Austin, TX, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a bold new vision titled “America Must Win the Energy War—Here is How We Reinvent the Grid Before It Breaks Us,”Akhtar lays out a national imperative to transform the power grid from a vulnerable utility into an intelligent, sovereign infrastructure system. The stakes, he argues, are nothing less than national security.
“America’s freedom does not run on ideology—it runs on electrons. And our grid is dangerously brittle,” Akhtar warns. “The next war will be fought not just with bombs and boots—but with bits and volts.”
From Utility to Battlefield: The New Energy Doctrine
The U.S. power grid—centralized, outdated, and opaque—is increasingly failing under the strain of climate events, cyber threats, and growing demand from electric vehicles and digital infrastructure. Akhtar contends that America’s energy system must adopt the mindset and strategy of military defense: speed, autonomy, and coordination.
CrowdPoint Technologies’ answer? Optimal Energy™—a next-generation energy intelligence platform that turns traditional infrastructure into a synchronized, software-defined Virtual Power Plant (VPP).
“We don’t just move power—we command it,” says Akhtar. “This is energy as orchestration. Every home, EV, battery, and data center becomes a sovereign, real-time node in a larger battlefield strategy.”
Software as Strategic Defense
Unlike conventional grid upgrades that rely on massive physical infrastructure projects, CrowdPoint’s platform uses edge-based intelligence and predictive software to forecast, allocate, and route energy based on microsecond decision-making. The system behaves more like a financial market than a utility—anticipating spikes, preventing failures, and maximizing value.
The platform’s capabilities include:
Microsecond-level control of energy dispatch
Distributed autonomy at the edge
AI-driven demand forecasting
Military-grade coordination across vast energy assets
Real-time anomaly detection and preemptive rerouting
“This is not about disruption—it’s about elevation. We’re elevating electrons into assets, software into defense, and power into sovereignty,” said Akhtar.
The New Eisenhower Moment
Echoing the transformative impact of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s, Akhtar calls for a modern equivalent: a national grid modernization doctrine built through strong public-private collaboration.
“Just like highways once unified and protected America, an intelligent, adaptive energy network must do the same today,” he said. “What we need now is federal alignment—fast-tracked approvals, strategic infrastructure prioritization, and a wartime mindset.”
Why It Matters Now
As adversaries like China invest in resilient, decentralized energy architectures, the U.S. risks being left behind—or worse, exposed. With the grid now a strategic vulnerability, Akhtar emphasizes that energy independence is no longer about generation—it’s about control.
“This is not a green dream—it’s a red, white, and blue necessity,” he asserts. “America must win the energy war—not just for comfort, but for continuity. Not just for savings, but for sovereignty.”
The Mission: Make America Unbreakable
CrowdPoint is calling on stakeholders in government, utilities, and industry to adopt its blueprint and move with urgency. The technology exists. The threat is clear. The only question that remains is whether the nation is ready to act.
“If the grid fails, the Republic falters. Energy is destiny. The mission is simple: Make America Unbreakable.”
WASHINGTON, DC – Fannie Mae (FNMA/OTCQB) plans to report its second quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday morning, July 30, 2025, before the opening of U.S. financial markets.
Fannie Mae has scheduled a webcast to discuss the company’s results at 8:00 a.m., ET, on July 30, 2025.
Prior to the webcast, the company’s second quarter 2025 earnings news release, quarterly report on Form 10-Q, earnings presentation to accompany the webcast, and other supplemental information will be available on the company’s Quarterly and Annual Results webpage at fanniemae.com/financialresults. Following the webcast, a transcript will be published to the same webpage.
WEBCAST PARTICIPATION DETAILS – Fannie Mae Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results
Event day and time Wednesday, July 30, 2025 8:00 AM (ET)
Click on the link above to attend the presentation from your laptop, tablet, or mobile device. The webcast will stream through your selected device. If you have difficulty accessing the webcast, please click the “Listen by Phone” button on the webcast player and dial the number provided.
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
For Immediate Release: July 25, 2025
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating the death of an 8-year-old boy who received Elevidys, a Sarepta Therapeutics gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The death occurred on June 7, 2025. The FDA has requested and received voluntary suspension of product distribution as it investigates the safety concerns. Elevidys is an adeno-associated virus vector-based gene therapy using Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc.’s AAVrh74 Platform Technology for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The product is administered as a single intravenous dose. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare genetic condition characterized by progressive muscular weakness. The disease occurs due to a defective gene.
Consumer:888-INFO-FDA
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Boilerplate
The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.
Greensboro, NC, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leap Local, a digital marketing company dedicated to supporting local businesses, has launched its new Map Pack SEO service. The service is designed to improve visibility in Google’s Local 3-Pack, helping businesses attract more customers without relying on paid ads.
The Map Pack SEO service includes two flexible plans—Starter and Pro—based on the competition level in a business’s local area. Both plans focus on Google Business Profile optimization, high-impact local SEO, and automated strategies that use AI to boost ranking and engagement.
“We created this for businesses that want real results from local search,” said Zack Ellington, founder of Leap Local. “We’re focused on practical SEO that gets more calls and visits—without the need for a big budget.”
Plan Highlights Include:
Optimization of 1 Google Business Profile
Tracking up to 10 geo-grid keywords with Leap Local’s Local Rank Tracker
350+ citations across local directories
Simulated activity to improve profile engagement
AI-powered automation tools
Monthly reporting and strategy updates
The Starter plan is built for businesses in less competitive spaces—like family dentists, florists, cleaners, and cafes—while the Pro plan is ideal for saturated markets including roofers, med spas, HVAC, and attorneys.
To learn more or request a free Local Rank Tracker scan, visit leaplocal.com.
About Leap Local
Leap Local helps small businesses improve their visibility on Google Maps and local search. We use AI and automation to streamline local SEO, optimize your Google Business Profile, and track rankings across nearby areas. Our goal is to help local businesses scale their operations and make it easier for nearby customers to find and contact them—without relying on ads.
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
July 25, 2025
The Senate Appropriations Committee passed Interior, Environment, & Related Agencies; and Transportation, Housing, & Urban Development, & Related Agencies government funding bills
SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) announced that the Senate Appropriations Committee advanced a funding bill for Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, as well as for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26). Durbin and Duckworth worked to secure various priorities for Illinois in the appropriations bills, both through Congressionally Directed Spending requests and through the programmatic appropriations process.
“It is the responsibility of Congress to fund our government programs and agencies through the appropriations process. Rather than rely on continuing resolutions, I hope that we can prioritize a true bipartisan process to pass these funding bills through the Senate in a timely process,” said Durbin. “While the Trump Administration continues to drain resources from critical programs, I will fight for the funding and support for the programs Illinoisans rely on.”
“Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our communities and families—and that’s what these bipartisan funding bills do,” Duckworth said. “Appropriating federal funding is the primary role of Congress, and it’s critical this responsibility remains in the legislative branch. I’m proud I was able to help secure critical support for projects throughout Illinois that help modernize our state’s infrastructure, clean up our water, improve accessibility and more.”
The two funding bills include the following Illinois priorities secured by Congressionally Directed Spending requests:
Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies
· City of Chester, Chester, Illinois. $1.2 million to the City of Chester to help fund the Route 150 water main replacement.
· City of Markham, Markham, Illinois. $1.5 million to the City of Markham to help fund water system infrastructure improvements.
· Infrastructure Improvements, Lockport, Illinois. $250,000 to the Bonnie Brae Forest Manor Sanitary District to fund water main infrastructure improvement projects.
· Lead Service Line Replacements, Chicago, Illinois. $2 million to the City of Chicago to replace more than 200 lead service lines. Chicago has more lead service lines than any other municipality in the country and the majority of properties in Chicago receive their water from lead service lines.
· Lead Service Line Replacements, Macomb, Illinois. $1 million to the City of Macomb to replace lead drinking water service lines in various locations throughout the City.
· PFAS Remediation, Rockford, Illinois: $1 million to Winnebago County to help fund water infrastructure upgrades to address PFAS contamination in Rockford.
· Stormwater and Flooding Mitigation Project, Carbondale, Illinois. $1.5 million for the City of Carbondale to replace storm sewer piping. The failing pipes cause frequent flooding during significant rain events and is also causing pavement failures on an arterial street that is heavily traveled.
· Wastewater Improvements, Paris, Illinois. $500,000 to the City of Paris to help fund wastewater treatment plant upgrades.
· Water Main Extension, Winnebago County, Illinois. $600,000 to Winnebago County to extend a water main to provide water to additional areas of the County.
· Water Main Improvements, Park Forest, Illinois. $1.45 million to the Village of Park Forest to replace the highest priority water main.
· Water Main Replacement, Springfield, Illinois. $900,000 to the City of Springfield to replace a water main on South Seventh Street in downtown Springfield. The water main was installed in 1931 and has had 27 breaks and is need of replacement. The main serves the historic downtown Springfield area, including Lincoln’s Home National Historic Site Visitor Center, the Illinois State Police Memorial Park, Springfield Clinic, and the Elijah Iles House.
· Well Reconstruction and Water Treatment, Machesney Park and Roscoe, Illinois. $1 million to North Park Public Water District for the reconstruction of Roscoe and Machesney Park’s well to accommodate PFAS treatment. This funding will ensure continued access to a reliable source of safe, plentiful, and affordable drinking water for the communities of Machesney Park and Roscoe in Winnebago County, Illinois.
Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies
· Accessibility Upgrades, Chicago, Illinois. $750,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago to help fund accessibility upgrades at the Boys and Girls Club True Value in Little Village.
· Affordable Housing, Edwardsville, Illinois. $1 million to Home First Housing to help expand affordable housing units in Edwardsville.
· Affordable Housing, Joliet, Illinois: $1 million to Volunteers of America Illinois to help fund the expansion of Hope Manor Village Joliet’s housing development initiative.
· Capital Improvements, Chicago, Illinois. $500,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago to make capital improvements at the Bartlett J. McCartin Boys & Girls Club in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago.
· City of Marseilles, Marseilles, Illinois. $1.5 million to the City of Marseilles to help fund the Sycamore Street Bridge rehabilitation.
· Construction of the National Institute for Advanced Manufacturing, Chicago, Illinois. $2.5 million to Illinois Institute of Technology to fund construction of a facility to serve as the National Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (NIAM). The NIAM on IIT’s Bronzeville Campus will train more than 4,000 students in advanced manufacturing fields through in-person instruction and online curricula.
· Economic Hub Project, Carbondale, Illinois. $693,000 to Carbondale Community Arts, Inc. (d.b.a. Artspace 304) to make facility improvements for an economic hub.
· Equipment Upgrades, Chicago, Illinois. $722,000 to Navy Pier Inc. to upgrade the Pier’s surveillance apparatus to ensure the safety of the Pier’s guests and businesses.
· Environmental Justice Institute, Chicago, Illinois. $900,000 to People for Community Recovery to help fund the development of the Hazel M. Johnson Institute for Sustainability and Environmental Justice.
· Facilities Improvements and Technology Upgrades, Carbondale, Illinois. $500,000 to Southern Illinois University’s (SIU) Center for Teaching Excellence to revitalize learning spaces at the SIU campus and community colleges throughout Southern Illinois.
· Facility Improvements, Springfield, Illinois. $450,000 to the Lincoln Presidential Foundation for facility improvements at the Visitor Center at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.
· Fire Truck, North Chicago, Illinois. $861,000 to the City of North Chicago to purchase a new fire truck, as the City’s current fire truck has exceeded its useful life by nearly 10 years.
· Food Security Project, Hamilton, Illinois. $2.5 million to the City of Hamilton to establish a rural health village, in partnership with Memorial Hospital, to address food insecurities in the region by offering meal subscription/prescription programming, home-delivered meals, and more.
· Infrastructure Developments, Chicago, Illinois: $1.6 million to North Lawndale Catalyst Impact Initiative, Inc. to help fund infrastructure developments in Chicago’s North Lawndale community.
· Infrastructure Updates, Mascoutah, Illinois. $4 million to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport to help fund infrastructure upgrades at airport.
· Land Remediation, Will County, Illinois. $3 million to the State of Illinois, in coordination with the State of Michigan, to remediate 3.6 acres of land on the bank of the channel of the Des Plaines River needed for construction of the Brandon Road Lock and Dam Interbasin Project.
· Station Improvements, Macomb, Illinois. $134,000 to the Illinois Department of Transportation to make improvements to Macomb’s Amtrak Station, including HVAC upgrades, electrical work, and painting.
· Supportive Housing Development, Arlington Heights, Illinois. $750,000 to Full Circle Communities for construction of a housing development to support veterans and people with disabilities.
· Track Reconstruction Design, Chicago, Illinois. $2 million to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) to fund design of track reconstruction of CTA’s Blue Line Forest Park Branch from Western Avenue to Lathrop Avenue, a roughly 6.5-mile section of the line. This reconstruction is needed in order to improve safety and on-time performance of the Forest Park Branch.
· Trail Extension, Normal, Illinois. $1.9 million to the Town of Normal to fund engineering and construction of a trail connection. This will close a gap in pedestrian and bicycle accommodations between the existing Constitution Trail network and major employers located in west Normal, and promote safe multimodal travel by separating pedestrians and cyclists from motor vehicles.
· Transit Improvements; Vermilion County, Williamson County, and Jackson County; Illinois. $3.711 million to the Illinois Department of Transportation to fulfill ongoing transit needs, including vehicle and equipment purchases, maintenance, and other improvements for transit agencies serving Carbondale, Marion, and Danville.
· Transitional Shelter, Chicago, Illinois. $650,000 to BEDS Plus, Inc. to help fund the expansion of transitional shelter services at BEDS Plus Inc.
· Transportation Center Pedestrian Access Improvements, Normal, Illinois. $1.6 million to Connect Transit to improve pedestrian access to the City of Bloomington’s Downtown Transportation Center.
· Unhoused Population Support, Carbondale, Illinois: $2 million to the City of Carbondale to help fund the development of a new homeless center facility in Carbondale.
· Workforce Accelerator Program, Chicago, Illinois. $1 million to the North Lawndale Employment Network to transform a vacant lot across the street from its workforce development campus to offer an agricultural and environmental workforce accelerator program.
· Youth Mentoring, Springfield, Illinois. $1 million to The Outlet Mentoring Program to help fund the development of a youth mentoring center in Springfield.
The two funding bills include additional Illinois priorities secured through the programmatic appropriations process:
Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies
Department of Interior
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Plant Conservation Activities. $20.6 million for conservation activities and includes language supporting BLM’s continued support of the Seed Strategy, the interagency Native Plant Materials Development Program, the Seeds of Success program, the Plant Conservation Alliance, and regional native plant materials development programs.
o Urban and Community Forestry (Chicago Region Trees Initiative). Includes language prioritizing multi-organizational collaborations to support conservation and offset climate change for urban and community forestry grants.
o Migratory Bird Management Program, Incidental Take. Includes language supporting an incidental take authorization program for the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which will help bird species that are experiencing population decline.
National Park Service
New Philadelphia National Historic Site. Includes language directing the National Park Service to ensure park operation begins in a reasonable timeframe for the newly established New Philadelphia site.
Springfield Race Riot Site. Includes language directing the National Park Service to work with the community to complete the Foundation Document for the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument and provide for park planning.
Land and Water Conservation Fund
Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. Includes language supporting federal land acquisition by the National Fish and Wildlife Service for the Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge
Environmental Health Program. $30.5 million for the program and includes language that sets aside $1 million for addressing PFAS contamination in the Great Lakes.
Environmental Protection Agency
Clean Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF). $1.6 billion to provide critical investments that create jobs, repair crumbling wastewater infrastructure, and protect public health and environmental quality. Ten percent of CWSRF may be used as grants to address lead exposure.
Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF). $1.13 billion to help water systems and states to ensure clean and safe drinking water is reliably delivered to communities. Fourteen percent of DWSRF may be used as grants to address lead exposure.
EPA Compliance. $97.7 million to enable EPA and co-regulators to undertake inspections and other monitoring activities to determine if regulated entities are complying with environmental statutes as well as applicable regulations and permit conditions.
EPA Enforcement. $284.9 million to ensure consistent and fair enforcement of all major environmental statutes and numerous regulations implementing each of those statutes. Includes report language supporting EPA in addressing PFAS contamination through National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives and incorporating Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs) in settlements.
Bubbly Creek. Includes report language on the inclusion of the restoration Bubbly Creek in EPA’s Lakewide Management Plan (LAMP) and directs EPA to maximize its partnerships and resources to ensure no further delays.
Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). $368 million for GLRI and includes report language to allow funds from the program to be used for projects in the Chicago River Watershed. Congress established the GLRI to provide funding to states, tribes, local governments, and federal agencies to protect the Great Lakes. The program has provided $4 billion since 2010 to fund projects that restore habitat, fight invasive species, clean up toxic pollution, and reduce pollution runoff.
Lake Explorer II Support Vessel Decommission. Includes language regarding the importance of EPA replacing the Great Lakes research vessel Lake Explorer II so the agency may continue uninterrupted water quality and biological monitoring of the Great Lakes.
Coal Combustion Residual Permit Program. Includes language requesting $9 million for federal and state permitting programs for coal combustion residuals (CCR, coal ash).
Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development
Department of Transportation
Capital Investment Grants (CIG). $1.95 billion for grants to fund the extension and improvements of existing transit systems. This amount would fully fund the Chicago Transit Authority’s Red Line Extension Project for FY26.
Protections for the Chicago Transit Authority’s Red Line Extension Project. Includes language protecting Chicago’s FY26 allocation of $350 million and requiring disbursement within 120 days of enactment.
Amtrak. $2.43 billion in nationwide funding to support Amtrak operations, with $1.57 billion for the National Network.
BUILD (formerly RAISE) Grants. $250 million to fund innovative transportation projects that will create jobs and have a significant impact on the nation, a region, or a metropolitan area.
Passenger Rail Grant Programs. The two rail grant programs were reauthorized in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and address gaps in supporting and growing our nation’s rail infrastructure:
Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Grants. $151.52 million for the CRISI program.
Federal-State Partnerships for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant (FSP) Program. $75 million for FSP grants for capital improvement projects that expand or establish intercity passenger rail service.
Midwest Rail Commission Study. Includes report language directing GAO to examine the establishment of a federally authorized commission for the purposes of developing a long-term delivery strategy for Midwest rail. The study would identify lessons learned from the establishment of the Northeast Corridor Commission that could be applied to a Midwest Rail Commission, it also would examine any Federal resources necessary to establishment of the commission.
FRA Rail Research & Development Center of Excellence (COE). Supports the FRA’s intent to use no less than $2.5 million of its and development funding for the FRA COE, which Durbin established in IIJA and secured funding for in FY22, FY23, and FY24 (FY25’s full-year CR did not have a report, so the COE was not funded in the CR). The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign was competitively selected to host the COE.
Blocked Crossings Causes & Solutions Identification. Includes report language directing the FRA to include in its annual report potential solutions and best practices to improve safety, mobility, and emergency response capabilities at highway-rail crossings. This would require the FRA to consider technology’s potential role in detecting the highest risk areas and to explore what role train length plays in blocked crossings, among other measures.
Emergency Response Blocked Crossing Reports. Includes report language urging the FRA to require states receiving track inspection funding to require first responders to report verified blocked crossing incidents to the FRA’s blocked crossings portal, which you established through previous appropriations legislation. It also directs the FRA to continue working with stakeholders to identify root causes of blocked crossings and identify meaningful solutions.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). $22.4 billion for the FAA. This includes $13.8 billion for FAA operations and $4 billion for facilities and equipment. This funding will allow the FAA to hire 2,500 additional air traffic controllers; improve air traffic control facilities, equipment, and systems; improve the aircraft certification process; improve hazardous materials transport oversight, and more.
Airport Improvement Program. More than $4 billion for airport improvement grants for capital improvements at the nation’s airports, including investments that emphasize capacity development, safety improvements, and security needs.
Digital Alert Technologies. Includes report language urging National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to deploy digital alert technologies, with local law enforcement, that can provide up-to-date information about dynamic road conditions to drivers.
NHTSA Rulemakings. Includes language directing NHTSA to continue to provide quarterly briefings on the status of all major rulemakings to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations. In 2023, DOT implemented a key provision of Durbin and Duckworth’s Protecting Roadside First Responders Act by proposing a rule to require automatic emergency braking (AEB) on all new cars and light trucks, and finalizing this rule in April 2024. The provision, which was passed in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, aims to reduce the number of traffic fatalities and injuries. According to NHTSA, the rule could save more than 360 lives and prevent more than 24,000 injuries each year. The Trump Administration has delayed the effective date of this rule.
Automated Track Inspections. Includes no less than $21.6 million to support the FRA’s fleet of advanced inspection vehicles that accompany its field inspectors to validate the railroads’ inspection programs and advance research priorities, with a special emphasis on routes transporting passengers and hazardous materials.
Department of Housing and Urban Development
HEAL Initiative Pilot Program. Includes $5 million to support efforts underway between HUD and HHS to provide direct technical assistance to communities leveraging programs like Medicaid to cover and provide housing-related supportive services and behavioral healthcare. Includes report language acknowledging that several studies have demonstrated that interventions based on social determinants of health can help support housing permanency.
Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. $295.6 million to provide funding to state and local governments to develop cost-effective ways to reduce lead-based paint hazards.
Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA). $529 million to help cities and states address the housing crisis facing people living with HIV/AIDS.
Homeless Assistance Grants. $4.5 billion to provide funding to state and local governments for emergency shelters, rapid re-housing, permanent supportive housing, and other crisis response programs.
Housing Counseling. $57.5 million to enable housing counseling organizations to provide foreclosure prevention counseling, mortgage counseling before and after purchase, rental counseling, homelessness prevention counseling, and fair housing education.
Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO). $86.36 million to provide resources to nonprofit fair housing organizations that tackle discrimination and predatory lending and ensure that our nation’s fair housing laws are enforced.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). $3.1 billion to provide states and localities with resources to meet the needs of low-income communities, including housing rehabilitation, supportive services, public improvements, and economic development projects.
Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME). $1.25 billion to provide state and local governments the funding necessary to provide affordable housing in low-income communities.
Public Housing Capital and Operating Funds. $3.2 billion for Capital Funds and $4.87 billion for Operating Funds. This includes $30 million for emergency capital needs; $10 million for safety and security measures, with report language supporting safety and security improvements to protect tenants; and $65 million for lead remediation grants.
Section 8 Tenant-Based Rental Assistance. $37.35 billion for Section 8 Tenant-Based rental assistance. This includes $429 million for new Tenant Protection Vouchers, $15 million to expand the HUD-VASH program, and $30 million for new Family Unification Program vouchers.
Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP) and Rural Capacity Building Program (RCB). $13 million for SHOP and $5 million for RCB. Both programs support affordable housing in rural communities.
Section 4 Capacity Building Program. $49 million for Section 4 Capacity Building Program. This program allows HUD to partner with national nonprofit community development organizations to provide education, training, and financial support to local community development corporations (CDCs) across the country.
Choice Neighborhoods Program. $40 million to provide funding for the transformation, rehabilitation, and replacement of distressed public and HUD-assisted housing, as well as support for communities working to revitalize neighborhoods of concentrated poverty.
Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program. $156.4 million to provide funding for an asset-building program to serve more households, both within already-established Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher FSS Programs
Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation (NeighborWorks). $158 million to create opportunities for Americans to live in affordable and safe homes by providing community development organizations in all fifty states with financial resources and counseling services.
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Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch
WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) emphasized nuclear energy’s central role in meeting the nation’s growing energy demands during a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing.
“In recent years, we have had people come in here and predict what was going to happen as far as demand for electricity for America because of AI and other things that are coming on board. I have to tell you, I was a doubter at the beginning, but the further we go, the more obvious it is becoming that we are going to be inundated with demand for electricity. But the good news is that this particular problem, we know how to deal with, and that is, we know how to generate electricity.
We, in Idaho, in 1951, demonstrated for the first time that nuclear energy could be used to create electricity. And we’ve been at it ever since. [. . .] But now, I think the world knows there’s a real renaissance going on as far as nuclear energy is concerned. Not only in the United States, but also particularly in the globe.”
Senator Risch has consistently advocated for greater domestic nuclear energy production and the commercialization of advanced nuclear technologies. In a Washington Times editorial, Senator Risch underscored that expanding U.S. civil nuclear energy is essential for powering America’s future.
Idaho is home to the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), the nation’s flagship facility for civil nuclear research and the first place in the world to generate electricity using a nuclear reactor. INL is driving significant progress in new nuclear research by collaborating with industry to demonstrate advanced technologies, such as small modular reactors, microreactors, and safer, more efficient nuclear fuels.
Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
TRAIN Act is Supported by the Recording Industry Association of America, the Human Artistry Campaign, SAG-AFTRA, Recording Academy, Nashville Songwriters Association International, SESAC, ASCAP, BMI, Authors Guild and more
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with Senate Judiciary Committee members Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Adam Schiff (D-Ca.), and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) reintroduced the Transparency and Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act, bipartisan legislation to help creators—musicians, artists, writers, and others—access the courts to protect their copyrighted works if and when they are used to train generative artificial intelligence (AI) models. The TRAIN Act allows copyright holders to access training records used for AI models to determine if their work was used—a process currently used for internet piracy.
Musical artists and other creative industry leaders have raised the alarm about the use of copyrighted works to train generative AI models, calling out AI companies for using artists’ work without consent or compensation. The TRAIN Act seeks to solve the “black box” problem by allowing creators to know when and how their works are being used. Few AI companies currently share how their models are trained and nothing in the law requires them to do so.
“This is simple: if your work is used to train AI, there should be a way for you, the copyright holder, to determine that it’s been used by a training model, and you should get compensated if it was. We need to give America’s musicians, artists, and creators a tool to find out when AI companies are using their work to train models without artists’ permission,” said Senator Welch. “As AI evolves and gets more embedded into our daily lives, we need to set a higher standard for transparency. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to safeguard creators and their incredible contributions to our country.”
“Tennessee is home to a thriving creative community filled with musicians, artists, and creators who must have protections in place against the misuse of their content,” said Senator Blackburn. “The TRAIN Act would protect creators by allowing them to access the courts to find out if their work is being used to train generative AI models and seek compensation for that misuse.”
“The TRAIN Act gives creators a direct pathway to determine if their works were used to train an AI model, promoting transparency and ensuring that the creative community is not left behind as AI’s capabilities advance. I’m proud to join Senators Welch, Blackburn, Hawley on this bipartisan effort to affirm creators’ rights of action. And as Ranking Member of the Intellectual Property Subcommittee, I will continue my long-standing work to establish appropriate guardrails that continue American leadership in AI and the creative industry,” said Senator Schiff.
“AI should be in service to the American people—not the other way around. But under current law, Big Tech’s AI companies are stealing the works of today’s creators as they box out the next generation of creators. Congress should ensure that copyright holders can assert their rights against AI companies that are pirating creative works, and this bill gives Americans the tools to do so,” said Senator Hawley.
The TRAIN Act has the support of the creative community and is endorsed by the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM)*, The American Society for Collective Rights Licensing (ASCRL), American Federation of Musicians (AFM), American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), Association of American Publishers (AAP), Authors Guild, Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI), Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE), Human Artistry Campaign**, Global Music Rights, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA), National Music Council (NMC), National Music Publisher’s Association (NMPA), Nashville Songwriters Association International, Recording Academy, Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities (RAMPD), Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), SAG-AFTRA, Society of European Stage Authors and Composers (SESAC), The Society of Composers & Lyricists (SCL), The Songwriters Guild of America (SGA)***, SoundExchange, Transparency Coalition, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group.
*The trade organization for independent record labels, which include 650 organizations in 35 states—including Vermont
**Representing nearly 200 members spanning the creative and technology communities
***SGA’s organizational membership stands at approximately 4,500 members
Read what leading voices in the creative industries are saying about the TRAIN Act:
“Artists deserve to know when their works are used and determine the parameters – the Transparency & Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act empowers rightsholders with valuable insight into which specific inputs AI companies are copying to train their models. Just as importantly, it also ensures a clear path to the courts when authorization has not been given. RIAA commends Senator Welch and Senator Blackburn for their vision championing this vital and measured legislation, and strongly urge passage into law,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman & CEO, Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
“The TRAIN Act is a vital step toward ensuring transparency and protecting creators from the unauthorized use of their copyrighted work. The Recording Academy® applauds Senator Welch and Senator Blackburn for their leadership and dedication to upholding creators’ rights.” – Harvey Mason jr., CEO, Recording Academy
“Human authors and their copyrights must be valued and protected. The TRAIN Act is an important step toward creating guardrails around Generative Artificial Intelligence that, unchecked, threatens the livelihoods of human creators. We are appreciative to Senators Blackburn and Welch for their leadership on this issue and look forward to providing America’s songwriters the tools they need to protect their work in an ever-changing digital environment,” said Nashville Songwriters Association International.
“The Transparency & Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act is a thoughtful step forward for creators’ rights in the AI landscape. By allowing artists and rightsholders to subpoena information about what inputs were used in an AI program, the bill will increase transparency and create an avenue for recourse when work is used without consent. Transparency is a key tenet of the Human Artistry Campaign’s principles for responsible and ethical AI, and we’re grateful to Senator Welch for his leadership on this issue,” said Dr. Moiya McTier, Senior Advisor, Human Artistry Campaign.
“SAG-AFTRA applauds Sen. Peter Welch for introducing the much-needed TRAIN Act. Intellectual property must be protected in the A.I. age and we’re encouraged that lawmakers like Sen. Welch are taking critical action to prioritize human creativity in this new era,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, Executive Director & Chief Negotiator, SAG-AFTRA National.
“SESAC applauds the TRAIN Act, which clears an efficient path to court for songwriters whose work is used by AI developers without authorization or consent. Senators Welch and Blackburn’s narrow approach will promote responsible innovation and AI while protecting the creative community from unlawful scraping and infringement of their work,” said John Josephson, Chairman and CEO, SESAC Music Group.
“The future of America’s vibrant creative economy depends upon laws that protect the rights of human creators. By requiring transparency about when and how copyrighted works are used to train generative AI models, the TRAIN Act paves the way for creators to be fairly compensated for the use of their work. On behalf of ASCAP’s more than one million songwriters, composer and music publisher members, we applaud Senators Welch and Blackburn for their leadership,” said Elizabeth Matthews, CEO, American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers (ASCAP).
“Some AI companies are using creators’ copyrighted works without their permission or compensation to ‘train’ their systems, but there is currently no way for creators to confirm that use or require companies to disclose it. The TRAIN Act will provide a legal avenue for music creators to compel these companies to disclose those actions, which will be a step in the right direction towards greater transparency and accountability. BMI thanks Senator Welch for introducing this important legislation,” said Mike O’Neill, President & CEO, Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI).
“We greatly appreciate Senators Welch and Blackburn’s leadership on addressing the complete lack of regulation and transparency surrounding songwriters’ works being used to train generative AI models. The TRAIN Act proposes an administrative subpoena process that enables rightsholders to hold AI companies accountable by instituting precise record-keeping standards and giving rightsholders the ability to see whether their copyrighted works have been used without authorization. We strongly support the bill which gives creators a pathway to justice from massive AI platforms exploiting their work,” said David Israelite, President & CEO, National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA).
“The Authors Guild applauds Senator Peter Welch for introducing the TRAIN Act. Authors have a right to know when their works have been copied into AI systems without their permission. This bill helps to achieve that commonsense goal by creating an administrative subpoena process that allows copyright owners to obtain information from AI companies about the works used to train their models. As the Guild has long recognized, this kind of transparency is essential to giving authors the ability to enforce their rights. We look forward to working with Senator Welch and other members of Congress in moving the bill toward swift passage,” said the Authors Guild.
“The American Society for Collective Rights Licensing (ASCRL), the largest photography and illustration organization in the United States, whose constituents include over 40,000 photographers and over 17,000 illustrator members, thanks Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) for introducing the Transparency and Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act. The bill seeks to promote transparency concerning unauthorized uses of copyrighted works by generative AI systems through the creation of a new administrative subpoena process. ASCRL was established by and for authors and looks forward to working with Senator Welch to add another tool in the toolbelt for authors to protect their rights in this very challenging, new technological environment,” said James Silverberg, CEO, The American Society for Collective Rights Licensing (ASCRL).
“The Songwriters Guild of America (SGA) extends its sincerest thanks to Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt) for the initiatives his office is undertaking in seeking to protect the rights of songwriters and composers through introduction of the Transparency and Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act. Among other positives, the bill seeks to promote transparency concerning unauthorized uses of copyrighted works by generative AI systems through the creation of a new administrative subpoena process. SGA remains a strong supporter of the pending No Fakes Act to protect performers’ rights of publicity in the new, generative AI world, but is additionally elated that Senator Welch and others recognize that far more needs to be done legislatively to protect music creators’ rights in this very challenging, new environment. The TRAIN Act represents another indispensable step in that process. We applaud its introduction, and intend to work with the Senator’s office in helping it to consider the most effective methodologies possible to protect American creators and musical culture in the context of GenAI,” said Rick Carnes, President, Songwriters Guild of America (SGA).
“A2IM applauds Senators Peter Welch and Marsha Blackburn for introducing the TRAIN Act—an essential move to protect artists, musicians, and independent creators from having their copyrighted work exploited to train generative AI models without permission. In the age of AI, transparency isn’t optional—it’s fundamental. This legislation arms creators with the tools to uncover unauthorized use of their work, reinforcing the rights that fuel a thriving, independent music ecosystem,” said Dr. Richard James Burgess MBE, President and CEO American Association of Independent Music (A2IM).
“There can be no ethical AI development without transparency. Musicians deserve to know when their work is used in machine learning. The TRAIN Act provides all creators meaningful legal recourse without hindering innovation and creativity. We thank Senators Blackburn and Welch for standing with working musicians against intellectual property theft,” said Tino Gagliardi, President, American Federation of Musicians.
“The Society of Composers & Lyricists applauds Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt) for his introduction of the Transparency and Responsibility for Artificial Intelligence Networks (TRAIN) Act, which is a crucial step in safeguarding the rights of composers and songwriters. The TRAIN Act offers vital protections against the unjust practices that have too often undermined our ability to earn a living from our creations. By standing up for the rights of creators, you are not only supporting those who write the music that enriches our culture, but also strengthening the entire music ecosystem. We are grateful for your continued advocacy on behalf of our community, and stand ready to help in whatever way we can,” said Ashley Irwin, President, Society of Composers & Lyricists (SCL).
“The National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA) applauds Sen. Welch’s common sense TRAIN Act and the transparency it will provide to all copyright holders. As artists whose biometric data is contained in copyrighted material, voice actors are particularly concerned about the misuse of their voices for misinformation and disinformation. A basic level of transparency will help protect the many voices that are the foundation of these generative AI systems,” said The National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA).
“RAMPD proudly supports the TRAIN Act because transparency is key to fairness, access, and protecting the rights of all music creators. The TRAIN Act is a vital step toward equitable innovation that respects human authorship and artistic integrity,” said Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities.
“The Transparency Coalition welcomes the introduction by Sen. Welch of the TRAIN Act which will provide creators and copyright owners additional protection from their copyrighted works being used in AI training without their consent.” said Jai Jaisimha, Co-Founder, Transparency Coalition. “The Act deftly addresses the need for transparency around AI training inputs and empowers creators to seek redress from the appropriate judicial forum.”
Senator Welch is focused on strengthening consumer protections and safety around emerging technologies, including AI. During a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee hearing last week, Senator Welch emphasized the importance of passing the TRAIN Act to help creator access the courts to ensure their copyrights are respected and safeguard their content from AI.
Last Congress, Senator Welch introduced the Artificial Intelligence Consumer Opt-In, Notification Standards, and Ethical Norms for Training (AI CONSENT) Act, legislation that would require online platforms to obtain consumers’ express informed consent before using their personal data to train AI models. Senator Welch also introduced the Digital Platform Commission Act, legislation to create an expert federal agency to provide comprehensive regulation of digital platforms to protect consumers, promote competition, and safeguard the public interest.
Learn more about the TRAIN Act and read a section-by-section summary.
Read and download the full text of the bill.
Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, led Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) this week in reintroducing the Organic Dairy Assistance, Investment, and Reporting Yields Act (O DAIRY) Act, legislation to expand federal support for organic dairy farmers by extending emergency assistance to farmers facing losses due to factors like feed shortages and increased costs. The Senators’ legislation also increases investments in the organic dairy industry to ensure resiliency and longevity and works to improve data collection for organic milk production to enhance price accuracy and transparency.
“Organic dairy farms are a major part of our Vermont’s culture and local economies, producing world-class dairy for families here and across the country. But recent economic challenges have taken their toll on many of these generational family businesses. We need to do everything we can to help Vermont-sized farms thrive, including boosting infrastructure investment, data collection, and emergency support for when our farmers need help the most,” said Senator Welch. “Our bill tackles all of those priorities and will promote the long-term sustainability of the organic dairy industry so our farmers can continue doing what they love—feed our communities.”
“New York’s dairy farms are a bedrock of economic stability for many of our Upstate communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The O Dairy Act will make critical investments to support small organic dairies, which face increasing financial uncertainty. I am proud to support this important legislation and will continue fighting for our dairy farmers in New York and across the country.”
“In Vermont and across the country, dairy farms are a critical part of our economies, our communities, our culture, and our history,” said Senator Sanders. “Tragically, it has become harder and harder for many of these farms to get by, and too many of our organic dairies have been forced to close. We must ensure that the Department of Agriculture recognizes the higher costs and unique needs of organic dairy farmers. This bill is an important step forward in providing organic dairies with the emergency relief they need while building on existing programming to ensure these hardworking farmers can stay in business.”
“Small organic dairy farms are a vital part of our nation’s food system, and we must ensure they have the help they need when faced with economic challenges,” said Senator Booker. “We must expand support for organic dairies, and ensure that USDA meets the unique needs of this industry so that these farmers can stay in business.”
The O DAIRY Act would extend emergency assistance to organic dairy farmers facing losses, including any time a farm’s net income decreases by over 10% in any given year, and invest $25 million annually in dairy infrastructure investments, research and innovation. The legislation also calls for increased organic industry data collection that will be shared with farmers so they can plan better. Additionally, the bill would direct USDA to study the viability of an organic safety net program, which would get aid to farmers faster when disasters hit in the future.
The O DAIRY Act has the broad support of farms, dairy cooperatives, producers and associations across the country, including the Organic Farmers Association, Northeast Organic Farmers Association-Vermont, Northeast Organic Farmers Association-New York, the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, Western Organic Dairy Producers Alliance, Straus Family Creamery, the Northeast Organic Dairy Producers’ Association, the National Organic Coalition, and the Center for Food Safety.
“Family run organic dairy farms provide healthy food and environmental stewardship to rural communities across the country. The O DAIRY Act can provide much needed investments to alleviate the economic crisis these farmers are facing and provide valuable data collection to inform future support for the industry,” said Kate Mendenhall, Executive Director of Organic Farmers Association. “We applaud Senator Welch for championing this important work.”
Senator Welch has led bipartisan efforts to support Vermont’s dairy farmers and strengthen the state’s organic dairy industry. Last Congress, Senator Welch led the introduction of the Opportunities in Organic Act, legislation designed to help farmers and other agricultural producers transition to organic practices and build successful and sustainable businesses. Senator Welch also led his colleagues in calling on the Senate Appropriations Committee to bolster investments in federal programs that support organic infrastructure, as part of the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Appropriations Bill.
Learn more about the O DAIRY Act.
Read and download the full text of the bill.
Today’s White House memo “The One Big Beautiful Bill is a Historic Investment in Rural Healthcare” outlines in detail how the President’s landmark legislation makes historic investments in vulnerable communities to ensure healthcare options are made sustainable for Americans who rely on these options for their care.
TRANSFORMING RURAL CARE WITH HISTORIC INVESTMENTS AND RADICAL TRANSPARENCY
The Rural Health Transformation Program will provide unprecedented new funding to states for a range of uses designed to make rural healthcare more effective and sustainable for the long term. Collaborating with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), states must submit detailed rural health transformation plans on how these resources will be put to work improving access to healthcare providers in their communities and ultimately improving health outcomes. CMS will monitor implementation and hold states accountable to this plan to ensure resources are appropriately distributed and going to the most deserving, not the most politically connected.
ENSURING SUSTAINABILITY OF RURAL CARE BY ADDRESSING SYSTEMIC CHALLENGES
Unlike smaller programs that have been traditionally the main mechanisms to support rural care, the Rural Health Transformation Program is uniquely designed to promote innovation and long-term sustainability of rural healthcare.
Rural hospitals suffer from chronic challenges with extremely low patient volume. They have both smaller bed counts than urban hospitals and occupancy rates that are much lower (37%) than those of their urban counterparts (62%). Therefore, when programs link funding to reimbursements for services provided—as these legacy programs do—these programs do not promote long-term sustainability as the overall volume of services provided in these facilities remains low. In other words, these programs do not actually provide hospitals with investments that would help them sustain themselves.
Distinct from these other programs, the Rural Health Transformation Program is designed to promote innovation in payment and flexibility. These funds can be used to help these facilities make investments necessary to better meet the needs of the communities they serve and become more sustainable over the long term.
HEALTH INDUSTRY PROMOTES FLAWED ANALYSES TO HIDE THE REAL POSITIVE EFFECTS OF THE ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL
Rural hospitals only receive 7% of Medicaid hospital spending. Yet, industry leaders and lobbyists continue to cry foul, and fearmonger that the law puts rural care facilities at risk when in actuality the OBBB delivers historic investments into the Rural Health Transformation Program to ensure underserved rural hospitals are strengthened, a monumental victory that should be celebrated after years of neglect and lack of financial support.
The disparity between urban and rural hospitals clearly shows how the waste, fraud, and abuse that proliferated under the Biden Administration did not benefit the most vulnerable hospitals. The OBBB aggressively goes after that waste, fraud, and abuse by enforcing eligibility requirements, prioritizing work over welfare, and putting Americans first by removing non-citizens and ending financing gimmicks used to subsidize coverage for illegal immigrants. This momentous effort to combat waste, fraud, and abuse is what allowed Congress and the Trump Administration to make this historic investment in rationalizing our health care system by actually ensuring new healthcare dollars reach facilities in vulnerable communities to help make them sustainable for good.
In a stretch of California’s Mojave Desert, NASA conducted a full-scale “dress rehearsal” to prepare how it will measure the noise generated by the X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft. The team behind the successful test flight series operates under NASA’s Commercial Supersonic Technology project. Beginning June 3 and concluding this week, researchers conducted a dry run for Phase 2 of NASA’s Quesst mission, when it will capture audio of the sonic thumps the X-59 will produce, rather than loud sonic booms associated with supersonic flight. “The dress rehearsal was critical for us,” said Larry Cliatt, sub-project manager for the Quesst acoustic validation phase, who is based at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. “It gave us the opportunity to run through every aspect of our operation, from flight planning to data collection. In between those activities, we practiced aircraft operations, setting up the Ground Recording Systems, meteorological data collecting, and refining control room procedures. We were able to fine-tune our timelines, improve communication across teams, and ensure that when we perform these test with the X-59 aircraft, everything will run smoothly.”
During the tests, at NASA Armstrong, an F-15B aircraft served as a stand-in for the X-59, flying faster than the speed of sound and making multiple passes over the Mojave sands. While it flew, researchers captured acoustic data using a linear array of ground recording systems spaced across miles of open desert, recorded weather readings, and measured the shock waves it generated. For a supersonic aircraft like the F-15B, shock waves typically result in loud sonic booms, but the X-59 is designed to diffuse them in a way that will dramatically limit noise. NASA’s Quesst mission aims to enable quiet supersonic flight over land using data from the X-59. The experimental aircraft will begin making its first flights this year – the first phase of Quesst.
But even before it takes to the air, the mission began its preparations for Phase 2 with the dry run, which focused on practicing under realistic test conditions and identifying issues before the official campaign begins, not collecting data from the F-15B. Through Quesst’s development of the X-59, NASA will deliver design tools and technology for quiet supersonic airliners that will achieve the high speeds desired by commercial operators without disturbing people on the ground. NASA will also validate design tools through ground and flight testing, providing aircraft manufacturers the ability to explore new quiet supersonic concepts and have confidence that their resulting designs will meet requirements for quiet flight. Most importantly, Quesst will gather data to understand community response to sounds generated during flight – key knowledge for a quiet supersonic future.
Headline: Last Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance Following April Flooding
Last Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance Following April Flooding
FRANKFORT, Ky
– Kentucky homeowners and renters who experienced damage or loss caused by the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides have until 11:59 p
m
today to apply for federal disaster assistance
The deadline to apply is today
How To Apply for FEMA AssistanceThere are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance:Online at DisasterAssistance
gov
Visit any Disaster Recovery Center
To find a center close to you, visit fema
gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 29169”)
Use the FEMA mobile app
Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362
Help is available in many languages
If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service
FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis
FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs
When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted
Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
Your Social Security Number
A general list of damage and losses
Banking information if you choose direct deposit
If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
Survivors should keep their contact information updated with FEMA as the agency may need to call to schedule a home inspection or get additional information
Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and is not intended to compensate for all losses caused by a disaster
The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts
For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www
This recall involve correcting certain devices and does not involve removing them from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it without correction. Affected Product
What to Do Confirm that all personnel using Endopath Echelon Vascular White Reload for Advanced Placement Tip (35 mm, 4 Row), product code VASECR35, understand the Instructions for Use (IFU) for the Echelon Flex Powered Vascular Stapler (product code PVE35A). Scan the QR Code below or follow the link provided for a video demonstration on how to manage a device lockout. Note: Technical support can be accessed 24/7 by calling 1-877-ETHICON (1-877-384-4266) option 4.
Watch on YouTube On April 22, 2025, Ethicon sent all affected customers an Urgent Medical Device Correction letter recommending the following actions:
Share the notification with all users of Endopath Echelon Vascular White Reload for Advanced Placement Tip (35 mm, 4 Row), product code VASECR35. Post a copy of this communication. If any subject product has been forwarded to another facility, contact that facility to share this information. Complete the Business Reply Form confirming receipt of this notice within three business days.
Reason for Correction Ethicon Endo-Surgery is correcting this product due to an inadvertent lockout during surgical procedures. The device will momentarily activate but will not cut or staple tissue. Additional steps will be required to open it and remove it from tissue. The device has been designed such that an instrument lockout event should not lead to patient harm. During a lockout, the device may briefly activate but will not cut or staple tissue, requiring additional steps to release and remove it safely. The knife does not advance far enough to cut, staples remain below the tissue contact surface, and a built-in gap between the anvil and staple cartridge face helps prevent vessel injury during clamping and unclamping. A representative from Ethicon Endo-Surgery, LLC will be contacting customers to ensure familiarity with all aspects of the Echelon Flex Powered Vascular Stapler instructions for use. The use of affected product may cause serious adverse health consequences, including life-threatening hemorrhage, surgical delay, and death. There has been one reported death and one injury related to this issue. Device Use The Echelon Flex Powered Vascular Stapler with Advanced Placement Tip and Endopath Echelon Vascular White Reload for Advanced Placement Tip (35mm, 4 Row) reloads are sterile, single patient use devices that simultaneously cut and staple tissue. There are four staggered rows of staples, two on either side of the cut line. This reload is used exclusively with the Echelon Flex Powered Vascular Stapler, product code PVE35A. The instrument’s lockout feature is designed to prevent a used or improperly installed reload from being fired, or an instrument from being fired without a reload. Contact Information Customers in the U.S. with questions about this recall should contact the Ethicon Resource Department at 1-877-ETHICON (1-877-384-4266). Additional FDA Resources:
Unique Device Identifier (UDI) The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from manufacturing through distribution to patient use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified, and problems potentially corrected more quickly.
How do I report a problem? Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.
ennesseans love their music! So, it is good news that musicians and other residents who had damage or losses from April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding, may be eligible for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson counties are encouraged to apply by the Aug. 19 deadline. Insurance is the best means to recover after a natural disaster. FEMA assistance covers basic needs, it does not restore all disaster-related property loss. However, FEMA assistance may repair or replace disaster-damaged property if conditions meet the eligibility requirements, and the item(s) fall within any of these categories:
Appliances: includes standard household appliances, such as a refrigerator, washing machine, etc. Clothing: essential clothing needed due to overall loss, damage, or contamination. Furniture: basic furnishings found in a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and living room. Tools: tools and equipment (including musical instruments) required for your job and items required as a condition of an applicant’s or household member’s education. This assistance also applies to self-employed individuals. Computer: funds to cover replacement of one personal or family computer. Funds for additional computers required for work or school may be approved. Accessibility: FEMA also provides assistance for damaged personal property required for qualified applicants with disabilities.
How to Apply for FEMA Assistance Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. In-person help is available at any Disaster Recovery Center for submitting applications, getting updates and asking questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov). Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance | ASL | Spanish Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance | ASL | Spanish Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955. FEMA is committed to providing equal access to federal assistance for Tennesseans who were affected by the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. Anyone with an accessibility need who is applying for FEMA assistance should let FEMA know by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the award of $1.8 million to the Technical College System of Georgia to support employment and training services for people affected by layoffs at Georgia-Pacific LLC.
On May 14, 2025, Georgia-Pacific announced the permanent closure of their Cedar Springs containerboard processing mill, which will result in a mass layoff that is expected to begin Aug. 1, 2025. Georgia-Pacific estimates that 535 individuals will be impacted by the closure.
Administered by the department’s Employment and Training Administration, this National Dislocated Worker Grant will allow the Technical College System of Georgia to provide retraining and skills development services for dislocated workers seeking assistance in Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, and Worth counties.
Supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014, National Dislocated Worker Grants provide a state or local board with funding for direct services and assistance in areas experiencing a major economic dislocation event that leads to workforce needs exceeding available resources.
Authorities in Romania and the United Kingdom have taken concerted action to block criminals who illegally withdrew cash from automated teller machines (ATMs) on a large scale. By using specialised computer programs and devices, the Romanian criminal network managed to steal an estimated EUR 580 000. The criminal group was also involved in other types of payment and card fraud.
During an operation in Romania, two suspects were identified and brought in for questioning. In the UK, prosecutions have already been initiated against eight members of the group, following an action day in December 2024.
Eurojust supported a joint investigation team of the Romanian and British authorities, which investigated the case. The Agency also assisted with the preparation of the action day in Romania. Europol provided data analysis support, in addition to sending an analyst to Romania and organising meetings to prepare for the operations on the ground.
The criminal network was formed last year in the Romanian city of Bacău, mainly consisting of family members and friends. They adopted a derogatory term aimed at the police as their so-called trademark, which they used on social media, on custom license plates and on clothes they wore.
Most of the money was stolen in the UK by pretending to take money from an ATM with a bank card, removing the screen of the ATM and then cancelling the transaction. This allowed them to reach into the ATM itself and take all the cash inside, before ending the transaction.
The criminals also counterfeited public transport cards, which they distributed across the UK with the help of individuals of Turkish origin. Furthermore, they committed card fraud by using software that identifies card numbers and then generates illicit income through fraudulent payments.
The proceeds of the criminal activities were invested in luxury cars, jewellery, real estate and expensive holidays. The gang members being prosecuted in the UK and those brought in for questioning in Romania are suspected of cyber fraud, membership of an organised crime group, money laundering and forgery of payment instruments.
During the action day in Romania, a total of 18 places were searched and real estate, vehicles electronic devices and cash were seized.
The operations against the criminal network were carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:
Romania: Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) – Bacău Regional Service; Romanian Police – Anti Cybercrime Service of Bacău County Organised Crime Brigade
United Kingdom: Crown Prosecution Service; Eastern Regional Special Operations Unit
Authorities in Romania and the United Kingdom have taken concerted action to block criminals who illegally withdrew cash from automated teller machines (ATMs) on a large scale. By using specialised computer programs and devices, the Romanian criminal network managed to steal an estimated EUR 580 000. The criminal group was also involved in other types of payment and card fraud.
During an operation in Romania, two suspects were identified and brought in for questioning. In the UK, prosecutions have already been initiated against eight members of the group, following an action day in December 2024.
Eurojust supported a joint investigation team of the Romanian and British authorities, which investigated the case. The Agency also assisted with the preparation of the action day in Romania. Europol provided data analysis support, in addition to sending an analyst to Romania and organising meetings to prepare for the operations on the ground.
The criminal network was formed last year in the Romanian city of Bacău, mainly consisting of family members and friends. They adopted a derogatory term aimed at the police as their so-called trademark, which they used on social media, on custom license plates and on clothes they wore.
Most of the money was stolen in the UK by pretending to take money from an ATM with a bank card, removing the screen of the ATM and then cancelling the transaction. This allowed them to reach into the ATM itself and take all the cash inside, before ending the transaction.
The criminals also counterfeited public transport cards, which they distributed across the UK with the help of individuals of Turkish origin. Furthermore, they committed card fraud by using software that identifies card numbers and then generates illicit income through fraudulent payments.
The proceeds of the criminal activities were invested in luxury cars, jewellery, real estate and expensive holidays. The gang members being prosecuted in the UK and those brought in for questioning in Romania are suspected of cyber fraud, membership of an organised crime group, money laundering and forgery of payment instruments.
During the action day in Romania, a total of 18 places were searched and real estate, vehicles electronic devices and cash were seized.
The operations against the criminal network were carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:
Romania: Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) – Bacău Regional Service; Romanian Police – Anti Cybercrime Service of Bacău County Organised Crime Brigade
United Kingdom: Crown Prosecution Service; Eastern Regional Special Operations Unit
Singappore, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MicroBitcoin (MBC) Now Listed on Coinstore: The Bitcoin 2.0 Revolution for Micro-Payments & Layer-2 Tokenization
MicroBitcoin (MBC) brings back the original vision of decentralized, peer-to-peer money, supercharged with fast payments, CPU-friendly mining, and advanced token creation tools.
MicroBitcoin (MBC) revives the original vision of decentralized, peer-to-peer money—upgraded with fast transactions, CPU-friendly mining, and powerful token creation tools for real-world use.
As the financial world evolves, MicroBitcoin is paving the way with its “Bitcoin 2.0” architecture. Now officially listed on Coinstore, MBC delivers a network built for micro-transactions, fairness, and practical decentralization—without compromising Satoshi’s ideals.
More than just a currency, MicroBitcoin is a permissionless and open system tailored to support communities often excluded from traditional finance.
Token Overview
● Token name: MicroBitcoin
● Token symbol: MBC
● Total supply: 81.5 billion
What are the utilities of $MBC?
MBC serves as both the fuel and foundation of the MicroBitcoin network, with distinct utility across its Layer-1 and Layer-2 infrastructure:
Transaction Fees for Token Layer:
MBC is required to create and issue tokens on the Layer-2 system, ensuring utility and demand within the ecosystem.
Governance and Protocol Maintenance:
Used for admin-level transactions like banning/unbanning tokens, updating fee addresses, and managing ecosystem rules.
Mining Incentives:
MBC is rewarded to miners securing the network through a CPU-friendly PoW algorithm, reinforcing decentralization.
Fair Distribution with Decay-Based Rewards:
Instead of a halving model, MBC uses a smooth block reward decay system that promotes long-term sustainability and fairer distribution.
Ecosystem Overview
MicroBitcoin (MBC) is more than a Bitcoin fork—it’s a full ecosystem built for usability, fairness, and innovation:
Decentralized, CPU-Friendly Mining:
The Power2B PoW algorithm favors CPUs over ASICs, bringing mining back to everyday users and preserving the “One CPU One VOTE” vision.
– Use OP_RETURN-based data embedding for decentralized token tracking
Lightweight, Fast Blockchain:
– 1-minute block time
– 300 KB block size
– Easier full-node synchronization for global accessibility
Governance Built-in:
A protocol-level admin address manages critical Layer-2 actions to ensure security, stability, and adaptability as the ecosystem grows.
Global Utility Focus:
Designed for micro-payments and accessible to users in regions with limited financial infrastructure, MBC is purpose-built for inclusion.
Upcoming Ecosystem Expansions
Satoshi Nakamoto Meme Token
Soon to be launched on MBC’s Token Layer, this meme token will creatively honor Bitcoin’s founder while driving community engagement and social buzz within the ecosystem.
KRW-Based Stablecoin
A Korean Won-pegged stablecoin is in development to enable real-world crypto payments in the Korean market. This will allow MBC users to transact in familiar fiat value, supporting adoption and practical spending.
As a leading global platform for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, Coinstore seeks to build an ecosystem that grants everyone access to digital assets and blockchain technology. With over 10 million users worldwide, Coinstore aims to become the preferred cryptocurrency trading platform and digital service provider worldwide.
Singappore, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MicroBitcoin (MBC) Now Listed on Coinstore: The Bitcoin 2.0 Revolution for Micro-Payments & Layer-2 Tokenization
MicroBitcoin (MBC) brings back the original vision of decentralized, peer-to-peer money, supercharged with fast payments, CPU-friendly mining, and advanced token creation tools.
MicroBitcoin (MBC) revives the original vision of decentralized, peer-to-peer money—upgraded with fast transactions, CPU-friendly mining, and powerful token creation tools for real-world use.
As the financial world evolves, MicroBitcoin is paving the way with its “Bitcoin 2.0” architecture. Now officially listed on Coinstore, MBC delivers a network built for micro-transactions, fairness, and practical decentralization—without compromising Satoshi’s ideals.
More than just a currency, MicroBitcoin is a permissionless and open system tailored to support communities often excluded from traditional finance.
Token Overview
● Token name: MicroBitcoin
● Token symbol: MBC
● Total supply: 81.5 billion
What are the utilities of $MBC?
MBC serves as both the fuel and foundation of the MicroBitcoin network, with distinct utility across its Layer-1 and Layer-2 infrastructure:
Transaction Fees for Token Layer:
MBC is required to create and issue tokens on the Layer-2 system, ensuring utility and demand within the ecosystem.
Governance and Protocol Maintenance:
Used for admin-level transactions like banning/unbanning tokens, updating fee addresses, and managing ecosystem rules.
Mining Incentives:
MBC is rewarded to miners securing the network through a CPU-friendly PoW algorithm, reinforcing decentralization.
Fair Distribution with Decay-Based Rewards:
Instead of a halving model, MBC uses a smooth block reward decay system that promotes long-term sustainability and fairer distribution.
Ecosystem Overview
MicroBitcoin (MBC) is more than a Bitcoin fork—it’s a full ecosystem built for usability, fairness, and innovation:
Decentralized, CPU-Friendly Mining:
The Power2B PoW algorithm favors CPUs over ASICs, bringing mining back to everyday users and preserving the “One CPU One VOTE” vision.
– Use OP_RETURN-based data embedding for decentralized token tracking
Lightweight, Fast Blockchain:
– 1-minute block time
– 300 KB block size
– Easier full-node synchronization for global accessibility
Governance Built-in:
A protocol-level admin address manages critical Layer-2 actions to ensure security, stability, and adaptability as the ecosystem grows.
Global Utility Focus:
Designed for micro-payments and accessible to users in regions with limited financial infrastructure, MBC is purpose-built for inclusion.
Upcoming Ecosystem Expansions
Satoshi Nakamoto Meme Token
Soon to be launched on MBC’s Token Layer, this meme token will creatively honor Bitcoin’s founder while driving community engagement and social buzz within the ecosystem.
KRW-Based Stablecoin
A Korean Won-pegged stablecoin is in development to enable real-world crypto payments in the Korean market. This will allow MBC users to transact in familiar fiat value, supporting adoption and practical spending.
As a leading global platform for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, Coinstore seeks to build an ecosystem that grants everyone access to digital assets and blockchain technology. With over 10 million users worldwide, Coinstore aims to become the preferred cryptocurrency trading platform and digital service provider worldwide.
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The Finopolis Forum of Innovative Financial Technologies is 10 years old. This year it will be held from October 8 to 10 at the Sirius federal territory. You can register atwebsite.
The forum will be attended by the management of the Bank of Russia, representatives of relevant ministries and departments, leading financial and digital fintech companies, as well as opinion leaders in the field of technology. They will discuss trends and vectors of development of financial technologies in various segments of the financial market.
According to established tradition, an exhibition will open for forum guests, where the latest achievements in the field of innovation will be presented.
Preview photo: Elizaveta Ageenko / Bold Friday Studio
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Returning Officers for various subsectors of the 2025 Election Committee (EC) Subsector By-elections received a total of 23 nomination forms for candidates and one nomination form from designated bodies today (July 25). This has brought to 86 the total number of nomination forms for candidates and seven the total number of nomination forms from designated bodies received since nominations for the By-elections opened on July 22. The nomination period will end on August 4.
If there is a contested election for an EC subsector, a poll will be held on September 7.
The By-elections will fill a total of 93 vacancies in the membership of the EC to be returned by election involving 28 subsectors. The breakdown of nomination forms received for the relevant subsectors is set out below:
First Sector
Subsector
No. of nomination forms for candidates received today
Cumulative total
Catering
1
1
Commercial (first)
2
2
Commercial (second)
0
1
Commercial (third)
0
2
Employers’ Federation of Hong Kong
0
1
Hotel
0
1
Import and export
0
2
Industrial (first)
1
1
Industrial (second)
0
1
Real estate and construction
1
2
Small and medium enterprises
0
1
Tourism
0
1
Transport
1
1
Second Sector
Subsector
No. of nomination forms for candidates received today
Cumulative total
Architectural, surveying, planning and landscape
1
1
Chinese medicine
0
1
Education
2
2
Legal
1
1
Medical and health services
0
0
Sports, performing arts, culture and publication
0
1
Technology and innovation
5
5
Third Sector
Subsector
No. of nomination forms for candidates received today
Cumulative total
Agriculture and fisheries
1
1
Associations of Chinese fellow townsmen
1
7
Grassroots associations
4
8
Labour
0
3
Fourth Sector
Subsector
No. of nomination forms for candidates received today
Cumulative total
Heung Yee Kuk
0
0
Representatives of members of Area Committees, District Fight Crime Committees, and District Fire Safety Committees of Hong Kong and Kowloon
0
5
Representatives of members of Area Committees, District Fight Crime Committees, and District Fire Safety Committees of the New Territories
1
8
Fifth Sector
Subsector
No. of nomination forms for candidates received today
Cumulative total
Representatives of Hong Kong members of relevant national organisations
1
26
Total:
23
86
Besides, 10 vacancies involving five subsectors to be returned by nomination will be filled through supplementary nominations by designated bodies. The breakdown of nomination forms received for the relevant subsectors is set out below:
Accountancy
Designated body
No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today
Cumulative total
Association of Hong Kong Accounting Advisors Limited
0
1 (3 nominees in total)
Sports, performing arts, culture and publication
Designated body
No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today
Cumulative total
Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China
0
1 (1 nominee in total)
Hong Kong Publishing Federation Limited
0
1 (1 nominee in total)
Technology and innovation
Designated body
No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today
Cumulative total
The Greater Bay Area Association of Academicians
1 (1 nominee in total)
1 (1 nominee in total)
Religious
Designated body
No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today
Cumulative total
Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong
0
0
Chinese Muslim Cultural and Fraternal Association
0
1 (1 nominee in total)
The Hong Kong Taoist Association
0
1 (2 nominees in total)
Representatives of associations of Hong Kong residents in the Mainland
Designated body
No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today
Cumulative total
Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Guangdong
0
1 (1 nominee in total)
Total:
1 (1 nominee in total)
7 (10 nominees in total)
Particulars of the nominated persons received today will be uploaded to the election website (www.elections.gov.hk).
His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio today presided over the official swearing-in ceremony of two newly appointed Deputy Ministers: Mr. David Fortune, Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, and Mr. Paul Hingha Augustine Charles Tucker, Deputy Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation. The ceremony was held pursuant to Section 57 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, which mandates that Minister or Deputy Minister shall take and subscribe the oath before for the execution of officials must take an oath before entering upon the duties of office.
Declaring the purpose of the ceremony, Secretary to the President, Mr. Barba Brima Fortune, explained that following the President’s nomination and the completion of parliamentary vetting, the two appointees had been duly approved by the Parliament of Sierra Leone.
Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in officials, Mr. Paul Hingha Augustine Charles Tucker expressed deep gratitude to President Bio for entrusting them with the opportunity to serve the nation.
“We pledge to fully support our supervising ministers in implementing your administration’s governance policy objectives and in consolidating the progress already made. We are mindful that this appointment is not merely an achievement but a call to confront complex challenges, and we are committed to meeting that responsibility with diligence,” he affirmed.
In his statement, President Julius Maada Bio congratulated the two Deputy Ministers and acknowledged the weight of responsibility that comes with their appointments.
“You are taking up your roles at a time when we are confronted with several challenges, including resource constraints largely driven by global geopolitical tensions. However, I urge you to inject fresh ideas and adopt innovative approaches that can thrive within our local ecosystem,” the President advised.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Sierra Leone.
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
Q: What’s your most recent work to strengthen whistleblower protections?
A: Estimates show federal contractors outnumber roughly two million civilian employees in the federal workforce. In July I introduced bipartisan legislation to address gaps in existing federal law that leave millions of people who work as federal contractors vulnerable to reprisal if they report waste, fraud and abuse in federal agencies. As a longtime champion for whistleblowers, I’m pushing to close this loophole with Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan. Our Expanding Whistleblower Protections for Contractors Act is another step we can take to empower the millions of contractors who work for federal agencies to be the eyes and ears on behalf of the taxpayer. Whistleblowers provide a crucial layer of protection for the American public to ferret out fraud and mismanagement, from tax evasion, to securities law violations and patient safety. As a co-founder and co-chair of the Senate Whistleblower Protection Caucus, I’m constantly on the lookout for ways to support and encourage people to come forward with credible information to root out wrongdoing and help ensure the government works on behalf of the American people, not the other way around. Whistleblowers put their jobs and reputations on the line to tell the truth.
Earlier this year, I introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure whistleblower protections keep pace with the fast-growing Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry. The rapid growth in AI would benefit from disclosures of wrongdoing brought forward by whistleblowers to hold the industry accountable and protect national security, public health, privacy and public safety. Employees working within the AI sector deserve whistleblower protections that would empower those helping to develop this new frontier of technology to report wrongdoing. AI has the potential to reshape daily life, our economy and the geopolitical landscape. My Artificial Intelligence Whistleblower Protection Act would provide explicit whistleblower protections for those developing and deploying AI across the economy. To date AI companies have fostered a chilling effect on current and former employees looking to make whistleblower disclosures to the federal government, including Congress. My bipartisan legislation strengthens federal laws to shield the communications of current and former employees who make disclosures. It also would provide relief for AI whistleblowers who suffer retaliation, including reinstatement, back pay and compensation for damages.
Q: How did your advocacy for whistleblowers get started?
A: For nearly five decades, I’ve led efforts on Capitol Hill to protect those who come forward to tell the truth. My oversight work digging under the hood of the Pentagon’s financial mess was prompted by civilian employees who blew the whistle on defense contractor fraud. That includes a staff analyst at the Department of Defense named Chuck Spinney who graced the cover of Time magazine in 1983 for blowing the whistle on billions of dollars of wasteful spending at the Pentagon and the practice of keeping two sets of books. He exposed the $750 billion dollar mismatch between the Pentagon’s Five Year Defense Program (FYDP) and budget. The bureaucrats were trying to squeeze ten pounds of manure into a five pound bag and got caught. I’ve been doggedly working to tighten the Pentagon’s fiscal leash ever since. Whistleblowers from across the federal bureaucracy who step forward to “commit the truth” – like Chuck Spinney and Ernie Fitzgerald – help hold government accountable to the American people. Since my first term in the Senate, my door is open to whistleblowers as part of my congressional oversight work. It also prompted me to write bipartisan landmark amendments in 1986 to beef up the False Claims Act, a tool deployed by President Abraham Lincoln to root out fraudsters during the Civil War. The qui tam amendments are the federal government’s #1 anti-fraud tool in its arsenal. To date, it’s helped recover more than $78 billion in fraud and deterred the loss of untold billions more over the last four decades. Last year, I wrote all 74 federal inspectors general to strengthen their whistleblower protections and stop using unlawful non-disclosure policies that stymie employees from reporting wrongdoing. I also recently wrote to President Trump urging that he protect whistleblowers while cutting federal waste, fraud, and abuse. Simply put, the work of whistleblowers is invaluable to American society. They are heroes among us who identify violations of law, gross mismanagement, negligence and threats to public health and safety. Whistleblowers who have the guts to stick their necks out to tell the truth – while putting their livelihoods and careers on the line – merit support and incentives under federal law for their bravery. Every year since the Reagan administration, I’ve called upon the president to hold a Rose Garden ceremony on Whistleblower Appreciation Day. Our nation owes these patriots a debt of gratitude. It also would send a clear message that retaliation for telling the truth will not be tolerated.
Source: US Congressman Ryan Zinke (Western Montana)
Washington, D.C. – Today, Western Montana Congressman and former Navy SEAL Commander Ryan Zinke and Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Leading Exports of Aerial Drones (LEAD) Act of 2025, legislation to make it easier for American manufacturers to export unmanned aerial systems (UAS), also known as drones, to our allies and partners. Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Chris Coons (D-Delaware), and John Cornyn (R-Texas) introducedcompanion legislationin the Senate.
The bill makes direct changes to the Arms Export Control Act, United States Munitions List, and Missile Technology Control Regime, requiring that UAS be regulated similarly to manned aircraft and treated separately from missile technology when it comes to defense transfers.
“Our allies need advanced, American made technology on the battlefield and they need it delivered fast and efficiently,” said Zinke. “The LEAD Act cuts outdated restrictions and gives our partners better access to Americas most modern and advanced drone technology which will protect lives, enhances lethality, and strengthen global security.”
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $12,000,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending to revitalize former paper and textile mill sites in East Millinocket, Lewiston, and Lincoln. This funding, included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations bill, was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee this week and now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.
“Many communities throughout Maine are still working to create job opportunities and spur economic activity following paper mill closures,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would support the continued efforts to redevelop the former Great Northern Paper Mill in East Millinocket, Camden Yarns Mill in Lewiston, and Lincoln Pulp and Tissue Mill. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
“We’re deeply grateful to Senator Collins for her continued support of East Millinocket’s redevelopment efforts. Senator Collins’ advocacy was instrumental in advancing this critical federal investment. Funding for this phase marks a pivotal moment in our work to transform the former Great Northern Paper mill site into a vibrant hub of economic opportunity. With this support, we are one step closer to creating sustainable jobs, attracting private investment, and restoring long-term economic vitality to our region,” said Former U.S. Representative and Chairman of East Millinocket Board of Selectman Michael Michaud.
“The federal government’s critical support of the Maine MILL would allow us to complete construction of our new facility in Lewiston and would firmly establish an important expansion of a major civic institution for our entire community. This investment would also significantly contribute to the economic development of the Lewiston-Auburn area. We are deeply grateful to Senator Collins for her essential support,” said Rachel Ferrante, Executive Director of Maine MILL.
“The Town of Lincoln thanks Senator Collins for her critical support in advancing federal funding for infrastructure improvements to the ongoing redevelopment of the former Lincoln Pulp and Tissue Mill, now known as the Lincoln Technology Park. This effort will help spark new private sector investments and vital job creation at the former mill site,” said Richard B. Bronson, Lincoln Town Manager.
This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.
Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows:
East Millinocket Paper Mill – $5,000,000 to support the ongoing redevelopment of the former Great Northern mill site by stabilizing and rehabilitating existing structures — adding strategic infrastructure for priority projects and continuing site clean-up for redevelopment and construction of new facilities.
Maine MILL – $3,000,000 to support the redevelopment of the Camden Yarns Mill building to serve as Maine MILL’s permanent home. Currently located on Canal Street in Lewiston, the Maine MILL showcases the history of Lewiston-Auburn’s manufacturing mills and related trades.
Lincoln Technology Park – $4,000,000 to support the redevelopment of the former Lincoln Pulp and Tissue Mill by making infrastructure upgrades for future development by businesses.
In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHANGHAI, July 25 (Xinhua) — A total of 170 overseas companies and 27 institutions have joined the eight China International Import Expos (CIIE), the organizer of the expo announced at a press conference on Friday.
According to the organizer, more than 50 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation in the national comprehensive exhibition, which will be held within the framework of the upcoming 8th CIIE this year. Sweden, the UAE and other countries will act as honorary guest countries, and Kyrgyzstan will participate for the first time.
This year, the volume of reserved exhibition space for the CIIE commercial exposition has exceeded 330,000 square meters, the organizer added.
As CIIE Deputy Bureau Director Wu Zhengping noted, companies from Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Peru and other countries set a record in participation, which clearly demonstrates their confidence in the Chinese economy and enthusiasm for the CIIE.
This year, CIIE will for the first time include a special zone for products from participating least developed countries. The expo will also expand and upgrade the existing African products zone and launch a “cross-border e-commerce product selection platform” to help overseas SMEs successfully enter the Chinese market. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
WASHINGTON – During a U.S. Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee hearing, Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) touted her report that uncovered loopholes and a lack of consistent due diligence standards are exposing hundreds of millions of dollars in sensitive American intellectual property to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Ernst emphasized the need for Congress to pass her INNOVATE Act to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs and safeguard intellectual property from Chinese espionage to ensure America continues to be the world’s leader in developing cutting-edge technology.
Watch Senator Ernst’s full remarks here.
Foundation for Defense of Democracies Senior Fellow Emily Bruyère agreed with Chair Ernst that reforming the due diligence process in the SBIR and STTR programs is an essential step to ensuring that companies receiving federal funding do not have concerning malign foreign ties.
Bruyère emphasized the need to clawback award dollars if a small business exposes taxpayer-funded intellectual property to a foreign adversary.
The Honourable Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State (Rural Development), together with the Honourable Diana Gibson, British Columbia’s Minister of Citizens’ Services, will make an announcement about improving high-speed Internet access and mobile connectivity in rural British Columbia.
A media availability will follow.
Date: Monday, July 28, 2025
Time: 10:30 am (PT)
Location: Caravan Farm Theatre 4886 Salmon River Road Armstrong, British Columbia
Members of the media are asked to contact ISED Media Relations at media@ised-isde.gc.ca to confirm their attendance.
Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
Bipartisan letter comes after xAI’s chatbot promoted antisemitic conspiracy theories, praised Hitler on X/Twitter
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Technology, and Data Privacy, joined 15 of his Senate colleagues to demand answers from Elon Musk’s xAI about its chatbot “Grok’s” recent antisemitic posts.
“xAI’s failure to take reasonable measures to mitigate against its AI models from engaging in hate speech is reckless, unacceptable, and antisemitic,” wrote the senators. “It is one thing to protect free speech and create an environment that fosters open dialogue; it is another to promote virulent anti-Jewish rhetoric.”
On July 8, the AI chatbot Grok posted multiple antisemitic social media posts, ranging from praising Hitler to referring to itself as “MechaHitler”. xAI launched Grok 4 without any documentation of their safety testing, breaking industry best practices followed by other major AI labs including OpenAI and Anthropic.
The senators called on xAI to address its pre-deployment development and review process.
Hickenlooper previously proposed a “Trust, but Verify” framework for federal AI regulation. Hickenlooper’s proposal focuses on three policy areas: 1) AI transparency and user literacy, 2) consumer data protection, and 3) international coalition building. He also proposed the development of standards for third-party auditors who would be able to audit and certify AI companies’ compliance with federal regulations.
Hickenlooper also previously called on the CEOs of X and Meta to respond to violent and explicit AI images generated online as well as urged the Department of Labor to prepare American workers to integrate with artificial intelligence in the workplace.
Full text of the letter available HERE and below.
Dear Mr. Musk,
We write concerning the recent antisemitic statements produced by Grok, xAI’s chatbot. The statements this chatbot made on X promoted antisemitic conspiracy theories, referenced antisemitic stereotypes, praised Hitler, and even endorsed violence against Jews. xAI’s failure to take reasonable measures to mitigate against its AI models from engaging in hate speech is reckless, unacceptable, and antisemitic.
On July 4, you announced on X that Grok had been “improved” significantly. However, in the following days, the chatbot created several antisemitic threads, including repeating a trope commonly used by neo-Nazis to dehumanize Jews over 100 times in the span of an hour. Unfortunately, this most recent event represents a pattern of antisemitism from this chatbot. In May, Grok made another antisemitic comment, stating that it was skeptical that six million Jews were killed in the Holocaust. The minimization of the deaths and number of victims of the Holocaust is a blatant instance of Holocaust denial, as defined by the Department of State. However, xAI issued a statement blaming the comment on an “unauthorized modification.” Other antisemitic comments were similarly dismissed as unauthorized modifications.
These examples of xAI’s model repeating and promoting antisemitic tropes and conspiracy theories demonstrates that there are clear and significant gaps in xAI’s pre-deployment development and review process. Deploying an LLM that is blatantly antisemitic, while marketing it as “truth-seeking” represents a serious threat to the promotion of antisemitic conspiracy theories and violent antisemitic rhetoric. Even more so, deploying this LLM across platforms like X and Tesla without engaging in reasonable measures to mitigate against antisemitic hate speech will result in the explicit promotion of antisemitism across multiple platforms. It is one thing to protect free speech and create an environment that fosters open dialogue; it is another to promote virulent anti-Jewish rhetoric.
Therefore, we respectfully request written responses to the following questions related to the incidents described above and about xAI’s pre-deployment testing and evaluation procedures by August 8, 2025:
1. What processes, if any, does xAI follow to mitigate against risks of its LLMs promoting hate speech like antisemitic conspiracy theories and tropes?
What steps, if any, does xAI take to ensure antisemitic content is not included or limited in training sets for its AI models?
Does xAI consider and limit any type of bias in the training sets used for its AI models?
2. What testing and evaluation processes related to safety and risk are completed before updates to Grok are deployed publicly?
Are any of those procedures or tests related to evaluating the risk of the model promoting antisemitism?
Are any of those procedures or tests related to evaluating the risk of the model promoting violence against Jews?
Are there certain versions of the model that xAI plans to release for which antisemitic comments will be seen as a feature rather than a bug – for example, a “conspiracy” version of Grok?
3. Was a different process followed than the process described in response to Question 2 when Grok was updated on May 14, 2025 and the model subsequently engaged in Holocaust denial?
In xAI’s statement claiming that the comment was related to an “unauthorized modification” to Grok, xAI stated it would put in place additional checks and measures to ensure Grok’s prompts cannot be modified without review. What checks and measures did xAI enact?
4. Was a different process followed than the process described in response to Question 2 when Grok was updated and released on July 4, 2025?
5. In both the pre-deployment evaluation processes followed before the updates released to Grok on May 14 and on July 4, were there any signs that the model could potentially exhibit antisemitism before the updates were deployed, and if so, why was the update still released?
xAI’s inability to take basic steps to minimize the promotion of antisemitism by xAI’s products is unacceptable. We encourage xAI to recognize the important part it can play in combatting antisemitism.
Sincerely,
Your phone isn’t just a device – it’s your connection to everything that matters. From streaming your favourite music during the morning rush, to face-timing friends, or snapping spontaneous memories, you need a smartphone that keeps up without missing a beat. That’s where the Samsung Galaxy A Series – featuring the Galaxy A26 5G, A36 5G, and A56 5G – steps in, combining essential functionality with smart lifestyle integration in a sleek, accessible package – built to keep up with your life and now equipped with Awesome Intelligence, making them smarter and more appealing than ever.
Awesome Intelligence for More Creativity and Advanced Searching
For the first time, the Galaxy A series is integrating Awesome Intelligence, including Galaxy’s popular AI-powered features to reimagine creativity while bringing enhanced durability and longevity, as well as robust security and privacy protections for a safe and long-lasting mobile experience.
The latest Galaxy A series brings users Galaxy’s fan-favourite AI-powered features. Enhanced Circle to Search with Google1 offers a seamless way to find answers, enabling users to instantly bring information to their fingertips with a simple gesture. With Object Eraser2, users can easily remove unwanted elements from photos for a cleaner, more polished look. For those who enjoy customising their photos even further, Filters3 can create unique effects inspired by their favourite images. Best Face4 (available only on the Galaxy A56 5G within the Galaxy A series) allows users to select the best expressions from multiple frames and combine them into a single photo so everyone looks their best.
5000mAh Battery: Built for Life on the Move
Ever been halfway through the day and realised you’re already at 20% battery? With the Galaxy A26, A36, and A56, that’s a thing of the past. Each phone comes packed with a powerful 5000mAh battery5 – enough to carry you from morning gym sessions to late-night video calls with zero stress.
[1] Service availability may vary by country, language, and device model. Requires an internet connection. Users may need to update Android and Google app to the latest version. Results may vary depending on visual or audio matches. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Works on compatible apps and surfaces, and with ambient music only. Will not identify music coming through headphones or if phone volume is off.
[2] Results may vary based on the images and the object the user is trying to remove.
[3] Filters feature is unavailable in the 3:4 64MP aspect ratio setting. Its availability might differ based on device model and software version. Filter availability may vary based on resolution and aspect ratio settings.
[4] Accuracy of results is not guaranteed. Best Face feature is available exclusively on the Galaxy A56 5G device from the Galaxy A series. Best Face is only available for photos taken with Motion Photo turned on. The feature does not generate new facial expressions but selects from frames within the Motion Photo video clip. It can recognise up to five people per image and suggest up to three alternative expressions per person.
[5] Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.
School’s out for summer! As uniforms are folded away and school shoes tucked neatly into the cupboard, parents across Plymouth are beginning to wonder what will the next six weeks look like?
If you are looking for inspiration for things to keep the kids occupied and entertained over the holidays, we can help. We’ve pulled together a list of activities to keep children of all ages and interests entertained all summer long. From bouncy castles for the younger kids, to e-sports for teens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s what on this week:
Plymouth Libraries
Saturday 26 July – Children’s author visit
Central Library – 10.30am to midday – Free
Central Library will be welcoming former Plymouth Laureate, Thom Boulton to deliver an interactive session based on his exciting new book, Wild Children – a magical adventure about finding the courage to confront our fears and throwing off the masks we wear.
Suitable for children 7 years and over and their families. No booking required.
Monday 28 July – Story Garden: Craft activity
Crownhill Library – 11am to midday – Free
Efford Library – 11.30am to 12.30pm – Free
Join in every Monday for garden themed craft activities. Suitable to children aged 5 to 11 years and their families. This session is part of a series of activities supporting this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.
Wednesday 30 July – Story Garden: Bird mosaic hangers
Central library – 2pm to 3pm – Free
Garden themed craft activity – create a colourful bird mosaic hanger! Suitable to children aged 5 years and over and their families This session is part of a series of activities supporting this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.
Friday 1 August – Story Garden: Lego, craft and colouring
Estover library – 11.30am to 4pm – Free
Lego, craft activities and colouring every Friday in August at Estover Library. Suitable for children 5 years and over and their families. This session is part of a series of activities supporting this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.
Libraries across Plymouth host regular activities for children, including Lego clubs, Rhymetime and storytelling sessions.
Tinside say: We’ve joined forces with Community Alcohol Partnerships for one unforgettable evening: CAPFEST. Created by young people, for young people, CAPFEST is a free event for 11–17 year olds packed with summer vibes – think music, swimming, mocktails and a BBQ, all by the sea. There’ll be live music, a DJ set, food and drinks (non-alcoholic, of course), and full access to the lido – all completely free.
Every Monday during the school holidays – Tech club
9:30 to 3:30pm – £24 per day
Is your child a tech enthusiast? Our Tech Club provides young minds with esports gaming, augmented reality HADO, and hands-on STEM challenges using Sphero robots.
Tuesday to Friday – Football roadshow
9.30am to 3.30pm – £24 per day
Our Football Roadshows bring high-energy training, games, and match play to young boys and girls of all abilities – right on your doorstep. Our roadshows teach skills, drills, and teamwork led by qualified Argyle coaches. 5 to 15 years.
Tuesday to Friday – Multi-Activity Clubs
9.30am to 3.30pm – £24 per day
For young people who love variety, a lively mix of sports, gaming, and soft play to keep children active, entertained, and socialising. From active games and soft play, to console time and sports – all in one place.
Tuesday 29 July to Thursday 31 July – Craft sessions
10:30am to 12.30pm and 1:30pm to 3:30pm (Last entries at 12.15pm and 3.15pm) – Free
Try the drop-in craft sessions, ideal for children aged 4 to 11 years old and their adults.
Wednesday 30 July – Bugs at The Box
The Box/ Tavistock Place – 12.45pm to 1.30pm – Free
You can see a 6m high biomechanical insect sculpture on Tavistock Place with a special performance with a live soundtrack from 12.45-1.30pm – plus, they’ll have live big bug handing with the University of Plymouth. Come and see stick insects, giant snails, giant cockroaches, katydid, beetles, spiders!
Friday 1 August – Tell me a story – Free
Join The Box Plymouth every Friday morning for half an hour of storytelling – perfect for under 5s and their grownups.
Why not look around the exhibitions whilst you’re there and see Mildred the woolly mammoth? The Box is free to visit with lots of amazing artwork and fascinating objects to explore, so there’s something for the whole family. It’s open 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday and there’s no need to book.
Poole Farm
Wednesday 30 July – Animal hour at Poole Farm
9.30am to 10.30am – Free
Looking for a fun family activity this summer? Come and join us for Animal Hour at Poole Farm – every Wednesday during the summer holidays, starting this week (excluding the week of Wild & Well). Meet at: The Derriford Community Park sign near the cow field. Meet our friendly farm animals – say hello to our cheeky chickens and come and see our beautiful cows up close! Please wear sensible shoes – it can get a little muddy on the farmyard.
Community fun day
Wednesday 30 July -The Barn Family Hub
11am to 3pm – Free
Enjoy a bouncy castle, football, hockey, karate, pizza making, arts & crafts, and our popular Bike Space – Doctor Bike. That’s just the start – there’s plenty more to discover! We’ll have refreshments, community group stalls, and information stands, so you can connect, learn, and enjoy a great day out with your neighbours.
“Game on, Together!” is a dynamic family workshop designed to build teamwork, communication, and trust through high-energy cooperative games and creative challenges. This is aimed at Parents and Children aged 6+ up to 18. Parents/carers can bring a maximum of 2 children with them to each class.
Thursday 31 July – Family poetry workshop
1pm to 3pm
Unleash creativity and explore the joy of poetry together in this engaging 2-hour workshop suitable for all ages and backgrounds. This is aimed at Parents and Children aged 6+ up to 18. Parents/carers can bring a maximum of 2 children with them to each class.
Thursday 31 July and Friday 1 August – Crafting sessions
11am to 3pm
Get your craft on this summer and take home a beautiful piece of art inspired by the movies at Saltram.
Saturday 19 July to Sunday 31 August – Summer of play at Saltram
Saltram say ‘This summer, join us for our Summer of Play – Saltram on screen family trail and activities. Saltram’s garden will be transformed into a playful celebration of all things performance, imagination and adventure – perfect for young creatives, budding films stars or movie makers, and families ready to make magical memories in the summer sunshine.’
YMCA said: Enjoy a range of free, inclusive activities for children and young people with SEND, aged 0–16 at YMCA Plymouth. Sessions are led by trained, friendly staff in a safe and supportive environment, offering fun, sensory, and creative experiences for all abilities.
This area right on Plymouth’s doorstep have some fantastic activities all summer long! Here’s what’s in store:
Swimming Sessions: Try Swim Safe and Safe and Sound sessions at Tinside Lido.
Rockpool Safaris: Join expert guides as you explore the hidden world of rockpools.
Shark Month: Head to Royal William Yard during July for a month packed with shark-themed fun.
Water Sports: Fancy kayaking or paddleboarding? The Mount Batten Centre have sessions for beginners and pros alike, all set against the stunning backdrop of Plymouth Sound.
Walks, Talks and Art: Tag along for history walks and talks around Royal William Yard, for a foraging workshop around Ernesettle Creek/Devil’s Point.
Mount Wise Swimming Pools are a great place to spend a summer day swimming, sunbathing and enjoying fantastic views. The best things is, it’s free entry!