NewzIntel.com

Category: Farming

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bedner Growers, Inc. Recalls Cucumbers

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is advising consumers that Bedner Growers, Inc., voluntarily recalled cucumbers sold at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market between April 29, 2025, and May 14, 2025, and businesses should not sell or serve the recalled cucumbers. These products are associated with a multi-state salmonella outbreak. Currently, there are no Rhode Island cases associated with this recall.

    PRODUCT Cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers, Inc., and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., to retailers, distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors from April 29, 2025, to May 19, 2025. Cucumbers distributed before this timeframe should be past shelf life and should no longer be available on the market.

    Cucumbers may have been sold individually or in smaller packages, with or without a label that may not bear the same brand, product name, or best by date. For distributors, restaurants, and retailers who have purchased these cucumbers, the products were labeled as either being “supers,” “selects,” or “plains”.

    On May 19, 2025, Bedner Growers, Inc., recalled cucumbers sold directly to consumers at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market and to its wholesale distributor. More information can be found in the recall notice.

    SYMPTOMS OF SALMONELLA INFECTION Illness usually occurs within 12 to 72 hours after eating food that is contaminated with Salmonella, and the symptoms usually last four to seven days. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Children younger than five, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe infections.

    STORES AFFECTED Some potentially contaminated cucumbers were available at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market in three Florida locations including Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach between April 29, 2025, and May 14, 2025. The recalled cucumbers were also sold to its wholesale distributor. FDA is aware that contaminated product is available at both restaurant and retail locations. FDA is working to determine where potentially contaminated product was distributed.

    RECOMMENDATIONS –Consumers: If you cannot tell if your cucumber was grown by Bedner Growers, throw it away. When eating out over the next week, ask if cucumbers were from Bedner Growers or Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. –Consumers, restaurants, and retailers who purchased or received potentially contaminated products, including wholesale products, should carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that it touched. Follow FDA’s safe handling and cleaning advice to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. –Contact your healthcare provider if you think you may have symptoms of a Salmonella infection after eating potentially contaminated cucumbers. –Restaurants, retailers, and distributors that purchased potentially contaminated recalled cucumbers between April 29, 2025, and May 19, 2025, should notify their customers of the potential health concern. –Retailers that have or had potentially contaminated product should clean and sanitize any areas that could have come into contact with potentially contaminated products. If potentially contaminated cucumbers were sold in bulk bins or displays, retailers should discard the contents of the bins and use extra care to clean and sanitize the bins before refilling. –Retailers that are unsure if they received this product may need to contact their supplier. If you are unable to determine whether or not potentially contaminated product was received, you should discard the contents of the bins and use extra care to clean and sanitize the bins before refilling.

    More information regarding this outbreak can be found here: https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-cucumbers-may-2025

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eastern Passage — RCMP arrests two people involved in assault

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has arrested two people for assaulting fishers in Eastern Passage.

    On May 4, at approximately 7 p.m., RCMP officers responded to a report of an assault in progress near Cow Bay Rd. in Eastern Passage. On arrival, officers found two people with serious injuries and arrested two other people – one youth and one man. Police also seized several items used as weapons in this assault, including fishing hooks and a metal pipe. The incident occurred while the victims were fishing for gaspereau.

    The victims were transported to hospital by EHS, one with life-threatening injuries.

    The youth had a first court appearance and remains in custody, facing four charges including aggravated assault.

    The 39-year-old man, from Cow Bay, was later released on conditions. He will appear in Dartmouth Provincial Court on June 10, 2025, to face a charge of assault.

    This incident is still under investigation. Police are aware of allegations that this was a hate-motivated crime or hate-motivated incident based on information provided by witnesses. The RCMP takes incidents of hate with utmost seriousness and condemns all hate-motivated incidents, and may follow up with further charges as is necessary based on the ongoing investigation.

    Anyone with information about this incident and who has not yet spoken to police is asked to contact RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment at 902-490-5020. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    File #: 25-62315

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Powering New York with Renewable Energy

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that contracts have been executed for 26 large-scale land-based renewable energy projects that, upon completion, will provide more than 2.5 gigawatts of clean energy, enough to power more than 670,000 homes throughout New York State. These projects are expected to create more than 1,900 near-term, family-supporting jobs and generate more than $6 billion in private investment while reinforcing the State’s commitment to the development of locally-produced clean energy, grid resiliency and economic development.

    “New York is creating competitive opportunities for the clean energy industry, and we could not do this without the shared commitment of our private partners,” Governor Hochul said. “The advancement of renewable energy is part of the foundation of New York’s plan to transform to a zero-emission electricity system and continue our green economy’s momentum forward.”

    These contracted awards are the result of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) 2024 Tier 1 Renewable Energy Standard solicitation. Once constructed, the projects will produce approximately 5,000 gigawatt-hours annually–which is enough to power more than 670,000 homes–provide public health benefits resulting from reduced exposure to harmful air pollutants; and provide more than $300 million in commitments to disadvantaged communities, as defined by the Climate Justice Working Group, from long-term payments to community benefit funds.

    New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “As New York transitions to a clean energy economy, we celebrate these 26 projects and the significant energy they will provide. New York remains an innovator in accelerating clean energy projects, advancing clean energy jobs, and spurring economic development opportunities for businesses and our local communities all across our state.”

    Contracted projects include:

    Capital Region

    • Dolan Solar, Washington County
    • Hawthorn Solar, Rensselaer County
    • Somers Solar, Washington County
    • Shepherd’s Run Solar Project, Columbia County

    Central New York

    • Agricola Wind, Cayuga County
    • Homer Solar Energy Center, Cortland County

    Finger Lakes

    • Highbanks Solar, Livingston County
    • Horseshoe Solar Energy Center, Livingston and Monroe Counties
    • Valcour Bliss Windpark, Wyoming County

    Mohawk Valley

    • Dolgeville Hydro, Herkimer County
    • Flat Creek Solar, Montgomery County
    • Mill Point Solar I, Montgomery County
    • Skyline Solar, Oneida County

    North Country

    • ELP Ticonderoga Solar, Essex County
    • Fort Covington Solar Farm, Franklin County
    • Lyons Falls Mill Repower, Lewis County
    • Tracy Solar Energy Center, Jefferson County
    • Two Rivers Solar Farm, St. Lawrence County
    • Valcour Altona Windpark, Clinton County
    • Valcour Clinton Windpark, Clinton County

    Southern Tier

    • High Bridge Wind, Chenango County
    • Prattsburgh Wind Farm, Steuben County
    • Yellow Barn Solar, Tompkins County

    Western New York

    • Moraine Solar Energy Center, Allegany County
    • South Ripley Solar, Chautauqua County
    • York Run Solar, Chautauqua County

    The payments under the contracted projects will only begin once projects are constructed and begin delivering renewable energy to New York after obtaining all required permits and approvals. Several projects have already commenced construction activities. All projects are expected to be operational by 2029.

    Additionally, the State will continue to emphasize engagements with the projects’ host communities. NYSERDA offers resources and no-cost technical assistance to help local governments understand how to manage responsible clean energy development in their communities, including step-by-step instructions and tools to guide the coordination of new clean energy projects, permitting processes, property taxes, siting, zoning, and more.

    New York State Department of Public Service CEO Rory M. Christian said, “We applaud Governor Hochul’s commitment to move New York State toward a clean energy economy. The projects being announced today will spur the creation of clean energy jobs as well as encouraging economic development opportunities in New York State.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “These large-scale renewable energy projects demonstrate how clean energy and job creation go hand-in-hand to build healthier communities and stronger economies. More than two dozen projects under contracts through NYSERDA will generate renewable power and private investment that helps continue the significant progress underway to reduce polluting power sources.”

    New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “I thank Governor Hochul for maintaining our state’s leadership in the clean energy sector and for continuing to create great career opportunities for New Yorkers statewide. These investments will continue to build a more energy efficient and environmentally friendly future for New York State.”

    State Senator Kevin Parker said, “As Chair of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee, I am proud to work alongside NYSERDA, a critical partner in advancing New York’s clean energy future. Their continued leadership in delivering funding awards and innovative programs is essential to meeting the goals of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Together, we are not only strengthening the state’s electric grid with renewable energy, but also ensuring that disadvantaged communities share in the economic and environmental benefits of this transition.”

    New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento said, “Congratulations to Governor Hochul and NYSERDA on another major milestone toward achieving New York’s renewable energy goals while adhering to robust labor standards and protections and Buy American policies. This will create good union jobs while building up the State’s clean energy program.”

    New York State Building Trades President Gary LaBarbera said, “Renewable energy projects continue to represent major opportunities for New York to not only achieve the goals set out by CLCPA but also create thousands of family-sustaining union careers and economic stimulus that will reinvigorate our communities and the middle class. The execution of these contracts represents a significant milestone for reaping the benefits of these clean energy initiatives. We thank Governor Hochul and NYSERDA for their continued commitment to pushing forward the development of green infrastructure in New York.”

    Alliance for Clean Energy New York Executive Director Marguerite Wells said, “The benefits of locally-produced renewable energy are immense and wide-ranging. We thank Governor Hochul for continuing to guide the state through our clean energy transition, which will not only benefit the New Yorkers of today but also those of generations to come. Today’s announcement shows there is continued enthusiasm from private developers to invest in New York, and New York remains ready to greet them.”

    New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said, “Climate change is happening now and the impacts will only get worse if we don’t transition off of fossil fuels and deliver on our clean energy future. Today’s announcement of new land-based renewable energy projects will mean fewer greenhouse gas emissions, better air quality, and good union jobs for New Yorkers. We thank Governor Hochul for her environmental leadership and congratulate NYSERDA on this progress toward meeting our clean energy goals.”

    Natural Resources Defense Council Power Sector Managing Director Kit Kennedy said, “New York State’s leadership on clean energy is more important now than ever, given the federal government’s efforts to turn back progress. The clean energy projects announced today by Governor Hochul mean more jobs, more economic development for communities, less health-harming air pollution, and lower electricity system costs. This is what leadership means. Let’s keep it coming!”

    Citizens Campaign for the Environment Executive Director Adrienne Esposito said, “We are thrilled that NY is taking another significant step forward in our state’s ongoing transition to a clean energy future. As national momentum around renewable energy and climate action stumbles, it’s more important than ever for states like New York to lead. Leadership matters and we need NY to continue on a course of establishing a 21st century energy infrastructure plan we can be proud of! These projects will deliver reliable, locally-produced clean energy to millions of New Yorkers helping to meet the state’s ambitious renewable energy goals while combating climate change, creating jobs, strengthening our economy, and enhancing long-term energy security. CCE commends Governor Hochul and NYSERDA for their commitment to advancing critical renewable energy projects that benefit both our environment and our communities.”

    Advanced Energy United New York Policy Lead Kristina Persaud said, “This is an exciting milestone for New York’s clean energy future. These large-scale renewable energy projects will bring real economic benefits to communities across the state. These projects will not only provide clean power, but also quality jobs for New Yorkers. At the same time, they strengthen New York’s leadership in the rapidly growing clean energy sector, positioning the state to compete in a global market and reap the long-term economic benefits of a modern energy economy.”

    These projects will add to New York’s robust portfolio of large-scale renewable energy projects, now comprised of nearly 100 solar, land-based wind, hydroelectric and offshore wind projects currently operating or under development that are expected to deliver approximately 10 gigawatts of clean power to the grid — enough to power more than 3.3 million New York homes. Of these nearly 100 projects, more than one gigawatt of capacity is under construction, which once completed will add to the 31 operational projects currently delivering 1.4 gigawatts of clean energy to the grid – now supplying power to nearly half a million New York homes.

    New York State’s Climate Agenda

    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Encourages Reforming and Strengthening Food Security, Fulbright Programs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) pushed for the U.S. State Department to reform, but continue to support and implement, initiatives that help address global food security and promote cultural exchanges, including the Fulbright Program.

    During a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs hearing to review the president’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of State, Boozman questioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio about his vision for how it will coordinate with other agencies in reforming but continuing certain foreign assistance. 

    “I know you’ve been very supportive of the American farmer, as has the president,” Boozman, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, said.

    “We do foreign aid across other agencies. In the case of food aid, we’ve done a lot of reform and a lot of change over the last few months. But I think the intent is to find a way we can leverage what USDA is already doing to enhance how we provide food assistance around the world in a way that benefits the American farmer but also fulfills our desire to provide assistance where needed and where it furthers our national interests,” Rubio said.

    Boozman has championed the Fulbright Program, America’s flagship educational exchange program created by former Arkansas Senator J. William Fulbright in 1946, and recounted the effective diplomatic pathway it creates for participants.

    “Forty-four Fulbright alumni have served as heads of state and government. Eighty-nine foreign governments contribute over $90 million annually. It seems like every time you’re in a foreign country and visiting with the cabinet members, half of them are Fulbright scholars and they’re very, very proud,” Boozman said.

    Boozman urged Rubio to work collaboratively on a solution that strengthens the program while addressing modern challenges. 

    “I think that’s most certainly going to be a part of our process. We understand that and will work very closely with you on those priorities. I do think what we want to do is share the same goal. We’re going to be engaged with you in this appropriations process,” Rubio said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOJ Press releases at OCI (Prior Years)

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    05/21/2019
    December 10, 2018: Olympus Medical Systems Corporation, Former Senior Executive Plead Guilty to Distributing Endoscopes After Failing to File FDA-Required Adverse Event Reports of Serious Infections

    03/26/2019
    March 30, 2018: KC Paramedic Indicted for Stealing Fentanyl, Morphine from Ambulances

    03/26/2019
    March 30, 2018: Counterfeit Cigarette Smuggler Sentenced to Prison

    03/20/2019
    April 4, 2018: Canadian Pharmacist Sentenced for Distributing Counterfeit and Adulterated Botox to Local Doctors

    03/20/2019
    March 27, 2018: Compounding Pharmacy Owner Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for $10.5 Million Health Care Fraud

    03/20/2019
    March 27, 2018: Federal Jury Finds Three Guilty in Fentanyl Distribution Conspiracy

    03/20/2019
    April 4, 2018: Fences Indicted in Multi-Million Dollar, Multi-State Criminal Theft Operations

    03/19/2019
    March 30, 2018: Lynn Man Sentenced to Over 10 Years in Prison for Role in Counterfeit Steroid Conspiracy

    03/05/2019
    October 1, 2018: AmerisourceBergen Corp. to Pay $625 Million to Settle Civil Fraud Allegations Resulting from Its Repackaging and Sale of Adulterated Drugs and Unapproved New Drugs, Double Billing and Providing Kickbacks

    03/05/2019
    October 18, 2018: Pharmacist Indicted for Taking Drugs, Carrying Firearm in Violation of Court Order

    03/05/2019
    October 15, 2018: Leader of Fraudulent Prescription Conspiracy Sentenced to Six Years in Prison

    03/05/2019
    November 29, 2018: Two Practitioners Sentenced for Drug Crimes in Connection with HOPE Clinic

    03/05/2019
    December 4, 2018: Medical Device Maker ev3 Agrees to Plead Guilty and Pay $17.9 Million for Distributing Adulterated Device

    03/05/2019
    November 20, 2018: Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Smuggling Counterfeit Cialis and Viagra into the United States

    03/05/2019
    November 19, 2018: Georgia Man Charged with Social Security and Wire Fraud

    03/05/2019
    October 22, 2018: Medical Equipment Company Agrees to Pay $5.25 Million to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Claims for Compounded Medical Creams

    03/05/2019
    October 15, 2018: Four Men and Seven Companies Indicted for Billion-Dollar Telemedicine Fraud Conspiracy, Telemedicine Company and CEO Plead Guilty in Two Fraud Schemes

    03/05/2019
    November 5, 2018: Nurse Sentenced for Taking Fentanyl for Personal Use

    03/05/2019
    November 28, 2018: Former Vice President of Insys Pharmaceuticals Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Scheme

    03/05/2019
    October 18, 2018: Grand Jury Returns Superseding Indictment In Shamo Case; Adds Distribution Of Fentanyl Count Resulting In Death

    03/05/2019
    November 29, 2018: Dietary Supplement Ingredient Importers Arrested in Connection with Large-Scale Smuggling and Money Laundering Scheme

    03/05/2019
    December 4, 2018: Memphis Man Pleads Guilty to Tampering with Consumer Products

    03/05/2019
    October 22, 2018: Oklahoma Orthopedic Company to Pay $455,000 to Settle Claims of False Medical Billing

    02/25/2019
    December 13, 2018: Floridian Pleads Guilty in Complex Fraud Scheme Related to the Processing of Credit Card Payments

    02/25/2019
    December 13, 2018: Owner and Four Former Employees of New England Compounding Center Convicted Following Trial

    02/25/2019
    December 7, 2018: VA Nurse Admits to Fraudulently Obtaining and Tampering with Opioid Prescriptions

    02/25/2019
    December 4, 2018: Des Moines Residents Sentenced for Felony Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act Offense

    02/13/2019
    October 11, 2018: Two Companies Ordered to Pay More Than $7 Million for Adulterated and Misbranded Pet Food Ingredients

    02/13/2019
    October 4, 2018: Troutdale Doctor Sentenced for Purchasing and Administering Foreign-Sourced Botox and Juvaderm

    09/25/2018
    September 24, 2018: Board Certified Ophthalmologist Agrees to Civil Fraud Settlement in Medicare Fraud Investigation

    09/19/2018
    September 19, 2018: Springfield Doctor Sentenced for Illegally Sharing Patient Medical Files

    09/17/2018
    September 11, 2018: Columbus Pharmacist Sentenced for Health Care Fraud Scheme

    09/17/2018
    September 8, 2017: Galena Biopharma Inc. to Pay More than $7.55 Million to Resolve Alleged False Claims Related to Opioid Drug

    09/10/2018
    September 6, 2018: Cattle Company and Veterinarian Indicted for False Health Certificates on Livestock

    09/06/2018
    August 31, 2018: Former Home Health Nurse Pleads Guilty to Tampering with Patients’ Drugs

    09/04/2018
    August 30, 2018: Massachusetts Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute Misbranded Prescription Horse Drugs

    08/30/2018
    August 28, 2018: Providence Nurse Sentenced for Tampering with Oxycodone

    08/23/2018
    August 22, 2018: Louisiana Pharmacist Convicted of Trafficking and Selling Stolen Medication

    08/20/2018
    August 17, 2018: Unlicensed Pharmacy Technician Pleads Guilty to Working at New England Compounding Center

    08/16/2018
    August 16, 2018: Genesee County Physician and Two Others Charged with Health Care Fraud

    08/16/2018
    August 15, 2018: Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Scheme to Market Dietary Supplements

    08/06/2018
    August 3, 2018: Northwest ENT Associates, P.C. to Pay Approximately $1.2 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

    08/01/2018
    July 31, 2018: Three Canadians and their Company Sentenced for Wholesale Distribution of Misbranded Prescription Drugs and Money Laundering

    07/31/2018
    July 30, 2018: Two People Guilty of Distributing Tramadol Pills

    07/30/2018
    July 26, 2018: Miami-Dade Resident Charged in Connection with Performance of Illicit Silicone Injections

    07/24/2018
    July 23, 2018: Springfield EMT/Paramedic Pleads Guilty to Stealing Fentanyl, Morphine

    07/19/2018
    July 18, 2018: Medical Device Maker AngioDynamics Agrees to Pay $12.5 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations

    07/17/2018
    July 17, 2018: Former President of Cumberland Distribution, Inc. Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for $50 Million Drug Diversion Scheme

    07/12/2018
    July 10, 2018: Pawtucket Woman Sentenced for Participation in Opioid Prescription Conspiracy

    07/11/2018
    July 10, 2018: VA Medical Center Nurse Indicted, Arraigned for Allegedly Tampering with and Stealing Prescription Opioids

    07/11/2018
    July 10, 2018: Former Des Moines Pharmacy Technician Sentenced for Illegally Tampering with Fentanyl

    07/11/2018
    July 10: 2018: Former Pharmacy Technician Indicted for Stealing Fentanyl, Morphine

    07/09/2018
    July 6, 2018: Vero Beach Orthopedic Surgeon Sentenced to Life in Prison Following Conviction for Fentanyl Analog Drug Conspiracy Resulting in Death

    07/09/2018
    July 6, 2018: Internet Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Selling $2.3 Million Worth of Non-FDA Approved and Misbranded Botox and Juvederm-Related Products

    07/05/2018
    July 3, 2018: Canton Man Indicted on Fentanyl and Firearms Charges

    06/28/2018
    June 28, 2018: Southern District of Florida Charges 124 Individuals Responsible for $337 Million in False Billing as Part of National Healthcare Fraud Takedown

    06/22/2018
    June 20, 2018: Fitchburg Woman and Saugus Man Sentenced for Roles in Counterfeit Steroid Conspiracy

    06/18/2018
    June 15, 2018: Theranos Founder and Former Chief Operating Officer Charged in Alleged Wire Fraud Schemes

    06/05/2018
    June 5, 2018: Opioid Prescription Conspiracy Leader Pleads Guilty

    05/31/2018
    May 31, 2018: Notification of Stolen Fertility Drugs: Gonal-f® RFF Redi-ject® and Gonal-f® Multi-Dose

    05/21/2018
    May 21, 2018: Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty to Fraud Scheme Involving the Reselling of Food Products That Were to Be Destroyed

    05/08/2018
    May 8, 2018: Notification of Stolen Octagam

    04/19/2018
    April 13, 2018: Canadian Drug Firm Admits Selling Counterfeit and Misbranded Prescription Drugs Throughout the United States

    04/19/2018
    April 12, 2018: Chinese Citizen Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud Related to Dietary Supplement Scheme

    04/19/2018
    April 6, 2018: New Hampshire Residents Sentenced for Participating in Scheme to Distribute Misbranded Drugs

    03/15/2018
    March 14, 2018: Meridian Nurse Practitioner Pleads Guilty to Obtaining Controlled Substances by Fraud

    03/14/2018
    March 12, 2018: Champaign, Illinois, Resident Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Producing and Selling Over 80,000 Homemade Tramadol Capsules to Customers without Verifying Prescriptions

    03/13/2018
    March 12, 2018: Pharmacist and Pharmacy Employee Sentenced for Involvement in Over $30 Million Health Care Fraud

    03/08/2018
    March 6, 2018: Monterey Park Woman Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Injecting Foreign Substance into Woman for Buttocks Enhancement

    03/08/2018
    March 8, 2018: Four Individuals Indicted for Trafficking in Counterfeit Goods

    03/05/2018
    March 2, 2018: Woman Sentenced for Injecting Adulterated Liquid Silicone

    03/05/2018
    February 23, 2018: Lake Charles Veterinarian, Pharmacy Sentenced for In-Race Horse Doping Conspiracy

    03/01/2018
    February 28, 2018: Two Doctors Arrested Pursuant to Federal Indictment That Alleges Bogus Sleep Studies Helped 1-800-Get-Thin Fraudulently Bill Insurance Programs Over $250 Million Related to Lap-Band Surgeries

    02/27/2018
    February 27, 2018: Former President of Houston-Based Drug Company Convicted in $50 Million Drug Diversion Scheme

    02/22/2018
    February 21, 2018: Pharmacy Tech Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Tampering with Opioids for IV Fluid

    02/21/2018
    February 20, 2018: U.S. Attorney Announces 69-count Indictment Charging Owners, Managers and Physicians Associated with Hope Clinic

    02/21/2018
    February 14, 2018: Palmer Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Import Prescription Drugs from Pakistan

    02/20/2018
    August 19, 2016: Pharmacy Owner and Medical Doctor Charged in an Internet Scheme to Dispense Medications to Customers without Valid Prescriptions

    02/14/2018
    February 14, 2018: Two Indian Citizens and India-based Corporation Sentenced for Conspiring to Smuggle Counterfeit Cigarettes

    02/12/2018
    February 8, 2018: Queensbury Oncologist and Spouse to Pay $500,000 for Submitting False Claims to Medicare for the Administration of Unapproved Cancer Drugs

    02/12/2018
    February 9, 2018: Tampa Resident Convicted for Involvement with Tricare Health Care Fraud Scheme

    02/05/2018
    February 5, 2018: Pennsylvania Firearms Dealer Sentenced To 100 Months Imprisonment

    02/05/2018
    November 25, 2018: Nevada Man Indicted for Distribution of Anabolic Steroids and Drug Misbranding

    02/05/2018
    February 5, 2018: Three Florida Residents Sentenced for Operating an Illegal Steroid and Counterfeit Prescription Drug Lab

    01/31/2018
    January 31, 2018: New England Compounding Center Pharmacist Sentenced for Role in Nationwide Fungal Meningitis Outbreak

    01/24/2018
    September 25, 2017: U.S. Attorney Charges Pharmacy Tech for Tampering with Opioids

    01/24/2018
    January 13, 2017: Two Louisiana Men Sentenced for Roles in On-line Pharmacy Scheme

    01/24/2018
    May 17, 2017: Gardner Man Charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Counterfeit Steroids

    01/24/2018
    December 6, 2016: Two Sentenced for Trafficking in Counterfeit Viagra and Cialis

    01/24/2018
    September 11, 2017: Knoxville Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Defraud the FDA

    01/24/2018
    December 9, 2016: Carroll County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Conspiracy Charge

    01/24/2018
    July 18, 2016: Cincinnati Man Sentenced for Illegally Importing Drugs into U.S.

    01/24/2018
    July 7, 2016: Johnston Resident Charged with Drug Trafficking, Money Laundering

    01/24/2018
    January 7, 2016: Former Nurse Pleads Guilty to Stealing Narcotics from Hospital

    01/24/2018
    February 15, 2017: Hampton-Based Spice Dealer Sentenced to 17 Years in Prison

    01/24/2018
    July 13, 2017: Four Charged in Counterfeit Body Building Steroid Conspiracy

    01/24/2018
    December 8, 2016: Pharmaceutical Executives Charged in Racketeering Scheme

    01/24/2018
    December 2, 2016: Woman Arrested For Injecting Adulterated Liquid Silicone

    01/24/2018
    September 20, 2017: Registered Nurse Sentenced for Tampering with Fentanyl

    01/24/2018
    June 28, 2017: Registered Nurse Pleads Guilty to Tampering with Fentanyl

    01/24/2018
    June 27, 2016: Hampton-Based Spice Retailer and Wholesaler Pleads Guilty

    01/24/2018
    May 31, 2016: Worcester Nurse Indicted on Federal Drug Tampering Charges

    01/24/2018
    August 7, 2017: Notification of Stolen Sterile Prescription Injectable Products

    01/23/2018
    January 23, 2018: Two Indian Citizens and India-based Corporation Plead Guilty to Conspiring to Smuggle Counterfeit Cigarettes

    01/17/2018
    January 12, 2018: Owner of Seafood Company Charged in Atlantic Blue Crab Scam

    01/17/2018
    September 22, 2017: Drug Maker Aegerion Agrees to Plead Guilty; Will Pay More Than $35 Million to Resolve Criminal Charges and Civil False Claims Allegations

    01/16/2018
    June 30, 2017: Bath County Man Sentenced For Misbranding Drugs and Obstructing Justice

    01/16/2018
    June 21, 2017: Gardner Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Traffic Counterfeit Steroids

    01/16/2018
    August 28, 2017: Costa Rican Defendant Appears in Federal Court to Face Fraud Charges

    01/16/2018
    July 17, 2017: Leader of $17 Million Health Insurance Fraud Scheme Ordered to Prison

    01/16/2018
    October 11, 2016: Foreign National Pleads Guilty To International Wire Fraud Scheme

    01/16/2018
    August 30, 2017: Two Charged in Federal Court with Smuggling Counterfeit Cigarettes

    01/16/2018
    May 31, 2017: Men Sentenced to Combined 60 Years for Selling Spice in Hampton Roads

    01/12/2018
    December 20, 2016: New England Compounding Center’s National Sales Director Pleads Guilty

    01/12/2018
    July 19, 2017: Texas Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Import Prescription Drugs

    01/12/2018
    March 13, 2017: Vice-President of SK Labs Found Guilty of Conspiracy, Mail Fraud Charges

    01/12/2018
    December 27, 2016: Providence Nurse Charged in Connection with Tampering with Oxycodone

    01/12/2018
    January 20, 2016: Businessman Sentenced for Marketing and Selling Unapproved Remedies for Cancer

    01/12/2018
    March 2, 2017: Bath County Man Convicted of Obstructing Justice and Selling Misbranded Products

    01/12/2018
    February 6, 2017: Arizona Man Sentenced for Trafficking in Pet Products with Counterfeit Labels

    01/12/2018
    January 17, 2017: Tampa-Area Medical Device Salesman Guilty of Selling Expired Lap-Band Devices

    01/12/2018
    August 1, 2017: Two Kansans Sentenced for Operating Multimillion-Dollar Designer Drug Business

    01/12/2018
    June 2, 2016: Additional Criminal Charges Brought Against Indicted Penn National Horse Trainer

    01/12/2018
    June 15, 2017: Gloucester Woman Charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Steroids and Launder Money

    01/12/2018
    June 15, 2017: Two Kansans Sentenced for Operating Multimillion-Dollar Designer Drug Business

    01/12/2018
    May 15, 2017: Vitamin Shop Owner Guilty of Selling Misbranded Drugs and Controlled Substance

    01/12/2018
    August 15, 2016: Second Trafficker Convicted of Distributing Dangerous Counterfeit Viagra and Cialis

    01/12/2018
    July 17, 2017: Gloucester Woman Pleads Guilty to Her Role in Counterfeit Steroid Trafficking Scheme

    01/12/2018
    October 12, 2016: Colombian National Charged for Unlawfully Injecting Silicone into Victims Bodies

    01/12/2018
    July 28, 2017: Westerly Resident to Plead Guilty to Trafficking Steroids, Money Laundering Charges

    01/12/2018
    September 22, 2016: Hoover Man Charged for Marketing Misbranded Male Enhancement Drugs from China

    01/12/2018
    September, 22, 2016 Hoover Man Charged for Marketing Misbranded Male Enhancement Drugs from China

    01/12/2018
    August 2, 2016: Colombian National Charged for Unlawfully Injecting Silicone into Victims’ Bodies

    01/12/2018
    December 13, 2016: Tampa Resident Indicted for Involvement with Tricare Health Care Fraud Scheme

    01/12/2018
    September 5, 2017: New Hampshire Residents Plead Guilty to Conspiracy Involving Misbranded Drugs

    01/12/2018
    April 3, 2017: Printing and Packaging CEO Pleads Guilty to Trafficking in Counterfeit Labels and Packaging

    01/12/2018
    March 14, 2017: Woman Admits to Causing the Death of Another Person by Injecting Her with Liquid Silicone

    01/12/2018
    April 12, 2017: Former Medical Product Distributor Charged with False Statements about Hormone Shipments

    01/12/2018
    September 29, 2016: New York Man Pleads Guilty To Conspiring To Illegally Manufacture Designer Steroids

    01/12/2018
    July 1, 2016: New Hampshire Couple Indicted On Two Counts Of Illegal Distribution Of Prescription Drugs

    01/12/2018
    September 22, 2017:Woman Admits to Illegally Selling Prescription Drugs Not Approved for Use in the US

    01/12/2018
    June 22, 2016: Former Nurse Sentenced to 82 Months for Stealing and Tampering with Patient Medications

    01/12/2018
    June 13, 2017: Cherry Hill Doctor and Son Admit Defrauding Medicare, Agree To $1.78 Million Settlement

    01/12/2018
    December 19, 2016: New York Man Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Term for Selling Unsafe Dietary Supplements Online

    01/12/2018
    September 25, 2017: Pharmacy Manager Pleads Guilty to Illegal Prescription Drug Diversion and Money Laundering

    01/12/2018
    July 28, 2017: Tampa Woman Sentenced to Prison For Misbranded Drugs Used in Connection with Buttocks Injection

    01/12/2018
    March 28, 2017: Former Atlantic County, New Jersey, Man Charged with Smuggling and Dispensing Misbranded Drugs

    01/12/2018
    September 12, 2017: Former Paramedic Pleads Guilty to Stealing Pain-killing Drugs, Replacing Vials with Water

    01/12/2018
    July 29, 2016: Majority Owner of NECC and Husband Plead Guilty to Illegal Cash Withdrawals Following Outbreak

    01/12/2018
    May 15, 2017: Printing and Packaging Business Owner Convicted of Trafficking in Counterfeit Veterinary Labels

    01/12/2018
    July 14, 2017: Senior Executives of Medical Drug Re-Packager Plead Guilty to Defrauding Healthcare Providers

    01/12/2018
    July 20, 2016: Former Acclarent, Inc. Executives Convicted of Crimes Related to the Sale of Medical Devices

    01/12/2018
    June 6, 2016: Pharmaceutical Companies To Pay $67 Million To Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating To Tarceva

    01/12/2018
    February 16, 2017: Atlanta Man Convicted of Illegally Importing and Distributing Male Enhancement Products from China

    01/11/2018
    January 11, 2018: Former New Hampshire Pharmacist Pleads Guilty for Tampering with Narcotics at Bedford Pharmacy

    01/11/2018
    July 22, 2016: Medical Device Manufacturer Acclarent Inc. to Pay $18 Million to Settle False Claims Act Allegations

    01/11/2018
    November 15, 2016: Miami-Dade Resident Sentenced to Fifteen Months in Prison for Distributing Contaminated Cheese

    01/11/2018
    September 25, 2017: Millions of Medicines Seized in Largest INTERPOL Operation Against Illicit Online Pharmacies

    01/11/2018
    January 3, 2017: Notification of Stolen Reckitt Benckiser Retail, Non-Prescription, Consumer Healthcare Products

    01/09/2018
    August 1, 2017: Radford Nurse Who Tampered with Liquid Morphine Intended for Nursing Home Patients Sentenced in Federal Court

    01/09/2018
    November 4, 2016: Two Pakistani Nationals Sentenced for Conspiring to Illegally Ship Pharmaceuticals into the United States

    01/09/2018
    November 29, 2016: Eight Defendants Convicted For Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Counterfeit 5-Hour Energy Drink

    01/09/2018
    September 11, 2017: Three Florida Residents Arrested After Law Enforcement Discover Steroid and Fake Prescription Drug Lab

    01/09/2018
    June 21, 2017: Counterfeiters Sentenced for Convictions in Nationwide Conspiracy to Distribute Fake 5-Hour Energy Drink

    01/09/2018
    May 31, 2017: Drug Trafficking Organization Faces Indictment For Involvment In Manufacturing Fake Prescriptions Drugs With Fentanyl

    01/09/2018
    July 6, 2016: New Jersey Medical Device Manufacturer Admits Selling Contaminated Ultrasound Gel; Court Orders Permanent Injunction

    01/09/2018
    June 26, 2017: Owner of New England Compounding Center Sentenced for Racketeering Leading to Nationwide Fungal Meningitis Outbreak

    01/09/2018
    June 21, 2016: Two Pharmacists Sentenced to Prison for Adulteration of Drugs in Connection with Alabama-Based Compounding Pharmacy

    01/09/2018
    February 14, 2017: Two Miami-Dade Women Charged in Connection with Their Operation of a Spa Performing Illicit Silicone Injections

    01/09/2018
    June 22, 2017: Pharmacy Owner and Director of Compliance Charged with Defrauding United States and Distributing Adulterated Drugs

    01/09/2018
    April 12, 2017: Owners of Two Los Angeles-Area Drug Wholesale Companies Arrested in $20 Million Federal ‘Structuring’ Conspiracy

    01/09/2018
    December 2, 2016: Former Police Officer Sentenced in White Plains Federal Court to 8 Years in Prison for Selling Date Rape Drug

    01/09/2018
    February 7, 2017: Randallstown Woman Pleads Guilty to Injecting Non-Medical Grade Silicone into the Bodies of Victim Customers

    01/09/2018
    August 30, 2017: Miami-Dade Resident Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Prison for Operating a Miami Spa Performing Illicit Silicone Injections

    01/09/2018
    March 28, 2017: 3 Canadians and their Vancouver Company Charged with Conspiring to Sell Foreign-Made Drugs to Western Pennsylvania Pharmacists

    01/09/2018
    March 9, 2017: Internet Business Owner Indicted for Selling Non-FDA Approved and Misbranded Versions of Botox and Juvederm Related Products

    01/09/2018
    June 8, 2017: Houston, Texas Man convicted of Smuggling Korean Human Growth Hormone Drugs to Local Patients and Professional Wrestlers

    01/09/2018
    February 16, 2017: Oncology Practice, Doctor and Practice Manager Pay $1.7 Million to Resolve Allegations They Billed Medicare for Illegally Imported Drugs

    01/09/2018
    June 27, 2017: Physician and Wife to Pay $1.2 Million to Settle False Claims Act Allegations That They Billed Medicare and Medicaid for Unapproved Drugs

    01/09/2018
    December 13, 2016: O.C. Man Charged with Selling Pet Meds Without a Prescription, Some of Which Were Not Approved for Distribution in the United States

    01/09/2018
    September 6, 2017: Bronx Pharmacist Pleads Guilty To Illegally Selling Millions Of Prescription Pills On The Internet And Agrees To Forfeit $9 Million

    01/09/2018
    November 10, 2016: Nurse Who Operated Spa in Laguna Niguel Agrees to Plead Guilty to Illegally Dispensing Botox Not Approved for Use in United States

    01/09/2018
    March 30, 2017: Lincoln Mother and Son Convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Misbranded Substances, Drug Paraphernalia, and Related Financial Crimes

    01/09/2018
    January 12, 2017: Baxter Healthcare Corporation to Pay More than $18 Million to Resolve Criminal and Civil Liability Relating to Sterile Products

    01/09/2018
    September 20, 2017: Miami-Dade Resident Sentenced to More Than 4 Years in Prison for Managing a Miami Spa Performing Illicit Silicone Injections

    01/09/2018
    May 23, 2017: Citizen of Pakistan and United Kingdom Sentenced For International Wire Fraud Scheme That Sold False Cures For Multiple Illnesses

    01/09/2018
    April 18, 2017: SCM True Air Technologies, of Ohio and Kentucky, and Its Former Company President – Guilty of Delivering Misbranded Medical Devices from Unregistered Facilities to a Georgia V.A. Medical Center and Obstructing an FDA Investigation into their Conduct

    01/09/2018
    November 28, 2016: Iowa Cancer Clinic and Oncologist to Pay More Than $176,000 To Settle False Claims Act Allegations They Recklessly Billed for Cancer Drugs That Were Unapproved, Misbranded, or Counterfeit and Improperly Upcoded Office Visit Claims

    01/09/2018
    September 9, 2016: Owner of Major Online Colored Contact Lens Business Pleads Guilty in Largest-Ever Investigation of Counterfeit and Misbranded Contact Lenses in the United States

    01/09/2018
    November 7, 2016: Medical Device Maker Biocompatibles Pleads Guilty to Misbranding and Agrees to Pay $36 Million to Resolve Criminal Liability and False Claims Act Allegations

    01/09/2018
    September 26, 2017: Houston, Texas Man Sentenced to 40 Months and a $95,000 Fine for Smuggling Korean Human Growth Hormone Drugs to Local Patients and Professional Wrestlers

    01/09/2018
    December 7, 2016: GNC Enters Into Agreement with Department of Justice to Improve Its Practices and Keep Potentially Illegal Dietary Supplements Out of the Marketplace

    01/09/2018
    September 27, 2017: Amerisourcebergen Specialty Group Pleads Guilty to Distributing Misbranded Drugs and is Sentenced to Pay $260 Million to Resolve Criminal Liability

    01/09/2018
    December 5, 2016: Medical Device Saleswoman Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Charges Relating to the Transport of Stolen Medical Devices and Money Laundering

    01/09/2018
    May 26, 2017: Florida Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Causing the Death of One Victim and Hospitalization of Others by Injecting them With Liquid Silicone

    01/09/2018
    September 11, 2017: Owner of O.C. Pet Products Company Pleads Guilty to Selling Pet Meds without Prescriptions, Some of Which Were Not Approved for U.S. Sale

    09/17/2018
    September 8, 2017: Galena Biopharma Inc. to Pay More than $7.55 Million to Resolve Alleged False Claims Related to Opioid Drug

    01/24/2018
    September 25, 2017: U.S. Attorney Charges Pharmacy Tech for Tampering with Opioids

    01/24/2018
    January 13, 2017: Two Louisiana Men Sentenced for Roles in On-line Pharmacy Scheme

    01/24/2018
    May 17, 2017: Gardner Man Charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Counterfeit Steroids

    01/24/2018
    September 11, 2017: Knoxville Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Defraud the FDA

    01/24/2018
    February 15, 2017: Hampton-Based Spice Dealer Sentenced to 17 Years in Prison

    01/24/2018
    July 13, 2017: Four Charged in Counterfeit Body Building Steroid Conspiracy

    01/24/2018
    September 20, 2017: Registered Nurse Sentenced for Tampering with Fentanyl

    01/24/2018
    June 28, 2017: Registered Nurse Pleads Guilty to Tampering with Fentanyl

    01/24/2018
    August 7, 2017: Notification of Stolen Sterile Prescription Injectable Products

    01/17/2018
    September 22, 2017: Drug Maker Aegerion Agrees to Plead Guilty; Will Pay More Than $35 Million to Resolve Criminal Charges and Civil False Claims Allegations

    01/16/2018
    June 30, 2017: Bath County Man Sentenced For Misbranding Drugs and Obstructing Justice

    01/16/2018
    June 21, 2017: Gardner Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Traffic Counterfeit Steroids

    01/16/2018
    August 28, 2017: Costa Rican Defendant Appears in Federal Court to Face Fraud Charges

    01/16/2018
    July 17, 2017: Leader of $17 Million Health Insurance Fraud Scheme Ordered to Prison

    01/16/2018
    August 30, 2017: Two Charged in Federal Court with Smuggling Counterfeit Cigarettes

    01/16/2018
    May 31, 2017: Men Sentenced to Combined 60 Years for Selling Spice in Hampton Roads

    01/12/2018
    July 19, 2017: Texas Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Import Prescription Drugs

    01/12/2018
    March 13, 2017: Vice-President of SK Labs Found Guilty of Conspiracy, Mail Fraud Charges

    01/12/2018
    March 2, 2017: Bath County Man Convicted of Obstructing Justice and Selling Misbranded Products

    01/12/2018
    February 6, 2017: Arizona Man Sentenced for Trafficking in Pet Products with Counterfeit Labels

    01/12/2018
    January 17, 2017: Tampa-Area Medical Device Salesman Guilty of Selling Expired Lap-Band Devices

    01/12/2018
    August 1, 2017: Two Kansans Sentenced for Operating Multimillion-Dollar Designer Drug Business

    01/12/2018
    June 15, 2017: Gloucester Woman Charged with Conspiracy to Traffic Steroids and Launder Money

    01/12/2018
    June 15, 2017: Two Kansans Sentenced for Operating Multimillion-Dollar Designer Drug Business

    01/12/2018
    May 15, 2017: Vitamin Shop Owner Guilty of Selling Misbranded Drugs and Controlled Substance

    01/12/2018
    July 17, 2017: Gloucester Woman Pleads Guilty to Her Role in Counterfeit Steroid Trafficking Scheme

    01/12/2018
    July 28, 2017: Westerly Resident to Plead Guilty to Trafficking Steroids, Money Laundering Charges

    01/12/2018
    September 5, 2017: New Hampshire Residents Plead Guilty to Conspiracy Involving Misbranded Drugs

    01/12/2018
    April 3, 2017: Printing and Packaging CEO Pleads Guilty to Trafficking in Counterfeit Labels and Packaging

    01/12/2018
    March 14, 2017: Woman Admits to Causing the Death of Another Person by Injecting Her with Liquid Silicone

    01/12/2018
    April 12, 2017: Former Medical Product Distributor Charged with False Statements about Hormone Shipments

    01/12/2018
    September 22, 2017:Woman Admits to Illegally Selling Prescription Drugs Not Approved for Use in the US

    01/12/2018
    June 13, 2017: Cherry Hill Doctor and Son Admit Defrauding Medicare, Agree To $1.78 Million Settlement

    01/12/2018
    September 25, 2017: Pharmacy Manager Pleads Guilty to Illegal Prescription Drug Diversion and Money Laundering

    01/12/2018
    July 28, 2017: Tampa Woman Sentenced to Prison For Misbranded Drugs Used in Connection with Buttocks Injection

    01/12/2018
    March 28, 2017: Former Atlantic County, New Jersey, Man Charged with Smuggling and Dispensing Misbranded Drugs

    01/12/2018
    September 12, 2017: Former Paramedic Pleads Guilty to Stealing Pain-killing Drugs, Replacing Vials with Water

    01/12/2018
    May 15, 2017: Printing and Packaging Business Owner Convicted of Trafficking in Counterfeit Veterinary Labels

    01/12/2018
    July 14, 2017: Senior Executives of Medical Drug Re-Packager Plead Guilty to Defrauding Healthcare Providers

    01/12/2018
    February 16, 2017: Atlanta Man Convicted of Illegally Importing and Distributing Male Enhancement Products from China

    01/11/2018
    September 25, 2017: Millions of Medicines Seized in Largest INTERPOL Operation Against Illicit Online Pharmacies

    01/11/2018
    January 3, 2017: Notification of Stolen Reckitt Benckiser Retail, Non-Prescription, Consumer Healthcare Products

    01/09/2018
    August 1, 2017: Radford Nurse Who Tampered with Liquid Morphine Intended for Nursing Home Patients Sentenced in Federal Court

    01/09/2018
    September 11, 2017: Three Florida Residents Arrested After Law Enforcement Discover Steroid and Fake Prescription Drug Lab

    01/09/2018
    June 21, 2017: Counterfeiters Sentenced for Convictions in Nationwide Conspiracy to Distribute Fake 5-Hour Energy Drink

    01/09/2018
    May 31, 2017: Drug Trafficking Organization Faces Indictment For Involvment In Manufacturing Fake Prescriptions Drugs With Fentanyl

    01/09/2018
    June 26, 2017: Owner of New England Compounding Center Sentenced for Racketeering Leading to Nationwide Fungal Meningitis Outbreak

    01/09/2018
    February 14, 2017: Two Miami-Dade Women Charged in Connection with Their Operation of a Spa Performing Illicit Silicone Injections

    01/09/2018
    June 22, 2017: Pharmacy Owner and Director of Compliance Charged with Defrauding United States and Distributing Adulterated Drugs

    01/09/2018
    April 12, 2017: Owners of Two Los Angeles-Area Drug Wholesale Companies Arrested in $20 Million Federal ‘Structuring’ Conspiracy

    01/09/2018
    February 7, 2017: Randallstown Woman Pleads Guilty to Injecting Non-Medical Grade Silicone into the Bodies of Victim Customers

    01/09/2018
    August 30, 2017: Miami-Dade Resident Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Prison for Operating a Miami Spa Performing Illicit Silicone Injections

    01/09/2018
    March 28, 2017: 3 Canadians and their Vancouver Company Charged with Conspiring to Sell Foreign-Made Drugs to Western Pennsylvania Pharmacists

    01/09/2018
    March 9, 2017: Internet Business Owner Indicted for Selling Non-FDA Approved and Misbranded Versions of Botox and Juvederm Related Products

    01/09/2018
    June 8, 2017: Houston, Texas Man convicted of Smuggling Korean Human Growth Hormone Drugs to Local Patients and Professional Wrestlers

    01/09/2018
    February 16, 2017: Oncology Practice, Doctor and Practice Manager Pay $1.7 Million to Resolve Allegations They Billed Medicare for Illegally Imported Drugs

    01/09/2018
    June 27, 2017: Physician and Wife to Pay $1.2 Million to Settle False Claims Act Allegations That They Billed Medicare and Medicaid for Unapproved Drugs

    01/09/2018
    September 6, 2017: Bronx Pharmacist Pleads Guilty To Illegally Selling Millions Of Prescription Pills On The Internet And Agrees To Forfeit $9 Million

    01/09/2018
    March 30, 2017: Lincoln Mother and Son Convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Misbranded Substances, Drug Paraphernalia, and Related Financial Crimes

    01/09/2018
    January 12, 2017: Baxter Healthcare Corporation to Pay More than $18 Million to Resolve Criminal and Civil Liability Relating to Sterile Products

    01/09/2018
    September 20, 2017: Miami-Dade Resident Sentenced to More Than 4 Years in Prison for Managing a Miami Spa Performing Illicit Silicone Injections

    01/09/2018
    May 23, 2017: Citizen of Pakistan and United Kingdom Sentenced For International Wire Fraud Scheme That Sold False Cures For Multiple Illnesses

    01/09/2018
    April 18, 2017: SCM True Air Technologies, of Ohio and Kentucky, and Its Former Company President – Guilty of Delivering Misbranded Medical Devices from Unregistered Facilities to a Georgia V.A. Medical Center and Obstructing an FDA Investigation into their Conduct

    01/09/2018
    September 26, 2017: Houston, Texas Man Sentenced to 40 Months and a $95,000 Fine for Smuggling Korean Human Growth Hormone Drugs to Local Patients and Professional Wrestlers

    01/09/2018
    September 27, 2017: Amerisourcebergen Specialty Group Pleads Guilty to Distributing Misbranded Drugs and is Sentenced to Pay $260 Million to Resolve Criminal Liability

    01/09/2018
    May 26, 2017: Florida Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Causing the Death of One Victim and Hospitalization of Others by Injecting them With Liquid Silicone

    01/09/2018
    September 11, 2017: Owner of O.C. Pet Products Company Pleads Guilty to Selling Pet Meds without Prescriptions, Some of Which Were Not Approved for U.S. Sale

    12/21/2017
    December 19, 2017: Senior Executives of Medical Drug Repackager Sentenced for Defrauding Healthcare Providers

    12/21/2017
    December 20, 2017: Fitchburg Woman Pleads Guilty to Role in Counterfeit Steroid Conspiracy

    12/18/2017
    December 18, 2017: Cherry Hill Doctor and Son Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Medicare

    12/14/2017
    December 12, 2017: Iserve Technologies, Inc. Pled Guilty in Connection with Guilty Pleas of Former Exec and Manager of Med-Fast Pharmacy Inc.

    12/04/2017
    November 30, 2017: Lynn Man Pleads Guilty to Counterfeit Steroid Conspiracy

    12/04/2017
    November 30, 2017: Paramedic Sentenced for Stealing Fentanyl from Ambulance Company

    12/04/2017
    November 28, 2017: Champaign, Illinois, Resident Guilty of Producing and Selling Over 80,000 Homemade Tramadol Capsules to Customers Without Verifying Prescriptions

    12/04/2017
    November 29, 2017: Knoxville Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Defraud the FDA

    11/27/2017
    November 21, 2017: Williamsville Couple Pleads Guilty

    11/27/2017
    November 22, 2017: Former Pharmacy Compliance Director Pleads Guilty to Introducing Adulterated Drugs into Interstate Commerce and Conspiracy to Defraud the United States

    11/27/2017
    November 20, 2017: Vitamin Shop Owner Sentenced for Misbranded Drugs and Controlled Substance Conviction

    11/21/2017
    November 20, 2017:Queensbury Oncologist and Office Manager Plead Guilty in Connection with Administering Unapproved Drugs

    11/21/2017
    November 16, 2017: Palmer Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Import Prescription Drugs from Pakistan

    11/20/2017
    November 7, 2017: Federal Jury Convicts Lake Charles Veterinarian, Pharmacy in Race Horse Doping Conspiracy

    11/06/2017
    November 3, 2017: Vero Beach Orthopedic Surgeon Charged in Drug Conspiracy Resulting in Death

    11/06/2017
    November 3, 2017: Five Charged in Alleged Opioid Prescription, Healthcare Fraud Scheme

    11/06/2017
    November 1, 2017: New York Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Misbranded Animal Drugs Containing Steroids

    11/01/2017
    November 1, 2017: FDA Supervisor and Local Businessman Charged in Bribery Scheme

    11/01/2017
    November 1, 2017: Pair Sentenced on Federal Conspiracy

    10/31/2017
    October 31, 2017: South Korean Maker of Contact Lenses, Company CEO Charged with Smuggling Products into U.S. by Failing to Declare Full Value

    10/31/2017
    March 28, 2017: Oakland Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Conspiracy to Manufacture Counterfeit Drugs

    10/30/2017
    October 27, 2017: Central Kentucky Pharmacist Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone and Money Laundering

    10/26/2017
    October 26, 2017: Founder and Owner of Pharmaceutical Company Insys Arrested and Charged with Racketeering

    10/26/2017
    October 25, 2017: Five Chinese Citizens and Four Chinese Companies Indicted in Scheme to Sell Mislabeled Dietary Supplements

    10/26/2017
    October 25, 2017: Supervisory Pharmacist of New England Compounding Center Convicted of Racketeering Leading to Nationwide Fungal Meningitis Outbreak

    10/17/2017
    October 16, 2017: Omak, Washington Nurse Sentenced to Federal Prison for Adulterating and Misbranding Pain Medications

    10/10/2017
    October 4, 2017: Med-Fast Pharmacy Inc. and Former Exec Agree to Resolve Criminal and Civil Charges

    10/03/2017
    October 2, 2017: Compounding Pharmacy Owner Charged with $10 Million Health Care Fraud

    10/02/2017
    September 29, 2017: Randallstown Woman Sentenced To 2 Years In Prison For Injecting Non-Medical Grade Silicone Into The Bodies Of Victim Customers

    09/28/2017
    September 20, 2017: Pair Plead Guilty to Federal Conspiracy Charge

    08/29/2017
    August 28, 2017: Shrewsbury Man Pleads Guilty to Operating Counterfeit Steroid Scheme

    08/18/2017
    August 18, 2017: Former Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Steroids, Money Laundering

    07/18/2017
    July 6, 2017: North Olmsted Man Charged with Selling Misbranded Drugs

    07/03/2017
    June 28, 2017: Former VA Nurse Re-Sentenced for Stealing and Tampering with Patient Medications

    07/03/2017
    June 28, 2017: Distributor of Counterfeit Medications Arrested

    06/28/2017
    June 23, 2017: Monterey Park Woman Arrested on Federal Charges after Allegedly Injecting Foreign Substances into Woman for Buttocks Enhancement

    06/26/2017
    June 22, 2017: Paramedic Pleads Guilty to Removing Liquid Fentanyl from Ambulance

    06/19/2017
    June 16, 2017: Leawood Woman Charged With Importing Misbranded Drugs

    06/09/2017
    June 9, 2017: Providence Nurse Pleads Guilty to Tampering with Oxycodone

    04/24/2017
    April 19, 2017: Radford Nurse, Who Tampered with Liquid Morphine Intended for Nursing Home Patients, Pleads Guilty

    04/13/2017
    April 12, 2017: Six Charged with Trafficking Counterfeit Steroids

    04/06/2017
    April 5, 2017: Worcester Nurse Sentenced for Drug Tampering

    03/30/2017
    March 22, 2017: Diamond Bar Man Pleads Guilty to Smuggling ED Drugs that Were Sold as ‘Herbal Enhancement’ Products without Prescriptions

    03/27/2017
    March 22, 2017: Owner of New England Compounding Center Convicted of Racketeering Leading to Nationwide Fungal Meningitis Outbreak

    01/19/2017
    January 18, 2017: Owner of Major Online Colored Contact Lens Business Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison in Largest-Ever Scheme to Import and Sell Counterfeit and Misbranded Contact Lenses Prosecuted in the United States

    01/19/2017
    January 13, 2017: Paramedic Pleads Guilty to Tampering with Drugs

    01/17/2017
    January 11, 2017: Worcester Nurse Pleads Guilty to Drug Tampering

    02/20/2018
    August 19, 2016: Pharmacy Owner and Medical Doctor Charged in an Internet Scheme to Dispense Medications to Customers without Valid Prescriptions

    01/24/2018
    December 6, 2016: Two Sentenced for Trafficking in Counterfeit Viagra and Cialis

    01/24/2018
    December 9, 2016: Carroll County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Conspiracy Charge

    01/24/2018
    July 18, 2016: Cincinnati Man Sentenced for Illegally Importing Drugs into U.S.

    01/24/2018
    July 7, 2016: Johnston Resident Charged with Drug Trafficking, Money Laundering

    01/24/2018
    January 7, 2016: Former Nurse Pleads Guilty to Stealing Narcotics from Hospital

    01/24/2018
    December 8, 2016: Pharmaceutical Executives Charged in Racketeering Scheme

    01/24/2018
    December 2, 2016: Woman Arrested For Injecting Adulterated Liquid Silicone

    01/24/2018
    June 27, 2016: Hampton-Based Spice Retailer and Wholesaler Pleads Guilty

    01/24/2018
    May 31, 2016: Worcester Nurse Indicted on Federal Drug Tampering Charges

    01/16/2018
    October 11, 2016: Foreign National Pleads Guilty To International Wire Fraud Scheme

    01/12/2018
    December 20, 2016: New England Compounding Center’s National Sales Director Pleads Guilty

    01/12/2018
    December 27, 2016: Providence Nurse Charged in Connection with Tampering with Oxycodone

    01/12/2018
    January 20, 2016: Businessman Sentenced for Marketing and Selling Unapproved Remedies for Cancer

    01/12/2018
    June 2, 2016: Additional Criminal Charges Brought Against Indicted Penn National Horse Trainer

    01/12/2018
    August 15, 2016: Second Trafficker Convicted of Distributing Dangerous Counterfeit Viagra and Cialis

    01/12/2018
    October 12, 2016: Colombian National Charged for Unlawfully Injecting Silicone into Victims Bodies

    01/12/2018
    September 22, 2016: Hoover Man Charged for Marketing Misbranded Male Enhancement Drugs from China

    01/12/2018
    September, 22, 2016 Hoover Man Charged for Marketing Misbranded Male Enhancement Drugs from China

    01/12/2018
    August 2, 2016: Colombian National Charged for Unlawfully Injecting Silicone into Victims’ Bodies

    01/12/2018
    December 13, 2016: Tampa Resident Indicted for Involvement with Tricare Health Care Fraud Scheme

    01/12/2018
    September 29, 2016: New York Man Pleads Guilty To Conspiring To Illegally Manufacture Designer Steroids

    01/12/2018
    July 1, 2016: New Hampshire Couple Indicted On Two Counts Of Illegal Distribution Of Prescription Drugs

    01/12/2018
    June 22, 2016: Former Nurse Sentenced to 82 Months for Stealing and Tampering with Patient Medications

    01/12/2018
    December 19, 2016: New York Man Sentenced to Lengthy Prison Term for Selling Unsafe Dietary Supplements Online

    01/12/2018
    July 29, 2016: Majority Owner of NECC and Husband Plead Guilty to Illegal Cash Withdrawals Following Outbreak

    01/12/2018
    July 20, 2016: Former Acclarent, Inc. Executives Convicted of Crimes Related to the Sale of Medical Devices

    01/12/2018
    June 6, 2016: Pharmaceutical Companies To Pay $67 Million To Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating To Tarceva

    01/11/2018
    July 22, 2016: Medical Device Manufacturer Acclarent Inc. to Pay $18 Million to Settle False Claims Act Allegations

    01/11/2018
    November 15, 2016: Miami-Dade Resident Sentenced to Fifteen Months in Prison for Distributing Contaminated Cheese

    01/09/2018
    November 4, 2016: Two Pakistani Nationals Sentenced for Conspiring to Illegally Ship Pharmaceuticals into the United States

    01/09/2018
    November 29, 2016: Eight Defendants Convicted For Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Counterfeit 5-Hour Energy Drink

    01/09/2018
    July 6, 2016: New Jersey Medical Device Manufacturer Admits Selling Contaminated Ultrasound Gel; Court Orders Permanent Injunction

    01/09/2018
    June 21, 2016: Two Pharmacists Sentenced to Prison for Adulteration of Drugs in Connection with Alabama-Based Compounding Pharmacy

    01/09/2018
    December 2, 2016: Former Police Officer Sentenced in White Plains Federal Court to 8 Years in Prison for Selling Date Rape Drug

    01/09/2018
    December 13, 2016: O.C. Man Charged with Selling Pet Meds Without a Prescription, Some of Which Were Not Approved for Distribution in the United States

    01/09/2018
    November 10, 2016: Nurse Who Operated Spa in Laguna Niguel Agrees to Plead Guilty to Illegally Dispensing Botox Not Approved for Use in United States

    01/09/2018
    November 28, 2016: Iowa Cancer Clinic and Oncologist to Pay More Than $176,000 To Settle False Claims Act Allegations They Recklessly Billed for Cancer Drugs That Were Unapproved, Misbranded, or Counterfeit and Improperly Upcoded Office Visit Claims

    01/09/2018
    September 9, 2016: Owner of Major Online Colored Contact Lens Business Pleads Guilty in Largest-Ever Investigation of Counterfeit and Misbranded Contact Lenses in the United States

    01/09/2018
    November 7, 2016: Medical Device Maker Biocompatibles Pleads Guilty to Misbranding and Agrees to Pay $36 Million to Resolve Criminal Liability and False Claims Act Allegations

    01/09/2018
    December 7, 2016: GNC Enters Into Agreement with Department of Justice to Improve Its Practices and Keep Potentially Illegal Dietary Supplements Out of the Marketplace

    01/09/2018
    December 5, 2016: Medical Device Saleswoman Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Charges Relating to the Transport of Stolen Medical Devices and Money Laundering

    12/15/2016
    December 13, 2016: Conagra Subsidiary Sentenced in Connection with Outbreak of Salmonella Poisoning Related to Peanut Butter

    12/13/2016
    December 9, 2016: Two South Florida Residents Charged with Conspiring to Misbrand and Sell Expired Gastric Banding Systems

    11/21/2016
    November 18, 2016: Palm Harbor Oncologist Convicted Of Buying Unapproved Cancer Medications From Foreign Sources And Defrauding Medicare

    11/08/2016
    November 4, 2016: University Hospital Nurse Arrested Following Grand Jury Indictment for Illegally Obtaining and Tampering with Fentanyl and Hydomorphone

    10/17/2016
    October 11, 2016: Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Manufacturing, Distributing Performance Enhancing Drugs

    09/26/2016
    September 9, 2016: Medical Device Saleswoman Convicted on Charges of Conspiring to Transport Stolen Medical Devices in Interstate Commerce, Money Laundering and Other Charges

    08/19/2016
    August 19,2016: North Carolina Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Providing Silicone Buttocks Injections Resulting in the Death of a Client

    07/26/2016
    July 25, 2016: Three Charged with Manufacturing, Distributing Performance Enhancing Drugs

    06/20/2016
    June 20, 2016: R.I. Businessman Pleads Guilty to Running International Scheme to Label and Sell Misbranded Drugs

    06/08/2016
    June 2, 2016: President of Pharmaceutical Companies Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for Long-Running Scheme to Sell Misbranded and Unapproved Chemotherapy and Other Prescription Drugs

    05/27/2016
    May 26, 2016: Owner of “The Wholesale Source” Convicted for Selling Unsafe Dietary Supplements Online

    05/27/2016
    May 27, 2016: North Carolina Man Admits Receiving and Selling Misbranded Silicone for Buttocks Injections Resulting in the Death of a Client

    05/23/2016
    May 9, 2016: California Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Unapproved Drug in Rhode Island

    05/19/2016
    May 18, 2016: Woman Charged with Illegally Administering Silicone Injections

    05/16/2016
    May 13, 2016: Two Key Players in Illegal Online Pharmacy Scheme Sentenced to Prison

    05/16/2016
    May 12, 2016: Windsor Mill Woman Indicted for Allegedly Injecting Non-Medical Grade Silicone into the Bodies of Victim Customers

    05/09/2016
    May 9, 2016: Owner of Bodybuilding Drug Companies Sentenced for Selling Misbranded Drugs

    05/09/2016
    May 9, 2016: Lodi Oncologist and Office Administrator Pay $300,000 to Settle False Claims Act Allegations

    05/06/2016
    May 5, 2016: Florida Man Sentenced To Prison For Illegal Diet Pill Scheme

    05/05/2016
    May 4, 2016: Former Buffalo Nurse Sentenced For Stealing Pain Medications Intended For Patients From Local Hospital

    05/04/2016
    April 28, 2016: Jury Convicts Former Police Officer For Selling Date Rape Drug

    05/04/2016
    May 3, 2016: Gainesville Physician Convicted of 162 Counts of Health Care Fraud

    05/02/2016
    April 29, 2016: Manhattan U.S. Attorney Announces Arrest Of Black Market Distributor Of Diverted HIV Medications Worth Approximately $4 Million

    04/20/2016
    April 20, 2016: Norfolk Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Distributing Insulin

    04/14/2016
    April 7, 2016: Former Nurse Sentenced for Stealing Narcotics from Hospital

    04/06/2016
    April 4, 2016: Former Carlsbad Resident Jailed for Sale of Unapproved “Energy Wave” Medical Devices

    03/24/2016
    March 23, 2016: Federal Jury Convicts Destrehan Woman in Scheme to Sell Illegal and Mislabelled Diet Pills

    03/24/2016
    March 23, 2016: Detroit-Area Physician Sentenced to 45 Months in Prison for Role in $5.7 Million Medicare Fraud Scheme

    03/21/2016
    March 18, 2016: Bookkeeper for Online Pharmacy Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Money Laundering

    03/11/2016
    March 8, 2016: Cincinnati Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Importing Drugs into U.S.

    03/08/2016
    March 7, 2016: Tehachapi Doctor Sentenced to 6 Months in Prison for Defrauding Patients and Insurers by Implanting Unapproved IUDs

    03/08/2016
    March 4, 2016: First of Seven Defendants Who Operated Illegal Online Pharmacy Sentenced to Prison

    03/04/2016
    March 4, 2016: Mumbai, India, Man Sentenced on Misbranding Charge

    03/03/2016
    March 1, 2016: Principal of Dietary Ingredient Companies Pleads Guilty to Multi-Million Dollar Fraud and Meth Precursor Scheme

    02/29/2016
    February 26, 2016: Florence Man Sentenced for Smuggling and Distributing Prescription Drugs

    02/25/2016
    February 17, 2016: Danville Man Pleads Guilty to Manufacturing and Distributing Illegal Dietary Supplements

    02/24/2016
    February 24, 2016: Former VA Nurse Pleads Guilty To Stealing Controlled Substance From Hospital Syringes

    02/24/2016
    February 17, 2016: Two Men Sentenced For Involvement in Scheme to Distribute Misbranded Drugs

    02/23/2016
    February 10, 2016: Las Vegas Resident Indicted For Running Counterfeit and Misbranded Contact Lens Operation

    02/19/2016
    February 17, 2016: United States And Vermont Doctor Resolve Matter Involving Non-FDA Approved Drugs And False Claims

    02/19/2016
    February 16, 2016: Swedish Medical Center Surgical Tech/Technologist Indicted by Federal Grand Jury in Denver on Charges of Tampering with a Consumer Product and Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Deceit

    02/19/2016
    February 10, 2016: Owner of Cancer Treatment Clinic Convicted of Providing Fraudulent Medical Treatments to Patients

    02/04/2016
    January 28, 2016: Federal Criminal Charges Filed Against Two Pharmacists for Adulteration of Drugs in Connection with Alabama-Based Compounding Pharmacy

    02/02/2016
    February 1, 2016: Pakistani Man Makes Appearance in U.S. District Court in Denver Following Indictment and Arrest for Sale and Distribution of New, Misbranded and Counterfeit Prescription Drugs

    02/02/2016
    February 1, 2016: Worcester Nurse Sentenced for Stealing Oxycodone from Patients

    02/02/2016
    January 22, 2016: Counterfeit Cigarette Smuggler Receives Jail Sentence

    02/02/2016
    January 5, 2016: Two Defendants Sentenced to Prison in Conspiracy to Distribute Over $6.6 Million in Contraband Cigarettes

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Georgia Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Tropical Storm Debby

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The  U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations of the June 16 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Tropical Storm Debby occurring Aug. 5 – 6, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch Burke, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Cook, Dodge, Echols, Effingham, Emanuel, Evans, Glynn, Grady, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Long, Lowndes, McIntosh, Mitchell, Montgomery, Pierce, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Turner, Ware, Wayne, Wheeler and Wilcox;  in Georgia; Baker, Columbia, Hamilton, Jefferson, Leon, Madison and Nassau in Florida as well as Aiken, Allendale, Barnwell, Hampton and Jasper in South Carolina.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not 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.

    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.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than June 16, 2025.

    ###

    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: Best Betting Apps in Texas – BetWhale Picked As the Top TX Sportsbook Mobile App

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    In Texas, sports aren’t just entertainment—they’re a way of life. Texans wear their team loyalties like badges of honor, proudly supporting everything from Friday night high school football under stadium lights to major league events packed with screaming fans. 

    JOIN THE BEST BETTING APP IN TEXAS: BETWHALE

    Although Texas has historically maintained strict regulations on gambling, passionate sports fans have turned to online betting apps to add even more excitement to the games they love. Betting apps in Texas have opened a thrilling new dimension for sports enthusiasts eager to test their predictions and expertise while potentially earning some extra cash.

    What Makes BetWhale the Best Betting App in Texas

    When evaluating betting apps in Texas, BetWhale clearly stands out. Several features contribute to its unmatched popularity among Texans:

    Generous Bonuses

    BetWhale offers a highly competitive welcome bonus, rewarding new users with a 125% bonus up to $1,250 on their first deposit. Regular promotions and loyalty programs further enhance the user experience, providing consistent value to bettors.

    Comprehensive Sports Coverage

    The app provides extensive coverage of major sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and collegiate sports. Additionally, BetWhale includes niche markets like MMA, esports, international soccer leagues, and even entertainment and political betting, catering to a diverse betting audience.

    Seamless User Experience

    BetWhale’s intuitive platform ensures easy navigation across all devices. Quick-loading pages, clearly displayed odds, and streamlined bet placements create a hassle-free experience for both new and experienced bettors.

    Live Betting and Streaming

    One of BetWhale’s standout features is its live betting platform. Real-time odds adjustments, comprehensive live betting markets, and streaming of selected sports events significantly heighten the excitement and engagement of betting in real-time.

    Security and Reliability

    The app employs advanced encryption technology and secure payment gateways, ensuring user data and transactions are safe. Quick, reliable transactions paired with responsive customer support further solidify its appeal.

    TAKE THE 125% BONUS AT BETWHALE

    Why Texans Love to Bet on Sports

    Texans don’t just casually follow sports; they live and breathe them. Their deep cultural and community ties to teams—from high school through professional leagues—make sports betting a natural extension of their sports fandom. Betting apps in Texas capitalize on this passion by offering a wide variety of betting options tailored to local interests, ensuring Texans can engage fully with the excitement of each sporting event.

    This passion translates into significant betting engagement throughout the year, peaking around major events, championships, and rivalry games. The sheer variety of sports and teams ensures that there is always action available on Texas betting apps, providing continuous excitement and opportunities to win.

    How to Join Texas Betting Apps

    Joining betting apps in Texas, such as BetWhale, is simple and hassle-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth registration and betting process:

    1. Choose a Reputable Betting App

    Your first step should always involve selecting a secure and trusted betting app that accepts Texas residents. BetWhale is highly recommended due to its robust security, diverse betting markets, user-friendly interface, and reliable customer service.

    2. Complete the Registration Form

    Once you’ve chosen the right app, click the “Join” or “Register” button prominently featured on the homepage. A registration form will appear, requiring you to fill in essential personal details accurately. It’s essential to double-check your information for accuracy to avoid potential verification issues later.

    3. Account Verification Process

    After registering your account, betting apps like BetWhale will require verification to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to protect your account from unauthorized access. 

    Typically, this involves providing a clear image or scan of your government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID and supplying a recent utility bill, bank statement, or official document showing your current residential address clearly and accurately.

    4. Deposit Funds into Your Betting Account

    Once your account is verified, the next step is depositing funds to place bets. Betting apps in Texas, including BetWhale, typically offer various convenient and secure payment methods such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and prepaid cards. 

    Select your preferred payment method, enter the amount you wish to deposit, and follow the instructions provided. Deposits are usually processed instantly, allowing you to start betting immediately.

    5. Placing Bets on Your Favorite Sports

    With funds securely in your account, you’re now ready to start placing bets. Navigate through the intuitive user interface provided by BetWhale or your chosen app to explore various sports and markets available.

    Most Popular Sports Texans Bet On

    Texans have a deeply ingrained passion for sports, and this passion translates directly into enthusiastic betting activity. Betting apps in Texas see robust action, especially around sports that resonate deeply with local pride. Here’s an expanded breakdown of the most popular sports Texans love betting on:

    Football: King of Texas Sports

    In Texas, football isn’t just a sport—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Whether it’s the thrilling atmosphere of Friday Night Lights at local high school stadiums or the grandeur of Sunday afternoons with NFL action, Texans are deeply invested in football. The betting activity surrounding football peaks dramatically during the season.

    NFL Football

    Dallas Cowboys: Known affectionately as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys boast one of the largest fanbases in the United States. Texans bet extensively on Cowboys games, especially rivalry matchups against NFC East opponents such as the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders.

    Houston Texans: Despite their comparatively younger history, the Texans have quickly developed a dedicated following, with bettors consistently wagering on their games, particularly intra-division clashes in the AFC South against rivals like the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans.

    College Football

    Texas Longhorns (University of Texas at Austin): With an iconic burnt orange and white color scheme and the famous “Hook ’em Horns” chant, the Longhorns command statewide loyalty. High-profile games against rivals such as Oklahoma in the Red River Showdown or matchups against Texas Tech and Baylor see intense betting activity.

    Texas A&M Aggies: Aggie pride runs deep in College Station. Betting on Aggies games, especially against SEC powerhouses like Alabama and LSU, captures significant attention throughout the season.

    Football consistently remains the top choice among betting apps in Texas, with considerable excitement and betting volume accompanying major events such as the NFL playoffs, College Football Playoff, and bowl games.

    Basketball: Texas’ Second Love

    Basketball, both professional and collegiate, also attracts extensive betting attention across Texas. Enthusiasm peaks during playoff seasons and March Madness, drawing large numbers of sports bettors to the apps.

    NBA Basketball

    Houston Rockets: With a history of championship success in the ’90s, Rockets games remain popular betting events, especially during playoff contention years.

    Dallas Mavericks: Led historically by stars such as Dirk Nowitzki and now Luka Dončić, the Mavericks have a robust following that fuels betting activity throughout the season, spiking significantly during playoff runs.

    San Antonio Spurs: Known for their consistent excellence and championship pedigree under legendary coach Gregg Popovich, the Spurs have maintained a loyal betting fanbase that actively engages during critical playoff matchups.

    College Basketball

    Texans don’t limit their basketball enthusiasm to the professional ranks. March Madness, the NCAA basketball tournament, sees heightened interest, especially when local teams participate:

    Baylor Bears: Recent successes, including their 2021 national championship win, have elevated Baylor’s profile and significantly increased betting engagement during tournament seasons.

    Texas Tech Red Raiders: A recent powerhouse in college basketball, their strong showings in tournaments have translated directly into heightened betting interest across Texas betting apps.

    Baseball: Texas’ Summer Tradition

    Baseball remains a cherished tradition throughout Texas, particularly during the warm months, and Texans enthusiastically wager on their beloved MLB teams.

    Houston Astros: The Astros’ recent World Series victories and consistent playoff appearances have propelled them into a national spotlight. Their postseason games, especially matchups against rivals such as the New York Yankees, consistently draw high betting volumes.

    Texas Rangers: Playing out of Arlington, the Rangers maintain a passionate fan base. During strong competitive seasons or playoffs, Rangers games generate considerable betting interest statewide.

    Major League Baseball betting peaks dramatically in Texas during postseason play, as the excitement surrounding the playoffs and World Series leads to increased betting activity.

    Factors to Consider When Choosing Texas Betting Apps

    Selecting the right betting app in Texas involves more than just picking the first platform that appears attractive. It’s essential to examine specific aspects that can significantly impact your betting experience. Here’s a detailed exploration of key factors you should consider:

    Licensing and Security

    The cornerstone of a reliable betting app is its adherence to strict licensing and robust security protocols. Choosing a betting app that operates under credible licensing authorities ensures you’re dealing with a trustworthy provider that complies with international gambling standards.

    Betting Markets and Odds

    Another critical factor when choosing betting apps in Texas is the breadth and depth of available betting markets, along with the competitiveness of odds provided.

    Ideal apps provide comprehensive coverage across a wide variety of sports including major leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB), collegiate sports, international soccer, horse racing, and niche markets like esports and MMA. Extensive market coverage allows you to explore different betting opportunities and diversify your wagering.

    Betting odds directly impact your potential winnings. Choosing apps that consistently offer attractive, competitive odds can significantly increase your potential returns. It’s beneficial to compare odds across various platforms to determine which app frequently provides the best value, particularly in popular markets like football or basketball.

    User-Friendly Interface

    A well-designed, user-friendly interface can markedly improve your betting experience, making it easier and more enjoyable to engage with sports betting regularly.

    Apps that feature intuitive navigation allow users to quickly locate their favorite sports, markets, and betting options without confusion. Clear, organized menus and fast-loading pages are key aspects of superior app design.

    Payment Options

    The availability and reliability of multiple payment methods significantly influence the convenience and practicality of any betting app in Texas. A good betting app should provide a wide range of secure payment methods. 

    Commonly used options include:

    • Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are standard for quick and straightforward deposits.
    • E-Wallets: Payment systems like PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and ecoPayz offer speedy, secure, and discreet transactions.
    • Prepaid Cards: Options such as Paysafecard allow deposits without the necessity of linking directly to a personal bank account or credit card.
    • Bank Transfers: Direct bank transfers offer a secure option for larger transactions, albeit with slightly longer processing times compared to other methods.

    Customer Service

    High-quality customer support can dramatically influence your betting experience, especially when resolving technical issues or answering account-related questions promptly.

    Efficient, responsive customer service is essential for addressing queries or issues swiftly. Top-tier betting apps in Texas usually offer customer support that is quick to respond, typically within minutes via live chat and within a few hours via email.

    A reputable betting app should provide multiple customer support channels, including live chat, email, phone support, and FAQ pages.

    Place Bets at the Top Texas Betting Apps

    When choosing betting apps in Texas, considering these factors in detail ensures you select a reliable, user-friendly, and enjoyable betting platform. Evaluating licensing and security, betting markets and odds, app usability, payment methods, and customer support quality will collectively guide you toward an app that enhances your sports betting experience.

    Making the right choice not only offers security and convenience but also greatly enhances the enjoyment and potential profitability of sports betting activities in Texas.

    Editorial Note

    This article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos mentioned. 

    Gambling Caution

    Online gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) can be contacted at 1-800-522-4700 or visited online at www.ncpgambling.org.

    21+ only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader’s own discretion and risk.

    Affiliate Transparency

    This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you.

    Syndication and Liability Disclaimer

    Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the material.

    BetWhale
    https://betwhale.ag
    support@betwhale.ag
    1150 Gemini St, Houston, TX 77058

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Horse Racing Betting Sites in Australia – Donbet Picked as the Top AU Racebook

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Horse racing is more than just a pastime in Australia—it’s practically a national obsession. From the Melbourne Cup to the raw excitement of local meets, Australians love the thrill of the track. 

    Betting on horse racing has become an integral part of this beloved sport, with numerous horse racing betting sites Australia bettors can join vying for attention from punters. But with so many options, how do you choose the best?

    JOIN THE BEST HORSE RACEBOOK IN AU: DONBET

    Why Donbet Is the Best Horse Racing Betting Site in Australia

    When you’re placing bets online, reliability and ease of use are paramount. Donbet not only meets these criteria but exceeds them. Donbet’s platform is crafted specifically with Aussie punters in mind, combining user-friendly design, excellent odds, comprehensive race coverage, and robust security features.

    One of Donbet’s standout features is its exceptional user interface. Easy navigation ensures bettors can quickly find odds and place wagers without unnecessary complications. Additionally, Donbet consistently provides competitive odds on all major and minor races, ensuring maximum value for every wager.

    The platform also offers extensive coverage of Australian and international races. Whether you’re betting on prestigious races like the Melbourne Cup or smaller local meets, Donbet ensures you never miss a beat.

    What to Consider When Choosing Horse Racing Sportbooks in Australia

    User Experience and Interface

    A seamless betting experience is crucial. Choose platforms like Donbet, known for their intuitive navigation, quick loading times, and responsive customer support.

    Betting Markets and Odds

    The best horse racing betting sites Australia has ever seen should offer a wide variety of betting markets, from straightforward win/place/show bets to more exotic wagers. Competitive odds significantly enhance potential returns.

    Security and Licensing

    Always prioritize betting sites that are licensed and regulated by Australian gaming authorities. Secure platforms utilize advanced encryption to protect your personal and financial details.

    Promotions and Bonuses

    Look for sites offering generous sign-up bonuses, free bets, cashback offers, and loyalty programs. Donbet excels by regularly updating promotions tailored to horse racing enthusiasts.

    Payment Methods and Speed of Withdrawals

    Efficient payment processing is vital. Ensure your chosen betting site supports popular Aussie-friendly payment methods like credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets.

    Mobile Compatibility

    With betting increasingly moving online, top sites must offer mobile-optimized platforms or dedicated betting apps to allow seamless betting on-the-go.

    How to Join Horse Racing Sportsbooks in Australia

    Joining horse racing betting sites like Donbet in Australia is straightforward and quick. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps to help you easily get started:

    Step 1: Visit the Website

    Navigate to Donbet’s official site using your desktop or mobile browser. You’ll easily spot the “Join” or “Register” button, usually prominently displayed at the top right corner of the homepage.

    Step 2: Complete the Registration Form

    Click the button and enter your personal details accurately. These typically include your full name, date of birth, residential address, email, and contact phone number. It’s crucial to provide accurate information to ensure smooth verification and secure account management.

    Step 3: Verify Your Identity

    Australian betting regulations mandate identity verification for security purposes. You’ll be prompted to upload documents like your passport, driver’s license, or national ID card. Occasionally, additional proof of address might be required, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.

    Step 4: Make Your First Deposit

    Once your account is verified, deposit funds using your preferred method. Donbet supports various popular payment options, including credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets. Deposits are typically processed swiftly, allowing immediate betting access.

    Step 5: Place Your Bets

    With your account funded, explore Donbet’s extensive race listings. You can choose from numerous betting markets, including win/place/show, quinellas, trifectas, and more exotic options. Select your races, choose your bets, confirm your wagers, and you’re all set!

    TAKE THE 600 AUD BONUS

    Most Popular Racetracks You Can Bet On In Australia

    Australia boasts some of the most prestigious and exhilarating racetracks worldwide, each with its distinctive charm and betting opportunities:

    • Flemington Racecourse, Victoria: Located in Melbourne, Flemington is internationally renowned, especially for hosting the Melbourne Cup—Australia’s most famous horse race. The Melbourne Cup Carnival attracts thousands of spectators and bettors every November, making it a highlight of the global racing calendar.
    • Randwick Racecourse, New South Wales: Situated in Sydney, Randwick is the home of The Championships, a celebrated event featuring races such as the Queen Elizabeth Stakes and the Doncaster Mile. Its modern facilities and historic charm make it a favourite amongst punters.
    • Caulfield Racecourse, Victoria: Known for the prestigious Caulfield Cup, this Melbourne-based venue provides a critical testing ground for horses aiming for Melbourne Cup glory. Its engaging track layout ensures dynamic racing, offering bettors thrilling and strategic betting opportunities.
    • Moonee Valley Racecourse, Victoria: Located in Melbourne, Moonee Valley is famed for hosting the Cox Plate, known as Australia’s weight-for-age championship. Its compact and tight-turn course creates intense, exciting races ideal for experienced punters looking for challenging odds.
    • Eagle Farm Racecourse, Queensland: Brisbane’s leading racetrack, Eagle Farm, regularly hosts high-profile events like the Stradbroke Handicap and Queensland Derby. With a long straight track, it rewards strategic betting and offers great opportunities for punters looking to capitalize on form and distance specialists.
    • Ascot Racecourse, Western Australia: Ascot, located in Perth, combines lively atmosphere and competitive racing. It hosts major events like the Perth Cup and the Railway Stakes, attracting crowds and bettors keen on the vibrant social scene and competitive odds.

    What Makes Donbet Ideal for Aussie Bettors

    Donbet’s superiority comes down to several unique features tailored explicitly for Australian punters:

    • Local Expertise: Donbet is staffed with industry experts who understand the nuances of Australian horse racing.
    • Comprehensive Coverage: Whether it’s major metropolitan races or regional meets, Donbet offers extensive markets to suit every preference.
    • Enhanced Odds and Promotions: Regularly updated special offers and boosted odds provide more value to bettors, making Donbet particularly attractive for seasoned and new punters alike.
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    5 Essential Tips for Betting on Horse Racing

    1. Research Thoroughly

    Extensive research is crucial to successful betting. Study each horse’s recent form, historical performance on specific tracks, jockey and trainer stats, and the horse’s preferred distance. Look at past race videos and consider expert opinions to build a detailed understanding of potential outcomes.

    2. Understand and Identify Betting Value

    Understanding betting odds is essential. Recognize how bookmakers set odds and spot value bets—horses that have higher odds than their realistic winning probability. Developing a knack for identifying these bets can significantly enhance your long-term profitability.

    3. Practice Bankroll Management

    Responsible bankroll management protects your finances and improves your betting strategy. Set clear betting limits and stick to them. Allocate specific amounts per bet and avoid impulsive decisions like chasing losses. Disciplined betting will lead to more consistent and enjoyable betting experiences.

    4. Diversify Your Betting Strategy

    Don’t rely only on straightforward win bets. Explore various betting markets such as place bets, each-way bets, quinellas, trifectas, and exactas. Diversification helps balance risk and reward, potentially increasing overall returns and keeping betting engaging.

    5. Monitor Track and Weather Conditions

    Conditions greatly influence race outcomes. Horses can perform differently depending on weather (dry, wet, muddy tracks). Check accurate weather forecasts and track reports on race day. Understanding how these factors affect each horse can provide crucial betting insights and improve your decision-making.

    Final Thoughts on Horse Racing Betting Sites in Australia

    Horse racing is woven into Australia’s cultural fabric, and betting enhances the excitement of each event. Choosing the right betting site makes all the difference in your horse racing betting sites Australia experience. Donbet rises above the competition, perfectly aligning with what Australian bettors value most—reliability, extensive market coverage, superior odds, security, and outstanding customer support.

    Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just starting, Donbet and horse racing betting sites in Australia offer an exhilarating, user-friendly, and safe betting experience. Enjoy the thrills and excitement of Australian horse racing with confidence and ease at Donbet—Australia’s premier destination for horse racing betting.

    Editorial Note

    This article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos mentioned. 

    Gambling Caution

    Online gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. In Australia, you can dial 1800 858 858.

    18+ only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader’s own discretion and risk.

    Affiliate Transparency

    This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you.

    Syndication and Liability Disclaimer

    Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the material.

    DonBet
    https://donbet.com
    support@donbet.com
    1150 Gemini St, Houston, TX 77058

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hinson, Craig Lead Bipartisan Lawmakers in Encouraging President Trump to Strengthen Biofuels Blending Targets

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswomen Ashley Hinson (IA-02) and Angie Craig (MN-02) led 26 House lawmakers in a letter to President Trump encouraging him to support a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) by adopting timely, robust blending requirements in the upcoming “Set 2” rule establishing Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs). Read the full letter here.

    “Biofuels play a crucial role in President Trump’s energy strategy that bolsters our energy independence and lowers costs for consumers. By establishing strong RVOs, we can provide certainty and encourage further growth in this important market for Iowa farmers and our rural economy. I look forward to continuing my work with the Trump Administration and expanding the use of biofuels as part of an all-of-the above and all-of-the-below energy strategy.” – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

    Background: 

    This letter follows numerous efforts from Rep. Hinson to support the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard and fight for higher volumes for biofuels, including ethanol and biomass-based diesel. In 2024, Rep. Hinson led 35 bipartisan Members in a letter to then-EPA Administrator Michael Regan urging the agency to raise RVOs to account for increased production and availability of feedstocks. According to the Energy Information Administration, volumes set by the EPA for 2023 – 2025 were “set significantly lower than production trends,” leading to a significant drop in the renewable fuels market.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville Op-Ed: Trump and Coach Saban have the right game plan to save college sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    “Regardless of which path Trump chooses to address the current state of college sports, I’m confident that his administration — which has already proven to be both effective and unafraid to shake up the status quo — can make meaningful reforms to make sure college sports remain intact.”

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed in Fox about the current state of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) and college sports amidst the everchanging NIL landscape. In the piece, Sen. Tuberville addresses the growing problems college athletes are facing with the pay-for-play environment making it nearly impossible for Olympic sports and female athletics to survive. The current “patchwork” of laws has created an uneven playing field that President Trump and Congress are well-positioned to address in the near future. Sen. Tuberville currently serves as the Chairman of the HELP Subcommittee on Education and the American Family. 

    Read excerpts from Sen. Tuberville’s op-ed below or the full piece here. 

    “As a former college football coach for 40 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of college sports in shaping young lives. From the locker room to the classroom, athletics instill discipline, teamwork and resilience — values that extend far beyond the field. But ever since the Supreme Court ruled that college athletes can be compensated for the use of their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL), college sports have been in a tailspin.  

    While I’m all for players making money, we need to create national standards to protect the integrity of college sports. Because there are no national rules for NIL contracts, every state has passed its own laws. This patchwork of laws has created an uneven playing field and given some universities advantages over their competitors.

    We now have pay-to-play as bidding wars for recruits are starting in middle and high school. This is not to mention the transfer portal, which has become a revolving door with student-athletes jumping from school to school in pursuit of more money.  

    […]

    Regardless of which path Trump chooses to address the current state of college sports, I’m confident that his administration — which has already proven to be both effective and unafraid to shake up the status quo — can make meaningful reforms to make sure college sports remain intact. 

    Meanwhile, I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to hopefully draft legislation that could pass both chambers. The challenges facing college sports today are formidable, but not insurmountable. With President Trump’s leadership and a unified approach, we can navigate this new era while preserving the integrity and spirit of collegiate athletics.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI Bulletin – May 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Today, the Reserve Bank released the May 2025 issue of its monthly Bulletin. The Bulletin includes two speeches, four articles and current statistics.

    The four articles are: I. State of the Economy; II. Economic Activity and Banknotes: New Approaches; III. Digital Footprints: Decoding India’s Inbound Tourism through Internet Searches; and IV. Impact of Weather Anomalies on Vegetable Prices in India.

    I. State of the Economy

    Persistent trade frictions, heightened policy uncertainty, and weak consumer sentiment continue to create headwinds for global growth. Amidst these challenges, the Indian economy exhibited resilience. Various high frequency indicators of industrial and services sectors sustained their momentum in April. A bumper rabi harvest and higher acreage for summer crops, coupled with favourable southwest monsoon forecasts for 2025, augur well for the agriculture sector. Headline CPI inflation fell for the sixth consecutive month to its lowest since July 2019, primarily driven by the sustained easing in food prices. Domestic financial market sentiments, which remained on edge in April, witnessed a turnaround since the third week of May.

    II. Economic Activity and Banknotes: New Approaches

    by Gautham Udupa, Pradip Bhuyan, Dileep Kumar Verma and Nirupama Kulkarni

    This article investigates the impact of economic activity on banknotes in circulation, with a particular focus on the role of the formal sector. Leveraging high-frequency monthly nightlights data as a proxy for total economic activity and tax collection data as a measure of formal economic activity, the analysis isolates the effect of formalisation on Notes in Circulation (NiC), controlling for aggregate economic output.

    Highlights:

    • The growth rate in NiC (in value terms) during 2014 – 2024 was significantly lower as compared to that in the previous two decades.

    • The growth in NiC was noticeably higher than that in GDP during 1994 – 2004; the gap, however, has significantly reduced in the next two decades.

    • There exists positive relationship between nightlights and taxes and also between nightlights and GDP.

    • The article finds strong evidence that formal economic activity reduces the use of banknotes.

    III. Digital Footprints: Decoding India’s Inbound Tourism through Internet Searches

    By Lokesh and A R Jayaraman

    This article explores Destination Insights with Google (DIG), a non-traditional high-frequency data source, to track inbound tourism in India. DIG monitors global tourism trends through travel-related searches. The study examines the linkage between foreign tourist arrivals (FTA) and Google searches made for travel to India from the rest of the world.

    Highlights:

    • There is a strong association between FTA and travel-related search volume index.

    • The index captures directional changes in FTA reasonably well.

    • The index Granger causes FTA implying its ability to serve as a leading indicator to predict FTA.

    IV. Impact of Weather Anomalies on Vegetable Prices in India

    By Nishant Singh and Love Kumar Shandilya

    Vegetable prices exhibit high volatility and play a major role in driving India’s food and headline inflation. The volatility in vegetable prices is often exacerbated by supply-side disturbances, predominantly driven by weather shocks warranting regular monitoring of evolving weather conditions. This study investigates how weather anomalies, particularly in rainfall and temperature, affect vegetable prices in India.

    Highlights:

    • After controlling for seasonality in vegetables prices as well as movements in market arrivals and reservoir levels, empirical estimates suggest that weather anomalies add to price pressures in vegetables with temperature anomalies having a more immediate impact.

    • Moreover, the impact of temperature anomalies has increased in recent periods, highlighting the need for faster adoption of temperature-resistant crop varieties to support the objective of price stability.

    The views expressed in the Bulletin articles are of the authors and do not represent the views of the Reserve Bank of India.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/384

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: 7 Days Left, Buy $XDX Before XenDex Presale Closes and Exchange Listings Begin

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With just 7 days remaining, the clock is ticking for investors to secure their allocation of $XDX tokens before the XenDex presale officially ends. Having already filled its soft cap and with the hard cap nearly reached, XenDex is entering its final presale phase and early momentum is turning into full-blown market attention.

    XenDex is emerging as the most anticipated DeFi launch on the XRP Ledger, offering real utility, speed, and accessibility at a time when XRP is experiencing a powerful market resurgence.

    Buy XDX

    Riding on the recent news of the possibility of XRP price hitting all time high, XenDex is building the DeFi infrastructure XRP has long needed. Its all-in-one decentralized exchange (DEX) is in active development, and the Version 1 of the DEX will be unveiled soon, showcasing every feature in action.

    A First-of-Its-Kind Platform on XRPL

    XenDex combines the best of DeFi in a beginner-friendly, powerful interface, including:

    • AI-Powered Copy Trading – Mirror successful trades and reduce risk in real-time
    • Non-Custodial Lending & Borrowing – Earn rewards by lending or using assets as collateral
    • Cross-Chain Trading – Seamlessly swap XRP tokens across networks like Solana, Ethereum, and BNB
    • Staking & Yield Farming – Earn passive income by supplying liquidity to XenDex pools
    • DAO Governance – Let the community steer the direction of the platform via $XDX voting rights

    Join XenDex Presale

    The upcoming mockup will give the community a first look at how these features will function and only presale buyers will get early access to the live platform once it launches.

    Presale Details (Final Phase)

    • Soft Cap: Filled
    • Hard Cap: Almost Filled
    • Price: 1.25 XRP = 10 XDX
    • Minimum Buy: 150 XRP

    Buy Now Before the Presale Ends: https://xendex.net/presale

    Confirmed Listings on Major Exchanges

    Once the presale closes, $XDX will be listed on:

    • Binance
    • Gate.io
    • MEXC
    • BitMart
    • FirstLedger
    • MagneticX

    Buy $XDX Now Before Listing On Binance

    Thousands have already joined the XenDex community across Telegram and X (Twitter), locking in their $XDX tokens before exchange listings go live. With the soft cap filled, token supply shrinking, and momentum building by the hour, this is your last best opportunity to buy before price pressure explodes.

    With XRP’s momentum stronger than ever and XenDex close to launching, this is your last chance to buy before price surges post-listing.

    Join the XenDex Community

    Website: https://xendex.net
    Presale: https://xendex.net/presale
    Telegram: https://t.me/xendexcommunity
    Twitter/X: https://x.com/xendex_xrp
    Docs: https://xdxdocs.gitbook.io

    Contact:
    Frank Richards
    Frank@xendex.net

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post provided by XenDex. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

    Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8182d808-49c5-41f6-a354-e7cca62a378a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LambdaTest Enhances Mobile App Testing with Camera Image Injection on Virtual Mobile Devices

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Francisco, CA, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LambdaTest, a unified agentic AI and cloud engineering platform, has announced a major enhancement to its real-time manual testing suite: Camera Image Injection. This tool empowers developers and quality assurance teams to test image capture, QR code scanning, and barcode scanning functionalities across a wide range of real mobile devices.

    The Camera Image Injection tool is compatible with over 3,000 real devices, supporting image-based functionalities and in-app image upload workflows. By enabling this feature, teams can ensure their applications perform seamlessly across diverse device ecosystems, enhancing user experience and application reliability.

    This capability removes the reliance on physical devices and enables seamless image injection via Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), saving time, costs, and effort. Teams building applications for FinTech, logistics, retail, and AR platforms can now validate complex visual workflows quickly and efficiently by injecting test images like QR codes or ID cards directly into the virtual camera input.

    “Ensuring that mobile applications function flawlessly across various devices is crucial in today’s diverse mobile landscape,” said Mayank Bhola, Co-Founder and Head of Product at LambdaTest. “With the Camera Image Injection feature, we are providing developers with the tools to test and validate image-related functionalities in real-world scenarios, leading to more robust and user-friendly applications.”

    The Camera Image Injection rollouts demonstrate LambdaTest’s continued commitment to providing innovative, reliable, and accessible tools for modern QA workflows. Whether you’re building secure banking platforms, immersive AR experiences, or education-focused web apps, LambdaTest is equipping teams with the tools they need to deliver quality faster and smarter.

    About LambdaTest

    LambdaTest is an AI-native, omnichannel software quality platform that empowers businesses to accelerate time to market through intelligent, cloud-based test authoring, orchestration, and execution. With over 15,000 customers and 2.3 million+ users across 130+ countries, LambdaTest is the trusted choice for modern software testing.

    • Browser & App Testing Cloud: Enables manual and automated testing of web and mobile apps across 10,000+ browsers, real devices, and OS environments, ensuring cross-platform consistency.
    • HyperExecute: An AI-native test execution and orchestration cloud that runs tests up to 70% faster than traditional grids, offering smart test distribution, automatic retries, real-time logs, and seamless CI/CD integration.
    • KaneAI: The world’s first GenAI-native testing agent, leveraging LLMs for effortless test creation, intelligent automation, and self-evolving test execution. It integrates directly with Jira, Slack, GitHub, and other DevOps tools.

    For more information, please visit, https://lambdatest.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Landsat at Work: Conserving Water and Growing High Quality Grapes

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Landsat at Work: Conserving Water and Growing High Quality Grapes

    Grapevine researcher turns to satellites for considerable water-use challenge

    Leading that effort is Nick Dokoozlian, who has spent his career studying grapevines—from working on his family’s vineyard to teaching at the University of California, Davis, and now leading a research group at Gallo, the largest winery in the world. His extensive knowledge of growing grapes, paired with a commitment to preserving Central Valley water, led him to explore new tools for managing irrigation. 

    That openness to experimentation brought him to remote sensing, and to Landsat, helping the company reduce water use while continuing to grow high-quality grapes for generations to come. 

    After years of innovation and collaboration, the company has made it halfway to its long-term goal of reducing water usage by 50% while maintaining or improving yield and fruit quality. “Now we’re going after the next 25%. That goal will outlive me, probably, but we will continue to refine our irrigation practices to improve water use efficiency,” Dokoozlian said.

    “None of that would have been possible without Landsat.”

    And this work didn’t just benefit one vineyard—it helped set the stage for agricultural water management efforts now used across the western United States.

    Dokoozlian received the company’s sense of environmental responsibility from Bob Gallo, son of co-founder Julio Gallo. Around the time of the company’s 75th anniversary in 2008, Bob Gallo shared his concern: They needed to ensure that they would have enough groundwater to grow grapes for future generations and help area grape growers save water, too.

    This image is an example of evapotranspiration mapping, centered on Modesto, California, which contains the Gallo Winery headquarters. The area’s fields are known for growing a wide variety of crops, including almonds, walnuts, tomatoes and hay. This particular image of 2020 annual actual evapotranspiration (ETa) is provided by the Landsat-based SSEBop (Operational Simplified Surface Energy Balance) ET model, which is one of the models used in the OpenET ensemble.

    The vineyards were generally well positioned with two water sources, groundwater and rivers, with the potential for recharging groundwater. But achieving a 50% reduction in water use was a very steep goal, especially across thousands of acres. They needed a way to accurately measure the amount of water the grapevines were using, and how much water the vines actually needed.

    At that time, Dokoozlian had been reading about the use of satellites in irrigation management and knew of a U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) hydrology group in Maryland working with Landsat data for a similar use.

    Landsat sensors have two key capabilities for monitoring water use: the necessary scale for monitoring large areas and land surface temperature measurements. Those temperatures are used to calculate the plants’ water usage, also called evapotranspiration (evaporation plus transpiration, or ET).

    Grapevines can vary in water needs, even within the same vineyard, so the research team used Landsat’s 30-meter resolution to understand this variability by examining water use across their vineyards. This helped them identify where irrigation could be adjusted to match the plants’ needs. 

    “Landsat is the single most valuable tool that we have used.” – Nick Dokoozlian

    A Broader Collaboration

    To build on that insight, the team worked with USDA researchers Bill Kustas (background photo) and Martha Anderson as they set up GRAPEX (Grape Remote sensing Atmospheric Profile & Evapotranspiration eXperiment) with Landsat and other imagery, developing a toolkit to improve irrigation schedules and water management in vineyards and potentially other tree crops. Gallo was an ideal partner to help with ground data and testing the usefulness of the tools in a real-world situation. 

    “GRAPEX was really the foundation of understanding how much water the vines are actually using,” Dokoozlian said. He began to spread the word about its usefulness beyond the wine industry to other water users in the area, such as almond growers.

    That effort helped contribute to the foundation for OpenET, a broader scale initiative developed in collaboration with agencies including the USGS, USDA and NASA, universities and other partners. OpenET delivers evapotranspiration estimates based on Landsat data to growers and other water managers across the western United States, with plans to soon expand east. 

    “OpenET wouldn’t exist without Landsat. Most everything related to the use of remote sensing in irrigation management generally funnels back to Landsat,” Dokoozlian said.

    The winery also works with its contract growers on water management and developed an irrigation dashboard with OpenET data and their own ground data. “We can adjust and validate the amounts of water that we’re applying and constantly look at it and have a continual feedback loop,” Dokoozlian said. “Did we apply enough? Did we apply too little? How do the vines look?”

    He predicts that automating data flows like this will unlock additional water savings. But Dokoozlian wishes he had even more Landsat data—particularly high-resolution thermal imagery.

    He’ll get his wish as plans for the next generation of Landsat include land surface temperature gathered more frequently and at a higher resolution than current Landsat satellites. Landsat Next is expected to launch in the early 2030s and will offer significant improvements, particularly for applications like GRAPEX and OpenET that rely on thermal data to support water management and agricultural decision-making.

    The mission will also extend Landsat’s historic 50-plus year record, providing long-term records needed to monitor environmental change and support resource management.

    “If you had one dime to call from a phone booth and you needed imagery, Landsat’s the imagery source to call,” Dokoozlian said. “Landsat provides the longest-running, well-calibrated and trusted source of information.”

    Left: Landsat 9 launched from Vandenberg Space Flight Center in California on September 27, 2021, onboard an Atlas V 401 rocket. Among those in attendance were Nick Dokoozlian and his son, who took a road trip to view the launch. Center: An artist’s illustration of Landsat 9 orbiting Earth. Right: The Landsat program has collected Earth observation data for more than 50 years. Watch an overview of its history and capabilities.

    Note: Landsat data are available from the U.S. Geological Survey at no cost to users.

    Disclaimer: This web page contains hypertext links to information created and maintained by other organizations. USGS is not responsible for the content of any off-site pages. Reference herein to any specific commercial products, processes, or services by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by the United States Government. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Italian Food Emporium Joins Rural Jump-Start Program, Bringing Artisan Pasta to Montrose

    Source: US State of Colorado

    MONTROSE — The Business Funding & Incentives Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade (OEDIT) announced today that Italian Food Emporium, LLC, an artisanal pasta manufacturing company, has joined the Rural Jump-Start (RJS) Program. Committed to time-honored Italian pasta-making techniques, Italian Food Emporium will create new jobs, support local agriculture, and sell Montrose-produced pasta to grocery stores throughout Colorado and out of the state. 

    “Colorado is proud to support businesses like the Italian Food Emporium that enrich communities by offering unique, high-quality goods and services, such as their artisanal pasta for Coloradans on the Western Slope. By fostering opportunities through the Rural Jump-Start initiative, we empower businesses to stimulate local economies, generate jobs, and enhance the quality of life in Colorado communities.” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    “The Rural Jump-Start program is an important tool to support new jobs across Colorado, and we are thrilled to see the Italian Food Emporium recognize the many benefits of being based in Montrose, CO. The company’s traditional techniques and use of local ingredients exemplifies how global expertise can integrate into regional assets to create new jobs and diversify the local economy,” said Eve Lieberman, OEDIT Executive Director. 

    While proudly sourcing fresh ingredients directly from Colorado, at the core of Italian Food Emporium’s mission is a commitment to time-honored Italian pasta-making techniques. Employing traditional Italian machinery and ingredients, including flour, meats, and cheeses imported directly from Italy, alongside experienced workers, the company crafts pasta with the quintessential texture and flavor of Italian craftsmanship. In Montrose, Colorado, Italian Food Emporium plans to open a storefront and manufacturing space to produce both fresh and dried pasta to sell on-site at a storefront in town, at regional farmers markets, and wholesale to grocery stores and restaurants across and outside of the state. The company plans to employ four new hires. 

    “Our goal is to give both professional chefs and home cooks convenient access to fresh, artisan-quality pasta that tastes just like it was made by nonna,” said Jenny Pezzica, Italian Food Emporium’s Founder. “For chefs, this means adding handmade-quality pasta to their menus without compromise. For families, it means enjoying restaurant-level meals at home, without the need to roll and knead the dough themselves.” 

    The Rural Jump-Start (RJS) program encourages economic development and job creation in economically distressed, rural counties of Colorado. These grants are intended to support regional economic and workforce development activities that expand local business, create new good-paying jobs, and strengthen and diversify local economies. Sponsoring entities like Montrose Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) help identify RJS candidates in their communities and work with the business to help ensure its success in the program and in the community. 

    “Having a startup company of this caliber in our community is exciting. MEDC works with small and large companies alike that want to create primary jobs to bring new dollars into our community. The Italian Food Emporium is a great addition to our community and to the State of Colorado,” said Sandy Head, Executive Director of the MEDC. 

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

    About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade 

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

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Oklahoma Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Spring Wildfires

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to Oklahoma small businesses, private nonprofits and residents to offset physical and economic losses from wildfires beginning March 14. The SBA issued a disaster declaration in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Kevin Stitt on April 16.

    The declaration covers the Oklahoma counties of Canadian, Creek, Garfield, Kingfisher, Lincoln, Logan, Noble, Okfuskee, Oklahoma, Okmulgee, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, Pottawatomie, and Tulsa.

    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 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 insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and nonprofits impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for nonprofits 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.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers play a vital role in helping small businesses and their communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “At these centers, SBA specialists assist business owners and residents with disaster loan applications and provide information on the full range of recovery programs available.”

    Beginning Wednesday, May 21, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their applications. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.

    DLOCs hours of operations are listed below.

    LINCOLN COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma Fire Department
    335174 E. 750 Rd.
    Perkins, OK  74059

    Opens at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 21
    Wednesday, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
    Thursday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

    Closes permanently at COB Friday, May 23

    LOGAN COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Logan County Courthouse Annex
    (Across the street north of 
    Courthouse in the 
    old Girl Scout Room)
    312 E. Harrison Ave.
    Guthrie, OK  73044

    Opens at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 21
    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

    Closed Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day

    PAYNE COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    City of Stillwater Community Center, Room 102
    315 W. Eighth Ave.
    Stillwater, OK  74074

    Opens at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 21
    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

    Closed Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day
    Closes permanently at COB Wednesday, June 11

    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 deadline to return physical damage applications is July 21, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 20, 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, 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 Security: Shiprock Man Charged in Connection to Stabbing Incident

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man has been charged with assault with a dangerous weapon after he allegedly stabbed a man multiple times during an altercation near Shiprock.

    According to court documents, on the night of April 19, 2025, Navajo Police Department officers responded to a 911 call reporting a stabbing in Shiprock, New Mexico. Officers located the victim who had sustained three stab wounds to his upper and lower back. The victim was transported to the hospital for emergency treatment.

    An investigation led by the FBI and Navajo Nation Criminal Investigators revealed that Matthew Charley, 29, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, approached the victim and two witnesses. After a brief verbal exchange, the witnesses left the area, leaving Charley and the victim alone. When the witnesses returned a short time later, they found the victim had been stabbed. The victim identified Charley as his assailant.

    Law enforcement collected witness statements, obtained video evidence, and reviewed surveillance footage that corroborated the description and movements of the suspect.

    Screenshot of video showing Charley

    Charley is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Charley faces 10 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Protecting the Finger Lakes Watersheds

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that $42 million will be disbursed to the Eastern Finger Lakes Coalition to begin implementation of priority projects that will help mitigate Harmful Algal Blooms in the Finger Lakes Watershed area. The Coalition will implement on- and off-farm projects that align with federal and State-approved clean water plans and other pollution prevention plans in an effort to further drive down nutrient and sediment runoff in the Eastern Finger Lakes watersheds. The investment is a part of the Governor’s 2024 State of the State commitment to develop on-the-ground actions necessary to address the controllable causes of harmful algal blooms (HABs) and significantly reduce their prevalence while supporting projects that help prevent nutrient and sediment runoff into lakes and improve climate resiliency.

    “Protecting New York’s water supply is a top priority for New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “We are moving this funding quickly to accelerate watershed protection and restoration measures that will reduce nutrient inputs to the Finger Lakes, improve water quality, and help reduce the frequency of HABs, while building resilience to support New York’s agricultural industry. Clean water is critical to sustaining the health of our communities, protecting our environment, and supporting local economies in the Finger Lakes.”

    In August 2024, New York State announced that $42 million, supported by the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 and other capital resources, was being directed to the Eastern Finger Lakes Coalition to further water quality protections and investments to improve water quality and reduce HABs in the Finger Lakes watershed area. HABs are caused by many factors and impact public health, recreation, and the local economy. The Coalition covers 11 Soil and Water Conservation Districts and seven of New York’s Finger Lakes – Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles, and Otisco, and their watersheds.

    This dedicated funding, scheduled to the Coalition imminently, is supporting innovative agricultural and resilience projects both on and off farms. This critical investment will not only safeguard the health of the Finger Lakes but also support local farmers by providing additional resources to implement best management practices, such as erosion and sediment controls, nutrient management, and stormwater management that will contribute to cleaner water and soil health throughout the region.

    This direct support of the Coalition is a part of the Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) and Department of Environmental Conservation’s (DEC) partnership, alongside the State Soil and Water Conservation Committee, and the 11 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) in the Eastern Finger Lakes, to accelerate watershed protection and restoration measures to improve water quality and mitigate HABs.

    Projects will focus on:

    • Implementing the Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) program projects  to help farmers reduce water pollution from agricultural activities;
    • Enhancing flood resiliency by stabilizing and protecting vulnerable streams, reducing sediment erosion, and upgrading culverts and implementing water control practices in steep road ditches to minimize sedimentation and runoff; and
    • Supporting nutrient reduction strategies outlined in watershed-based plans.

    Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Governor Hochul’s sustained investments to reduce the frequency of HABs is evident in the ongoing support for the Eastern Finger Lakes Coalition, as well as record infrastructure funding and sustainable farming assistance that helps continue improving the quality of waterbodies statewide. DEC looks forward to collaborating with the Coalition and our many partners on the State and local level to ensure the long-term protection of the lakes and rivers that provide countless environmental, health, and economic contributions to the region’s vibrant communities.”  

    State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “We are proud of the work we are doing to drive down instances of HABs; however, we know that more must be done to address this issue in our watersheds, including in the Finger Lakes. As such, we are developing comprehensive action plans that will not only build on our current work to prevent water pollution, improve nutrient management, and reduce erosion, but will also guide our future goals for a sustainable environment and cleaner waterbodies. This funding will allow our Soil and Water Conservation Districts to work with both our farms and with local government to complete management projects that will have a critical impact on the reduction of sediments and nutrients entering the waterways and protect the water quality for the region now and for the future.”

    State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “This latest funding demonstrates Governor Hochul’s commitment to addressing water quality improvements and Harmful Algal Blooms in the Finger Lakes Watershed area. The State Health Department will continue our work with local water suppliers and our state partners on infrastructure upgrades and technical assistance to help protect drinking water for years to come.”

    Cayuga SWCD Executive Director Doug Kierst said, “Through the continued support of NYS, Soil and Water Conservation Districts of the Eastern Finger Lakes Coalition will continue to get common sense conservation practices on the ground, where they are desperately needed. This dedicated funding will allow local SWCDs to focus on the implementation of an abundance of Best Management Practices that we have identified across the Finger Lakes Region. These important projects, when completed, will facilitate the protection of water quality through the reduction of nutrients and sediments to local waterbodies, support NYS clean water goals and maintain agricultural sustainability.”

    New York State SWCC Chair Matthew Brower said, “The NYS Soil and Water Conservation Committee is proud to be a part of the partnership working to improve the water quality of the Finger Lakes. The farming community, the local Soil and Water Conservation Districts and local governments have been working on these issues for many years and it is great that they will be able to continue this work with the funding provided by New York State. The Agricultural Environmental Program (AEM) has been an excellent program to help farmers identify needs on the farm and get the best management practices implemented to address water quality issues.”

    HABs Mitigation Efforts

    This investment builds on $1.2 million announced by the Governor in July 2024 for the Eastern Finger Lakes Coalition to build professional capacity to address HABs. It also included increased technical support for farmers to implement more cover crops, improve culverts to reduce runoff, enhance soil health, and reduce water quality impairments in the region.

    In just over the last five years, AGM has dedicated nearly $125 million— through its Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control, Climate Resilient Farming, and Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) programs— to on-farm projects that protect soil and water quality, conserve natural resources, fight climate change, and reduce the conditions that cause HABs, such as nutrient runoff and soil erosion, and greenhouse gas emissions.

    Through various funding streams allocated in the Budget, the Department supports the SWCDs, who work on behalf of New York’s farms to implement better nutrient and sediment control practices. The Department also supports SWCDs in their work with the State’s municipalities to increase stormwater absorption and improve water retention. These are accomplished through best management practices, such as nutrient management through manure storage, vegetative buffers along streams, conservation cover crops, water management, and more.

    Since 2020, specific to the Finger Lakes Watershed area, $66 million has been awarded over the last five years to implement best management practices on 370 farms within this region of the state. The projects awarded in the Finger Lakes alone have reduced 32,800 pounds of total phosphorus, 746,000 pounds of total nitrogen, and 43 million pounds of sediment per year. This work has also reduced New York State’s agricultural greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 43,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent every year and have also made a measurable impact towards keeping HABs out of the State’s waterways.

    Since 2017, DEC worked with stakeholders in the Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Owasco, and Skaneateles lake watersheds to develop clean water plans to protect and improve water quality. In addition, DEC has completed Total Maximum Daily Load analysis in Conesus, Honeoye, and Cayuga lakes. In 2018, DEC convened four regional summits to examine the causes of HABs and develop sustainable solutions to reduce impacts. DEC worked with State and local partners to develop and implement  HABs Action Plans for 13 high- priority waterbodies, including several in the Eastern Finger Lakes.

    To date, New York State awarded more than $530 million in grants for projects statewide designed to reduce the frequency of algal blooms by targeting phosphorus and nitrogen pollution, factors that trigger HAB occurrences. DEC also created the New York Harmful Algal Bloom System (NYHABS) webpage, which features an interactive map that provides active HAB locations. Members of the public should report suspected HABs so DEC experts can review and identify for accuracy. Because it is hard to tell a HAB from a non-harmful algal bloom, it is best to avoid swimming, boating, otherwise recreating in, or drinking water with a suspected bloom. DEC encourages people to “Know it, Avoid it, Report it!” all year round, especially during the summer. The summer months are the peak time for HABs – warmer weather, calmer conditions, and more sunlight will often contribute to the blooms.

    Also, since 2014, DEC awarded more than $55.7 million to 96 projects for water quality improvement planning and implementation within the Eastern Finger Lakes watershed through the Water Quality Improvement Project program and the Non-agricultural Nonpoint Source Planning and MS4 Mapping Grant. Projects funded prepare planning reports or directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source. Awards within the Eastern Finger Lakes watershed included land acquisition for source water protection, streambank and road ditch stabilization, wastewater disinfection, sanitary sewer overflow improvements, sediment and erosion control, wetland restoration, riparian buffers, salt storage, and aquatic habitat restoration.

    At least $75 million in grants is currently available through DEC’s Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program to support new projects that can help reduce HABs and other actions that directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source.

    Other recent funding to help protect water quality includes more than $90 million in grants and low-interest financing to the City of Auburn announced by Governor Hochul and the State Environmental Facilities Corporation. This will support planning, design, and construction of wastewater treatment improvements. To help promote buffers that prevent runoff and other water quality impairments, DEC established the 287-acre Cayuga Shores Wildlife Management Area along Cayuga Lake and awarded $1.2 million to the Finger Lakes Land Trust for land acquisitions to protect Owasco Lake water quality.

    New York’s Commitment to Water Quality

    New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure. With an additional $500 million for clean water infrastructure in the 2025-2026 enacted State Budget announced by Governor Hochul, New York will have invested a total of $6 billion in water infrastructure since 2017. In addition, the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act is helping State agencies, local governments, and partners access funding to protect water quality, help communities adapt to climate change, improve resiliency, and create green jobs. Bond Act funding will support new and expanded projects across the state to safeguard drinking water sources, reduce pollution, and protect communities and natural resources from climate change.

    The Governor also expanded EFC’s Community Assistance Teams to help all communities access assistance, particularly small, rural, and disadvantaged communities so they may leverage this funding and address their clean water infrastructure needs. Any community that needs help with funding its water infrastructure is encouraged to contact EFC.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland gears up for active fun with family events at Ford and Downhill Football Hubs this May Half-Term

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Residents across Sunderland are being invited to join a packed schedule of family fun at the Ford and Downhill Football Hubs this May half term. This is part of the city’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles for all ages and abilities.

    On Wednesday 28 May, head over to Ford Football Hub and drop in for a day packed with fun activities that are perfect for all ages and abilities. From exciting family games to gentle movement sessions, there’s something for everyone.

    Try your hand at basketball with Lambton Raptors, enjoy some friendly non-contact rugby with Vigor Rugby, or jump into classic group games with ParkPlay – a big hit with kids and grown-ups alike. There’s even Walking Football for those who prefer a gentler pace, and light, music-filled sessions like Clubbercise that are all about having fun.

    Families can also hop on the Melissa Bus – an interactive mobile space where you can explore health and wellbeing in a hands-on, engaging way.
    Kids will love the smoothie bike, where they can pedal their way to a fruity treat, while parents can browse stalls from NHS Oral Health, Everyone Active, and other local groups offering friendly tips and advice.

    The fun continues on Friday 30 May at Downhill Football Hub, where the day features even more inclusive activities. Fancy a stretch and a moment of calm? Join the Stretch & Relax session – great for loosening up and taking a breather together. The Family Fit 4 Fun session, run by the Active Sunderland Healthy Lifestyle Team, is all about playful movement and bonding as a family – no experience needed!

    Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member of Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: “These events are all about bringing families together to enjoy activity together – moments of movement, fun, and connection. Whether you’re playing games, trying something new, or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

    To find out more details about Active Sunderland family fun days, visit www.mysunderland.co.uk/familyfun

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: De La Cruz Statement on Committee Passage of Agriculture Reconciliation Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Monica De La Cruz (TX-15)

    De La Cruz Statement on Committee Passage of Agriculture Reconciliation Bill

    Washington, May 14, 2025

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below following the committee passage of the Agriculture Budget Reconciliation Bill.

    “Today, the House Agriculture Committee passed our portion of the one, big beautiful bill that invests in American farmers, strengthens the farm safety net, and delivers for all Americans. The legislation will implement positive reforms to SNAP to ensure benefits are sustained for those who truly need them. I will continue working to eliminate waste and abuse while protecting programs that are vital to South Texans.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government Taskforce meets on Merseyside to bolster nation’s flood resilience

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government Taskforce meets on Merseyside to bolster nation’s flood resilience

    Flood response capabilities on display at Merseyside fire base

    The third meeting of the Government’s national Floods Resilience Taskforce convened in Aintree today

    Bolstering the nation’s resilience to flooding, including in Merseyside, was top of the agenda as the Government’s national Floods Resilience Taskforce convened in Aintree today (Wednesday 21 May).  

    The meeting was chaired by Floods Minister Emma Hardy and hosted by Mersey Fire and Rescue Service at their National Resilience Centre of Excellence, one of the UK’s most advanced emergency service training facilities, used to co-ordinate national responses to large scale incidents and provide firefighters with the necessary training and skills to respond to events such as severe flooding.  

    The Government inherited the nation’s flood defences in their worst condition on record. To ensure the country is protected from the devastating impacts of flooding, more than 1,000 flood defences will be built or repaired through the Plan for Change as part of a record £2.65 billion two-year investment. 

    Today’s Taskforce meeting brought together partners including Defra, Cabinet Office, the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Environment Agency, the Met Office, Local Resilience Forums, Mayoral Offices, emergency responders, the National Farmers Union, and environmental interest groups. 

    Floods Minister Emma Hardy said:

    The role of any government is to protect its citizens. Having inherited flood defences in disrepair, we are bringing together valued partners through our Floods Resilience Taskforce here in Aintree as we look to speed up and co-ordinate flood preparation and resilience. 

    Through our Plan for Change, we’re investing a record £2.65 billion to repair and build more than 1,000 flood defences across the country, protecting tens of thousands of homes and businesses including on Merseyside.

    The group discussed plans to modernise the UK’s system for flood warnings further, stressing the need for users to understand better how it works for effective decision-making, planning and response. The development of a common warnings framework across the UK will enhance the service and support actions to reduce risks to people, property and livelihoods.  

    The Taskforce also confirmed plans to improve the way the government identifies individuals vulnerable to flooding. This includes using the risk vulnerability tool, unveiled last month by the Cabinet Office, which will enable thousands of officials to see how vulnerable particular areas are to risks by mapping real time crisis data such as live weather warnings, alongside demographic statistics. 

    The meeting touched upon the flood recovery framework, which through local authorities in England provides government support in the aftermath of flooding in exceptional circumstances. There was also discussion of the Bellwin scheme, which is used to reimburse local authorities in England for the costs of the actions they take in the immediate aftermath of an emergency or disaster that endangers life or property. It was agreed that further work is required to improve public understanding of flood resilience. 

    Caroline Douglass, Executive Director for Flood and Coastal Risk Management at the Environment Agency, said:

    Protecting communities in England from the devastating impact of flooding is one of our top priorities as climate change brings more extreme weather. 

    By participating in the Floods Resilience Taskforce, we’re ensuring we share information and co-ordinate our approach to bolster protection for thousands of homes and businesses from the dangers of flooding, preventing billions of pounds worth of damages.

    Minister Oppong-Asare, Parliamentary Secretary at the Cabinet Office, said:

    The Flood Resilience Taskforce sits at the heart of our work to protect communities from extreme weather and flooding.  

    Today’s meeting highlighted how digital tools can strengthen our flood response to identify and support those who are most vulnerable to the impacts of flooding.  

    Through the taskforce, we’re continuing to work closely with key partners to keep people, homes, and businesses safe.

    Met Office Services Director Simon Brown said: 

    Our observations show that the UK is getting wetter, we are seeing more days with over 50mm rainfall in autumn months. A warmer, moister atmosphere increases the capacity for deluges of rain, which can result in serious flooding. A recent study looking at the storms through autumn and winter in 2023/24 found climate change increased the amount of rainfall from these storms, making them about 20% more intense. 

    A number of recent Met Office attribution studies have shown that some recent heavy rainfall events in the UK associated with flooding can be linked to human-caused climate change. Since 1998 the UK has seen six of the 10 wettest years on record. Events such as the wettest February on record in 2020, are expected to become more frequent by 2100 due to climate change.

    The Government’s record investment in flood defences includes around £2.5 million in funding for Merseyside across 2024/25 and 2025/26, including £1 million for a flood alleviation scheme to protect communities near the Pool watercourse at Churchtown in Southport.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Next generation farming

    Source: Scottish Government

    Support for young people into agricultural careers.

    More than £2 million will be available to support young people entering farming through a pre-apprenticeship programme and training fund.

    Speaking at a joint NFU Scotland and Scottish Government summit on new entrants, Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie launched a newly procured Land Based Pre-apprenticeship Programme with £1.8 million committed over three years. 

    Mr Fairlie also confirmed the relaunch and procurement of the Next Generation Practical Training Fund.  The fund is open from now until March 2027 with at least £300,000 a year to help young people access skills training in a flexible, individual way. 

    Mr Fairlie said:

    “I know from my own experience the hard work and dedication that it takes to enter the industry as a new entrant farmer and the challenges young people can face. These two funds will help more people get practical training to launch their agriculture careers.

    “The pre-apprenticeship programme has been expanded to take on close to 400 people and to date we have had more than 60 applications for the training fund. This is a really promising start and is a positive step towards improving safety on-farm and training up the depleted post-Brexit labour force.”

     

    Duncan Macalister, Vice President, NFU Scotland, said:

    “We welcome this vital investment in practical training and pre-apprenticeship opportunities. These programmes are not just about developing skills, they are about securing the future of Scottish agriculture.

    “We urgently need action on land access and capital support to complement this step forward, so that young people can see a clear, supported path into the sector.”

    Lantra Scotland Director Dr Liz Barron-Majerik said:

    “Lantra works to enhance Scotland’s natural environment and support the rural economy, by increasing the number and diversity of employees in Scotland’s land-based and aquaculture sector and driving their skills development. The training fund and the pre-apprenticeship programme are both of great benefit to new entrants to agriculture as they start on their career path, and so I’m delighted that we’re going to be managing them on behalf of, and in partnership with, FONE and the Scottish Government.

    “We look forward to working with our training provider partners on the delivery of the training funds, and the Scottish Machinery Rings, SRUC and Borders College on the pre-apprenticeship. We would also like to encourage others who are interested in becoming involved to please get in touch via scotland@lantra.co.uk.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Shiprock Man Charged with Assault in Shooting

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man has been charged with assault with a dangerous weapon following a shooting incident outside a restaurant.

    According to court documents, Navajo Nation Police responded to a 911 call reporting that an individual was shot in the hand in front of the Little Caesars Restaurant in Shiprock. Officers located the suspect, identified as Terrold Tyler, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, near the scene carrying a black backpack that contained a homemade firearm and five live shotgun shells. Tyler was detained without incident.

    Investigators determined that Tyler and the victim were involved in an argument behind the restaurant prior to the shooting. Tyler allegedly produced the homemade shotgun and shot the victim in the left hand. Paramedics responded to the scene, but the victim declined medical treatment.  A social media video depicting Tyler with the firearm was also recovered as evidence.

    Tyler is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Tyler faces up to 10 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ramaphosa, Trump meeting all set for early evening, SA time

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    President Cyril Ramaphosa’s engagement with United States President Donald Trump is expected to get underway at 5:30pm South African time – starting with a welcome of the visiting President at the Oval Office. 

    The Oval Office is the official workspace used exclusively by the President of the U.S. in Washington, D.C.

    The two leaders aim to rebuild and strengthen their relations amid ongoing tensions, including the recent resettlement of white Afrikaners in America.

    According to The Presidency of SA,  President Trump is set to welcome South Africa’s Head of State at 5:30pm. This will be followed by President Ramaphosa signing the visitors’ book at 5:35pm.

    At 5:45pm, the two leaders will participate in a working lunch, leading to their bilateral meeting scheduled for 6:45pm, which will include an opportunity for media interaction.

    President Ramaphosa is expected to depart from the White House at 6:30pm.

    Ahead of the meeting this afternoon, the President attended the 2025 Budget Speech virtually.

    The South African delegation to Washington D.C. consists of several Cabinet Ministers, notable business figures, and prominent South Africans.

    Included in the delegation are Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Ebrahim Patel, and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen.

    President Ramaphosa has leveraged President Trump’s passion for golf by inviting South African pro golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen to join the trip.

    In addition, the President will be accompanied by Johann Rupert, the Founder of Richemont and Chairman of Remgro.

    The delegation also includes Vice President of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) Adrian Gore and President of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) Zingiswa Losi. 

    They are currently in Washington, D.C. to offer strategic support to President Ramaphosa and the South African delegation.

    Meanwhile, President Trump will be flanked by several key officials during his event. 

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

    SAnews reported this morning that discussions will focus on revitalising bilateral relations, rethinking economic cooperation, and exploring new trade and investment opportunities that align with South Africa’s development goals. 

    President Ramaphosa arrived in the United States on Monday, landing at Andrews Air Force Base to a warm reception.  

    A red carpet was laid out, and ceremonial guards held the South African and United States flags as he was escorted to his motorcade, signaling the start of his visit with the honours fitting for a Head of State.

    Upon his arrival at the hotel, he was greeted by the South African delegation and members of the media.

    Since then, he has been engaging with his Ministers, including Mcebisi Jonas, the Special Envoy to the United States and the official representative of the President and the South African government.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, the President appeared cheerful and optimistic. 

    He expressed that he was “ready and hopeful” for productive discussions at the Oval Office.

    For the latest coverage on President Ramaphosa’s visit to the United States, follow SAgovnews on X, formerly known as Twitter. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Chair and members of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee appointed

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New Chair and members of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee appointed

    Dr David Cooper named as new Chair; Professor Tom Meagher reappointed and Professor Julia Jones confirmed as new member

    Dr David Cooper has been appointed as the Chair of the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC). The appointment was made in conjunction with the devolved governments and is for a three-year term from 1 June 2025 to 31 May 2028.

    Professor Tom Meagher has been reappointed as an independent member of the Committee. Tom’s term will run for four years until 3 April 2029. 

    Furthermore, Professor Julia Jones has been appointed as an independent member of the Committee. Julia’s term will run for three years until 31 May 2028.

    The new appointments have been made on merit and in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments.

    As the UK’s statutory advisor on nature, the JNCC provides scientific evidence and advice to the devolved governments of the UK, the UK government, and the UK’s Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies, to help policymakers turn science into action for nature.

    Biographical details

    Dr David Cooper

    • David Cooper is Visiting Fellow at the Oxford Martin School and Honorary Researcher of the Leverhulme Centre for Nature Recovery at the University of Oxford.
    • David has more than 30 years’ experience in international science and policy, including at the Convention on Biological Diversity and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. As CBD Deputy Executive Secretary and Acting Executive Secretary, he was instrumental in facilitating the development and adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and related agreements.
    • David has contributed to the work of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services among other scientific reports and assessments.
    • He has chaired a number of bodies including the Collaborative Partnership on Sustainable Wildlife Management, the Biodiversity Indicators Partnership, and the Inter-agency liaison group on Invasive Alien Species.

    Professor Tom Meagher

    • Tom Meagher has been a member of the JNCC since April 2021. He is Professor of Plant Biology at the University of St Andrews and served as Director of the St Andrews Global Challenges Forum. He was previously a member of the Defra Science Advisory Council and the Natural Environment Research Council.
    • Tom leads an international and interdisciplinary initiative developing novel remote sensing technology to aid the assessment and conservation of plant biodiversity. He has also worked with the British Council, the British Embassy Lima, and government agencies in Peru to promote the establishment of a national botanic garden and plant biodiversity initiative.
    • He has been an active contributor to the Scottish Government’s environmental and conservation science strategy, following his former role as a Trustee of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

    Julia Jones

    • Julia Jones is Professor in Conservation Science at Bangor University and currently holds the Prince Bernhard Chair of International Nature Conservation at Utrecht University.
    • She is a trustee of WWF-UK and is a member of the British Ecological Society and the Society for Conservation Biology. She serves on the advisory board of the Sounds Right initiative, a collaboration between the Museum for the United Nations and the music industry to allow nature to collect royalties from her sounds.
    • She has previously served as the Director of the Low Carbon Energy and Environment Research Network Wales, and on the Welsh committee of the RSPB.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flies, crossbows and comics: novel counter terrorism innovation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Flies, crossbows and comics: novel counter terrorism innovation

    Nine projects, ranging from whether flies can detect explosives to how comics can reduce radicalism and how much of a risk crossbows are, were showcased.

    More than 100 people attended the third University Innovation Concept event exploring ways in which cutting-edge research, often in unexpected areas, can help fight terrorism. 

    Nine fascinating and thought-provoking projects, ranging from whether flies can detect explosives (yes!) to how comics can reduce radicalism, and how much of a terrorism risk crossbows are, were on display at a showcase at the Open University in Milton Keynes, in which the Accelerated Capability Environment (ACE) was a proud partner. 

    Researchers and delegates were welcomed by Inspector Liam Cahill, Innovation Domain Lead at the Counter Terrorism Research Lab (CTRL), and Open University professors Arosha K Bandara and Eleanor Crabb. Annette Southgate, Head of ACE, then took to the stage to stress the importance of work and innovative collaboration such as this to “getting ahead of some of the people that are trying to cause us harm”. 

    Iain Harrison, Director of Digital, Data, Analysis & Technology at Counter Terrorism Policing, explained the rigorous process, supported by ACE, that began with 62 proposals from 28 different universities, which were then reviewed and whittled down to the nine stimulating ideas on display at the showcase event. 

    Bringing academia and Counter Terrorism Policing together 

    The projects that had been explored over 12 weeks of intensive research were showcased across three themes: 

    THEME ONE: Radicalisation and Interventions 

    First to present were a team from Anglia Ruskin University, on the topic of Exploring the Impact of Critical World Events on Extremist Misinformation Network (2020-24). This involved analysing 240 posts from four major platforms to understand how extremist groups exploit global crises on popular social media platforms, using hashtags and multiple forms of misinformation to amplify uncertainty and try and recruit new audiences. It also looked to pinpoint potential novel ways to intervene in this process. 

    Next up were a team from Cranfield University, analysing how social media content algorithms respond to user interactions within specific topics, to answer the question of Can Social Media Algorithms Radicalise? This pilot was designed to quantify if user behaviours such as watching or liking videos influenced a popular platform’s algorithm, and to what extent. The conclusion was that the algorithm could be influenced to provide more content around a particular theme, but it is not yet clear how long this influence lasts. 

    The final presentation in this first session was from the University of Liverpool, exploring the topic of Graphic Novels to Enable Discussion and Promote Critical Thinking. This project involved creating a 46-page book containing four graphic novels on the topic of radicalisation, supported by front-line intervention practitioners, for use in educational strategies to encourage critical thinking. Comics were chosen because they are already popular worldwide, accessible and engaging as a format, and cheap to produce. 

    THEME TWO: Current Threats, Biosensors and Human Networks 

    After a break, another team from Cranfield University, that had been drawing big crowds in the breakout sessions for the four crossbows on display at their stand, spoke on their research into Crossbows: A Real and Current Threat. Against a background of increasing use of crossbows, which can legally be bought by anyone over the age of 18, in targeted incidents, this set out to examine the hit probability and wounding potential of four different systems, their reload times, and how these compared to current policing response times. The conclusions, from a variety of tests including depth of penetration and discharge rate, concluded that crossbows need to be considered a real and present threat for a marauding terrorist attack, because all of those tested have potential to cause significant injury, especially to unprotected organs. 

    Next up was another project that had the audience buzzing – research from a team at The Open University on Fruit Fly Biosensors: Leveraging Olfactory Responses for Detection of Explosives and Toxic Chemicals. This explored if fruit flies, which have exceptional sensitivity, could be used as biosensors to detect toxins, drug precursors and explosives. The answer was potentially yes – experiments with TNT found that exposure to the explosive led to a gradual but clear increase in fly attraction, indicating that fruit flies can detect it. Preliminary lab data also suggests starving the flies may enhance TNT detection speed. 

    The final project in this session was an explanation of a Dynamic Target Indicator Tool (D-TinT) developed by a team at the University of Exeter. This uses techniques from movement pattern analytics and social network analysis to identify the best indicators of links between nodes in a human network based on movement patterns over time. This enables a statistical and spatial mathematical model to be developed. The Tool also identifies what might be flagged as a vulnerable target – either person or place – which could allow counter terrorism stakeholders to test the impact of possible risk-reduction procedures. 

    THEME THREE: Emerging Technologies 

    The final session of a highly enjoyable day started with a team from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen talking the audience through their research on Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Identify and Prevent Terrorism in Prisons: Legislative Gaps and Technological Solutions. This analysed AI’s role in situational awareness and radicalisation prevention, explored how it could support existing counterterrorism efforts, evaluated legal and ethical readiness for AI to be deployed in this way, and proposed technical and legal reforms to enable the responsible use of AI technologies in prison settings. The conclusion of the research was that AI offers significant potential to enhance security and counter-radicalisation efforts in UK prisons. 

    Next, a scoping study of Augmented Reality and Terrorism was presented by Dr Richard Jones of Edinburgh Law School, part of the University of Edinburgh. Billing augmented reality as a “technology in search of a purpose”, his research explored both potential law enforcement applications, such as head-up real-time navigation and facial recognition of persons of interest, as well as how terrorists could use the same technology, for example to create video footage for propaganda purposes. It also looked at how this technology could evolve in the public domain. The research concluded that feasibility factors include device cost and availability as well as the level of required technological expertise, which is likely to fall, in addition to utility and whether it solves a problem. 

    The final presentation of the day was by a team from the University of Southampton on Exploiting Vulnerabilities in Autonomous Vehicle Systems for Terrorist Activity – Threats to UK Critical National Infrastructure. This focused on identifying vulnerabilities in autonomous vehicle systems amid increasing reliance on connected and automated vehicles, analysing how terrorists could exploit these to disrupt or control them. This could include by hijacking the vehicle controls or causing collisions via manipulating road signs. The conclusion was that proactive risk mitigation is paramount. 

    Following the event, Inspector Cahill said: “The University Innovation Concept (UIC) was conceived with the intention of bringing Counter Terrorism Policing and academia closer together to ensure operational decisions made by experienced and knowledgeable personnel are backed by science and academic rigour. 

    “The one-day showcase was also a fantastic opportunity for attendees to network, learn about ongoing research and potentially take learning back to their operational roles, and feedback has been extremely positive.”  

    Reflecting on the event, Professor Southgate said: “ACE is proud to support policing colleagues find new and creative ways of solving frontline mission problems through partnership with researchers from across a diversity of backgrounds and institutions.

    “Accessing diversity of thought, approach and experience helps us step back and consider more impactful and enduring ways of tackling existing and sometimes long-standing problems. 

    “We are keen to help identify and shine a light on brilliant academic work that can already help solve today’s mission problems; highlighting the difference this makes, help build relationships and continue encouraging our talented academic community to support frontline policing work.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Funding to Improve Animal Shelters

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced over $10.4 million has been awarded to 30 animal care organizations across the state through the seventh round of the New York State Companion Animal Capital Fund, the first state program in the nation to fund capital projects for animal shelters. The funding will support construction, renovation, and expansion projects that will enhance animal care and health and help ensure adoptions for New York’s dogs and cats. This builds on Governor Hochul’s commitment to securing safe housing and care for sheltered dogs and cats as they await adoption.

    “Any pet owner can tell you that companion animals like dogs and cats are more than just furry friends – they’re family,” Governor Hochul said. “Animal shelters and humane societies play an enormous role in keeping companion animals safe and well cared for while they await their new families and forever home. This funding is making a real difference, helping to better equip these vital facilities with the tools they need to improve the quality of care for animals.”

    Since the 2017 launch of the Companion Animal Capital Fund program, which is administered by the Department of Agriculture and Markets, the State has dedicated over $38 million to the program. In total, 130 projects have been awarded across New York so far. This round of funding builds on previous rounds of this program that is helping to offset the costs associated with capital projects run by New York State animal shelters, such as renovating dog kennels, improving medical facilities, or building more efficient shelters to reduce overall operational costs. Projects funded this year include updated living spaces for dogs and cats, improved HVAC and heating systems, expansions to facilities to improve medical care, as well as additional infrastructure updates.

    Competitive grants were awarded to shelters based on a need assessment, detailed project description, and reasonableness of cost. The following organizations are receiving an award in this round of the program:

    • City of Oswego – $500,000.00 to replace the kennels, update the HVAC system, seal floors and non-porous areas, create an exclusive outdoor “relief” area, and install new sinks.
    • Columbia Greene Humane Society – $500,000.00 for a new HVAC system and to expand the clinic to include isolation, treatment room, X-ray and lab, exam rooms and euthanasia space.
    • Humane Society of Rome – $500,000.00 to install new dog enclosures, two isolation rooms and new cat enclosures.
    • Jefferson County – $500,000.00 to renovate kennels, upgrade the HVAC system, repair the drainage system, and install resin flooring, concrete walls and sound proofing.
    • Massena Humane Society – $500,000 for enhanced record keeping equipment, upgrades to the kennels, drainage and HVAC system, radiant floor heat, soundproofing and a new intake area.
    • Middletown Humane – $500,000 for updates and repairs to interior and exterior, upgrading heating/cooling, updated lighting and electrical systems, replacing roof, insulation and painting, alarm system and perimeter fencing.
    • Oswego Co. Humane – $500,000.00 for increased cat housing, epoxy flooring, isolation rooms and maternity ward, increased dog housing, a new HVAC and new water piping.
    • Patricia LeDew Foundation – $500,000.00 to install a new X-ray room with new equipment, expand the surgical area, create a new dental site and design an adoption area specific to senior animals.
    • Paws Crossed Animal Rescue – $500,000.00 for a new HVAC system, new doors, epoxy flooring and painting in 3 kennels.
    • Saratoga County – $500,000 for a new heating and cooling system.
    • Town of Bangor – $500,000.00 to improve record keeping equipment, upgrade cat cages, upgrade drainage and HVAC and soundproofing.
    • Town of Cheektowaga – $500,000 for upgraded kennels, an upgraded HVAC system, a dedicated isolation area and soundproofing.
    • Town of Henrietta – $500,000.00 to construct a new municipal shelter.
    • Town of Olean – $500,000.00 for a new facility.
    • Ulster Co. SPCA – $500,000.00 to redesign the kennel, replace the floor, repair floors and walls, and renovate the kitchen, grooming room and exam room.

    A complete list of the awarded organizations and a brief description of the funded projects is available here.

    Governor Hochul’s Fiscal Year 2026 Executive Budget proposed continued funding for this critical program and the final adopted Budget includes $10 million in funding for the next round.

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Animal shelters and humane societies are so much more than a port in the storm – they are a true lifeline to the animals who will one day become beloved members of New York families. From providing essential medical care to daily enrichment activities, the hardworking staff at humane societies, shelters, and SPCAs throughout the state work tirelessly to provide the best care for dogs and cats while they wait to be adopted. Through seven rounds of funding, we have seen the direct impact these projects have had on these essential facilities, and I’m proud to see the good work continue.”

    New York State Animal Protection Federation Executive Director Libby Post said, “The Companion Animal Capital Fund has been a total game changer for shelters and rescues. This latest round of grants reflects how important the Companion Animal Care Standards Act for Shelters and Rescues is and what organizations are doing to make sure they meet these standards when they kick in on December 15th of this year. This round of grants brings the total investment to just shy of $50 million. Without the leadership of Governor Hochul, Senate and Assembly Agriculture Committee chairs Michelle Hinchey and Donna Lupardo, and our champions in each house, Assemblymember Deborah Glick and State Senator Joseph Addabbo, none of this would have happened. The Department of Agriculture and Markets understands how important this grant program is and the Federation thanks Commissioner Richard Ball for his on-going support.”

    State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Our local animal shelters and humane societies give animals the care and compassion they deserve while they wait to be adopted by their forever families. The Companion Animal Capital Fund is a vital source of support for these organizations, most of which rely on donations, to improve and modernize their facilities. Securing funding for this program is always a priority, and I’m thrilled that three of our own, Columbia-Greene Humane Society, Dutchess SPCA and Ulster SPCA, have all been awarded grants in the latest funding round.”

    Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “Since 2017, the Companion Animal Capital fund has helped 128 shelters make much-needed improvements to their facilities. I’m very glad that we are able to support an additional 30 shelters in this latest round of funding. We cannot thank them enough for the important work they do, caring for animals as they wait for their forever homes. I’d like to thank the Governor and my colleagues for continuing to support this important effort. I have seen first-hand how well these funds have been used and how needed these resources are.”

    The Department of Agriculture and Markets’ Division of Animal Industry promotes sustainable animal production agriculture and the safety of the animal origin food supply. These goals are accomplished through regulatory and cooperative educational efforts with various agencies, both public and private. The Division has staff in Albany and veterinarians located across the state. In addition to many other responsibilities, the Division regulates dog licensing, sets standards for humane care of seized dogs and the inspection of municipal shelters, administers the contract for the New York State Animal Population Control Program and the Pet Dealer Inspection Program, and provides training and assistance to local enforcement officers in animal welfare cases.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Altus Group Releases Q1 2025 U.S. Investment & Transactions Quarterly Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Comprehensive overview of national transaction activity by volume, price, size, and sector

    U.S. commercial real estate transactions remained muted in Q1 2025        

    NEW YORK, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Altus Group Limited (“Altus Group”) (TSX: AIF), a leading provider of commercial real estate (“CRE”) intelligence, today released its CRE Investment & Transactions Quarterly Report, covering U.S. transaction activity for Q1 2025.

    In Q1 2025, the U.S. commercial real estate market recorded $69.3 billion in dollar value transacted*, compared to $89.2 billion in Q4 2024 and $85.5 billion in Q1 2024. The number of properties transacted was also down, though above the pandemic-era lows for all property types. On an aggregated national basis, transaction activity in Q1 2025 remained muted across the following key metrics:

    Key metric Sequential change over Q4 2024 Year-over-year change over Q1 2024
    Count of properties transacted -11.6% -8.0%
    Dollars transacted -22.3% -19.0%

    “Despite a generally subdued market, Q1 transaction activity showed areas of strength with prices edging higher and multifamily and office drawing more capital than a year earlier,” said Cole Perry, Associate Director of Research at Altus Group. “Twelve of the fifteen property subsectors posted quarter-over-quarter increases in price per square foot, led by consumer-facing categories such as big box retail, limited-service hotels and full-service hotels.”

    Altus Group’s transaction data analysis stands out from other industry reports by covering a broader range of transaction activity and segmenting the data at a very granular level. This quarterly report offers a comprehensive overview of national commercial sale transactions across major property sectors, focusing on transaction volume, pricing, and pacing, with further insights by property subtype and at the metropolitan statistical area (MSA) level. While other reports tend to focus on large transactions, this report takes a more holistic view of the market capturing single-asset transactions exceeding $100,000 in sale value.      

    To access the full Q1 2025 U.S. Investment & Transactions Quarterly Report, please click here.

    *Note: Property and transaction-level data are sourced from Altus Group’s Reonomy product, with data pulled on April 15, 2025 and transactions recorded through March 31, 2025 (the close of Q1 2025). Not all transactions for Q1 2025 were available as of April 15, 2025, so estimates were made to reflect national transaction activity. For information about the data contained in the report and methodology, please see the full report.

    About Altus Group

    Altus connects data, analytics, applications, and expertise to deliver the intelligence necessary to drive optimal CRE performance.  The industry’s top leaders rely on our market-leading solutions and expertise to power performance and mitigate risk. Our global team of ~ 2,000 experts are making a lasting impact on an industry undergoing unprecedented change – helping shape the cities where we live, work, and build thriving communities. For more information about Altus (TSX: AIF) please visit www.altusgroup.com. 

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

    Elizabeth Lambe
    Director, Global Communications, Altus Group
    (416) 641-9787
    elizabeth.lambe@altusgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The psychology of climate traps and how to avoid them

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Lucrezia Nava, Assistant Professor, Climate Psychology, Carbon Dioxide Removals, Business School, University of Exeter

    Victor Guerrero Diez/Shutterstock

    Each year, the world loses around 5 million hectares of forest, with 95% of this deforestation occurring in tropical regions. South America is a major hotspot, with Brazil in particular facing severe forest loss — much of it driven by cattle ranching, which accounts for more than 70% of all Amazon deforestation.

    Many of these clearings are carried out by farmers, particularly smallholders, who are trying to cope with intensifying drought and other effects of climate change. This leads to a paradox: the people most exposed to climate threats are often pushed by survival pressures to make choices that further degrade the environment.

    Imagine standing in a field of dry, cracked soil, watching the crops you planted with hope fail to grow. It hasn’t rained in months. You know that planting trees could help protect your land and water sources in the long run. But you need food next week.

    So instead, you clear some forest to sell timber and raise a few cows — a choice that might get you through the season, even if it further reduces soil moisture and water retention on your own farm.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    As one farmer told me: “The problem is: does the agricultural producer die now, or does he die later? Now, he dies of hunger. Later, he dies of thirst. He prefers to die later of thirst.”

    This is what my team of environmental researchers calls a “climate trap”: a vicious cycle where short-term survival decisions deepen long-term climate vulnerability. Our recent study investigates this phenomenon among smallholder cocoa producers in the south of the Brazilian state of Bahia.

    We tracked more than 3,000 farms over four years and conducted dozens of interviews with farmers. One of our most striking findings was that those most affected by droughts were less likely to employ adaptive strategies such as reforestation, and more likely to make environmentally harmful choices such as clearing forest for pasture.

    This contrasts sharply with research from high-income countries, where more exposure to climate risks typically encourages protective action. Why the difference?

    The answer, according to our research, lies in emotion. Many farmers spoke of fear and hopelessness. One told us: “We plant, replant and it dies. Plant, replant, it dies. There’s no rain! Everything we took care of, everything we watered, everything we did with love. It’s no use!”

    These emotions influence decisions. When fear and hopelessness set in, people naturally narrow their focus to the short term — what can I control today?

    Climate shocks such as drought trigger emotional distress, which can lead to environmentally harmful choices that increase vulnerability.
    Scott Book/Shutterstock

    The future becomes too uncertain, too frightening to plan for. As one farmer explained: “Today, I work more in the short term. I’m worried about today’s drought, okay? I’m not starting to think about next year’s drought or in two years’ time.”

    Even when farmers understand that long-term strategies like reforestation would help, those solutions can feel unattainable under emotional and economic stress.

    We call this a maladaptive feedback loop: climate shocks trigger emotional distress, which limits long-term thinking, leading to environmentally harmful choices that further increase vulnerability to future shocks. And the cycle repeats.

    Learning from the loop

    Climate traps are real and probably more widespread than many people realise. Similar dynamics have been reported in parts of Africa, Asia and across the developing world. These are the communities facing the brunt of climate change with the fewest resources to respond.

    To spot climate traps, businesses and governments need to recognise when short-term incentives are driving long-term harm. If a decision solves an immediate problem but increases climate risk over time, it may be part of a trap.

    They need to watch out for indicators such as repeated deforestation after droughts, or a shift from sustainable crops to quick-fix options such as cattle pasture. In areas heavily affected by climate change, these responses often signal a deeper cycle of short-term survival and long-term vulnerability.

    Also, listen out for resignation. Phrases like “there’s no point” and “we just survive however we can” or “there’s nothing we can do except pray for a change” may signal emotional fatigue — which points to a loss of agency and diminished belief in the usefulness of long-term action.

    When people no longer believe their efforts can make a difference, even the best technical solutions are likely to be ignored.

    Climate adaptation is about more than just providing technical solutions. In our study, producers were well aware of the pros and cons of their practices. The real barriers were emotional.

    We believe interventions need to address fear and hopelessness directly — through the use of safety nets, financial buffers and community-led support systems, as well as narratives that rebuild a sense of control and agency. Reducing hopelessness requires not just money but presence. Trusted advisors, peer learning networks and visible examples of successful adaptation can all help.

    Avoiding climate traps isn’t easy. But for climate adaptation to succeed — especially where it’s needed most — we have to stop treating emotions as a side issue. They’re central. The solutions we offer must speak to both the mind and the heart.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

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

    – ref. The psychology of climate traps and how to avoid them – https://theconversation.com/the-psychology-of-climate-traps-and-how-to-avoid-them-255832

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: 19th-century Catholic teachings, 21st-century tech: How concerns about AI guided Pope Leo’s choice of name

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Nathan Schneider, Assistant Professor of Media Studies, University of Colorado Boulder

    An 1878 photograph of Pope Leo XIII and members of his court, taken by Jules David. Wikimedia Commons

    When Robert Francis Prevost chose the papal name Leo XIV, it could have meant many things. There were 13 Leos before him: The first, Leo the Great, was a fifth-century theologian who helped heal the doctrinal divisions among early Christians; Leo X, a member of the powerful Medici family, helped provoke the Protestant Reformation with his lavish lifestyle and sale of indulgences.

    Two days after his election, the new pope affirmed the most likely inference: that his name was a tribute to the most recent Leo, Pope Leo XIII, who died in 1903. Less obvious, however, was what inspired his choice: the rise of artificial intelligence.

    As the new pope told the College of Cardinals on May 10, 2025, he was inspired by his namesake’s teachings about economic justice during another time of radical technological change. Leo XIII applied Catholic tradition to the Industrial Revolution in a historic encyclical called Rerum Novarum, which became the founding document of modern Catholic economics.

    “In our own day,” Leo XIV said, “the Church offers to everyone the treasury of her social teaching in response to another industrial revolution and to developments in the field of artificial intelligence that pose new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice and labor.”

    I am a scholar of economic thought around technology and religion, and so the invocation of the previous Leo had immediate resonance for me. What lessons is the current pope drawing from his predecessor? What would Leo XIII say about AI?

    19th-century teachings

    Some might imagine that the answer is some kind of outright rejection. The Catholic Church has a sometimes earned reputation for denouncing the modern world in favor of its centuries-old traditions.

    One aspect of the reign of Leo XIII, who became pope in 1878, was an attack on modern individualism, which he denounced as “Americanism.” But his relationship with modernity was far from simply rejecting it. Leo XIII was the first pope captured on film, for instance, and he blessed the camera that recorded him.

    Leo XIII was the first pope to appear on film.

    In Rerum Novarum, which appeared in 1891, Leo responded to the roiling struggles between Gilded Age capitalists and the industrial workers they systematically exploited. The “teeming masses of the laboring poor” received “a yoke little better than that of slavery itself,” he wrote.

    The 19th-century pope refused to endorse either the capitalists’ wait-and-see promise of progress or the communists’ longing for a dictatorship of the proletariat. Instead, he offered a vision that became the cornerstone of modern Catholic social teaching.

    Leo XIII’s prescription for the Industrial Revolution of his time was to embrace private property, like the capitalists, but to spread it out far more widely among workers. Rerum Novarum contends it is “just and right that the results of labor should belong to those who have bestowed their labor.” If workers become owners, he explained, they can have a part in stewarding the gifts of God.

    Leo XIII’s writings have formed the foundation of modern Catholic social thought.
    L’Illustrazione Italiana via Wikimedia Commons

    The pope further called for public policy that would spread wealth and power in the industrial economy through widespread ownership: “The law, therefore, should favor ownership, and its policy should be to induce as many as possible of the people to become owners.”

    This was a radical position then, as it is now. Following Leo XIII’s call, many Catholics searched for ways to share ownership of industry more widely. This movement gave birth to cooperative businesses around the world, from the North American credit union system to the Mondragon Corporation in the Basque region of Spain, an industrial behemoth owned and governed by its workers.

    But for most of the world, Leo’s plea was forgotten in the capitalist-versus-communist Cold War.

    21st-century tech

    Today, we inhabit yet another Gilded Age. Wealth inequality in the United States has reached similar levels as in Leo XIII’s time, once again thanks to technological disruptions that funnel the benefits to a small elite. AI threatens to put the platform economy on steroids, upending work with the bots that only a few companies can afford to build.

    Policy debates about AI tend to be limited to what the big tech CEOs should or shouldn’t do. The Biden administration was poised to enshrine a few powerful companies as the arbiters of AI, handing them and the government power to determine what is and isn’t ethical. Now, the Trump administration is pulling out all the stops to compete with China. “The AI future is not going to be won by hand-wringing about safety,” Vice President JD Vance, who is Catholic, told a major AI summit soon after taking office. “It will be won by building.”

    Channeling Leo XIII to confront the AI revolution, however, means looking past prevailing ideas, as he did in his time. His teachings suggest that the people who create and use AI should be the ones who actively own and govern it.

    This could take many forms. For instance, already there are workers organizing to shape how AI is deployed in their workplaces. In other contexts, cooperative businesses such as Land O’Lakes have worked with farmer-owners to use the data that farm machines produce to improve their practices. People do not have to be merely passive users of AI tools; when they have well-organized democratic power through unions and co-ops, they can make the technology more accountable to them.

    AI companies themselves can spread ownership and governance more widely. Fears about the dangers that powerful AI could pose if it gets out of hand have already prompted some founders to adopt unusual corporate structures. Anthropic, the company behind the AI assistant Claude, is a public-benefit corporation, which means that it can prioritize long-term social benefit above shareholder profits. OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, is owned by a nonprofit – an arrangement that has resisted efforts to turn it into a more conventional kind of company.

    Dario Amodei, CEO and co-founder of Anthropic, middle, speaks on a panel at an event about AI safety in 2024.
    AP Photo/Jeff Chiu

    But these structures still assume that AI’s future should be in the hands of an aristocracy of business and technical elites. Leo XIII, on the other hand, argued that everyone who participates in an enterprise should have a stake in it.

    For AI, that could include not only company employees but also the users who train the models, the communities that share their water and power with data centers, the workers who mine the raw materials for high-performance chips, and the creators who contribute to the systems’ knowledge.

    Early research has suggested that ordinary people are very concerned about turning power over to machines that they do not yet understand. They see consequences of AI in their lives that engineers in Silicon Valley are less likely to consider, from racial discrimination to workplace surveillance. Also, as a wonderful story by the science fiction writer Cadwell Turnbull suggests, people will likely use and trust AI more if they know it is truly accountable to them.

    In January 2025, the Vatican released a document calling for a “renewed appreciation of all that is human” in the age of AI. It warned against what Pope Francis called the “technocratic paradigm”: the mindset that gives up humans’ role as stewards of God’s creation and hands power over to systems, whether they are stock markets or computer programs.

    By taking the name Leo, I believe the new pope is suggesting something similar. The important question is not whether new technologies are good or bad. What matters far more is whether we can learn to share the responsibility of stewardship – whether we can all be partners in what this new industrial revolution is making possible.

    Nathan Schneider identifies as a Roman Catholic.

    – ref. 19th-century Catholic teachings, 21st-century tech: How concerns about AI guided Pope Leo’s choice of name – https://theconversation.com/19th-century-catholic-teachings-21st-century-tech-how-concerns-about-ai-guided-pope-leos-choice-of-name-256645

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –