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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI USA: Central Brazil Cerrado

    Source: NASA

    On May 19, 2025, Landsat 9 captured this image of the Serra de Caldas in the state of Goiás, Brazil. The oval plateau is covered by a biologically rich savanna and grassland ecosystem called Cerrado. The Cerrado covers about one-fifth of Brazil’s land area and represents the second-largest biome in South America behind the Amazon. These lands are home to thousands of plant, bird, reptile, and mammal species, many of which are found nowhere else on the planet.
    Learn more about this area sometimes referred to as the “cradle of waters.”
    Text credit: Lindsey Doermann
    Image credit: NASA/Wanmei Liang; Landsat data: USGS

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Comet-Catching NASA Technology Enables Exotic Works of Art 

    Source: NASA

    Consisting of 99% air, aerogel is the world’s lightest solid. This unique material has found purpose in several forms — from NASA missions to high fashion.
    Driven by the desire to create a 3D cloud, Greek artist, Ioannis Michaloudis, learned to use aerogel as an artistic medium. His journey spanning more than 25 years took him to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge; Shivaji University in Maharashtra, India, and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.
     A researcher at MIT introduced Michaloudis to aerogel after hearing of his cloud-making ambition, and he was immediately intrigued. Aerogel is made by combining a polymer with a solvent to create a gel and flash-drying it under pressure, leaving a solid filled with microscopic pores. 
    Scientists at JPL chose aerogel in the mid-1990s to enable the Stardust mission, with the idea that a porous surface could capture particles while flying on a probe behind a comet. Aerogel worked in lab tests, but it was difficult to manufacture consistently and needed to be made space-worthy. NASA JPL hired materials scientist Steve Jones to develop a flight-ready  aerogel, and he eventually got funding for an aerogel lab. 

    The Stardust mission succeeded, and when Michaloudis heard of it, he reached out to JPL, where Jones invited him to the lab. Now retired, Jones recalled, “I went through the primer on aerogel with him, the different kinds you could make and their different properties.” The size of Jones’ reactor, enabling it to make large objects, impressed Michaloudis. With tips on how to safely operate a large reactor, he outfitted his own lab with one. 
    In India, Michaloudis learned recipes for aerogels that can be molded into large objects and don’t crack or shrink during drying. His continued work with aerogels has created an extensive art portfolio. 
    Michaloudis has had more than a dozen solo exhibitions. All his artwork involves aerogel, drawing attention with its unusual qualities. An ethereal, translucent blue, it casts an orange shadow and can withstand molten metals. In 2020, Michaloudis created a quartz-encapsulated aerogel pendant for the centerpiece of that year’s collection from French jewelry house Boucheron. Michaloudis also captured the fashion and design world’s attention with a handbag made of aerogel, unveiled at Coperni’s 2024 fall collection debut. 
    NASA was a crucial step along the way. “I am what I am, and we made what we made thanks to the Stardust project,” said Michaloudis. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Paul Morris: Filming the Final Frontier

    Source: NASA

    Video Producer – Goddard Space Flight Center
    What sparked your interest in video production, and what drew you to NASA? 
    Ever since I saw “Star Wars” at nine years old, I knew I wanted to make movies. I would make little stop action videos with my action figures.
    How did you land this role at NASA, and what do your duties entail?
    I was working with a company in New York for about eight years, producing a daily live interactive show on Facebook. I’ve always been obsessed with NASA, so when I saw the job opportunity I knew I had to take a shot. To this day I still can’t believe how lucky I am to work here. I’ve been working with the Hubble mission for the past five years, but I’ve begun to work on other missions like the James Webb Space Telescope, MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN), Osiris-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security – Regolith Explorer), and the incredible Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.

    How has your style evolved over time?
    My previous job was very steeped in “internet culture,” so it was a lot more fast-paced and crazy style videos. The main goal was to get the audience to watch past the ad break. With NASA I’ve been able to slow down my videos a bit more and focus more on quality and explaining the science result.

    What guides your process when you start a new assignment?
    Let me be clear, I feel that all astro science is super cool and interesting. However, some of it is less interesting to the general public. Therefore, the first thing I think about when approaching a potential new story is by asking the question: “Would a fifth grader think this story is awesome?” Black holes, giant explosions, stars dying…if the story is there then the imagery will be there too. 

    What’s been your favorite project so far? 
    A few years back, Hubble just celebrated the 30th anniversary of the first servicing mission, (the one that corrected the mirror flaw). I got to interview some of the biggest Hubble legends of all time and created a seven-part series from the perspectives of all of these genius engineers, scientists, and even astronauts. I was super proud of how all those videos came out.

    [embedded content]

    Do you have any major goals you hope to achieve or projects you’d like to tackle someday?
    I’d love to do a full-length movie following a project from its conception to its deactivation. Obviously, this is rather hard to do and will take years, potentially decades, but there are a few projects that are on the “ground floor” at the moment, so I’d love to just check in with them every year or so.
    How has your work influenced your understanding or appreciation of space science and technology?
    I’ve been absolutely obsessed with all things NASA since around third grade, so I’ve always loved space science and technology. However, I had no idea how much the technology of space telescopes has led to incredible advances in Earth technologies. From Olympic speed skating to breast cancer research or saving whale sharks, there’s just such a huge return on investment with NASA research.

    Where do you draw inspiration from?
    The incredibly talented and creative people I work with always make me strive to make better videos.
    What hobbies fill your time outside of work?
    I’ve gotten really into running and CrossFit since Covid. I also direct plays from time to time at a local theatre near my house.

    What advice do you have for others who are interested in doing similar work?
    Always look for ways to add to your creative skillset. There are a lot of amazing training options available online, and there’s always something new you can do to make yourself even better than you are today.
    By Ashley BalzerNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Home Inspections Underway for Oklahoma Wildfire Survivors

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Home Inspections Underway for Oklahoma Wildfire Survivors

    FEMA Home Inspections Underway for Oklahoma Wildfire Survivors

    OKLAHOMA CITY – After Oklahoma residents apply for FEMA assistance for the March wildfires, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine whether the home is safe, sanitary and livable, or to confirm its present condition

    FEMA recognizes that many survivors of the March wildfires suffered significant or total loss of property

    The FEMA inspection process requires in-person verification of the applicant, co-applicant or someone authorized to speak on their behalf, as well as the address of the damaged dwelling

    Providing photographs or video of the damaged property before and after the disaster can help the inspector to accurately assess the extent of the damage

    FEMA inspectors do not make any decisions about eligibility for assistance

    Information gathered during the inspection is only one of several criteria FEMA uses to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance

     If the home is standing, the housing inspector will consider:The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside

    Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are in working order

    Whether the home is safe to access and can be entered and exited safely

    If the home is not standing, the housing inspector will:Verify the current state of the property to accurately assess the extent of the damage

    All FEMA representatives have official identification

    Housing inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before the visit

    They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number

     They carry photo identification and will show it to the applicant

    For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed

    Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money

    Their service is free

     FEMA inspectors will call or text applicants to arrange to meet at the home

    They will leave messages and/or texts at the phone number listed on the FEMA application

    These communications may come from unfamiliar phone numbers so it is important that applicants respond to ensure their applications continue to move forward

    A typical home inspection takes about 45 minutes to complete

    After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing

    If they have questions about the status of their application, they can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    To learn more about FEMA home inspections and how to identify an inspector, visit FEMA Home Inspections

    For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit  fema

    gov/disaster/4866

     Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x

    com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook

    com/FEMARegion6/

    thomas

    wise
    Mon, 06/09/2025 – 14:00

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Online open house for SR 167 Completion Project construction in Pierce County begins June 9

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Public can learn where, when and how construction will affect them

    PUYALLUP – Construction work on a new stage of the State Route 167 Completion Project in Pierce County will begin picking up steam in summer 2025. To help people in the Puyallup, Edgewood, Sumner and Milton areas understand how construction will affect them, the Washington State Department of Transportation is launching an online open house on Monday, June 9.

    People who visit the online open house will learn more about the project, which builds a portion of a new expressway between SR 410 and North Meridian Avenue in Puyallup. It also includes a new interchange at North Meridian Avenue, two new bridges, a section of the spuyaləpabš Trail, and ramp and surface street improvements. The online open house outlines the phases of construction and what people can expect if they live, work or travel through the area.

    SR 167 online open house information

    When:  Monday, June 9 – Saturday, Aug. 9

    Where:  engage.wsdot.wa.gov/sr-167-completion-project/

    Details:  The online open house will be available in Spanish, Russian, Korean and Tagalog. Visitors also can leave comments or ask questions.

    Internet access

    • Free, temporary internet access is available to those who do not have broadband service and wish to participate in the online open house:
    • Sumner Library, 1116 Fryar Ave., Sumner
    • WSU Puyallup Research Center, 2606 W. Pioneer Ave., Puyallup
    • Milton/Edgewood Library, 900 Meridian E., Suite 29, Milton
    • Fife Library, 6622 20th St. E., Fife
    • Bonney Lake Library, 18501 90th St. E., Bonney Lake

    SR 167 Completion Project information

    The SR 167 Completion Project builds 6 miles of new tolled highway between Puyallup and the Port of Tacoma. The new expressway will be built in stages. The first stage of work completed the new Wapato Way East bridge and SR 99 roundabout in Fife. The second stage builds the expressway between I-5 and the Port of Tacoma. It’s scheduled to open in 2026.  Work on the third stage between SR 161/North Meridian Avenue and SR 410 began in 2025. Construction of the last stage between North Meridian Avenue and I-5 will begin in 2026. The entire project is planned for completion by 2030. 

     Photos of construction work are available on the project’s Flickr page. A 3D video tour is also available on WSDOT’s YouTube page.

    Puget Sound Gateway Program overview

    The SR 167 Completion Project is part of WSDOT’s Puget Sound Gateway Program, which also includes the SR 509 Completion Project in south King County. Together, the two completion projects finish critical missing links in Washington’s highway and freight network.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Orange County Supervisor Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Bribery Scheme Involving More Than $10 Million in COVID Funds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SANTA ANA, California – A former politician who served on the Orange County Board of Supervisors was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison for accepting more than $550,000 in bribes for directing and voting in favor of more than $10 million in COVID-19 pandemic relief funds to a charity affiliated with one of his daughters.

    Andrew Hoang Do, 62, of Santa Ana, was sentenced by United States District Judge James V. Selna, who scheduled a restitution hearing for August 11.

    Do pleaded guilty in October 2024 to one count of conspiracy to commit bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds.

    “Elected officials have a sworn duty to put their constituents’ interests ahead of their own,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “Public money intended to assist aging and ailing pandemic victims instead filled the coffers of Do, his family, and insiders. I commend our prosecutors and law enforcement partners for their work on this important case and for helping to remove a corrupt politician from his seat of power.”

    “As a county supervisor, Andrew Do transformed the County of Orange into an ATM available to his insiders, his loved ones, and himself, withdrawing millions of dollars to buy houses, lavish dinners, and expensive wine while the elderly, the sick, and the vulnerable who depended on Andrew Do were left to fend for themselves,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “We, along with our federal partners, are continuing to peel back the layers of conspiracy to hold every thief accountable and return those stolen monies to the communities to which they belonged.”    

    “Mr. Do abused his powerful position as a county supervisor to profit personally at the expense of individuals in need, as well as the residents of Orange County, who deserve honest leadership,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “The FBI will continue to pursue corrupt public officials whose actions erode trust in government.”

    From February 2015 until his resignation in October 2024, Do was one of five supervisors on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, which is responsible for the county’s $9 billion annual budget. As supervisor for the First District, Do represented the cities of Cypress, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Midway City, Rossmoor, Seal Beach, and Westminster.

    Beginning in 2020, in exchange for more than $550,000 in bribes, Do voted in favor of and directed millions of dollars in COVID-related funds to the Viet America Society (VAS), a charity affiliated with his daughter. Do directed and worked together with other county employees to approve contracts with – and payments to – VAS. Do further admitted he acted corruptly and abused his position of trust as a county supervisor.

    Shortly after receiving the COVID-related public funds from the county government – funds that were intended to provide meals to the elderly and disabled – VAS from April 2021 to February 2024 paid a business identified in court documents as “Company #1” $100,000 or more per month, which totaled approximately $3,804,000. In September 2021, VAS increased its payments to Company #1 from $100,000 to $108,000 per month. Company #1 then began paying Rhiannon Do – Do’s daughter – $8,000 per month, totaling by February 2024 approximately $224,000.

    In addition to the $8,000 monthly payments that Company #1 had made to Do’s daughter, in July 2023, Company #1 also transferred a total of $381,500 from the funds it had received from VAS to an escrow company. In July 2023, Do’s daughter used the escrow account funds to purchase a home, in her name, in Tustin for $1,035,000. As part of that transaction, a mortgage for more than $600,000 was obtained by a loan application that contained false information and with fabricated documents. Do’s daughter has admitted in court documents that her conduct was criminal and violated federal and state law.

    The $381,500 from Company #1 that his daughter used to purchase the Tustin house in 2023 was a disguised bribe to Do. An additional $100,000 in payments sent to his other daughter, including three $25,000 checks from Company #2 – an air conditioning company that had been paid by VAS – also were bribes to Do.

    Some of the bribe funds that had been funneled to his daughters were spent for his direct benefit. For example, during 2022, a total of $14,849 of funds that had been funneled to Do’s daughters was used to make property tax payments for properties in Orange County owned by Do and his wife. Approximately $15,000 was used to pay for one of Do’s credit card bills.

    Do knew that VAS was not providing all the meals for which the county had paid VAS. Instead, much of the funds were used for the benefit of insiders, including to buy real estate in the name of both Do’s daughter and Company #1, bribe payments to both of Do’s daughters, payments to other conspirators, payments to other companies affiliated with VAS’s listed officers, and through hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash withdrawals.

    Do forfeited assets connected to the bribery scheme, including the Tustin property his daughter purchased in 2023. As part of his daughter’s related diversion agreement, she forfeited the Tustin property. The plea agreement requires Do to pay full restitution by paying back the bribe money he and his daughters received. In August 2024, the government seized more than $2.4 million from VAS’s and Company #1’s bank accounts.

    Do resigned from the Orange County Board of Supervisors as part of a related agreement with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office (OCDA). He also agreed to forfeit any pension credit for the time where he participated in the bribery conspiracy.

    The FBI; the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation; the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Office of the Inspector General; IRS Criminal Investigation; and the United States Department of Education Office of the Inspector General investigated this matter.

    This matter is being jointly prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office and OCDA. The prosecution is being led by Assistant United States Attorneys Nandor F.R. Kiss, Rosalind Wang, and Tara Vavere of the United States Attorney’s Office and Senior Deputy District Attorney Avery T. Harrison and Deputy District Attorney Anthony J. Schlehner of the OCDA. 

    Any member of the public who has information related to this or any other public corruption matter in Orange County is encouraged to send information to the FBI’s email tip line at https://tips.fbi.gov and/or to contact the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office at (310) 477-6565.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wilson Gang Member Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A Wilson man was sentenced Friday to seven years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony.  Joshua Elijah Strickland, 22, pled guilty to the charge on March 11, 2025.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, Strickland was arrested last July when the Wilson Police Department searched a house where Strickland and other gang members stored guns and drugs. That search came on the heels of a June 26, 2024, incident in which multiple men were spotted retreating to the gang house after firing 11 rounds into another occupied house just a few blocks away. The June 26 shooting was part of a spike in gang violence last summer, when Wilson saw at least 12 gang-related shootings occur in less than one month. Strickland has several prior felony convictions, including possession of a stolen firearm and maintaining a place for the use, storage, or sale of a controlled substance.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Raleigh-Durham Safe Streets Task Force and the Wilson Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Phil Aubart and Chris Cogburn prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-305.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Plead Guilty In Kissimmee Cocaine Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Luis Ruben Martinez Calderon (26, Kissimmee) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Martinez Calderon is the final defendant to plead guilty in this case.

    Name

    Date of Plea

    Charges

    Maximum Penalties

    Luis Ruben Martinez Calderon

    (26, Kissimmee)

    		 June 5, 2025 Drug conspiracy Minimum 5 years, up to 40 years in federal prison

    Quamain Alique Barber

    (34, Kissimmee)

    		 April 30, 2025

    Drug conspiracy

    Possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking

    Minimum 5 years, up to 40 years in federal prison  

    Minimum 5 years, up to life in federal prison to run consecutive

    Bernardo Antonio Brea

    (31, Kissimmee)

    		 April 22, 2025

    Drug conspiracy

    Possession of firearm by convicted felon

    20 years in federal prison

    15 years in federal prison
    Aisha Nicolle Sanchez (25, Kissimmee) May 20, 2025 Drug conspiracy Minimum 5 years, up to 40 years in federal prison
    Evelyn Calderon (57, Kissimmee) May 13, 2025 Drug conspiracy Minimum 5 years, up to 40 years in federal prison

    According to the plea agreements filed in the case, Martinez Calderon regularly supplied retail dealers such as Barber from his apartment in Kissimmee, where he lived with his girlfriend, Sanchez. In January 2025, Barber sold cocaine to an undercover officer, and immediately drove to Martinez Calderon to be resupplied.

     

    The investigation also revealed that Martinez Calderon supplied Barber with cocaine that Martinez Calderon stored with his mother, Evelyn Calderon, who resupplied him when needed. Sanchez helped to recover a suitcase with at least two kilograms of cocaine from the mother’s home for Martinez Calderon to distribute. In late January 2025, Martinez Calderon worked with Brea to obtain cocaine for Barber to distribute.

    On February 6, 2025, when a series of arrest warrants were executed, Brea and Barber were found to be in possession of firearms. Brea was prohibited from possessing firearms because he was previously convicted of felonies, including possessing a firearm as a convicted felon to which he pleaded guilty one week before he was found in possession of a firearm by federal agents. Barber’s firearm was recovered along with bags of cocaine prepared for distribution.

     

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Kissimmee Police Department, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.

    This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Children’s health and comprehensive development is our priority task

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko spoke at an extended joint meeting of the State Duma committees. The event was held as part of preparations for the government hour on the topic of “On protecting the health of schoolchildren and on the development of physical education and mass children’s and youth sports.”

    The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chairmen of the State Duma Vladislav Davankov and Irina Yarovaya, Minister of Health Mikhail Murashko, Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov, State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Sports Alexander Nikitin, chairmen of five committees and leaders of five factions in the State Duma.

    “The health and comprehensive development of children is our top priority. I thank all the deputies who pay attention to this issue. As President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin says, there is nothing more important not only for any family, but also for the state, than children. We are guided by this and work together with you in such areas as improving the educational process, properly distributing the workload of schoolchildren, involving children in systematic physical education and sports, and others. This is already bringing tangible results,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The Deputy Prime Minister thanked the Chairman of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin for the effective organization of the work and outlined the key areas of interaction between the deputies and the Government.

    In the field of education, systematic work is being carried out to create safe conditions for children to stay in educational institutions. A balanced academic and extracurricular load is provided for schoolchildren, and a unified lesson schedule is being developed.

    Medical offices are being opened and renovated in general education organizations. Over three years, about 1.4 thousand general education organizations with medical offices have been renovated.

    The coverage of medical examinations has increased to almost 98%, and almost all children’s clinics have been modernized. Preventive work is being carried out: over 1 million children passed through children’s health centers alone last year. Free hot meals for primary school children have been organized by order of the President. According to social surveys, over 80% of parents and students are satisfied with the quality of free hot meals.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko also noted the work on involving children in systematic sports activities. For this purpose, a single sports and educational space is created and sports events are held annually. Work is also underway with all-Russian sports federations to expand modules in physical education classes. There are already 32 such modules.

    “As part of the federal project “Success of Every Child”, we have significantly updated our material and technical base. Today, there are more than 60 thousand physical education and sports clubs of all types operating throughout the country, with about 24 million people involved, including 7.5 million children. We are opening early physical development centers for children, including in preschool educational organizations. We are paying special attention to creating additional opportunities for children with disabilities. About 400 thousand such children regularly attend more than 130 thousand adapted facilities,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    Last year alone, around 680 mass events took place in different regions. School sports leagues are actively developing. More than 3 million children met the GTO standards last year.

    “We are creating a sports reserve of gifted children – this is the key to Russia’s future success in international competitions. Today, 14 thousand of these young athletes, our stars, are part of national teams in 111 sports. The guys are trained according to federal standards and programs by 89 thousand coaches,” added Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The “Zemsky Trainer” program is being launched in 28 regions, which will allow trainers to receive a lifting allowance of up to 2 million rubles. The coverage of the population receiving a tax deduction for physical education and health services is expanding.

    Also, according to the Deputy Prime Minister, it is necessary to take control of the issue of banning the collection of fees from athletes under 18 years of age for participation in official competitions.

    The Russian Sports Fund will be created in the country. One of its tasks will be the development of children’s and youth sports. The fund will assist regions and federations in purchasing sports equipment, organizing and holding competitions, and compensating expenses for events.

    Minister of Education Sergei Kravtsov noted that requirements aimed at regulating the workload of students have been established at the legislative level.

    “A law has been adopted that approved unified federal educational programs. This year, order No. 704 comes into force, which establishes calendar and lesson planning. It establishes how many hours are allocated for studying a particular subject. We also standardized the number of tests and assessments, homework. The order has been agreed with Rospotrebnadzor, takes into account all requirements to eliminate excessive workload on students. It is very important that regions follow it in organizing the educational process,” noted Sergey Kravtsov.

    According to the Ministry of Health, a comprehensive approach to protecting children’s health, including the implementation of national projects and programs, allows Russia to achieve results recognized throughout the world: child mortality has decreased more than 2 times over the past 10 years. Over the past 5 years, it has been possible to achieve maximum coverage of schoolchildren with preventive examinations. About 85% of children are healthy or almost healthy. In addition, since 2024, expanded neonatal screening has been introduced for all children, which allows for the detection of severe diseases and metabolic diseases at the preclinical stage, and therefore, to begin timely treatment and take comprehensive measures for the rehabilitation and social adaptation of children, including in the school environment.

    According to the Ministry of Sports, 9 out of 10 children are already involved in an active lifestyle. This figure is the result of consistent state policy to popularize mass sports among young people and create accessible infrastructure.

    In the DPR, LPR, Zaporizhia and Kherson regions, it is planned to build 19 open-air sports and fitness complexes by the end of 2025. 12 facilities have already been built, and 7 more will be completed by the end of the year.

    According to the Ministry of Education, more than 90% of schools have all the necessary conditions for physical education and sports. Over the past 5 years, together with the United Russia party, the material and technical base for physical education has been updated in more than 5 thousand schools. As part of capital construction, more than 1.5 thousand gyms of general education organizations have been renovated. In 2025, major repairs are planned for 897 gyms of general education organizations in 82 constituent entities of the Russian Federation, including in new regions.

    In conclusion, the Government representatives agreed with the State Duma deputies to continue to jointly resolve issues.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: More than 850 thousand people have moved from dilapidated houses to new apartments since 2019

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The program for resettling people from dilapidated housing has been the focus of the President and the Government since the very beginning of its implementation. Since 2019, more than 850 thousand residents of dilapidated housing have improved their housing conditions. During this time, the dilapidated housing stock in the regions has decreased by 14.4 million square meters. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “The work on resettling people from dilapidated buildings is one of the priorities for the construction complex of the Russian Federation. It is aimed at increasing the comfort and safety of living, as well as improving the housing conditions of citizens. Since 2019, more than 850 thousand residents of dilapidated buildings have improved their housing conditions. 14.4 million square meters of unsuitable housing stock were resettled,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the leaders in terms of the number of people resettled from dilapidated housing include the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug, where 59 thousand people improved their housing conditions, Perm Krai – 54 thousand, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug – 54 thousand, the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) – 49 thousand, and Kemerovo Oblast – 33 thousand people.

    The implementation of the program for the resettlement of emergency housing continues within the framework of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”.

    The operator of the program for the resettlement of emergency housing is the Territorial Development Fund.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Luxembourg and EIB Global team up to help Small Island Developing States confront climate change

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • Luxembourg is tapping EIB Global expertise through the Luxembourg-EIB Climate Finance Platform (LCFP) to contribute €5 million to the Outrigger Impact Fund I.
    • The Fund has a target size of $100 million and aims to provide finance to projects in various sectors of the oceans economy.
    • Outrigger Impact Fund I will provide debt and equity financing to help Small Island Development States adapt to climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

    Luxembourg is joining forces with the European Investment Bank’s development arm (EIB Global) to pledge €5 million through the Luxembourg-EIB Climate Finance Platform (LCFP) to help Small Island Development States (SIDS) tackle climate change. The Government of Luxembourg is making the commitment to a new fund dedicated to the sustainable use of ocean resources – an area of activity known as the “blue economy” – and EIB Global is managing the contribution to ensure its optimal use.

    Luxembourg’s pledge will take the form of junior equity in the Outrigger Impact Fund I, which has a target size of $100 million and will be run by UK-based fund manager Outrigger Impact. The fund will operate in Small Island Development States, providing debt and equity finance to projects in various blue economy sectors such as sustainable aquaculture, ocean conservation, ecotourism and offshore renewable energy.

    “This investment reflects our ambition to drive more capital towards climate resilience where it is most urgently needed. By backing the Outrigger Impact Fund I through the provision of junior equity, we aim to de-risk innovative projects in the blue economy and mobilise private finance at scale. This is a targeted use of public capital to unlock impact where markets alone would not go,” said Luxembourg Minister of Finance Gilles Roth.  

    “Over the last decade, Luxembourg has been committed to supporting the most vulnerable countries in the fight against climate change. Small Island Development States are disproportionally affected and face a finance gap at the same time. The blue economy offers an opportunity for SIDS to help adapt to climate change, protect and restore nature, while generating sustainable income for the most vulnerable communities,” said Minister of Environment, Climate and Biodiversity Serge Wilmes.  

    EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle and Outrigger Impact Managing Director Simon Dent announced Luxembourg’s contribution at the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France.

    “Small Island Developing States are disproportionately at risk of the impacts of climate change and receive immeasurably less financing than other developing or low-income countries. That’s why this fund is important – at the portfolio level it is expected to multiply investments with a significant leverage,” said Vice-President Fayolle.

    The involvement of Luxembourg and the EIB in the new fund advances an EU goal in its “Global Gateway Investment Agenda” to deepen worldwide cooperation on investment in areas including climate and the environment.

    The investments by the new fund will reduce greenhouse gas emissions through clean transport, contribute to conservation of protected areas and coral reefs, and reduce pollution including plastics in the ocean. The financing will also increase the resilience of local communities to climate change.

    The fund will leverage private investments and group projects across Small Island Development States to support new or small market players that are developing innovative business models backing the transition to a sustainable blue economy.

    “This new fund will provide catalytic investment in projects, small and medium-sized enterprises and nature-based solutions in Small Island Development States. These states steward over 30% of our oceans through their exclusive economic zones, meaning that their blue economies, ecosystems and sustainable marine assets are full of environmental, social and economic potential,” said Outrigger Impact Managing Director Simon Dent.

    Background information

    About EIB Global

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. It finances investments that pursue EU policy objectives.

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to people, companies and institutions through its offices across the world. Photos of EIB headquarters for media use are available here.

    About the Luxembourg-EIB Climate Finance Platform (LCFP)

    The LCFP is a de-risking platform initiated by the Government of Luxembourg in collaboration with the EIB that seeks to catalyse private sector investments in high-impact climate projects in developing countries.

    About Outrigger Impact

    Outrigger Impact is a specialised blue economy platform, which is developing a dedicated financing facility to build environmental and economic resilience and drive nature-positive outcomes in Small Island Developing States, by catalysing and leveraging the blue economy and enhancing the sustainability of ocean resources. The Outrigger Impact Fund will provide investment capital for blue economy projects in a range of Small Island Developing States, and the Outrigger Technical Assistance Facility will provide grants and concessionary loans to support early-stage projects in islands, with the common aim of delivering dedicated funding of more than $100 million to catalytic projects in island states.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Statement Condemns Recent ICE Raids in Los Angeles, California

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) issued the following statement in response to the recent wave of aggressive immigration enforcement operations conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Los Angeles, California. 

    “The images emerging from California—ICE raids escalating into chaos, immigrant families fleeing their homes, and National Guard troops confronting peaceful protesters—are chilling reminders of how far we’ve strayed from the democratic values we claim to uphold. 

    “What we’re witnessing is more than a series of raids—it’s a stark reflection of the America we are becoming. These actions are not just an assault on immigrants; they are an attack on the fundamental values that define us as a nation. 

    “Under the guise of enforcing immigration laws, this administration is employing tactics reminiscent of a police state—targeting working families, silencing dissent, and instilling fear in communities that are essential to the fabric of our society. 

    “This is not the America I know. This is not the America we aspire to be. We are a nation built on justice, compassion, and the unwavering belief that every person deserves dignity and respect. What is happening in Los Angeles betrays those core principles.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Seeks to Block Trump-Republicans Plan to Take From the Needy to Give to the Greedy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    ***WATCH THE SPEAKING PROGRAM HERE***

    PROVIDENCE, RI – U.S. Senator Jack Reed today joined with faith leaders and hunger prevention advocates at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank to demand action against a House Republican-passed tax bill that will make the largest cut to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in American history.

    Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a 1,000+ page bill to take nutrition assistance from the needy in order to give billionaires a bigger tax windfall. Their so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill” includes nearly $300 billion in cuts targeting SNAP, which helps millions of working families and low-income seniors afford groceries. 

    With over $85 million in annual nutrition assistance for Rhode Island at stake and approximately 17,000 Rhode Islanders at risk of losing access to nutrition assistance, the Republicans’ House-passed tax bill would devastate essential SNAP benefits at the same time that President Trump’s tariff taxes are adding over $200 to grocery bills for average American families.

    According to an analysis by the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, the Trump-Republican tax bill would result in 7 million people nationwide losing food assistance.  The House-passed SNAP cuts would be a disaster for hungry families and for states – permanently saddling states with extra costs and reducing nutrition assistance that millions of low-income Americans rely upon.

    “SNAP is a proven, cost-effective lifeline for more than 144,000 Rhode Islanders, especially low-income children and seniors. When Republicans threaten to cut SNAP benefits, they’re really threatening public health, working families, and our economy.  Access to food is essential for everyone.  The Republican plan would mean less food for the poor, fewer jobs, and less economic activity in the community.  It would increase hunger and hardship,” said Reed.  “Every dollar in federal SNAP investment generates over $1.50 in economic activity.  If you start taking hundreds of millions of dollars out of the local economy, it means stores close, farms go under, and food prices keep going up. Ultimately, the Republican plan would make it harder for Rhode Island families to afford their grocery bills.  I will do everything I can to block these devastating cuts from becoming law.”

    “The impact that this cut will have on families, children, seniors, and veterans will be catastrophic,” said Lisa Roth Blackman, Chief Philanthropy Officer of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. “Kids will be less ready to learn in school. Working adults won’t have the energy to work. Seniors will be forced to make terrible choices about whether to pay for prescriptions and healthcare or food. And veterans and people with disabilities will struggle to get the food they need to survive and thrive.”

    “Every month, an average of fifteen new households come through our doors for the first time because they cannot afford to put enough food on the table to meet their family’s needs,” said Kate Brewster, CEO of the Jonnycake Center for Hope in South Kingstown. “The ripple effects of the proposed SNAP cuts will be devastating at an already uncertain time. I’m grateful to Senator Reed for standing up against these cuts to the most basic human need – nourishment.”

    “We have 1,000 children who receive food at our pantry – just at one pantry,” shared Reverend Maryalice Sullivan of Pete & Andy’s Food Pantry at St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Church in Providence. “The need is already so high. We simply can’t afford a catastrophic cut like the one the administration is talking about.”

    Not only would the House-passed Republican plan cut SNAP by roughly 30 percent, it would reduce monthly nutrition assistance for children from low-income families, seniors, disabled Americans, and veterans below what is necessary to maintain a healthy diet while placing a greater burden on states while adding red tape and harsher work requirements for caregivers.

    Over 144,000 Rhode Island residents receive SNAP benefits, and the state receives roughly $343.5 million annually in SNAP benefits.  A recent analysis by Trace One placed Rhode Island 15th in the nation based on its share of individuals receiving SNAP benefits. 

    In Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, SNAP participants in Rhode Island received an average of $198.52 per month in SNAP benefits.  This averages $6.52 per person per day.

    In addition to increasing hunger for people with lower incomes who are already struggling, Senator Reed warns that the Republican plan to shift the program’s cost to states will hurt taxpayers, farmers, grocers, delivery drivers, and other small businesses.  Senator Reed noted SNAP’s role in supporting public health is critical and the House-passed Republican cuts would be devastating to families and communities across Rhode Island. 

    The House-passed Republican bill would require all states to pay a 5 percent cost-share, shifting the burden from the federal government to the states.  States with higher payment error rates would have to pay even more. 

    SNAP helps ensure strong, consistent sales for American farmers by boosting low-income families’ purchasing power and demand for agricultural products. In addition to traditional retailers, SNAP directly supports local farmers through demand for produce, meat, and dairy products at farmers’ markets and through initiatives such as Bonus Bucks, which provides a dollar-for-dollar match for purchases of fresh fruits and vegetables.

    Reed emphasized that the entire state would be impacted by these SNAP cuts through lost productivity and increased expenditures in other public areas, such as health care.

    “The irresponsible Republican plan to gut SNAP would increase poverty and make people less healthy more food insecure.  That impacts recipients, neighbors, communities – all of us.  As food insecurity goes up, productivity goes down and health care costs go up,” said Reed.  “We live in the greatest country on Earth and can afford to ensure people don’t go hungry.  Funding this program is a moral, economic, and public health imperative.”

    Rhode Island food pantries have reported a spike in demand recently. Several food pantry operators across the state have put out the call for increased food donations as demand increases beyond usual expectations for this time of year, and cuts to SNAP, Medicaid, and other programs could exacerbate the demand for food aid.

    The Rhode Island Community Food Bank distributes food through its 147 member agencies, reaching approximately 89,000 food-insecure Rhode Islanders each month.  The non-profit provides nutritious staples and fresh produce to food pantries, meal sites, shelters, youth programs and senior centers.  In FY2024, the Rhode Island Community Food Bank distributed 18.3 million pounds of food.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Rallies to Support Over 100 RI Students & Workers Left in Limbo by Trump’s Threat to Shutter Federal Job Corps Centers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    EXETER, RI – In a misguided attempt to illegally shutter federal Job Corps centers across the nation, the Trump Administration has rehashed an old plan from President Donald Trump’s first term to place students, staff, and employers in limbo. U.S. Senator Jack Reed helped defeat that first effort and is working to ensure the second attempt meets the same fate.

    With no regard for currently enrolled students, staff, and local employers who rely on the talent of Job Corps students across the country, the Trump Administration has directed the removal of more than 25,000 16 to 24-year-old Job Corps students who reside on 99 Job Corps campuses nationwide, including Rhode Island’s Exeter Job Corps.

    After being prohibited from stepping foot on Job Corps property, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today met with representatives from Exeter Job Corps’ student government, student veterans, staff, and local employers just outside the Exeter facility.

    “Everyone who has visited a federal Job Corps center knows the power of this program and the opportunity, success, and support it unlocks for students. It’s why one of the very first things I did as a Senator was fight for Rhode Island to have its own Job Corps Center,” said Reed.  “Today, after planning a visit weeks in advance, I’m prevented from visiting this center, from seeing these talented students show off their welding skills and electronics engineering ingenuity and learning about the stories of student leaders and soon-to-be graduates. I wish President Trump and Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer would spend time learning about the importance of the Job Corps program instead of trying to illegally eliminate these opportunities for young Americans. I beat back President Trump’s attempt to shutter this essential program during his first term. I’m planning to do it again.” 

    Job Corps empowers at-risk students to acquire industry-recognized credentials, high school diplomas or equivalents, and the social and employability skills needed to enter careers, the U.S. Armed Forces, apprenticeships, or post-secondary education.

    With some students just months away from earning their diploma or professional license, they are now in limbo.  This week, a U.S District Judge temporarily blocked the Trump Administration from eliminating the Job Corps program while the legal process plays out.  A hearing is set for June 17.  But the Trump Administration is needlessly endangering the futures and livelihoods of thousands of students and Job Corps employees.

    Reed recently confronted the U.S. Secretary of Labor during an Appropriations Committee hearing about the DOGE-directed, unsound, and misleading analysis that is being unjustifiably used as an excuse to halt Job Corps, telling her: “This is a calculated and not transparent, but deceptive report.”

    Exeter Job Corps Center, which opened in 2004, provides free job-training in a variety of fields, including: computers, culinary arts, construction, hospitality, health fields, manufacturing, and other career paths, as well as transportation and dormitory-style housing for those who need it.  The programs are aligned with industry credentials and include work-based learning.

    Exeter Job Corps Center is located at the site of the former Ladd Center off Route 2 in Exeter, with a capacity for 185 students, with rolling admissions throughout the year.  Exeter Job Corps Center employs a staff of about 85 and offers vocational training in 6 trades, a GED program, and two high school diploma programs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin Demands Answers Regarding Hegseth’s Threat to Deploy Marines to Los Angeles

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    June 09, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth demanding answers and more information regarding his threat to deploy Marines at Camp Pendleton to Los Angeles in response to ongoing protests. Rep. Levin represents Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

    The letter underscores that deploying active-duty Marines goes against the apolitical nature of the United States’ Armed Services and risks further destabilizing the situation in Los Angeles. Rep. Levin’s letter notes that our Marines are trained to be lethal, not for law enforcement. Their mobilization runs counter to their training and serves merely as an act of political theater.

    Click here or see below for the full letter:

    Dear Secretary Hegseth,

    I write regarding your June 7, 2025, social media post stating that “active duty [sic] Marines at Camp Pendleton will… be mobilized” for the purpose of law enforcement in Los Angeles.[1] This threat is a significant escalation of rhetoric and action that has the potential to further destabilize the situation in Los Angeles.

    The United States Armed Forces have a long history of remaining apolitical. In fact, this is one of the fundamental principles that makes our country great. Our men and women in uniform are trained to be the most lethal fighting force in the world. We deploy them in defense of our homeland and in support of our national interest; we do not put warfighters on the ground in American cities to repress civilians.

    As the representative of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in the United States Congress, I consider it my duty to fight for the readiness, preparation, and well-being of the Marines and Sailors who serve in my district. I also want to make sure each one of them has a job, a home, and the best possible health care once they separate from the service.

    With this in mind, I found your threat to deploy Marines to Los Angeles for the purpose of law enforcement to be extremely disturbing. Our Marines are trained to be lethal; they are not trained for law enforcement. Your decision to mobilize them in an act of political theater runs counter to their training. Doing so would also undermine the apolitical nature of our Armed Forces, dealing a serious blow to the very fabric of our great nation.

    I ask that you respond to the following questions:

    1. Under what authority are you planning to mobilize Marines?
    1. How many Marines are being mobilized?
    1. What specific duties are Marines expected to carry out?
    1. What training do Marines have to carry out these specific duties?
    1. Was the order coordinated with the leadership of the United States Marine Corps?
    1. Will Marines be authorized to use lethal force?
    1. Will troops be informed of their rights to disobey orders they believe are unlawful?

    Please reply by June 11, 2025. I look forward to your response.

    Sincerely,

    Mike Levin

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crow to Serve as Top Democrat on Bipartisan Cartel Task Force

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) will serve as the top Democrat on the newly-formed bipartisan Cartel Task Force, House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI) Chairman Rick Crawford (AR-01) and Ranking Member Jim Himes (CT-04) announced today.

    The bipartisan task force will work to identify legislative actions that can combat the threat from dangerous cartels in the Western Hemisphere. These cartel activities include narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, the arms trade, and other illegal and destabilizing activities.

    “Our national security is not a partisan issue and protecting America’s homeland must be a top priority. Cartels make us less safe by smuggling dangerous drugs like fentanyl and opioids into our communities and trafficking vulnerable women and children. I look forward to working as a part of the Cartel Task Force to identify bipartisan solutions that help address threats from criminal organizations,” said Congressman Crow.

    Other Members of Congress serving on the bipartisan Cartel Task Force include Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL-16), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06).

    Any legislative solutions produced by the bipartisan Cartel Task Force will fall within HPSCI legislative jurisdiction. The Task Force will seek to garner consensus from relevant HPSCI Subcommittees on legislative initiatives within the Committee’s jurisdiction.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Missouri Private Nonprofits Affected by Spring Storms

    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 private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Missouri affected by severe winter storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding occurring March 30–April 8.

    The disaster declaration covers the Missouri counties of Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Cooper, Douglas, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Madison, Maries, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Pemiscot, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Texas, Vernon, Wayne and Webster.

    Under this declaration, PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature impacted by physical damages or financial losses directly related to the disaster are eligible to apply for both business physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Examples of eligible non-critical PNP organizations include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools, and colleges.

    PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the 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.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    Interest rates are as low 3.62% for PNPs 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 will set loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

    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 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, 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: Brooklyn Man Pleads Guilty to Kidnapping a Child From Berks County in 2022

    Source: US FBI

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Duane Taylor, 50, of Brooklyn, New York, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Court Judge John M. Gallagher to charges arising from the abduction of a minor child from her home in Reading, Pennsylvania, and transportation of that child across state lines to Taylor’s residence.

    In January 2023, Taylor was charged by superseding indictment with kidnapping, travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, production of child pornography, possession of child pornography, and transportation of child pornography. He pleaded guilty to all counts.

    As detailed in court filings, on the morning of August 31, 2022, City of Reading police officers responded to the victim’s home when the child’s mother reported her missing from her bedroom, where she had last seen her daughter around 10:30 p.m. the evening prior before going to bed. After searching for the child, her mother observed that the back door of their residence was wide open, and law enforcement found the chain lock on that door was broken.

    Investigators reviewed video surveillance footage from the home’s security system, which showed a person entering the living room area at approximately 2 a.m. and proceeding to the stairs leading to the second floor. A short time later, the victim is seen walking down those stairs and through the living room, followed by the person who was later identified as the defendant, whom the victim’s mother also stated was her former boyfriend.

    Reading investigators contacted the New York City Police Department, who traced the defendant to his residence in Brooklyn, but did not locate the victim there. The victim was located later that day when a citizen called 911 to report a child alone and asking for help because she had been kidnapped from Pennsylvania.

    The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on September 18 and faces a maximum possible sentence of life in prison.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit projectsafechildhood.gov.

    The case was investigated by the FBI, the Reading Police Department, and the New York City Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rosalynda M. Michetti and Josh A. Davison.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Conducts 2025 Article IV Consultation and Reaches Staff-Level Agreement on the Fifth Review of the Extended Credit Facility with Zambia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 9, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • The Zambian authorities and the IMF team have reached a staff-level agreement on the economic policies and reforms needed to conclude the Fifth Review under the 38-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement.
    • Zambia’s economy proved resilient to the drought, and growth is projected at 5.8 percent in 2025. Rising fiscal pressures and external headwinds call for decisive domestic revenue mobilization and steadfast fiscal discipline to preserve fiscal and debt sustainability.
    • Sustaining reform momentum will consolidate gains of Zambia’s homegrown reform agenda to achieving higher and more inclusive growth, promoting job creation and building resilience amid a challenging external environment and declining official support.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Ms. Mercedes Vera Martin, IMF Mission Chief for Zambia, visited Lusaka from April 29 to May 13, 2025, to conduct discussions for the 2025 Article IV Consultation and the Fifth Review under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF). Discussions continued virtually subsequently.

    At the end of the discussions, Ms. Vera Martin issued the following statement:

    “The Zambian authorities and the IMF team reached a staff-level agreement on economic policies and reforms for the Fifth Review under the ECF arrangement. The agreement is subject to approval by IMF management and the Executive Board in the coming weeks. Once approved by the Executive Board, Zambia will gain access to SDR 139.9 million (about US$194 million) in financing.

    “The Zambian economy demonstrated resilience in 2024, despite a severe drought and global headwinds. Real GDP growth is estimated at 4 percent in 2024—up from 1.2 percent projected at the time of the Fourth Review—driven by stronger-than-projected mining and non-mining activity, especially in ICT, financial services and construction, as well as a less severe contraction in agriculture than initially envisaged. Fiscal performance in 2024 was tighter than initially planned, with a primary surplus of 2.9 percent of GDP, driven primarily by spending compression amid tight financing conditions. Social protection spending helped cushion the impact of the drought and rising prices on vulnerable households.

    “Growth momentum is expected to continue in 2025, with real GDP growth projected at 5.8 percent. Economic activity would be supported by a rebound in agricultural output, increased copper production, and a gradual recovery in electricity generation, although electricity shortages and reliance on energy imports are expected to persist. Driven by higher food prices and kwacha depreciation, inflation averaged 15 percent y/y in 2024 and peaked at 16.8 percent y/y in February. Inflationary pressures have started to show signs of easing since then, partly reflecting hikes in the policy rate, at 14.5 percent since February 2025. The current account deficit narrowed in 2024, while gross international reserves have continued to increase, to $4.7 billion by mid-May 2025 (4.1 months of prospective imports). The medium-term outlook remains favorable, but downside risks to the outlook dominate given increasing global uncertainty. Advancing the external debt restructuring would help lower risk premia and catalyze investment.

    “The overall fiscal balance is expected to widen to 5.3 percent of GDP, with the primary balance (cash basis, program target) projected at 1.1 percent in 2025. Higher-than-initially projected debt service and new social spending needs are adding fiscal pressures. To this end, the authorities have committed to revising the 2025 Budget, to include additional revenue measures and reprioritize expenditures to partly accommodate additional spending needs. Going forward, sustained revenue mobilization and stronger expenditure controls will be critical to safeguarding priority spending and supporting fiscal and debt sustainability. Continued efforts to strengthen tax administration and expenditure efficiency, broaden the tax base, and monitoring fiscal risks will help improve fiscal policy implementation.  

    “While inflation is projected to gradually decline in 2025 as food and fuel prices ease, continued vigilance is needed given elevated uncertainty and persistent inflationary pressures. Preserving a data-driven and forward-looking monetary policy stance will be essential to steer inflation toward the target band and support macroeconomic stability. Enhancing the monetary transmission will help develop interbank money markets. Strengthening the financial legal and regulatory framework in line with international best practices, including for bank resolution, and developing an effective deposit protection scheme, will support financial stability.  

    “Accelerating reform implementation is needed to lay the foundations for higher and more inclusive growth. Continued efforts to improve the business environment and strengthen governance are critical to boosting investor confidence, reducing the state footprint, particularly in agriculture, and fostering a level-playing field for private sector-led growth. These reforms are key to unlocking investment and creating job opportunities needed for Zambia’s rapidly growing youth population. While the open access regime in the fuel sector is being somewhat implemented, renewed efforts to enhance enforcement and transparency in fuel supply will further promote fair competition.

    “The IMF team met with His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema; Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane; Governor of the Bank of Zambia, Dr. Denny Kalyalya; Secretary to the Treasury, Mr. Felix Nkulukusa; Deputy Governor, Dr. Francis Chipimo; senior government officials; and representatives from the private sector, civil society, and development partners. The IMF team extends its sincere gratitude to the Zambian authorities and stakeholders for their warm hospitality and constructive engagement throughout the mission.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/09/pr-25187-zambia-imf-conducts-2025-art-iv-consult-reaches-agreement-on-5th-rev-of-ecf

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New partnership will help detect, monitor wildfires in B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    A camera network that gives first responders information to support wildfire response, emergency management and public awareness is being expanded through a partnership between the Province and the University of British Columbia Okanagan campus (UBCO).

    “With this technology, we’re making strides in protecting communities from wildfires by predicting them before they happen. And better predicting them means keeping more families safe,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests. “I’m proud to work with UBCO and use its research to protect our communities from the threat of wildfire.”

    After a successful trial in 2024, the Province is investing $200,000 to expand the camera network throughout British Columbia. Early detection of wildfire plays a crucial role in reducing risks, lowering suppression costs and protecting communities. Using 5G technology, the cameras detect smoke from wildfires and provide real-time data to support evacuation planning, resource deployment and wildfire behaviour predictions.

    “As our climate changes, it’s important to manage and reduce risks to keep people safe,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “Taking steps to prevent disasters, such as the early detection of wildfires, can be life-saving and helps protect communities, homes, critical infrastructure and our forests.”

    Data captured by the network is analyzed using artificial intelligence at UBCO and provides information to first responders to support wildfire response, emergency management and public awareness.

    Communities, local governments or First Nations interested in becoming involved in the development of the camera network, can contact the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) for more information: BCWS.CameraNetwork@gov.bc.ca

    Quotes:

    Lesley Cormack, principal and deputy vice-chancellor, UBC Okanagan –

    “As a leading research institution, the University of British Columbia Okanagan is proud to partner with the BC Wildfire Service and the Government of British Columbia to support the people of the province through the provincial wildfire camera network.”

    Mathieu Bourbonnais, Irving K. Barber faculty of science, UBC Okanagan –

    “The provincial camera network will serve as a vital public-safety platform, helping to build safe and resilient communities, while enhancing wildfire and emergency management across British Columbia.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness contributed $50,000 to the BCWS provincial wildfire camera network.
    • In 2024, a partnership of Rogers Communications, Pano AI and the BCWS tested smoke-detection cameras in five locations in British Columbia

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DEMOCRATS DEMAND ACTION ON COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS, WARN THAT TRUMP’S ONE BIG UGLY BILL WILL DRIVE PRICES EVEN HIGHER

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

    “Grocery checkout lines and the fear of falling ill are still major sources of financial anxiety for families, yet the Republican response is to give the wealthiest Americans a tax break windfall and pay for it by taking affordable health care and food assistance from millions of people. It’s a cruel, deplorable and fiscally irresponsible response, and we heard that message loud and clear today in Pennsylvania,” said Wasserman Schultz. “Far from lowering costs, Trump’s chaotic economic policies are driving recessionary fears, and Republicans’ ‘Big Ugly Bill’ would steal health care from 16 million Americans and deny food assistance to millions more. The net effect makes life even harder for paycheck-to-paycheck workers.”

    Collegeville, PA – Today, the House Democratic Steering and Policy Co-Chairs, Congresswomen Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Nanette Barragán (CA-44), led a roundtable discussion with local leaders and stakeholders impacted by the Trump Tariffs and Republican threats to cut Medicaid and SNAP. Witnesses warned that the Republican ‘One Big Ugly Bill’ would only exacerbate the cost-of-living crisis for Pennsylvania’s working families.

    Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (PA-04) hosted the committee’s field hearing, and took testimony from community leaders who work directly helping people meet their basic needs to hear how the cost-of-living crisis would worsen with the Republican tax scam to slash Medicaid and food assistance while giving huge new tax breaks to billionaires.

    “At a time when families need stability, President Trump has thrown our economy into turmoil with reckless tariffs that continue to decimate retirement and college savings accounts,” said Dean. “Meanwhile, Trump and Republicans are pushing their ‘Big Ugly Bill,’ which will kick more than 300,000 Pennsylvanians off their healthcare and rip away food assistance from 140,000 of our neighbors. We should be fighting to lower costs for working families — not spiking prices and financing another tax break for the wealthy.”

    “Republicans are not interested in making life more affordable for American families. Trump’s One, Big, Ugly bill will take away food and rental assistance, and life-saving health care from millions of Americans,” said Barragán. “House Republicans have refused to work with Democrats to deliver solutions that support hardworking Americans. Seniors, children, and veterans will bear the burden of higher costs of food, healthcare, and housing while Trump’s billionaire donors get richer.”

    “Grocery checkout lines and the fear of falling ill are still major sources of financial anxiety for families, yet the Republican response is to give the wealthiest Americans a tax break windfall and pay for it by taking affordable health care and food assistance from millions of people. It’s a cruel, deplorable and fiscally irresponsible response, and we heard that message loud and clear today in Pennsylvania,” said Wasserman Schultz. “Far from lowering costs, Trump’s chaotic economic policies are driving recessionary fears, and Republicans’ ‘Big Ugly Bill’ would steal health care from 16 million Americans and deny food assistance to millions more. The net effect makes life even harder for paycheck-to-paycheck workers.”

    “President Trump promised to lower the cost of living on Day One. He lied,” said Kelly. “Instead, Americans are paying the cost of his shortsighted trade war at the checkout counter while Republicans in Congress attack food assistance and healthcare. This is a recipe for a cost-of-living disaster, yet Republicans’ solution is to give more tax breaks to the well-off and well-connected. I, alongside my Democratic colleagues, will continue to travel across the country to hear directly from the American people and bring their concerns back to Washington with real solutions.”

    The Steering and Policy Committee has gone on the road to hear from the American people, convening a town hall in California and a hearing in Virginia exposing the extreme Republican agenda. The Steering and Policy Committee will continue to travel the nation in the months ahead to reach the American people where they live and hear from them directly.  

    The full video of today’s hearing can be found here. 

    ####

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Sues Coffee House for Refusal to Serve Jewish Customers

    Source: US State of California

    Note: View complaint here.

    The Justice Department announced today that it filed a lawsuit against Fathi Abdulrahim Harara and Native Grounds LLC, the owners of the Jerusalem Coffee House in Oakland, California. The lawsuit alleges that the defendants discriminated against Jewish customers, in violation of Title II of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin in places of public accommodation.

    “It is illegal, intolerable, and reprehensible for any American business open to the public to refuse to serve Jewish customers,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Through our vigorous enforcement of Title II of the Civil Rights Act and other laws prohibiting race and religious discrimination, the Justice Department is committed to combatting anti-Semitism and discrimination and protecting the civil rights of all Americans.”

    The lawsuit, filed today in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleges that defendants discriminated against Jewish customers through policies and practices that denied them the full and equal enjoyment of the Jerusalem Coffee House’s services, accommodations, and privileges. Specifically, the lawsuit alleges that on two separate occasions, Harara ordered Jewish customers — identified because they were wearing baseball caps with Stars of David on them — to leave the coffee house. During one incident, an employee told a Jewish customer who was trying to make a purchase, “You’re the guy with the hat. You’re the Jew. You’re the Zionist.  We don’t want you in our coffee shop. Get out.” During another incident, Harara accused another Jewish customer who was with his five-year-old son of wearing a “Jewish star,” being a “Zionist,” and supporting “genocide.” Harara repeatedly demanded that the customer and his son leave and falsely accused them of “trespassing” to the Oakland police. Neither customer stated anything about their political views to Harara or any other employees while at the coffee house.

    The lawsuit also alleges that, on the one-year anniversary of the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel, the Jerusalem Coffee House announced two new drinks: “Iced In Tea Fada,” an apparent reference to “intifada,” and “Sweet Sinwar,” an apparent reference to Yahya Sinwar, the former leader of Hamas who orchestrated the attacks on Israel. The lawsuit further alleges that the coffee house’s exterior side wall displays inverted red triangles, a symbol of violence against Jews that has been spraypainted on Jewish homes and synagogues in anti-Semitic attacks.

    Under Title II, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division can obtain injunctive relief that changes policies and practices to remedy the discriminatory conduct. Title II does not authorize the division to obtain monetary damages for customers who are victims of discrimination.

    More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt. Individuals may report discrimination in places of public accommodation that violates Title II by calling the Justice Department at 1-833-591-0291, or submitting a report online.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Augustine Business Owner Indicted For Attempting To Produce Child Sexual Abuse Materials

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Jack Dymond Leach (43, St. Augustine) with one count of attempted production of child sexual abuse materials, two counts of receipt of child sexual abuse materials, and one count of possession of child sexual abuse materials. If convicted of the attempted production offense, Leach faces a minimum of 15 years, up to 30 years, in federal prison. For each receipt and possession offense, Leach faces a minimum of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison.  

    According to court documents, Leach engaged in conversations on an online chat platform during which he paid money to receive child sex abuse images. An investigation into the account resulted in Leach being identified. Federal search warrants were executed at Leach’s home and business in St. Augustine where law enforcement seized numerous electronic devices. A forensic examination of the devices reveled child sexual abuse material.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. 

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.

    It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Repeat Offender Who Fired Automatic Weapon into St. Paul Neighborhood Sentenced to 82 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. PAUL, Minn. – After pleading guilty to illegally possessing ammunition as a convicted felon, Jermaine Marquize Williams, 35, of Saint Paul, was sentenced to a total of 82 months’ imprisonment—77 months’ imprisonment on the criminal case and an additional 6 months’ imprisonment consecutive for violating the terms of his federal supervised release, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Joesph H. Thompson.

    “While the people of St. Paul were sleeping in their homes, Williams took an automatic firearm and shot it into the neighborhood,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.  “This conduct was extraordinarily dangerous, utterly brazen, and well-deserving of federal time.”

    According to court documents, in August of 2024, Williams fired off multiple rounds from a fully automatic firearm in a densely populated Saint Paul neighborhood, outside a bar just before midnight.  Video surveillance depicted Williams firing the machine gun out the driver’s side door of his vehicle before fleeing from the scene in his vehicle.  Police recovered multiple discharged casings from the shooting.  Williams has a prior 2019 federal conviction for illegally possessing a firearm as a felon, for which he received 65 months’ imprisonment.  Williams had only been on federal supervised release for six months at the time he committed this crime.

    Williams was sentenced in U.S. District Court on May 28, 2025, before Judge Paul A. Magnuson.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) and the St. Paul Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Bejar prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Sues Coffee House for Refusal to Serve Jewish Customers

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Note: View complaint here.

    The Justice Department announced today that it filed a lawsuit against Fathi Abdulrahim Harara and Native Grounds LLC, the owners of the Jerusalem Coffee House in Oakland, California. The lawsuit alleges that the defendants discriminated against Jewish customers, in violation of Title II of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, or national origin in places of public accommodation.

    “It is illegal, intolerable, and reprehensible for any American business open to the public to refuse to serve Jewish customers,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Through our vigorous enforcement of Title II of the Civil Rights Act and other laws prohibiting race and religious discrimination, the Justice Department is committed to combatting anti-Semitism and discrimination and protecting the civil rights of all Americans.”

    The lawsuit, filed today in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, alleges that defendants discriminated against Jewish customers through policies and practices that denied them the full and equal enjoyment of the Jerusalem Coffee House’s services, accommodations, and privileges. Specifically, the lawsuit alleges that on two separate occasions, Harara ordered Jewish customers — identified because they were wearing baseball caps with Stars of David on them — to leave the coffee house. During one incident, an employee told a Jewish customer who was trying to make a purchase, “You’re the guy with the hat. You’re the Jew. You’re the Zionist.  We don’t want you in our coffee shop. Get out.” During another incident, Harara accused another Jewish customer who was with his five-year-old son of wearing a “Jewish star,” being a “Zionist,” and supporting “genocide.” Harara repeatedly demanded that the customer and his son leave and falsely accused them of “trespassing” to the Oakland police. Neither customer stated anything about their political views to Harara or any other employees while at the coffee house.

    The lawsuit also alleges that, on the one-year anniversary of the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel, the Jerusalem Coffee House announced two new drinks: “Iced In Tea Fada,” an apparent reference to “intifada,” and “Sweet Sinwar,” an apparent reference to Yahya Sinwar, the former leader of Hamas who orchestrated the attacks on Israel. The lawsuit further alleges that the coffee house’s exterior side wall displays inverted red triangles, a symbol of violence against Jews that has been spraypainted on Jewish homes and synagogues in anti-Semitic attacks.

    Under Title II, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division can obtain injunctive relief that changes policies and practices to remedy the discriminatory conduct. Title II does not authorize the division to obtain monetary damages for customers who are victims of discrimination.

    More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at http://www.justice.gov/crt. Individuals may report discrimination in places of public accommodation that violates Title II by calling the Justice Department at 1-833-591-0291, or submitting a report online.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amid Unprecedented Attacks on Veterans and Rising National Security Concerns, Congressmen Chris Deluzio, Pat Ryan, Ted and Lieu Lead 18 Democratic Members of Congress to Launch Veterans Caucus

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressmen Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Pat Ryan (NY-18), and Ted Lieu (CA-36) led 18 House Democratic colleagues in launching the first-ever Democratic Veterans Caucus. 

    Chaired by Congressman Ryan, an Army veteran; Congressman Ted Lieu, an Air Force veteran; and Congressman Chris Deluzio, a Navy veteran, the Democratic Veterans Caucus is composed of members from across the country. The caucus’ formation comes amidst unprecedented security breaches at the Department of Defense, threats to veterans’ health care, and growing national security threats across the globe. 

    Uniting these voices is especially important and timely given the reconciliation fight. President Trump, aided by House Republicans, is trying to push through massive cuts to both Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). 10% of all veterans rely on Medicaid for health care, and there are 1.2 million veterans living in households – alongside seniors and children – who utilize SNAP benefits. 

    “I love this country, and I am proud to join with my fellow veterans and Democrats in the U.S. House. The Democratic Veterans Caucus is a powerful space to do that,” said Congressman Deluzio. “My fellow veterans and I in Congress are ready to go to the mat for America’s veterans and servicemembers and our country’s national security. We swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution, and America needs us now more than ever.” 

    “I refuse to let our draft-dodging President lecture us about what it means to be a Patriot while he cuts veterans’ health care, insults Gold Star families, and installs an incompetent loyalist who is dangerously politicizing the Department of Defense. It’s our duty, as those who have borne the battle, to fight for our fellow veterans and for the country we love so dearly,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “Our loyalty is to no man. It is to the Constitution we swore an oath to protect and defend. Our mission is to deliver for our men and women in uniform and every freedom-loving American.” 

    “Our veterans deserve our gratitude. That is why it is despicable that the Trump Administration is leaving veterans behind,” said Congressman Ted Lieu. “From harmful DOGE cuts at the VA to attempts at rolling back benefits for veterans exposed to toxins, our nation’s heroes are experiencing unprecedented attacks on their care. We’re standing up this Caucus to fight for our veterans and uphold the oath we all took to defend the constitution. I am grateful to work with Reps. Deluzio and Ryan and all the Members in our Caucus to uplift veteran and service member voices.” 

    “Veterans served this country with honor and sacrifice. They kept their promises to defend our freedom, and now it’s our duty to keep our promises to them,” said Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. “As a former Navy helicopter pilot, I am disgusted by the Trump Administration’s decision to cut their health care and food assistance to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. It is a betrayal not just of our veterans, but of the values this nation stands for. This caucus was formed to unite those of us who have worn the uniform and to fight back against these attacks. I will continue to stand in the breach to protect the care and services our veterans have earned.” 

    “America is the land of the free because we are home to generations of brave veterans. We have a sacred obligation to fight for these patriots in the face of the Trump Administration’s cruel and senseless cuts to critical healthcare and lifesaving services,” said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), who served as an intelligence officer for more than a decade in the Navy Reserve. “Veterans from New Hampshire and across the country deserve fighters in the United States Congress, and that is what this caucus is all about.” 

    “As an Army Ranger and paratrooper, I learned the ethos of servant leadership. True leaders jump out of the plane first, and always eat last. But that’s not the leadership we’re seeing from President Trump. Instead, we’re seeing Republicans cut veterans benefits and take away health care and food assistance in order to give the wealthiest Americans a massive tax break. It’s wrong for working families and our servicemembers. As a veteran and now a Democratic Member of Congress, I’m fighting back,” said Congressman Crow. 

    “Veterans need a united front to protect the benefits that they have earned,” said Rep. Panetta.  “At a time when we have an Administration that is cutting benefits, this caucus brings together Members who have served in uniform to ensure that the federal government upholds its commitment to defending the rights, benefits, and dignity of our fellow veterans. Fortunately, we know how to fight those who threaten our values and veterans’ services because we are committed to serving those who served our country.” 

    “Our veterans have given so much to our country, and for this Administration to cut and dismantle programs that benefit them and their families is simply disgraceful,” said Congressman Conaway. “While my Republican colleagues stand by and watch, this caucus serves as a coalition of former service members ready to push back. Every member of this caucus knows what it means to serve, and we will use our voices to ensure that promises made to veterans are promises kept.” 

    “When I joined the U.S. Army, I took an oath to defend the Constitution. As a member of Congress, I am honored to represent the 72,000 veterans in the Seventh District. Sadly, we have a Commander-in-Chief whose incompetence and chaos put American lives at risk and hurts our veterans,” said Vindman. “That’s why my Democratic colleagues who’ve worn the uniform and I are standing together and speaking out. We have a duty to defend the values and people that make America the greatest country in the world — and to ensure that no one, not even the President, gets away with undermining them.” 

    “I joined the Army Reserves when I was 18 because I felt it was my duty to give back to the country that gave me and my family so much. My parents fled communist Vietnam in search of freedom and democracy, and because America welcomed them, our family could not only survive but thrive. I am proud to join my fellow Veterans in the House Democratic caucus to stand up for all Veterans at a time when they are seeing their benefits cut, their expertise ignored, and their federal jobs terminated,” said Rep. Derek Tran (CA-45). “I was proud that the first bill I introduced as a Member of Congress was the Protect Veteran Jobs Act, to protect the livelihoods of Veterans who have served our country honorably and who continue to do so through civilian service. Our veterans have always had our backs, the Democratic Veterans Caucus will always step up to have theirs.” 

    “As a Marine, I will not stand by while Donald Trump insults our veterans and dismantles the services and benefits they rightfully earned,” said Congressman Salud Carbajal. “We have a responsibility to care for the heroes who defended our rights and freedoms. This Administration has abandoned this sacred duty through reckless actions, like rolling back the PACT Act and allowing DOGE to attack the VA. It’s heartless, cruel, and un-American. That’s why I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to launch the Democratic Veterans Caucus.” 

    “President Trump is not a veteran but that hasn’t stopped him from creating chaos and uncertainty in the lives of those who are. From threatening veterans’ health care to pushing reckless cuts to the benefits they’ve earned, the Trump administration has treated our community like collateral damage in a partisan agenda,” said Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan. “As a veteran, a Member of Congress, and a proud advocate for those who’ve worn the uniform, I believe we have a sacred obligation to protect and honor our veterans—not undermine their health, dignity, or security. The launch of the Democratic Veterans Caucus couldn’t come at a more urgent moment. We are stepping up and stepping in to ensure veterans receive the care, respect, and support they’ve rightfully earned.” 

    “In the Marines, we were taught that you can fail a run and come back the next day—but if you lie, you’re out. Veterans, and all Americans, deserve leaders who tell the truth, and who respect service and sacrifice,” said Congressman Seth Moulton. “Yet Donald Trump and his Republican allies lie every day about their commitment to the military and the veteran community. Democratic veterans in Congress aren’t afraid to call out the hypocrisy—and fight to make sure no one who served this country is left behind. I’m proud to be part of this new caucus and I’m looking forward to getting started.” 

    “As a combat veteran with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vietnam and as a Purple Heart recipient, I know our nation’s responsibility to our men and women in uniform,” said Congressman Mike Thompson. “Make no mistake: by firing over 80,000 VA staff, many of them veterans, this Administration isn’t just hurting us and our families — they are making every American worse off. Proud to join the Democratic Veterans Caucus as a founding member to continue our fight to protect those who have served our nation.” 

    “As a Navy veteran, I’m appalled by the President’s assault on veterans and their families,” said Congressman Gil Cisneros. “I’ve seen firsthand the detrimental effects of this administration on our veteran community. From cutting health care and veteran benefits to disparaging the honor of those who have served, the attacks from the President are un-American and vile. I stand firmly with my colleagues in the Democratic Veterans Caucus and know we will fight to protect the honor of veterans, their health care, mental health care, and their families.” 

    “I am proud to represent one of the largest veterans’ populations in the country,” said Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03). “As a veteran of the National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve, I look forward to continuing my work protecting America’s veterans, especially their health care, with the launch of the Democratic Veterans Caucus.” 

    Members of the Democratic Veterans Caucus Include: 

    1. Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA) – Marine Corps Reserve 
    2. Rep. Gil Cisneros (CA) – Navy 
    3. Rep. Herb Conaway (NJ) – Air Force 
    4. Rep. Jason Crow (CO) – Army 
    5. Rep. Don Davis (NC) – Air Force 
    6. Rep. Chris Deluzio (PA) – Navy 
    7. Rep. Jared Golden (ME) – Marine Corps 
    8. Rep. Maggie Goodlander (NH) – Navy Reserve
    9. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (PA) – Air Force 
    10. Rep. Ted Lieu (CA) – Air Force 
    11. Rep. Seth Moulton (MA) – Marine Corps 
    12. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA) – Navy Reserve 
    13. Rep. Pat Ryan (NY) – Army 
    14. Rep. Bobby Scott (VA) – Army 
    15. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (NJ) – Navy
    16. Rep. Mike Thompson (CA) – Army 
    17. Rep. Derek Tran (CA) – Army 
    18. Rep. Eugene Vindman (VA) – Army 

    Congressman Deluzio is a U.S. Navy veteran, deployed to Iraq and at sea, and is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy. He is a member of the House Armed Services Committee. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Hedgehog poo could hold important secrets about local biodiversity

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sophie Lund Rasmussen, Research fellow in Ecology and Conservation, University of Oxford

    Jayne Morgan

    Biodiversity, the rich variety of life found on Earth, is vanishing. I’m a conservation scientist keen to monitor this loss to better understand where efforts to reverse it will be most effective. And I might have hit on a novel solution.

    I study European hedgehogs, the popular spiky mammals that inhabit our gardens. Hedgehog populations are declining massively, with an estimated loss of up to 75% in the rural areas of the UK during the past 25 years.

    Thanks to insights gained in my research, I, Dr Hedgehog, believe that this species could be helpful for mapping wider biodiversity. More specifically, its poo.

    One probable cause of the decline in hedgehogs is a decline in insects, which form a major part of their diet. During my many nights of radio-tracking hedgehogs, I came up with the idea of analysing environmental DNA (eDNA) contained in samples of hedgehog poo to discover what the hedgehogs are eating and through that, what’s living locally.

    The eDNA method could reveal genetic traces of all organisms present in the samples in a single analysis. And, as we’ll see, these prickly mammals have a surprisingly liberal diet.

    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.

    Due to the loss of natural habitats, hedgehogs are increasingly living in gardens, and this is where the battle to save the hedgehog will take place. My research showed that European hedgehogs in residential areas normally visit ten to 14 gardens a night.

    Here, they eat a wide selection of prey, primarily insects, snails, slugs and worms, but also birds’ eggs (from ground-nesting birds – they don’t climb trees). They are scavengers too, and will munch on all sorts of dead animals.

    What most people don’t realise is that these adorable little creatures are also ferocious predators. If they can get their paws (or perhaps more correctly, their jaws) on live prey, they will eat chicks that have fallen out of nests or amphibians such as salamanders, newts and frogs. They are excellent swimmers and sometimes catch fish in garden ponds.

    I have seen hedgehogs taking on adult pigeons or full-sized chickens, and winning. Hedgehogs also sometimes chew on the faeces of foxes and lick the saliva onto their spines, probably with the purpose of masking their scent against predators.

    Prickly, but not picky.
    Nojafoto/Shutterstock

    We are not sure whether hedgehogs eat fruit and plants intentionally, or if they are actually after the worms or insects living on them – hedgehogs are officially categorised as “insectivores” – but vegetation shows up in the stomachs of dead hedgehogs too. The DNA from plants ingested by the insects, worms and snails eaten by hedgehogs, will also show up in an analysis of hedgehog poo.

    In terms of a guide to local biodiversity, hedgehogs are the full package.

    Hedgehogs live and forage in a small area. They poop a lot, and their faeces are easy to recognise and collect. If we keep the hedgehog population going, we won’t run out of sample material any time soon.

    Before DNA analysis was invented, it was very difficult to determine the diet of a hedgehog, because a slug is reduced to nothing after a trip through its digestive tract, and it’s hard to identify a species from a chewed-off beetle leg. In contrast, it only takes a tiny fragment of a species to show up in an eDNA analysis of hedgehog faeces, so imagine what we could discover.

    In these times of drastic biodiversity loss, we need to establish good and reliable methods for monitoring biodiversity. An analysis of a hedgehog poo could even reveal elusive species which may have been categorised as extinct in the area.

    My idea of biodiversity monitoring through hedgehog poo has spawned ridicule and numerous rejection letters for funding applications. I refused to let it stop me. So I have created a crowdfunding campaign where you can support the research by purchasing a hedgehog poo and getting a certificate. I have 800 hedgehog faecal samples collected from all over Denmark, England and Scotland, stored in a freezer ready to be analysed.

    The work has begun, and my colleagues and I have found some very interesting results already. One is the remarkable scarcity of bird DNA in hedgehog faecal samples collected from islands, where hedgehogs are accused of posing a threat to ground-nesting birds by eating their eggs. We are confident that our method works as we tested it beforehand by feeding quail eggs to hedgehogs, and found lots of bird DNA in the samples.

    When I have managed to raise the remaining funds, we will continue the investigation.

    This is the story of how I discovered that hedgehog droppings are gold. If you would like to know more, watch my talk on the subject here.

    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.

    Sophie Lund Rasmussen 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. Hedgehog poo could hold important secrets about local biodiversity – https://theconversation.com/hedgehog-poo-could-hold-important-secrets-about-local-biodiversity-256644

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s use of the national guard against LA protesters defies all precedents

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sinead McEneaney, Senior Lecturer in History, The Open University

    Violence has erupted on the streets of cities across southern California over the weekend, as protesters clashed with agents from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency detaining people they suspected to be illegal immigrants. The US president, Donald Trump, took the unusual decision on Saturday to deploy 2,000 troops from California’s national guard, despite not being requested to by the state’s governor, Gavin Newsom.

    Newsom has threatened to sue Trump over what he has called “an illegal act, an immoral act, an unconstitutional act”. Other California officials have also denounced the move, with Senator Adam Schiff calling it a “dangerous precedent for unilateral misuse of the guard across the country”.

    Raids by ICE agents have increased significantly since mid-May when the Trump administration threatened to fire senior ICE officials if they did not deliver on higher arrest quotas. Several high-profile wrongful arrests of US citizens have further inflamed tensions.

    Protests have escalated in California, a Democratic stronghold and a “sanctuary state” where local law enforcement does not cooperate with ICE to detain illegal immigrants.

    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.

    At around 24,000 troops, California’s national guard is the largest in the United States. Each state has its own national guard unit, a reserve force under the control of the governor which can be called upon in times of crisis – often to help out during natural disasters or other emergencies. For example, in January, Newsom activated several thousand troops to aid relief work during the devastating fires that threatened Los Angeles.

    In 1992, the then president, George H.W. Bush, backed the call of the then governor of California, Pete Wilson, call to deploy national guard members to quell the South Central LA riots.

    Now troops are back on the streets of LA. But this time not at the behest of the governor. Trump’s unilateral decision to take federal control over the national guard pits the president against the state of California – and importantly, against a state that has constantly resisted his anti-immigrant agenda. Newsom is seen by many as a possible contender for the Democratic Party’s nomination in the 2028 presidential election.

    Historical precedents

    Is there a precedent for this? Yes and no. The Insurrection Act (passed in 1807, but revised several times) authorises the president to call on the national guard in times of crisis or war to supplement state and local forces. This has been codified in title 10 of the US Code, which details the laws of the land.

    In 1871, the law was revised to specifically allow for the national guard to be used in the protection of civil rights for black Americans. Legal experts have long called for reform of the Insurrection Act, arguing that the language is too vague and open to misuse.

    In the past, former US presidents, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson all invoked different sections of the Act to protect civil rights, particularly against segregationist states. While the act implies consent between governor and president, it does not require it.

    Two examples stand out. On June 11 1963, John F. Kennedy issued executive order 11111 mobilising the national guard to protect desegregation of the University of Alabama, against the wishes of Alabama governor George Wallace.

    Wallace’s determination to block the registration of two black students, Vivian Malone and James Hood, produced a produced a sensational media moment when Wallace physically blocked the entrance of the university. Local law enforcement stood by the governor. With the state of Alabama in defiance of federal law, Kennedy saw no alternative but to deploy the guard.

    Less than two years later, in March 1965 Lyndon B. Johnson again deployed the guard in Alabama, bypassing Governor Wallace. In February, a state trooper in the town of Marion killed a young voters-rights activist, Jimmie Lee Jackson.

    This shooting, along with several violent attacks by the local police on voter registration activists in Selma, inspired a series of marches in support of the 1965 voting rights bill. On the eve of the march from Selma to Montgomery, tensions between local police and civil rights protesters were at a high.

    Civil rights activists, including Martin Luther King Jr, lead a march from Selma to Montgomery in Alabama, March 1965, to support the right to safe voter registration.
    Wikimedia Commons

    In response, Johnson bypassed Wallace and called in the national guard to ensure, as he put it, the rights of Americans “to walk peaceably and safely without injury or loss of life from Selma to Montgomery”.

    Before last Saturday, this was the last time a president circumvented the authority of the state governor in deploying the guard. But even in this instance, there was an implied request from Wallace, who explicitly requested federal aid in the absence of state resources.

    The subtext here is that Wallace did not want to be seen to call up the national guard himself, so he forced Johnson to make that decision, allowing him to claim that the president was trampling on state sovereignty.

    Insurrection Act

    This is not the current situation in California. The LAPD is the third largest police force in the US, with over just under 9,000 sworn officers. While its ranks have shrunk in recent years, it has been responding to the recent protests and unrest. There is no reason to think that Newsom would hesitate to call in the national guard if warranted.

    In reality, Trump has invoked the Insurrection Act to protect ICE agents. Indeed, the national guard has a complicated history of responding to civil unrest. The current situation is in stark contrast with the past, and faces serious questions of legitimacy.

    It is difficult not to see this as the latest move by the Trump administration to subjugate California. In early January Trump threatened to withhold federal aid to rebuild after the wildfires. In past months he threatened to withdraw all of the state’s federal funding to punish it for its stance on campus protests and the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports.

    Unlike his predecessors, Trump has not mobilised the national guard to protect civil rights against a hostile police force. Instead, he appears to be using this as leverage to undermine a political opponent he views as blocking his agenda. Circumventing gubernatorial powers over the national guard in this way has no precedent and heralds the next stage in an extended conflict between the president and the state of California.

    Sinead McEneaney 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. Trump’s use of the national guard against LA protesters defies all precedents – https://theconversation.com/trumps-use-of-the-national-guard-against-la-protesters-defies-all-precedents-258486

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Shoemaker Clarks is turning 200. Its Quaker roots made it a pioneer of ethical business

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nicholas Burton, Professor, Department of Leadership and Human Resource Management, Northumbria University, Newcastle

    DELBO ANDREA/Shutterstock

    For many, the Clarks brand is a byword for sturdy school shoes and functional footwear for those of more mature years. The manufacturing and retailing company was set up two centuries ago in Somerset, England, in the shadows of Glastonbury Tor, by brothers Cyrus and James Clark. In 2025, it is celebrating its 200th anniversary and remains a formidable force both on the high street and online.

    Less well known is that the Clark brothers, like chocolatier families Cadbury and Rowntree, were Quakers. This small religious community has produced a remarkable and disproportionate number of scientists, thinkers and campaigners for justice, peace and human rights. In addition, its contribution of ethical businesses has dominated many industries in the UK.

    The Lloyds and Barclays of the banking dynasties were Quakers. The Jacobs (of biscuits and crackers fame) were Quakers. So were the Rathbones (fund management), the Penroses (founders of Waterford Crystal) and the Waterhouse family (accountancy), to name just a few.

    The Quakers – more formally known as the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) – have a history of nearly 400 years in Britain and the US. While Quakerism has Christian foundations, Quakers also emphasise moral commitments to peace, truth, integrity, simplicity and equality – the five testimonies in Quaker theology. These came to define how Quakers approach the world, and their businesses.

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    As early Quakers were deemed radical and challenged the established church, they became persecuted by the state during the 17th century. They were excluded from political and public life, as well as from universities. Perhaps as a direct consequence, Quakers became highly active entrepreneurs and came to dominate many industries through a combination of their testimonies and outward entrepreneurial action.

    This led to the reputation that Quaker firms had for trustworthiness and integrity. Their impact was perhaps so acute as to represent a distinctive form of ethical entrepreneurship.

    While not all Quakers were engaged in commerce, and not all those who were succeeded, a disproportionate number did. Such commercial success is all the more intriguing, as the Quakers were a very small (and, from the mid-18th century, declining) minority of the UK population (about 20,000 in total today).

    Zero-waste beginnings

    Quaker values and the entrepreneurial spirit are woven through the history of Clarks. For example, the original business idea by James in 1825 to produce sheepskin slippers was born of a desire to eliminate waste, with slippers produced from off-cuts of sheepskin rugs.

    Like many Quaker businesses, Clarks has always supported social and environmental causes. Family members took a central role in the anti-abolitionist movement and in women’s suffrage.

    It also invested a proportion of its profits in local community amenities, such as building homes, constructing classrooms, funding a theatre, a library, an open-air swimming pool, a town hall and playing fields near the company’s base in Street, Somerset.

    Today, Clarks continues to play an active community role. It champions corporate responsibility and high sustainability criteria in its business operations and supply chains. This focus draws interesting parallels with the modern social enterprise sector, and ethical, purpose-driven business accreditation schemes such as B Corporation status, which assesses profit-making firms on their environmental, social and governance credentials.

    The moral commitments of the members of the Clarks family in these formative years of the firm have left their mark and shaped its later development. The 200-year history of the firm represents a close affinity between the values of the company and the values of Quakers.

    A classic – the Clarks Wallabee shoe.
    Rushay/Shutterstock

    However, all firms from time to time face challenges to the way they do business. The balance between economics and ethics can be a fine line to tread. It’s no different for Clarks. Struggling to survive the impact of the COVID pandemic in 2020, and with losses mounting, the Clark family sold its stake to a private equity firm.

    Within 12 months, Clarks workers accused the new owners of betraying the company’s philanthropic roots by threatening them with dismissal if they did not accept significant pay cuts. Clarks said at the time that renegotiating workers’ terms would be a “very last resort” and that almost half of the workers in the distribution centre in question would receive a pay rise.

    The dispute involved strike action and mediation, eventually leading to a resolution. Afterwards, Clarks said in a joint statement with the Community union that the resolution had protected workers’ livelihoods and recognised their loyalty to the firm.

    This demonstrated how firms can face repeated cycles of crises, including competitive, financial and economic shocks that bring debates about ethics into focus. These crisis events are typically more acute when a founder, CEO or family departs, and especially when those involved with the company honour its tradition and legacy. Rathbones, the fund management company with Quaker origins, was faced with similar challenges when the family was no longer actively involved.

    Yet despite the economic and financial pressures that Clarks faced in this exceptional period, the firm is also attempting to protect the core of its moral backbone. It echoes an affinity – albeit a more distant one – with the Quakerism of the founding family.

    This stance can potentially be fragile, however. Businesses must remain viable as businesses – and only last year Clarks was facing up to a difficult trading environment by cutting 150 office staff. Indeed, the previous conversation within the firm and the community about betrayal clearly expresses a strong moral view, shaped by the links to Quaker values. It is also a conversation about the future strength of those ties, and one that places values at the heart of its future.

    Nicholas Burton 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. Shoemaker Clarks is turning 200. Its Quaker roots made it a pioneer of ethical business – https://theconversation.com/shoemaker-clarks-is-turning-200-its-quaker-roots-made-it-a-pioneer-of-ethical-business-258323

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Keir Starmer says migrants should learn English to integrate. Is he being fair?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Huw Lewis, Senior Lecturer in Politics, Aberystwyth University

    Pressmaster/Shutterstock

    The UK government’s proposed immigration reforms emphasise the need for migrants to learn English in order to integrate successfully.

    Some of the new measures announced include raising the level of English language skills required from migrants that wish to work in the UK.

    Those who wish to settle permanently will also need to demonstrate a stronger grasp of English. In the future they may also be asked to demonstrate how their command of the language has improved since they arrived.

    Since the New Labour years, successive UK governments have justified the link between learning English and integration by appealing to British values, social mobility or even national security and anti-extremism.

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    Yet in a press conference to launch the reforms, Keir Starmer adopted a different line. He argued that linguistic integration should be viewed as a matter of “fairness”.

    “When people come to our country, they should also commit to integration, to learning our language, and our system should actively distinguish between those that do and those that don’t,” Starmer said. “I think that’s fair.”

    In linking learning English with fairness, Starmer seems to be making a claim about the ethics of linguistic integration. However, his remarks frame this as a one-sided deal. Migrants must meet English language requirements to earn the right to stay in the UK.

    No mention is made of the possibility that fairness in this context may also entail an obligation on government, or society more broadly, to take steps to ensure that learning English is a practical option for all migrants.

    The government’s proposed reforms related to learning English adopt a similar approach. They include a series of steps that will be taken to increase the level of English competence expected from those settling in the UK.

    But aside from a vague commitment to improve access to English language classes, the government has not proposed detailed measures to help migrants to meet these language demands.

    This is despite the fact that researchers and practitioners working in the field of language education for migrants have long argued that access to learning English for speakers of other languages is highly uneven and chronically underfunded.

    It is not unreasonable for a society to set out certain broad obligations for migrants as part of the integration process, such as learning a common public language. This is now relatively common across many European democracies.

    What’s more, for those who settle in the UK from countries where English is not spoken, acquiring the language will support efforts to enter the labour market and simplify the challenge of navigating new health, social security, housing and education systems.

    Access to language learning can help people enter the job market.
    Antonio Guillem/Shutterstock

    However, if Keir Starmer is concerned with fairness, then he should arguably consider how integration can be understood as a two-way process. This would mean acknowledging that there are roles and responsibilities for the government and citizens of the host society, as well as for migrants.

    This is particularly relevant when considering the role of language in integration because applied linguistic research shows that second-language acquisition can be a difficult task. Success varies according to factors that are not necessarily within the control of individual learners, such as age, level of education and wealth.

    Inclusive integration

    More nuanced understandings of linguistic integration also stress that the process should not be viewed as one where the aim is for migrants simply to not stand out linguistically.

    Rather, the aim should be to help migrants – many of whom may already be multilingual – to adjust their linguistic repertoires in a way that allows them to settle in their new communities.

    Alongside opportunities to acquire languages deemed essential for employment and engagement with public bodies, this may also entail opportunities to access other languages that play a role in the social life of the host society.

    For example, including the Welsh language as part of provision for speakers of other languages in Wales has been seen as a way to develop a distinct sense of belonging.

    Furthermore, the process of linguistic integration should acknowledge the languages that migrants bring with them. As they build a new life, they should be afforded space to reflect on what role these languages will play in their social interactions.

    This type of approach potentially offers a more inclusive route to linguistic integration. It affirms newcomers as valued members of society, not just as learners but also as contributors to the social and cultural life of their new communities.

    Huw Lewis is currently contributing to a Leverhulme-funded research project entitled The Ethics of Linguistic Integration

    Gwennan Higham is currently contributing to a Leverhulme-funded research project entitled The Ethics of Linguistic Integration

    Leigh Oakes is currently the Principal Investigator on a Leverhulme-funded research project entitled the Ethics of Linguistic Integration

    – ref. Keir Starmer says migrants should learn English to integrate. Is he being fair? – https://theconversation.com/keir-starmer-says-migrants-should-learn-english-to-integrate-is-he-being-fair-256743

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –