individuals unlawfully present in the United States who are encountered during enforcement operations may be taken into custody and processed for removal in accordance with federal law.

    Members of the public with information about suspected immigration violations or related criminal activity are encouraged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit information online via the ICE Tip Form.

    For more information about ICE HSI New Orleans and its efforts to enhance public safety in Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas, follow us on X at @HSINewOrleans.

    Learn more about worksite enforcement by visiting ICE’s Worksite Enforcement Investigations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Publishes Data on Regulation A, Crowdfunding Offerings, and Private Fund Beneficial Ownership Concentration

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Economic and Risk Analysis has published three new reports that provide the public with information on capital formation and beneficial ownership of qualifying private funds.

    The first two papers—analyses of the Regulations A and Crowdfunding markets—provide valuable information on how capital is being raised in the United States particularly by smaller issuers. During the periods reviewed (2015 to 2024 for Regulation A and 2016 to 2024 for Regulation Crowdfunding) more than $10 billion was raised.

    The third paper—an analysis of beneficial ownership concentration and fund outcomes for qualifying hedge funds (QHFs) and their advisers from 2013 to 2023—provides information on the interaction of beneficial ownership concentration, portfolio liquidity, investor liquidity, fund leverage, performance, and margins.

    “Today’s reports provide key information on the capital markets,” said Robert Fisher, Acting Chief Economist and Director of the SEC’s Division of Economic and Risk Analysis. “Understanding how capital is being raised and the interaction of ownership concentration with fund outcomes for private funds informs not only the Commission but the public about essential parts of our markets.”

    The three reports issued today are:

    • Analysis of the Regulation A Market: A Decade of Regulation A provides statistics on the state of the Regulation A offering exemption over the past decade. It documents the level of offering activity and reported proceeds as well as the characteristics of issuers and offerings relying on this exemption. There were more than 1,400 offerings during this period seeking an aggregate of more than $28 billion in capital. Approximately $9.4 billion in proceeds was reported by more than 800 issuers. A typical Regulation A issuer was relatively small and young, and most issuers had not yet established a record of profitability.
    • Analysis of Crowdfunding Under the JOBS Act provides an analysis of offering activity in the Title III securities-based crowdfunding market between May 16, 2016, (effective date of Regulation Crowdfunding) and December 31, 2024. During this period, there were more than 8,400 offerings initiated by more than 7,100 issuers, excluding withdrawn offerings. The offerings sought a total of approximately $560 million based on the target (minimum) amount. However, almost all offerings had a minimum-maximum format and accepted oversubscriptions up to a higher maximum. In the aggregate, the maximum amount sought in these offerings was approximately $8.4 billion. Based on the analysis of Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) filings during this period, there were more than 3,800 offerings where issuers reported proceeds; in total, they reported approximately $1.3 billion in proceeds. The crowdfunding exemption has continued to gain momentum over time and serves small and early-stage companies seeking access to capital, often for the first time. The median issuer had approximately $80,000 in total assets, including $13,000 in cash, $60,000 in debt, and $10,000 in revenue, and three employees.
    • Beneficial Ownership Concentration and Fund Outcomes for Qualifying Hedge Funds  provides statistics describing the relationship between beneficial ownership concentration and fund outcomes for QHFs and their advisers from 2013 to 2023. Over this period, concentrated funds exhibited faster growth than unconcentrated funds. Concentrated funds hold more liquid assets and offer more liquidity to investors relative to unconcentrated funds, though both portfolio and investor liquidity have declined over the sample period. In addition, the gross return of unconcentrated funds is on average 1.2% higher than concentrated funds, but their net return is only 0.1% higher indicating that, on average, the gross performance advantage of unconcentrated funds is offset by higher margins.

    The Division of Economic and Risk Analysis integrates financial economics and rigorous data analytics into the SEC’s core mission. It conducts detailed, high-quality economic and statistical analyses to advise on Commission matters and helps identify and respond to issues, trends, and innovations in the marketplace.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 141-Unit Public Housing Development Completed in Troy

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of the redeveloped John P. Taylor Apartments in the city of Troy. The new $67 million seven-story mixed-use building, developed by Pennrose, features 141 affordable apartments and ground floor retail space, replacing the complex’s two original towers which were demolished in 2022 after having been vacant for more than a decade. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State Homes and Community Renewal has financed more than 1,300 affordable homes in Rensselaer County. The redevelopment of the John P. Taylor Apartments continues this effort and complements Governor Hochul’s $25 billion five-year housing plan, which is on track to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide.

    “The completion of the John P. Taylor Apartments is another step forward in our ongoing mission to create and preserve affordable housing opportunities for New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “This complex demonstrates how important our investments are for communities like Troy. This comprehensive project delivers 141 modern, energy-efficient affordable homes and significant infrastructure improvements that support the city’s continued efforts to revitalize its downtown waterfront.”

    The redevelopment of the John P. Taylor Apartments was a priority of the Revitalize Riverside component of Troy’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative, which was awarded by the State in 2021. The Revitalize Riverside plan was designed to enhance Troy’s South Central neighborhood and is part of a comprehensive strategy to create commercial space, add new housing, restore Troy’s downtown street grid, and improve the Congress Street Bridge which serves as an important artery to several of the region’s major roadways.

    All units are supported by Project-based Section 8 vouchers issued by the Troy Housing Authority. Residents of the original John P. Taylor Apartments were given a preference for placement in the new apartments.

    The new building was constructed to meet EPA Energy Star Multifamily New Construction and Enterprise Green Communities PLUS criteria. The development utilizes advanced energy efficiency features including all-electric HVAC, increased insulation, and an energy recovery ventilation system.

    The John P. Taylor Apartments will offer an array of modern amenities for residents, including free Wi-Fi, washers and dryers in every apartment, and common areas such as a fitness center, community room, and outdoor patio.

    State financing includes Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits that generate $30 million in equity and $20 million in subsidy from New York State Homes and Community Renewal. The Department of State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative provided $1.6 million in support. The Federal Home Loan Bank provided $1.4 million.

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Replacing aging public housing stock with modern homes and amenities is one of the most impactful ways to increase quality of life and make housing more affordable for families. This $67 million project, developed by Pennrose in partnership with the Troy Housing Authority, not only provides 141 new apartments but connects people to the city and further revitalizes Troy’s historic waterfront. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, HCR is proud to work alongside state and local partners to support efforts that are delivering thousands of affordable homes and improving affordability across New York.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The new Taylor Apartments are a major step towards Governor Hochul’s efforts to make New York more affordable and to create badly needed housing throughout our state. We are incredibly proud of how the Downtown Revitalization Initiative takes a holistic approach in creating opportunities for communities to thrive and for residents to have an affordable place to call home. Congratulations on this successful project completion.”

    U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer said, “Every family in Troy deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. I’m proud that the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit that I worked hard to protect and expand has delivered millions to build over 140 new homes at the John P. Taylor Apartments – a redeveloped waterfront building with energy-efficient air conditioning and ventilation systems. High housing costs are a key driver of inflation so we must build more housing for working people to bring down those high prices. I’m proud to have secured federal funding to raze the old, outdated and dilapidated Taylor towers, so that this wonderful new era at the Taylor Apartments could begin. I applaud Governor Hochul’s work increasing access to affordable housing in the Capital Region and across New York, and I will continue working to deliver federal resources to ensure that every New Yorker has a roof over their heads.”

    Assemblymember John McDonald said, “The redevelopment of the John P. Taylor Apartments is a great example of what can be accomplished when state and local partners work together to meet the needs of our communities. This project not only provides high-quality, affordable housing for families in Troy, but it also strengthens the city’s economy through smart, community-focused investment. I’m proud to support initiatives like this that enhance quality of life and create new opportunities for Capital Region residents.”

    Troy Mayor Carmella R. Mantello said, “The completion of the John P. Taylor Apartments marks a major milestone in our continued efforts to move Troy forward. This transformative redevelopment is made possible through the partnership of Pennrose, the Troy Housing Authority, and our city. It not only brings much-needed state of the art affordable housing to our downtown waterfront but also strengthens the connection between our neighborhoods and the Capital Region. Together, we are building a more vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous future for all who call Troy home.”

    Troy City Council President Sue Steele said, “It was a great honor for me to serve as Chair of the Troy Housing Authority Board of Commissioners during the planning, demolition and construction of Taylor 1. This project transformed our city’s downtown while also providing new, modern housing for tenants of the THA. On behalf of the board I want to thank each and everyone involved in making this a reality. I’m grateful for the combined vision of local, state and federal partners and Pennrose to step up and address a critical housing need in our city.”

    Troy Housing Authority Executive Director Deborah Witkowski said, “I want to thank Governor Hochul and our federal and state partners for their investment in the City of Troy and the new Taylor I building which provides 141 units of high-end affordable housing with modern-day amenities that encourage a healthy, sustainable environment for the residents we serve. The Taylor I building is only the beginning of the overall Taylor Apartments revitalization plan that will eventually include other mixed-use, mixed-income buildings with direct access to the riverfront, recreational areas, and a connection to Troy’s downtown district.”

    Pennrose Regional Vice President Dylan Salmons said, “Today’s ribbon cutting is a significant milestone in the years-long effort to revitalize the historic downtown, and we look forward to continuing the momentum with phase II. We’d especially like to thank the local community, neighborhood stakeholders, and residents of Taylor Apartments for their time, feedback, continued trust, and collaboration throughout this process.”

    Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda
    Governor Hochul is committed to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the FY 2025 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives, capital funding, and new protections for renters and homeowners. Building on this commitment, the FY 2026 Enacted Budget included more than $1.5 billion in new state funding for housing, a Housing Access Voucher pilot program, and new policies to improve affordability for tenants and homebuyers. In addition, as part of the FY 2023 Enacted Budget, the Governor announced a five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. Nearly 60,000 homes have been created or preserved to date.

    The FY 2025 Enacted Budget also strengthened the Pro-Housing Community Program which the Governor launched in 2023. Pro-Housing certification is now a requirement for localities to access up to $750 million in discretionary funding. Currently, more than 300 communities have been certified, including Troy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Launch of New I Love NY Summer Tourism Camapign

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of I LOVE NY’s new integrated summer tourism and travel campaign, highlighted by two new ads running through August across New York State, and in traditional drive markets including Canada. This includes advertising across broadcast, streaming and social platforms, and showcases some of the attractions and activities available. The summer campaign also includes I LOVE NY’s largest mobile marketing tour ever, and additional complementary travel industry efforts to promote visitation to the State’s 11 diverse vacation regions.

    “Tourism is synonymous with New York State, thanks to all of our amazing attractions, from beaches to high peaks, from the Erie Canal to iconic museums and performing arts venues,” Governor Hochul said. “This vital industry is facing challenging new political and economic headwinds. That’s why supporting our tourism industry is more important than ever, and why we are getting out the message that no matter where you’re from, you’re always welcome in New York State.”

    I LOVE NY’s multifaceted summer tourism campaign begins with two new ads featuring a new tagline – “New York State: Everything You Love.” – reflecting the depth and breadth of the world-class attractions and memory-making activities available in communities throughout the state. The new ads can be viewed here and www.iloveny.com/summer.

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Tourism is crucial to New York State, supporting jobs and local economies, and we have so many incredible attractions ready to welcome visitors, from Niagara Falls to Montauk Point. This summer, New York wants to extend a special invitation to travelers from across America and all around the world: this is the perfect opportunity to plan a trip to celebrate history, explore our incredible landscapes, and enjoy all that our incredible state has to offer.”

    Empire State Development Division of Tourism Executive Director and Vice President Ross D. Levi said, “In addition to iconic attractions across our state’s eleven beautiful vacation regions, the next few months in New York hold special delights for travelers from near and far. Guests can look forward to special events commemorating the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, a summer of thoroughbred racing at Saratoga Race Course headlined by the Belmont Stakes and Travers races, the Ryder Cup tournament at Bethpage golf course on Long Island, and food and fun at the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse. The endless variety of activities shows that there truly is everything to love in New York State.”

    As part of this new campaign, I LOVE NY is extending a special invitation to international visitors – especially Canada, which represents New York’s largest inbound international market. International visitation is vital to New York State’s tourism economy. Historically, overseas visitors plan longer trips and produce more direct spending during their stays. New for this year’s campaign is a direct-to-consumer international marketing element in the United Kingdom and Australia, which includes digital billboards, plus streaming and digital advertising. I LOVE NY also continues to work with members of the travel trade industry, like tour operators and travel agents in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany and Australia through trade shows, sales missions and familiarization tours.

    The summer campaign also includes I LOVE NY’s largest-ever mobile marketing tour with more than 40 stops throughout the Northeast. The mobile tour will make stops at popular events such as music festivals, street fairs and sporting events where guests can interact with fun experiences to learn more about the state’s attractions, win special I LOVE NY prizes, and take pictures with a large I LOVE NY logo sculpture.

    Under Governor Hochul, tourism is New York State’s second largest industry, supporting one in 10 jobs. Recently, more than 306.3 million travelers visited New York State, generating $88 billion in direct spending and a record-high economic impact of $137 billion. Each year, tourism spending saves the average New York State household $1,400 in taxes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Freight Forwarding Company Executive Arrested on Federal Indictment Alleging Massive Scheme to Avoid Customs Duties Payments

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – The chief financial officer (CFO) at a Downtown Los Angeles-based shipping company has been arrested on a 22-count federal grand jury indictment charging him and the company’s CEO with using fraudulent documents, shell companies, bribes to public officials, and kickbacks to Mexican drug cartels to smuggle billions of dollars’ worth of goods from the United States into Mexico, repeatedly lying to U.S. customs officials and defrauding Mexico out of hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of duties owed, the Justice Department announced today.

    Ralph Olarte, 55, of Glendale, the CFO of Sport LA Inc., was arrested late last night at Los Angeles International Airport. He is expected to make his initial appearance and be arraigned this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. 

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

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

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

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

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

    Olarte and Lopez then laundered the proceeds of their scheme back from the true Mexican customers, through the shell companies, and ultimately into the companies’ U.S. bank accounts. 

    As a result of the conspiracy, Olarte and Lopez personally received millions of dollars in illicit proceeds.

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

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

    Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), CBP, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration are investigating this matter. 

    The cases announced today were investigated by HSI’s El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, a multi-agency task force that includes federal and state investigators who are focused on financial crimes in Southern California.

    The Transnational Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Inmate Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Assault with a Deadly Weapon in U.S. Penitentiary Atwater

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — U.S. District Judge Kirk E. Sherriff sentenced Delonte Williams, 37, of Washington, D.C., Tuesday to 33 months in prison today for assault with a deadly weapon in the U.S. Penitentiary at Atwater, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on April 28, 2024, Williams chased another inmate around a cell block while holding a knife-like, jail-made weapon. Williams, along with another inmate, used his jail-made knife to stab the victim, which wounded him and required him to seek medical attention.

    Williams’ co-defendant, Jarvell Kent, is scheduled for sentencing before Judge Sherriff on June 23, 2025.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Veneman-Hughes prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fresno Man Pleads Guilty to Paycheck Protection Program Loan Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — Gurjeet Bath, 37, of Fresno, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of theft of government property, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, Bath and other family members operated two trucking businesses: G.S. Bath Inc. and Complete Transportation Solutions (CTS), operating in Fresno County. In 2020 and 2021, Bath applied for and received three PPP loans totaling over $1 million. To obtain the loans, Bath knowingly falsified records to inflate his businesses’ employees and their wages. Bath then used approximately $600,000 of those funds to purchase two parcels of agricultural land in Fresno County.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey A. Spivak is prosecuting the case.

    Bath is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Oct. 6, 2025. Bath faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Amtrak Employees Admit Participating in $11 Million Health Care Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – Five Amtrak employees recently admitted participating in a health care fraud scheme to defraud Amtrak, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Kevin Frink, 53, of Willingboro, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Madeline Cox Arleo in Newark federal court to an Indictment charging him with conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Michael Toal, 35, of Hazlet, New Jersey, David McBrien, 37, of Levittown, Pennsylvania, Damany Walker, 41, of Irvington, New Jersey, and David Lonergan, 65, of Rockaway Park, New York, in recent weeks also pleaded guilty before Judge Arleo in Newark federal court to the Indictment charging conspiracy to commit health care fraud.

    The Indictment also charges four other co-conspirators in connection with the scheme: Quinton Johnson, 53, of Irvington, New Jersey; Gregory Richardson, 35, of Roosevelt, New York; Timothy Bogen, 59, of Hamden, Connecticut; and Dion Jacob, 50, of Brooklyn, New York.  Defendant Rodolfo Rivera, 41, of Clayton, Delaware, previously pleaded guilty to the Indictment, and co-conspirator Anthony Saloka, 44, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty to an Information.

    “The defendants admitted to colluding with corrupt health care providers in a scheme to defraud Amtrak’s health care plan for personal financial gain.  My office is committed to holding accountable those who profit from health care scams, like this one, that harm the public and the health care system.”

    – U.S. Attorney Alina Habba

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    From January 2019 through June 2022, Frink, Toal, McBrien, Walker, Lonergan, and their co-conspirators—who were also Amtrak employees—engaged in a scheme to obtain cash kickbacks from health care providers in return for their agreement to allow their health insurance plan to be billed for services that were never provided and were not medically necessary. In total, as a result of the conspiracy, the Amtrak health care plan paid over $11 million in fraudulent claims associated with providers connected to the scheme.

    Each defendant received thousands of dollars in cash kickbacks from health care providers in return for their participation in the scheme, including from Punson Figueroa, an acupuncturist.  Defendants Frink, McBrien, Walker, and Lonergan also received cash kickbacks from Michael DeNicola, a podiatrist. Figueroa previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and was sentenced on September 24, 2024 to 34 months in prison. DeNicola previously pleaded guilty on June 29, 2022 to conspiracy to commit health care fraud, among other offenses. His sentencing remains pending.

    The health care fraud conspiracy charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Walker’s and McBrien’s sentencings are scheduled for July 24, 2025.  Lonergan’s sentencing is scheduled for August 20, 2025.  Toal’s sentencing is scheduled for October 23, 2025. Frink’s sentencing is scheduled for October 9, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the Amtrak Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Waters, the Amtrak Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Sam Dotson, and special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III in New York, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica R. Ecker and Katherine M. Romano of the Health Care Fraud and Opioid Abuse Prevention Unit, and Senior Trial Counsel Barbara Ward of the Bank Integrity, Recovery, and Money Laundering Unit, in Newark.

    The charge and allegations contained in the Indictment against Johnson, Richardson, Bogen, and Jacob are merely accusations, and they are each presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel:  Sarah Sulkowski, Esq. (for Kevin Frink)

        Michael Chazen, Esq. (for Michael Toal)

                                Michael V. Calabro, Esq. (for David McBrien)

                                Michael Rosas, Esq. (for Damany Walker)

                                Bruce S. Rosen, Esq. and Sarah Fehm Stewart, Esq. (for David Lonergan)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford, Hyde-Smith Reintroduce Bill to Strengthen Support for Families Struggling with Infertility

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford

    Legislation Promotes Restorative Reproductive Medicine Through Existing Federal Programs

    WASHINGTON, DC – US Senators James Lankford (R-OK), chair of the Senate Values Action Team, Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), chair of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus, Chuck Grassley (R-IA), President Pro Tempore and John Cornyn (R-TX)introduced legislation to provide couples with more personalized and effective infertility treatment to help them choose how and when to grow their families.

    The Reproductive Empowerment and Support through Optimal Restoration (RESTORE) Act would build support for the 15 to 16 percent of couples in the United States affected by infertility. By utilizing current federal resources to support education, training, and access to care, the bill is designed to be cost-neutral.

    “Infertility is one of the most difficult challenges couples can face, and most Americans have either faced or know someone who is facing the difficult journey to have a baby.  The RESTORE Act prioritizes addressing the underlying causes of infertility through restorative reproductive medicine. This approach is specifically designed to diagnose and treat a variety of reproductive health conditions in both men and women to restore the long-term health of our families and help them bring the miracle of life into the world,” said Senator Lankford.

    “So many couples of today’s childbearing-aged generations face an uphill battle with fertility struggles that are complex and unique to every woman and man.  The holistic fertility policy promoted through the RESTORE Act aims to treat the root causes of infertility, many of which stem from chronic conditions and environmental factors that are the focus of President Trump’s MAHA movement,” Senator Hyde-Smith said.  “If we are going to truly support women and men who are ready to embrace parenthood, then we should promote substantive fertility solutions that ensure access to restorative reproductive medicine—fully healing couples and empowering them with autonomy over how they start and build their families.”

    The legislation specifically aims to address reproductive health conditions that often contribute to infertility and painful menstrual cycles, including endometriosis, adenomyosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine fibroids, blocked fallopian tubes, hormone imbalances, hyperprolactinemia, thyroid conditions, and ovulation dysfunctions.

    Key provisions of the RESTORE Act include:

    1. Developing educational tools for women seeking information about reproductive health conditions and restorative reproductive medicine.
    2. Providing training opportunities for medical professionals to learn how to diagnose and treat reproductive health conditions.
    3. Directing the Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health to conduct data collection and implement ongoing reports to assess the access women and men have to restorative reproductive medicine and infertility care through proper testing, diagnosis, and treatment of reproductive conditions.
    4. Promoting, through existing funding opportunities in Title X and the HHS Office of Population Affairs, medical training for medical students and professionals who feel called to truly help women and men struggling with reproductive health conditions and infertility.
    5. Advancing lifestyle medicine prescriptions as a method for treating male infertility.
    6. Directing HHS, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and all relevant panels to update the diagnostic and procedural codes related to infertility that implement the practice of restorative reproductive medicine.

    The RESTORE Act works to address the fertility concerns of our childbearing-aged generations in a cost-effective manner with a holistic approach to healing infertility.  First introduced in the 118th Congress, the legislation has been updated to offer more substantive solutions that focus on ensuring access to holistic fertility treatment and restorative reproductive medicine for both women and men.

    The legislation is supported by the American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists (AAPLOG) Action, Americans United for Life, Ethics & Public Policy Center, Heritage Action for America, and the US Conference of Catholic Bishops.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Mullin to Hannity: Trump Strikes when the Iron is Ripe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)
    “Trump is working all angles on this. This is why Trump makes the ‘Art of the Deal’ right?”
    Washington, D.C. – On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) joined Fox News’s Sean Hannity on Hannity to discuss the recent developments in the war in Ukraine and stress that Russia’s President would be a fool to underestimate President Donald J. Trump and America’s return to ‘Peace through Strength’ policies. Highlights below.

    Sen. Mullin’s full interview can be found here.
    On the consequences President Vladimir Putin faces if he continues down this path of killing:
    “He [President Trump] is trying to clean up a mess that he didn’t start. This war would have never taken place if Trump would have been in office, but now it is. He’s been very clear from day one he wanted the killing to stop. He’s tried to work with Putin, his patience is running thin, and you and I know both know President Trump personally. When he’s done with you, he’s done. If Putin continues to push this envelope the way that he is, he’s going to give Zelensky the tools that he needs to fight back with the full-scale, full support of the United States.
    On possible Russian sanctions:
    “Lindsey Graham, myself, and a few other senators led this sanction bill, but we’ve been holding off because President Trump wanted time to negotiate with Russia. Because the negotiations are breaking down, I can see as soon as soon as were ready to move this bill forward, we’ll be able to pass this in the Senate, we’ll be able to pass this in the House, and President Trump will sign it. The sanctions will cripple Russia’s economy. You’ll see the ruble crash. You’ll see the way they’ve been able to benefit from it, this won’t go.”
    On President Trump’s ability to protect American interests:
    “Trump is working all angles on this. This is why Trump makes the ‘Art of the Deal’ right? He’s able to back people in corners and because when he’s ready, and the iron’s ripe, he’s able to strike.”

    MIL OSI USA News –