NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI: The SBB Research Group Foundation Sponsors Chicago Scholars

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Chicago Scholars collaborated in a volunteer initiative alongside the SBB Research Group Foundation, which partners with local nonprofits through its Champion A Charity Program.   

    In celebration of Women’s History Month and in alignment with its mission to develop young adults from under-resourced communities, Chicago Scholars hosted its inaugural Women Lift and Lead networking reception on Monday, March 31st. The event welcomed nearly 50 guests and marked a vibrant kickoff to the 2025 program year.

    Women Lift and Lead is a unique initiative within Chicago Scholars’ career readiness programming. For the past five years, the program has empowered young women of color to build direct relationships with women in senior leadership roles. Through carefully curated interviews and mentorship pairings, Scholars are matched with industry-aligned leaders to engage in honest dialogue about career journeys, leadership, and personal development.

    The SBB Research Group Foundation provided resources to support the enrollment of 20 additional Scholars compared to last year and helped with the Women Lift and Lead networking event through event support and on-site participation. The event created a welcoming and dynamic space for students, mentors, and supporters to connect and celebrate the power of mentorship and education in shaping women’s careers. The reception also served as a recruitment event for the upcoming Women Lift and Lead programming set to take place later this year.

    “It was so inspiring to see these young women getting to connect with business professionals who are truly making an impact in their lives. We are grateful to be able to support Chicago Scholars Women Lift and Lead Program,” said Mitchell Lederer a volunteer for The SBB Research Group Foundation.

    To learn more about Chicago Scholars, please visit https://chicagoscholars.org/ 

    About the SBB Research Group Foundation 

    The SBB Research Group Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that furthers the philanthropic mission of SBB Research Group LLC (SBBRG), a Chicago-based investment management firm led by Sam Barnett, Ph.D., and Matt Aven. The Foundation provides grants to support ambitious organizations solving unmet needs with thoughtful, long-term strategies. In addition, the Foundation sponsors the SBBRG STEM Scholarship, which supports students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics degrees. 

    Contact: Erin Noonan 
    Organization: SBB Research Group Foundation
    Email: grants@sbbrg.org 
    Address: 450 Skokie Blvd, Building 600, Northbrook, IL 60062 United States 
    Phone: 1-847-656-1111
    Website: https://www.sbbrg.org 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Applauds Passage Of One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Sends To President’s Desk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released a statement marking the House of Representatives’ passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The bill now heads to President Trump’s desk for his signature. 

    Prior to the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Rep. Estes spoke in favor of the bill on the House floor. Read his remarks and watch here.

    “When Republicans decisively won the House, the Senate, and the White House last November, we promised the American people to extend the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts, secure the border, and restore prosperity,” said Rep. Estes. “With this bill’s passage, President Trump and my colleagues are ensuring Americans will see tax cuts and wage increases for years to come, improving the quality of life for the Kansans I represent.”

    Background:

    July 2025 – Rep. Estes Delivers Remarks On House Floor In Support Of The One Big, Beautiful Bill

    May 2025 – Rep. Estes Votes to Advance One Big, Beautiful Bill

    May 2025 – Rep. Estes Applauds Ways and Means Tax Legislation Vote

    April 2025 – House Passes Budget Resolution in Win for America First Agenda

    February 2025 – Rep. Estes Delivers Remarks on House Floor in Support of Budget Reconciliation Bill

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Talks One Big Beautiful Law with Andy Hooser

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) joined the Voice of Reason with Andy Hooser to talk about the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). President Trump signed the bill into law on July 4, 2025.

    Rep. Estes spoke about provisions within the OBBBA that will improve the lives of Americans through tax cuts, economic growth and the promotion of American innovation. He also spoke about border security funding and the creation of a Golden Dome to strengthen our national security.

    Listen to the interview here. 

    On passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:

    “…It was a monumental thing just because of the amount of work that we had to go through. In fact, we started this years ago. We knew after we passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017 that there were provisions that were going to expire. Some of them already have expired and we’ve seen some slowdown in the economy because of that. Others are expiring this year and so we wanted to make sure that we address those provisions and we looked at the future and how do we move forward from here. And so it was a lot of heavy lifting in terms of a lot of work and how do you sort through that process. 

    “I said in a lot of cases, it’s one step at a time. The first step was to get the Republicans elected in the majority in the House and the Senate and President Trump elected in the White House. That was the first thing we had to do to make this happen. It’s just been a series of steps since then.”

    On how the One Big, Beautiful Bill will grow the economy:

    “…We’ve seen over and over again the Congressional Budget Office, or CBO, has missed on scoring. In fact, they scored that the Inflation Act was not going to increase the deficit when as soon as the act was passed by the Democrats, then it showed, well now it’s really going to cost hundreds of billions of dollars more than what was described. We really have to come up with some better guestimates in terms of the decisions we make because we’re making trillion-dollar decisions. We’ve got to do that.

    “When we look at the One Big, Beautiful Bill on paper, in a static world, they’re saying it costs over $3 trillion dollars. But that’s if you say, somebody gets a tax cut or they don’t get a tax increase, because that’s really a lot of cases what it was, that their behavior wouldn’t change.

    “And I would say the argument is that if we raise taxes on people, they don’t have the money to invest. Businesses don’t have the money to invest. Individuals don’t have the money to go out and buy the new car, to go out and do the other decisions that they want to make for their family. 

    “And so when we were going through this on the Budget Committee, we were looking at, you know, even if the economic growth went from roughly 1.8%, 1.9%, where CBO was project it, up by less than 1%, that would raise almost $3 trillion in extra tax revenue over 10 years. Yet that’s not included in some of these numbers that are being reported about what the true cost of that is. 

    “We really wanted to focus on, how do we make good economic growth? How do we put as much as we could permanent, whether it was for small businesses … or whether it’s things like research and development, which Americans have led the innovation across the world for years. And I’ve been a big advocate that when you invest money on research and development or new ideas, that you can deduct that off your taxes in the year that incurs. And that’s one of those provisions that expired three years ago, and we’ve seen a slowdown in research and development spending.

    “In fact, we’ve seen … after 2017, it increased by 18%. And now, it has dropped. And the important thing about that is three-fourths of that money goes to jobs. And then those research and development jobs lead to more manufacturing work in the United States. So for over a longer period of time, it is a jobs program. And we need to make sure that those provisions, and that was a big piece of what we wanted to make sure were permanent in the bill, to help make sure that the economy continued to grow and people had more money in their pocket and paid less in taxes.”

    On Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries holding up the vote on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:

    “Here’s what he was trying to advocate for. He was trying to advocate that able-bodied adults without children should be entitled to Medicaid and not have to go look for a job. Americans want to, we’re beneficial people, we’re charitable. We want to give hand ups to people. But we also expect that you should do your own part and have the responsibility.

    “Basically, the Democrat position was, ‘No these people shouldn’t have to go look for a job.’Their argument was that illegal aliens should be entitled to getting free Medicaid. And this bill is going to prohibit that. And this bill is also going to prohibit people who maybe they qualified one year, but their income’s gone up this year because they have gone to work, but states weren’t required to certify that their income is as low as it was. Therefore, they were automatically re-enrolled. 

    “We’re saying, ‘Let’s go make sure that these processes work. Let’s go make sure that the money’s saved on people that shouldn’t be receiving Medicaid so that we have the money available for the disabled and the low income.’” 

    On improving national security at home and abroad:

    “We need to make sure that we clean up the mess that President Biden left the country in. Looking at new things on the defense side. You know, the world’s a dangerous place as we see now with Iran and North Korea and China and even Russia, in some of the things they’re doing. And [we] need to make sure that we have the next generation of technology out there to help with the sport. That we look at the Golden Dome process.”

    “I’ve been amazed going to Israel and seeing the Iron Dome and seeing that work. Seeing the interaction of technology to be able to detect a missile launch and track it and determine where it’s going and determine is it going to land in a field or is it going to land in a populated area? And then, how do you fire a missile to stop it? And to be successful at that and to make that process work. It’s great technology, great interaction there. It’s the type of thought process that we need to have to protect our country going forward.” 

    On the United States investing in a strong military and national defense:

    “One, we’ve seen, ever since the collapse of the Soviet Union, we saw a huge decline in the 1990s, the so-called peace dividend. And that really led into, there was a slight buildup with the fighting Al-Qaeda after 2001. And 9/11 results out of that. But then after that, there started to be a wind down again in terms of that.

    “We’re at an inflection point now and we’ve seen it both in Israel, and we’ve seen it in Ukraine. We’re at a point where some of the old technology or some of the things that may not be the right answers going forward. 

    “For example, we can shoot down a lot of the missiles that are fired at Israel but if you take a million dollar missile to shoot down a $50,000 drone that’s being fired at it, that’s not a smart use of resources. So we’ve got to look at some of those new technologies and things that we do going forward.”

    On the budget reconciliation process:

    Basically the reconciliation process is driven off of the budget process. And you want to prepare a budget each year, each fiscal year. This was off of the 2025 fiscal year budget … We’re now working on the 2026 fiscal year budget, and we’ll also have to work on the 2027 fiscal year before the end of next year.

    “Obviously, there’s a lot of work to do. I mean, we made some great strides in this One Big, Beautiful Bill. One of the things we want to really push on is, let’s get as much done as we could, knowing that we couldn’t get everything done.

    “So we’ve got a lot more to do, and we still have a whole lot of work we have to do to actually address some of the things with the spending at the federal level and making sure we address the budget and making sure, how do we make the United States stronger again.”

    On working towards a balanced budget:

    “We’ve still got a lot of work to do in that regards. I mean, we’re borrowing one out five dollars that the federal government is spending. So, it’s a terrible place to be in. It’s something that … our predecessors should not have gotten into that situation. And, it’s not something that we want to leave to our kids and grandkids. And really, that debt’s mostly being spent on today’s lifestyle. That’s the bad part about it. 

    “It’s not like it’s investing in a whole lot more infrastructure and other things. It’s today’s preferences that [it] is being spent on. So we’ve got to focus on both the discretionary side, which is the smallest piece of the budget, it’s really about 25% of it. And that’s what we’ll look at on the 2026 appropriations. 

    “But then we’ve got some big mandatory spending projects we’ve got to work on now. And those are the ones that are growing the fastest. Part of it’s the Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare, … we put money into Social Security and Medicare, but it’s not enough for what’s being spent out of those programs.

    “The SNAP food stamp program, which got some improvements now, obviously that’s growing. And that’s what, 80% of the Farm Bill? We really should be calling it the Farm and Food Stamp Bill. And so we’ve got a lot of work as we focus on that.

    On drafting the FY2026 budget:

    “Technically for 2026 we’ve already missed the date in terms of what we wanted to do. But with the discussion now that we’ve passed, and part of that was because we focused so much on the One Big, Beautiful Bill. We knew we had to get that done. There are some things we needed to get done in July. There are some things we wanted to get done now instead of waiting until December so that people could start making decisions about, because they know what their tax bill is going to be next year through that process. That’s good. Now let’s go focus on the 2026 budget and how that’s going to drive reconciliation. At the parallel process, which we’re working on appropriations for the discretionary pieces, and we can attack them both directions in terms of the problems that we’re trying to face.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PRESS RELEASE: Rep. Barragán Celebrates Grand Opening of Urban Orchard After Securing Funding to Improve Underserved Communities’ Access to Outdoor Recreation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    July 13, 2025

    Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

    Rep. Barragán Celebrates Grand Opening of Urban Orchard After Securing Funding to Improve Underserved Communities’ Access to Outdoor Recreation

    South Gate, CA — Yesterday, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) celebrated the grand opening of the Urban Orchard, a new park located in South Gate, along the Los Angeles River. 

    Rep. Barragán secured a $3 million federal grant through the Land and Water Conservation Fund in 2023 for this project, as well as another $50,000 grant from the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation. Furthermore, the Congresswoman authored the Outdoors for All Act to improve access to outdoor recreation in urban and underserved communities. This legislation was ultimately included in the EXPLORE Act, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden this past January.

    “I am proud to return to Urban Orchard to celebrate its grand opening. This is more than just a park — it is a powerful investment in health, equity, and environmental justice,” said Rep. Barragán. “Urban Orchard is a safe, welcoming place for families to gather and learn. Donald Trump wants to destroy our community resources and safe spaces, like Urban Orchard, through the devastating cuts against our conservation programs and community green space funding in his Big Ugly Bill. But House Democrats will continue to fight in Congress to protect these investments because every family, no matter their zip code, deserves access to clean air, public safety, and a space for community.”

    “This park is the result of years of vision, hard work, and collaboration,” said Maria Davila, Mayor of South Gate. “Urban Orchard Park proves what’s possible when a city invests in its people and its environment. This is how we build a better future together. Urban Orchard Park is for everyone. Whether you’re walking your dog, enjoying a sunny afternoon with your kids, or simply enjoying the fresh air and fruit trees, this is a space for community and connection.”

    “Urban Orchard is a national model for how partnership and strategic planning can curb some of the most pressing issues of our time. The 200 fruit trees, educational garden, storm water infrastructure, wetland, walking paths, and long-term job opportunities are all testimony to how non-profits, donors, city leaders and agencies can partner to achieve shared goals even amidst challenging economic times,” said Nola Talmage, the Los Angeles Parks for People Program Director. “Trust for Public Land is proud to see years of partnership coming to fruition, as the collective investment in Urban Orchard will improve community health, provide climate resilience, spur economic growth for the city, and provide essential access to the outdoors, now and for many generations to follow.” 

    Communities like South Gate have long faced the harmful impacts of pollution, overcrowded housing, and limited green space. The park was designed to address these issues by diverting and treating storm water run-off from the Los Angeles River, as well as providing a space for outdoor recreation for South Gate residents. The park is fully furnished with green space, fruit trees, wetlands, an education garden, and now stands as a model for stormwater capture, climate resilience, and equitable access to green space, and a replicable approach for other underserved areas.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PRESS RELEASE: Rep. Barragán and Sen. Markey Introduce Resolution to Confront Rising Public Health Threats from Climate Change

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

    For Immediate Release

    July 12, 2025

    Contact: jin.choi@mail.house.gov

    Rep. Barragán and Sen. Markey Introduce Resolution to Confront Rising Public Health Threats from Climate Change

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44), a member of the Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Health, and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, introduced a resolution recognizing climate change as a growing threat to public health and calling for a coordinated federal strategy to protect communities from worsening climate-fueled harms. The resolution urges the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and other federal agencies to lead a whole-of-government effort to protect public health and improve resiliency against climate-related threats throughout the health sector. Representatives Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Doris Matsui (CA-07), and Brad Schneider (IL-10) co-led the resolution in the House.

    The climate crisis is here. In 2024, the United States experienced 27 climate disasters that caused more than a billion dollars each in damage. Increasingly frequent and extreme events—like wildfires, floods, and heat waves—are driving spikes in illness, displacement, and death. More than 150 million Americans live in areas with unhealthy air, and people with disabilities are 2 to 4 times more likely to die or be injured in climate-related disasters. Frontline workers in agriculture, construction, delivery, and manufacturing face growing health risks from extreme heat and poor air quality on the job. 

    “The climate crisis affects us all, but especially economically disadvantaged communities, communities of color, and other marginalized communities,” said Representative Barragán. “Now more than ever, we see families across the country facing significant health risks as a result of climate disasters such as extreme heat, excessive flooding, and unpredictable storms. Yet the Trump Administration has dangerously chosen to ignore the threat of climate change to our public health – firing staff and canceling programs that were focused on improving our resilience to harmful environmental exposures, such as the HHS Office of Climate Change and Health Equity. That is why I am proud to lead this bicameral resolution with Senator Markey and Representatives Carbajal, Matsui, and Schneider to acknowledge the federal government’s responsibility to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect the health and well-being of all Americans.”

    “With deadly extreme weather disasters, devastating heat waves, and pollution that triggers asthma and other health crises all on the rise, climate change is a full-blown public health emergency—and we need to treat it that way,” said Senator Markey. “This resolution calls on our government to protect the people most at risk from climate-related threats—those on the frontlines of the climate crisis, including Black and Indigenous communities, low-income families, and workers, especially those in construction, delivery, manufacturing, and warehouses. While Republicans pass bills that kick people off their health care, we are fighting for a resilient health system that helps everyone survive a warming and increasingly chaotic world.”

    “It doesn’t matter if you live in a red or blue state, every American will be affected by climate change,” said Congressman Salud Carbajal. “We’re calling on the Administration to reinstate the OCCHE because it’s essential to protecting the health and well-being of every community in this country.”

    “Over the past six months, President Trump and Congressional Republicans have launched a full-scale attack on the environment and public health,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “By blatantly disregarding climate change, they are driving us towards a dangerous future. Climate change is already harming human health nationwide, driving up heat-related deaths, increasing vector-borne illnesses, and disrupting medical care. This resolution demands urgent action to address the health impacts from climate change to prevent countless deaths across the country.”

    “Climate change threatens every corner of our nation and must be mitigated through swift, coordinated action by our government,” said Congressman Schneider. “The Office of Climate Change and Health Equity is a critical asset in understanding the dire health implications of climate change and mobilizing strategies that ensure no community is left behind. The decision by the Trump Administration to place all OCCHE staff on leave poses a real threat to American lives and wellbeing. I’m proud to join my colleague Rep. Barragan in urging the Trump Administration to reinstate of the Office of Climate Change and Health Equity (OCCHE) and its Office of Environmental Justice.”

    Specifically, the resolution:

    • Demands the release of funding appropriated by Congress that would help to address climate-related health threats that has been held up by Federal agencies;
    • Details the public health dimensions of the climate crisis, including increased risks of respiratory illness, cardiovascular disease, mental health stressors, pregnancy complications, infectious disease outbreaks, and disaster-related displacement;
    • Highlights the disproportionate health burdens on children, people with disabilities, low-income households, communities of color, Tribal nations, and workers in high-risk occupations;
    • Calls on the Department of Health and Human Services to lead cross-agency coordination to strengthen health system climate resilience, support frontline providers, close gaps in climate-health data, and help the health sector lower its own environmental impact;
    • Affirms the importance of engaging environmental justice and community-based organizations in local climate-health preparedness and response efforts;
    • Urges the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to adopt a national worker heat protection standard; and,
    • Calls for annual public reporting on federal climate-health resilience investments and progress.

    The resolution is cosponsored by Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Representatives Hank Johnson (GA-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Ritchie Torres (NY-15). 

    The resolution is endorsed by Health Care Without Harm, Center for American Progress, Climate Justice Alliance, International Transformational Resilience Coalition, Climate and Community Institute, Earthjustice Action, Public Citizen, Deep South Center for Environmental Justice, Center for Oil and Gas Organizing, Physicians for Social Responsibility, and the American College of Physicians.

    “Health Care Without Harm applauds Senator Markey for introducing this important resolution and is pleased to endorse it,” said Jenny Keroack, Director of Program Strategy & Management in the U.S. Climate Program. “Climate change is causing more severe and frequent storms, wildfires, and extreme heat events, creating safety and public health crises across our country. Our government must have a science-based, coordinated approach to prepare for and respond to these growing threats, and the Department of Health and Human Services has an indispensable role to play as the guardian of our nation’s health and well-being. Vital programs have been attacked, including a grant program that assists families with energy costs so they can afford to cool and heat their homes, funding that helps hospitals stay open and operational when the grid goes down, and research on how best to protect farmworkers from increasing heat waves. Such programs and the expert civil servants who help protect our communities from environmental health threats like climate change must be immediately reinstated and supported. Now is not the time to retreat.”

    “With climate change and extreme weather events driving illness, injury, and death across the United States, the Department of Health and Human Services must harness its resources, leverage its authorities, and coordinate its expertise and action to prepare for and respond to the health and financial impact,” said Jill Rosenthal, Director of Public Health at the Center for American Progress.

    “This resolution is crucial because climate change isn’t just an environmental problem; it’s a public health crisis hurting families right now,” said KD Chavez, Executive Director of the Climate Justice Alliance. “Low-income communities bear the brunt – suffering more asthma attacks, heatstroke, and toxic exposure. But these communities also have the answers! They’ve developed practical, replicable solutions. We need bold action: stronger environmental safeguards, smart investments in resilient infrastructure, and policies that prioritize everyone’s health and safety, no matter where they live. Let’s protect our families and build a healthier future for all.”

    “The International Transformational Resilience Coalition (ITRC) strongly endorses this resolution,” said ITRC Founder and Coordinator Bob Doppelt. “We do so because the climate crisis is a public health crisis that requires significant leadership, support, and investments by the federal government to prevent and heal the accelerating climate-generated mental health, psychosocial, and physical health issues experienced by newborns, young children, adolescents, working age, and older adults nationwide.”

    “Our hospitals and clinics are already seeing the devastating health effects of climate change every day – from children struggling to breathe polluted air to seniors collapsing in extreme heat,” said Ranjani Prabhakar, Legislative Director of Healthy Communities, Earthjustice Action. “Over 200 medical journals have called climate change the greatest threat to human health this century, and Senator Markey’s resolution affirms this data by putting health at the center of environmental solutions. Recognizing this crisis for the public health emergency that it is, is essential to protect our families and communities.”

    “As the planet enters a period of increasing climate chaos, our collective response will either deepen disparities or address the drivers of climate breakdown and health inequity together,” said Batul Hassan, Labor Director at the Climate and Community Institute. “This resolution from Senator Markey establishes the urgent need for coordinated action across health and public health systems to ensure all people and generations to come can thrive in a warming world.”

    The full text of the legislation can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PRESS RELEASE: Rep. Barragán Thanks Governor Newsom and State Legislators for Protecting Access to Medi-Cal and In-Home Care in Final 2025-26 State Budget Signed into Law

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    July 13, 2025

    Contact: Jin Choi, jin.choi@mail.house.gov

    Rep. Barragán Thanks Governor Newsom and State Legislators for Protecting Access to Medi-Cal and In-Home Care in Final 2025-26 State Budget Signed into Law

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Late June, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the 2025-26 state budget into law and delivered on protecting access to Medi-Cal and in-home care. In early June, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) led 16 members of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation in a letter urging Governor Gavin Newsom and State Legislators to reject reinstating the $2000 Medi-Cal asset limit and to reject capping overtime hours for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) providers.

    Governor Newsom’s original May Budget Revision proposed cutting access to state and federally funded Medi-Cal and Medi-Cal’s IHSS program by proposing to reinstate a low $2000 Medi-Cal asset limit for seniors and adults with disabilities. It had also proposed a cap on overtime and travel hours for IHSS providers, who provide in-home care to seniors and people with disabilities as an alternative to out-of-home care.

    The final budget, negotiated by the Governor and State Legislature, reinstates a much higher Medi-Cal asset limit of $130,000 for individuals, rather than the Governor’s original proposal of $2,000 – it also did not include the proposal to cap overtime hours for IHSS providers.

    Congresswoman Barragán issued the following statement following the Governor’s signing the budget into law:

    “The proposals in the Governor’s May Revision included potentially devastating cuts to Medi-Cal and in-home care that would have threatened the health and financial stability of seniors, children, adults with disabilities, and home care workers throughout California. I appreciate that the Governor and the State Legislature took meaningful steps to protect access to Medi-Cal and in-home care in the final negotiated budget that was signed into law. I look forward to continuing to work together with the State to protect our essential in-home care workers and ensure Californians can access the affordable, quality health care they need.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Member Maximo Londonio Released After Two-Month Wrongful Detention

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is relieved and grateful to announce that IAM Local 695 (District 160) member Maximo Londonio of Olympia, Wash., has been released from custody following two months of wrongful detention.

    Londonio, a dedicated union member and hard-working father, was detained under circumstances that never should have occurred in a just and equitable society. His release comes after an outpouring of support from the IAM, labor allies, and community advocates across the country.

    WATCH: Londonio reunites with his family

    “We are incredibly thankful that Maximo is finally home with his family where he belongs,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “But the fact that he was detained for two months without cause is unacceptable. This is not just a failure of the system—it’s a violation of basic human dignity. No working person should have to go through what Maximo endured in a country that claims to stand for justice and fairness.”

    Londonio’s case quickly gained attention throughout the labor movement, and amongst elected officials and allies.

    “Maximo’s story is a painful reminder that injustice can happen anywhere—even to the people who build and serve this country every day,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “We are grateful that our Brother is free, but we will not stop fighting until every worker is protected from this kind of mistreatment. We are so grateful to Local 695, District 160, Local 2202 and everyone who joined us in standing strong for our Brother Maximo.”

    The IAM Union calls for accountability and a thorough investigation into the circumstances of Londonio’s detention. The union also renews its demand for immigration and justice systems that respect the rights of all working people—regardless of where they come from or what they look like.

    The post IAM Union Member Maximo Londonio Released After Two-Month Wrongful Detention appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AI that delivers smarter glucose predictions without compromising privacy

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Managing diabetes is a daily challenge faced by nearly 40 million Americans. It involves tracking food intake, timing medication and engaging in physical activity. Getting it wrong can lead to serious health issues; therefore, developing better prediction tools is a vital part of effective diabetes care.

    To support better diabetes management, researchers funded by multiple U.S. National Science Foundation grants are developing innovative tools that help patients predict blood sugar levels more precisely without compromising the privacy of their health data. This cutting-edge approach could transform how people with diabetes monitor and manage their condition in real-time.

    At the core of this technology is a method called federated learning, which allows artificial intelligence models to be trained across many patients’ devices without sending any personal data to a central server. This setup is ideal for healthcare, where data privacy is paramount and patients often use battery- and memory-limited smart devices. But early federated learning systems struggled to adapt to individual differences, like how people eat, move or react to insulin.

    To address this challenge, the research team grouped patients based on their carbohydrate (e.g., sugar and starch) intake levels. The idea is that people who eat in similar ways tend to show similar glucose patterns. By training the AI on these grouped behaviors, the model became more effective at making personalized blood glucose predictions.

    To test their approach, the team evaluated two machine learning models using data generated from an FDA-approved Type 1 diabetes simulator. As simulated data accumulated, model accuracy improved. Notably, even with limited input, the system could build personalized models — a key advantage for newly diagnosed patients or those just beginning to use digital tools to manage their care.

    Because traditional AI systems typically require gathering large amounts of data in a central location, which can pose privacy risks, especially when dealing with sensitive health information, federated learning provides a good solution for the field. It keeps personal data on each individual’s device — like a phone or wearable sensor — and only shares the model’s learning, never the raw data. This protects patient privacy while still allowing the system to improve over time.

    While the early results are promising, the researchers note that the models still rely on detailed food intake data — something not all patients can easily provide. They plan to expand their system to include other factors like exercise and medication, and to test it with larger patient groups. In the long term, the researchers hope to extend this personalized, privacy-preserving AI approach to other chronic conditions like heart disease or asthma, where individualized care is equally important.

    With diabetes costing the U.S. economy over $300 billion yearly, innovations that enable earlier intervention and personalized care can drive down long-term costs and improve population health outcomes.  

    This project highlights how public investment in cutting-edge research drives innovation that benefits not just individual patients but the entire U.S. healthcare system. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USCIS Assists ICE in Arrest of One of El Salvador’s “Top 100 Most Wanted” Hiding in Nebraska

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Headline: USCIS Assists ICE in Arrest of One of El Salvador’s “Top 100 Most Wanted” Hiding in Nebraska

    U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services provided key assistance to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations resulting in the July 9 arrest of a high-ranking member of the violent MS-13 gang who was listed among El Salvador’s top 100 most wanted fugitives.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Media Advisory: Coast Guard, state, local first responders to conduct boat drills on Ohio River in Kentucky & Indiana

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard Heartland District
    Contact: Heartland District Public Affairs
    Office: 504-671-2020
    After Hours: 618-225-9008
    Heartland District online newsroom

     

    Port conditions change based on weather forecasts, and current port conditions can be viewed on the following Coast Guard homeport webpages:

    For more information follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: BluSky AI Inc. Announces Appointment of Tech Industry Veteran to Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Salt Lake City, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BluSky AI Inc. (OTC: BSAI), (“BluSky” or the “Company”), a next-generation developer of modular AI data center infrastructure, today announced the Appointment of Dan Gay, a renowned veteran of the telecom, data and technology industry, to its Board of Directors. The Appointment underscores BluSky AI’s strategic commitment to expanding its leadership bench as the company scales its footprint in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence infrastructure space.

    Mr. Gay brings over 30 years of experience in data center innovation, enterprise IT strategy, and AI-driven technologies, having held senior executive roles at MCI, Qwest, Montana Power, BlockCerts, and RackScale. Throughout his career, Dan has been at the forefront of digital transformation, starting new business units, developing new brands, and scaling company revenues from long distance, internet services, data services, and high-performance computing initiatives across multiple sectors.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Dan Gay to the BluSky AI board,” said Trent D’Ambrosio, Chief Executive Officer of BluSky AI. “Dan’s extensive experience in leading growth in technology companies will be invaluable as we continue executing on our vision to deploy scalable, energy-efficient AI data centers across the United States. Dan’s leadership in serving as BluSky AI’s COO this past year has been key in positioning the company for the future.”

    BluSky AI is pioneering a modular approach to AI compute infrastructure by building rapidly deployable, plug-and-play data centers on powered land assets. As demand for AI compute power surges globally, BluSky’s innovative model offers unmatched speed-to-market, scalability, and sustainability — positioning the company as a premier partner for AI companies and enterprises seeking advanced compute solutions.

    Mr. Gay expressed enthusiasm about the appointment:

    “AI represents one of the greatest technology shifts of our time, and infrastructure will be a critical enabler of that future. I’m fortunate to have played a role in introducing equal access to long distance, internet and datacenter services, blockchain, and now AI infrastructure. I was also fortunate to collaborate with BluSky AI’s founder throughout my career. Now, BluSky’s modular strategy is exactly what the market needs — agile, intelligent, and ready to scale. I’m excited to contribute to this mission and support the team in delivering on its bold vision.”

    Trent D’Ambrosio
    CEO, BluSky AI Inc.
    trentdambrosio@bluskyaidatacenters.com
    www.bluskyaidatacenters.com

    About BluSky AI Inc.

    Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, BluSky AI Inc. delivers modular, rapidly deployable data center infrastructure purpose-built for artificial intelligence. These next generation scalable AI Factories provide speed-to-market, and energy optimization for entities requiring high-performance infrastructure to support machine learning workloads. BluSky AI empowers small, mid-sized, enterprise, and academic partners from start-up to scale-up to drive innovation without compromise.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This news release includes certain forward-looking statements or information. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties.  Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements with respect to the potential impact for the Company. There can be no assurance statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from anticipated in such statements.

    BluSky AI Inc. disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events except as required by applicable securities legislation.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Introduces Bill to Close Loopholes Allowing Pre-Trial Defendants to Access Firearms

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Delays in Background Check Reporting Mean Those on Pre-Trial Release Are Oftentimes Still Able to Buy Firearms Despite Court Prohibition

     

    Patchwork State Background Check Laws Create Dangerous Loopholes for Gun Purchases 

    Read the Bill Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today introduced the ‘Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act,’ a bill that would close a critical loophole in the federal background check system and prevent individuals on pretrial release who are deemed a public safety risk from obtaining firearms. Senator Cory Booker (NJ-D) has introduced a companion bill in the Senate. 

    “Improving our background check system and closing loopholes that allow potentially dangerous individuals to access firearms is a commonsense step we can take to address America’s tragic gun violence crisis,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “I am proud to be jointly re-introducing the Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act in the House, which will close a dangerous loophole in our background check system by flagging individuals on pretrial release who are legally barred from purchasing firearms as a condition of their release. Congress must stop twiddling our thumbs and start taking decisive steps to close these deadly loopholes and prevent weapons from falling into the wrong hands.” 

     

    Senator Cory Booker said, “We must close the existing loopholes in the background check system, especially when individuals who are known risks to public safety are still able to buy a firearm,” said Senator Booker. “This legislation will ensure that individuals subject to a pretrial release court order cannot walk into a gun store and buy one. We must act to close the dangerous gaps in our background check system so we can save lives and keep our communities safe.” 

    Current federal law requires licensed gun dealers to conduct a background check of a firearm buyer using the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to ensure that the buyer is not legally prohibited from purchasing a firearm. Unfortunately, differences between various state and federal background check processes have exposed numerous vulnerabilities in this system. One vulnerability is that jurisdictions are unable to effectively and accurately report the pretrial status of individuals who, as a condition of their pretrial release, are prohibited by a court from purchasing or possessing a firearm.  

    The Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act would: 

    • Amend federal law to prevent firearm sales to any person subject to a pretrial releasecourt order that prohibits the person from purchasing to possessing a firearm before trial.  

    • Prohibit any person from providing firearms to individuals in this category. 

    • Provide $25 million in funding to aid states in paying for timely and accurate reporting of pretrial orders involving firearms restrictions to NICS 

    The Preventing Pretrial Gun Purchases Act has been endorsed by Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Everytown for Gun Safety, and GIFFORDS. 

    Congressman Dan Goldman remains committed to protecting families and communities by ensuring firearms do not end up in the hands of those who pose a threat to public safety. He is currently the Vice-Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. 

    In January of 2024, the Congressman also cosponsored the ‘Bolstering Security Against Ghost Guns Act’ to strengthen the United States Department of Homeland Security’s response to the growing threat of untraceable firearms, which can be bought online without a background check. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Probes ICE Agreement with Bureau of Prisons to House Over 100 Immigrants At the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Prison is Notorious for Violence, Understaffing, Power Outages, Extended Lockdowns, and Solitary Confinement 

     

    Federal Judges Have Refused to Send Convicted Criminals to MDC in Recent Years, Calling it ‘Barbaric’ and ‘Contemptuous of Human Dignity’ 

     

    Read the Letter Here 

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) sent an oversight letter of inquiry to the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) today demanding answers on their new interagency agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to house more than 100 immigration detainees at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, which has long been plagued by violence, chronic understaffing, inadequate medical treatment, and inmate deaths. 

    The Congressman demanded that the BOP immediately suspend all transfers to MDC and any other facility with a documented history of unsafe conditions, detail current conditions at the MDC and how the influx of new immigrants has impacted them, as well as how the Bureau intends to use the new funding from the Republican’s reconciliation bill to address staffing shortages and issues across BOP managed sites. 

    “This interagency agreement, reportedly part of a broader expansion involving the use of eight BOP facilities nationwide, is especially concerning in light of the MDC’s inability to provide proper care and staffing for the existing inmates under your jurisdiction. Adding dozens of new detainees to a facility that is already overburdened will inevitably exacerbate the already deplorable conditions at MDC for both detainees and personnel. In fact, according to reports, lockdowns, which often occur due to staffing shortages and unsafe conditions, have already increased since the new ICE population arrived,” Congressman Goldman wrote. 

    The transfer of over 100 immigrants to the facility, many of whom lack any criminal record, comes after the Trump administration has already paused and rolled back several initiatives aimed at improving conditions at MDC. Under the Biden administration, BOP implemented a 35 percent retention pay policy which resulted in the hiring of 87 new personnel—the highest staffing increase at MDC Brooklyn in years. Despite these modest improvements, Associate Director Toomey confirmed that the Trump administration has since paused consideration of any new pay incentives and eliminated some existing retention incentives and programs at facilities across the country. 

    “Now, individuals who may pose no public safety threat are being detained in a facility that has consistently failed to provide basic care for its current population. It is neither ethical nor safe for BOP to divert limited resources and space at the MDC facility to house noncriminal individuals to further the Trump administration’s mass deportation agenda, when your agency has so glaringly failed to meet safety standards prior to the added strain of these new detainees,” Congressman Goldman wrote. 

    Read the full letter here or below: 

    Dear Director Marshall:  

    I write to express deep concern about the Federal Bureau of Prisons’ (BOP) new interagency agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to house more than 100 immigration detainees at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) Brooklyn facility. 

    As you well know, MDC Brooklyn has long been plagued by many troubling issues, including numerous incidents of violence (and even death), significant understaffing leading to excessive and extended lockdowns and solitary confinement, inadequate medical care for inmates, frequent power outages, and unsanitary conditions. In recent years, federal judges have described the jail as “barbaric” and “contemptuous of human dignity,” even refusing to send convicted criminals there due to fear for their safety. These conditions have been well documented by legal advocates and journalists and have been highlighted in judicial rulings over the years.  

    The Biden administration began to address some of these issues last year. On February 26, 2025, BOP Associate Director Kathleen Toomey testified before the House Appropriations Committee, describing MDC Brooklyn as a “good example” of how effective retention pay and salary incentives can improve conditions.4 Under the Biden administration, BOP implemented a 35 percent retention pay policy which resulted in the hiring of 87 new personnel—the highest staffing increase at MDC Brooklyn in years. Despite these positive developments, Associate Director Toomey confirmed that the Trump administration has since paused consideration of any new pay incentives and eliminated some existing retention incentives and programs at facilities across the country.   

    Despite MDC Brooklyn’s dangerous dearth of resources, your agency has now agreed to house ICE detainees in MDC Brooklyn’s East Building, many of whom are individuals with no criminal record. This interagency agreement, reportedly part of a broader expansion involving the use of eight BOP facilities nationwide, is especially concerning in light of the MDC’s inability to provide proper care and staffing for the existing inmates under your jurisdiction. Adding dozens of new detainees to a facility that is already overburdened will inevitably exacerbate the already deplorable conditions at MDC forboth detainees and personnel. In fact, according to reports, lockdowns, which often occur due to staffing shortages and unsafe conditions, have already increased since the new ICE population arrived. Lockdowns can severely restrict inmate access to common areas, medical care, legal counsel, and communication with loved ones—further isolating inmates and increasing the risk of neglect.  

    Now, individuals who may pose no public safety threat are being detained in a facility that has consistently failed to provide basic care for its current population. It is neither ethical nor safe for BOP to divert limited resources and space at the MDC facility to house noncriminal individuals to further the Trump administration’s mass deportation agenda, when your agency has so glaringly failed to meet safety standards prior to the added strain of these new detainees.  

    Accordingly, I request that you take the following actions as soon as possible:  

    1. Suspend all transfers to MDC Brooklyn and any other BOP facilities with a documented history of understaffing and unsafe conditions.   

    2. Provide a detailed explanation of the criteria utilized to select BOP facilities under the interagency agreement, including why MDC Brooklyn was deemed appropriate to house ICE detainees despite its history of problematic conditions and violence.  

    3. Provide a detailed assessment of the conditions at MDC both before and after the additional detainees were moved to the facility. Please include how this agreement will affect MDC BOP staffing schedules and resource allocation.  

    4. Ensure that any facility being used to house ICE detainees is meeting minimum standards of medical care and access to legal counsel.  

    5. Provide a detailed plan outlining how your agency intends to use funding allocated through the reconciliation bill to address staffing shortages and the maintenance of BOP facilities, including whether BOP will receive any of the $170 billion allotted for DHS/ICE for immigration-related matters.  

    I look forward to your prompt response no later than July 18, 2025. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Takes Up Renewal of Haiti Mission

    Source: United Nations 4

    5596th Meeting (AM)

    The Security Council will vote on a draft resolution renewing the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) for another six and a half months, until 31 January 2026.  The text is authored by Panama and the United States, the co-penholders on Haiti.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AMC forces launch for DLE 2025 to elevate rapid global mobility

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: AMC forces launch for DLE 2025 to elevate rapid global mobility

    Spanning more than 3,000 miles, this exercise will provide the opportunity for Airmen in multiple nations to work alongside allies and partners. Together, they will employ new concepts of operations in a realistic environment, delivering invaluable training for the joint force and showcasing rapid global mobility. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: AMC forces launch for DLE 2025 to elevate rapid global mobility

    Source: United States Air Force

    Spanning more than 3,000 miles, this exercise will provide the opportunity for Airmen in multiple nations to work alongside allies and partners. Together, they will employ new concepts of operations in a realistic environment, delivering invaluable training for the joint force and showcasing rapid global mobility. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sylmar Man Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Multiple Crimes Against Multiple Minor Victims

    Source: US FBI

    A San Fernando Valley man has been sentenced to life in federal prison after pleading guilty to four counts of child exploitation, including possession, distribution and production of child pornography, as well as coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sex, the FBI announced today.

    Edwin Bernard, 79, of Sylmar, was sentenced on Thursday to life in prison by the Honorable Josephine L. Staton, United States District Court judge. A restitution hearing is scheduled for October 9.

    According to sentencing documents filed with the court, Bernard sought out vulnerable boys online, groomed and engaged them romantically, and then induced them to engage in sexually explicit behavior at his direction from at least 2009 to 2014.

    Bernard screen recorded at least two victims, capturing their written communications and sexual acts on video. Bernard sexually abused a third victim in person and amassed child sexual abuse material (CSAM) for years, resulting in a collection of more than 115,000 suspected CSAM files on his devices.

    By at least 2009, Bernard served as a moderator under the usernames “netzoomer” and “netzoomer16” on websites where men seek to engage sexually with minor boys. Through this connection, Bernard met a 14-year-old victim and instructed the victim to perform sex acts, including cutting to the point of bleeding, which Bernard recorded on at least two occasions without the victim’s permission or knowledge.

    Edwin Bernard has been sentenced to life in prison on multiple counts related to child exploitation. Based on Bernard’s criminal history and conviction of abusing minors, the FBI believes he may have additional victims who have not yet been identified. His photo is, therefore, being released and anyone who believes they were victimized or who has information about a victim, is urged to contact the FBI. The FBI can be reached at 1 800 CALL-FBI.

    Bernard’s exploitation extended beyond digital communications. In 2011, the defendant met another minor victim online and befriended him, later grooming him to provide him with nude photos. In March 2014, when the victim was 16 years old, Bernard flew from California to another state where the victim boy resided and rented a hotel room where he took the victim. After instructing the victim to undress, Bernard raped him.

    From 2016 to 2018, Bernard encouraged others to engage in the abuse of children; specifically, Michael Rushmer, with whom Bernard discussed Rushmer’s sexual exploitation of a 13-year-old boy. Rushmer was arrested by the FBI and pleaded guilty in August 2019 in U.S. District Court in Binghamton, New York, to producing CSAM and engaging in sex with a minor. Rushmer is serving a 25-year federal prison sentence for his crimes.

    On December 5, 2019, the FBI executed a federal search warrant at Bernard’s home and seized digital devices, one of which contained more than 38,000 files of suspected child pornography and nearly 40,000 files of suspected child erotica. In total, the FBI identified more than 115,000 files as containing suspected CSAM across Bernard’s devices. Bernard was ultimately arrested and pleaded guilty in February 2025.

    The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) identified at least 207 real children whose sexual abuse was depicted in images and videos the defendant possessed. There were multiple videos and images depicting infants and toddlers, as well as masochistic sexual conduct involving children under the age of 12. Based on an analysis of the metadata, Bernard had been collecting CSAM files for over a decade.

    Based on Bernard’s criminal history and conviction of abusing minors, the FBI believes he may have additional victims who have not yet been identified. His photo is, therefore, being released and anyone who believes they were victimized or who has information about a victim, is urged to contact the FBI. The FBI can be reached at 1 800 CALL-FBI.

    This investigation was conducted by the FBI and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Diane Roldán and Suria Bahadue.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation and Girls Inc. Bring Free AI Bootcamp to San Antonio Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN ANTONIO, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Time is running out to apply to participate in the Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamp hosted by Girls Inc. in San Antonio. Applications for the no-cost bootcamp are closing September 30.

    The Mark Cuban Foundation, in partnership with Girls Inc. is bringing the only artificial intelligence (AI) camp of its kind, free of charge, to high school students in San Antonio. With a custom and highly-relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them and promises to educate, inspire and fuel the next generation of AI professionals.

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation for their future, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for underserved high school students with a transparent focus on recruiting girls, students of color, first generation college students, and those from low to moderate income households. The AI Bootcamp Program provides students with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during bootcamp.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. Thanks to our work with Girls Inc., the bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamp, taking place in San Antonio on November 1st, 8th, and 15th is hosted and staffed by Girls Inc., a national nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Founded in 1864, Girls Inc. is the nation’s longest-running girls’ leadership organization, providing mentorship, safe environments, and research-based programs that help girls build confidence, develop leadership skills, and achieve academic and personal success.

    Girls Inc. is one of more than 25 host companies selected to host camps across the U.S.

    “Partnering with the Mark Cuban Foundation on this AI Bootcamp is a game-changer for the girls we serve. At Girls Inc., we are committed to equipping young women with the durable skills they need to succeed, not just in tech, but in any career they choose,” said Lea Rosenauer, President & CEO, Girls Inc. of San Antonio. “This program doesn’t just introduce our girls to cutting-edge technology — it empowers them to see themselves as future innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers in AI and beyond. Together, we’re creating access to opportunity and breaking barriers for girls in our community.”

    There are just 11 weeks left until the September 30 deadline. Do not miss your chance—submit your application now, as spaces are limited.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th – 12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    About Girls Inc.

    Girls Inc. of San Antonio is a local affiliate of the National Girls Inc. organization, which works with schools and communities across the United States and Canada to help youth prepare for their futures and reach their full potential. Our evidence-based programming is proven to make a measurable difference in the lives of girls. We work to advance the rights and opportunities of girls and young women through public policy and advocacy. Together with partners and supporters, Girls Inc. inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mark Cuban Foundation and Girls Inc. Bring Free AI Bootcamp to San Antonio Teens

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN ANTONIO, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Time is running out to apply to participate in the Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamp hosted by Girls Inc. in San Antonio. Applications for the no-cost bootcamp are closing September 30.

    The Mark Cuban Foundation, in partnership with Girls Inc. is bringing the only artificial intelligence (AI) camp of its kind, free of charge, to high school students in San Antonio. With a custom and highly-relevant curriculum focused on teaching students about the latest developments in the world of AI and Generative AI, the camp will provide the tools to make these technologies work for them and promises to educate, inspire and fuel the next generation of AI professionals.

    The program aims to provide students with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications to future careers. Students can select from six tracks: healthcare, arts and entertainment, business and entrepreneurship, computer science, sports science, or education and career readiness. Driven by the belief that fostering interest in AI at a young age is crucial for preparing the next generation for their future, the AI Bootcamps are introductory and accessible to students in 9-12 grade with an interest in technology. Students do not need any familiarity with computer science or programming to attend.

    This free AI Bootcamp is hosted for underserved high school students with a transparent focus on recruiting girls, students of color, first generation college students, and those from low to moderate income households. The AI Bootcamp Program provides students with lunch and a snack, transportation assistance, and technology equipment during bootcamp.

    “As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. Thanks to our work with Girls Inc., the bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”

    This year’s bootcamp, taking place in San Antonio on November 1st, 8th, and 15th is hosted and staffed by Girls Inc., a national nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Founded in 1864, Girls Inc. is the nation’s longest-running girls’ leadership organization, providing mentorship, safe environments, and research-based programs that help girls build confidence, develop leadership skills, and achieve academic and personal success.

    Girls Inc. is one of more than 25 host companies selected to host camps across the U.S.

    “Partnering with the Mark Cuban Foundation on this AI Bootcamp is a game-changer for the girls we serve. At Girls Inc., we are committed to equipping young women with the durable skills they need to succeed, not just in tech, but in any career they choose,” said Lea Rosenauer, President & CEO, Girls Inc. of San Antonio. “This program doesn’t just introduce our girls to cutting-edge technology — it empowers them to see themselves as future innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers in AI and beyond. Together, we’re creating access to opportunity and breaking barriers for girls in our community.”

    There are just 11 weeks left until the September 30 deadline. Do not miss your chance—submit your application now, as spaces are limited.

    Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org.

    Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.

    To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.

    This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.

    About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative
    The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over 3 consecutive Saturdays underserved 9th – 12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems, and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.

    About Girls Inc.

    Girls Inc. of San Antonio is a local affiliate of the National Girls Inc. organization, which works with schools and communities across the United States and Canada to help youth prepare for their futures and reach their full potential. Our evidence-based programming is proven to make a measurable difference in the lives of girls. We work to advance the rights and opportunities of girls and young women through public policy and advocacy. Together with partners and supporters, Girls Inc. inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Music Licensing, Inc. and Pro Music Rights Featured in Bloomberg News and Los Angeles Times Amid Industry Spotlight on Licensing Fees

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NAPLES, FL, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Pro Music Rights, were recently featured in Bloomberg News and the Los Angeles Times in connection with national coverage on the rising costs and growing complexity of music licensing for restaurants and bars. The coverage highlights Pro Music Rights as a leading innovator among performance rights organizations (PROs), positioned to modernize an industry long dominated by legacy structures.

    Industry Coverage Underscores Growing Demand for Reform

    The July 9, 2025 Bloomberg News article, “Restaurants, Bars Say They’re Getting Squeezed by Rising Music Licensing Costs,” and the July 11, 2025 Los Angeles Times article, “Restaurants, bars consider turning off music as licensing fees skyrocket,” detailed the operational challenges faced by small and mid-sized businesses as they navigate a fragmented licensing environment. In both features, Pro Music Rights was profiled as a scalable, technology-forward alternative that is reshaping performance rights licensing through transparency and accessibility.

    Redefining the Licensing Model with Transparency and Efficiency

    Established in 2018, Pro Music Rights has introduced a modernized, business-friendly licensing framework that aligns cost with clarity and usage:

    • Flat Monthly Rate: A consistent $50 per location simplifies budgeting and ensures affordability across business segments.
    • Usage-Based Structure: Fees are capped at $0.01 and assessed only on the percentage of music represented by Pro Music Rights, eliminating arbitrary overcharges.
    • Clear, Accessible Terms: The company avoids hidden costs, exclusivity arrangements, and convoluted agreements, promoting long-term trust and compliance.

    This approach offers a differentiated value proposition in a sector historically criticized for opacity and inconsistent enforcement.

    Market Share, Artist Representation, and Platform Integration

    Pro Music Rights commands an estimated 7.4% share of the U.S. performance rights market, representing a growing catalog of more than 2.5 million works, including music composed with the use of artificial intelligence. Its artist roster includes major names such as A$AP Rocky, Wiz Khalifa, Pharrell, Nipsey Hussle, 2 Chainz, Gucci Mane, Fall Out Boy, Lil Yachty, Soulja Boy, Trinidad James, Lil Uzi Vert, MoneyBagg Yo, Sauce Walka, Larry June, Young Dolph, and many others.

    The catalog is licensed to a wide range of global platforms, including TikTok, iHeartMedia, Triller, Napster, Vevo, 7Digital, and others, reinforcing the company’s commercial relevance and strategic licensing reach.

    Diversified Intellectual Property Portfolio

    Beyond its performance rights operation, Music Licensing, Inc. maintains a diversified and revenue-generating intellectual property portfolio. Assets include royalty interests tied to Listerine® Mouthwash and musical works performed by globally recognized artists such as The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Elton John, Rihanna, Lil Nas X, Miley Cyrus, XXXTentacion, Lil Wayne, Mike Posner, DaBaby, and others.

    This asset mix reflects a strategic focus on acquiring, monetizing, and scaling high-value IP with recurring income potential.

    Commitment to Regulatory Engagement and Structural Reform

    Music Licensing, Inc. and Pro Music Rights continue to work closely with the U.S. Copyright Office and relevant industry stakeholders to advocate for reforms that foster transparency, accountability, and competitive balance in the music licensing ecosystem. This engagement underscores a broader vision for long-term sustainability and operational excellence across all facets of music rights management.

    About Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) (ProMusicRights.com)

    About Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC:SONG)  (ProMusicRights.com)

    Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG), also known as Pro Music Rights, is a diversified holding company and the fifth public performance rights organization (PRO) established in the United States. It is recognized under the federal registry of the United States government. The company licenses music to some of the most prominent platforms and businesses, including TikTok, iHeartMedia, Triller, Napster, 7Digital, Vevo, and many others.

    Pro Music Rights holds an estimated 7.4% market share in the United States, representing a catalog of more than 2.5 million works by notable artists such as A$AP Rocky, Wiz Khalifa, Pharrell, Young Jeezy, Juelz Santana, Lil Yachty, MoneyBagg Yo, Larry June, Trae Pound, Sauce Walka, Trae Tha Truth, Sosamann, Soulja Boy, Lex Luger, Trauma Tone, Lud Foe, SlowBucks, Gunplay, OG Maco, Rich The Kid, Fat Trel, Young Scooter, Nipsey Hussle, Famous Dex, Boosie Badazz, Shy Glizzy, 2 Chainz, Migos, Gucci Mane, Young Dolph, Trinidad James, Chingy, Lil Gnar, 3OhBlack, Curren$y, Fall Out Boy, Money Man, Dej Loaf, Lil Uzi Vert, and many others, including works generated by artificial intelligence (AI).

    Additionally, Music Licensing, Inc. (OTC: SONG) holds royalty interests in Listerine “Mouthwash” Antiseptic and a vast portfolio of musical works by globally renowned artists, including The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, Kanye West, Elton John, Mike Posner, blackbear, Lil Nas X, Lil Yachty, DaBaby, Stunna 4 Vegas, Miley Cyrus, Lil Wayne, XXXTentacion, BlueFace, The Game, Jeremih, Ty Dolla $ign, Eric Bellinger, Ne-Yo, MoneyBagg Yo, Halsey, Desiigner, DaniLeigh, Rihanna, and many others.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Investors are cautioned that, all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, the ability of Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. to accomplish its stated plan of business. Music Licensing, Inc. & Pro Music Rights, Inc. believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, and therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this press release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by Pro Music Rights, Inc., Music Licensing, Inc., or any other person.

    Non-Legal Advice Disclosure:

    This press release does not constitute legal advice, and readers are advised to seek legal counsel for any legal matters or questions related to the content herein.

    Non-Investment Advice Disclosure:

    This communication is intended solely for informational purposes and does not in any way imply or constitute a recommendation or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any securities, commodities, bonds, options, derivatives, or any other investment products. Any decisions related to investments should be made after thorough research and consultation with a qualified financial advisor or professional. We assume no liability for any actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this communication

    Contact: investors@ProMusicRights.com

    SOURCE: Music Licensing, Inc

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Approves Gardenia (Genipin) Blue Color Additive While Encouraging Faster Phase-Out of FD&C Red No. 3

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 14, 2025

    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it had granted Gardenia Blue Interest Group’s (GBIG) color additive petition to use the color gardenia (genipin) blue in various foods, at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice. It is the fourth color derived from natural sources approved by the FDA for use in foods in the last two months.
    The FDA action is in line with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s priority to work with industry to phase out the use of all synthetic, petroleum-based dyes from the nation’s food supply as part of the administration’s broader Make America Healthy Again initiative.
    Since Secretary Kennedy announced a series of measures in April to work with industry to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes in food, about 40 percent of the food industry has committed to a voluntary phase-out of such dyes.
    “Every day, children are exposed to synthetic chemicals in food that serve no purpose and threaten their health,” Secretary Kennedy said. “The FDA’s approval of gardenia blue shows we’re finally putting kids first. Thanks to Dr. Marty Makary’s bold leadership, we’re cutting through industry influence and taking decisive action to Make America Healthy Again.”
    Gardenia (genipin) blue is derived from the fruit of the gardenia, a flowering evergreen. The FDA has approved the color additive for use in sports drinks, flavored or enhanced non-carbonated water, fruit drinks and ades, ready-to-drink teas, hard candy, and soft candy.
    “This expedited timeline underscored our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the food supply, said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “Now, by expanding the palette of available colors derived from natural sources, food manufacturers have a variety of options available that will make it easier to end their use of petroleum-based dyes.”
    The three colors derived from natural sources approved in May were: galdieria extract blue, a blue colorant derived from the unicellular red algae Galdieria sulphuraria; calcium phosphate, a white powder; and butterfly pea flower extract, a blue color that can be used to achieve a range of shades including bright blues, intense purple, and natural greens.
    Under section 721 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, color additives must be FDA-approved before they may be used in foods. The FDA determines whether a color additive is safe to use by considering the projected human dietary exposure to the color additive, the additive’s toxicological data, and other relevant information, such as published literature. Once the FDA approves a color additive, any manufacturer can use the coloring in accordance with the conditions of use.
    In addition to approving a new color additive, the FDA also announced today that it had sent a letter to manufacturers encouraging them to accelerate the phase-out of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods, including dietary supplements, sooner than the January 15, 2027, required deadline. This earlier phase-out was another of the series of measures introduced by Secretary Kennedy in April.
    “The FDA believes that accelerating the phase out of the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods will help further the goal of Making America Healthy Again,” the FDA said in the letter.
    On Friday, July 11, Consumer Brands—a national trade association for manufacturers of consumer packaged goods—announced their voluntary commitment to encourage the makers of America’s food and beverage products to remove certified Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors from products served in schools nationwide by the start of the 2026–2027 school year.
    Related Information

    Related Information

    ###

    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.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Approves Gardenia (Genipin) Blue Color Additive While Encouraging Faster Phase-Out of FD&C Red No. 3

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 14, 2025

    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it had granted Gardenia Blue Interest Group’s (GBIG) color additive petition to use the color gardenia (genipin) blue in various foods, at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice. It is the fourth color derived from natural sources approved by the FDA for use in foods in the last two months.
    The FDA action is in line with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s priority to work with industry to phase out the use of all synthetic, petroleum-based dyes from the nation’s food supply as part of the administration’s broader Make America Healthy Again initiative.
    Since Secretary Kennedy announced a series of measures in April to work with industry to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes in food, about 40 percent of the food industry has committed to a voluntary phase-out of such dyes.
    “Every day, children are exposed to synthetic chemicals in food that serve no purpose and threaten their health,” Secretary Kennedy said. “The FDA’s approval of gardenia blue shows we’re finally putting kids first. Thanks to Dr. Marty Makary’s bold leadership, we’re cutting through industry influence and taking decisive action to Make America Healthy Again.”
    Gardenia (genipin) blue is derived from the fruit of the gardenia, a flowering evergreen. The FDA has approved the color additive for use in sports drinks, flavored or enhanced non-carbonated water, fruit drinks and ades, ready-to-drink teas, hard candy, and soft candy.
    “This expedited timeline underscored our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the food supply, said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “Now, by expanding the palette of available colors derived from natural sources, food manufacturers have a variety of options available that will make it easier to end their use of petroleum-based dyes.”
    The three colors derived from natural sources approved in May were: galdieria extract blue, a blue colorant derived from the unicellular red algae Galdieria sulphuraria; calcium phosphate, a white powder; and butterfly pea flower extract, a blue color that can be used to achieve a range of shades including bright blues, intense purple, and natural greens.
    Under section 721 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, color additives must be FDA-approved before they may be used in foods. The FDA determines whether a color additive is safe to use by considering the projected human dietary exposure to the color additive, the additive’s toxicological data, and other relevant information, such as published literature. Once the FDA approves a color additive, any manufacturer can use the coloring in accordance with the conditions of use.
    In addition to approving a new color additive, the FDA also announced today that it had sent a letter to manufacturers encouraging them to accelerate the phase-out of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods, including dietary supplements, sooner than the January 15, 2027, required deadline. This earlier phase-out was another of the series of measures introduced by Secretary Kennedy in April.
    “The FDA believes that accelerating the phase out of the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods will help further the goal of Making America Healthy Again,” the FDA said in the letter.
    On Friday, July 11, Consumer Brands—a national trade association for manufacturers of consumer packaged goods—announced their voluntary commitment to encourage the makers of America’s food and beverage products to remove certified Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors from products served in schools nationwide by the start of the 2026–2027 school year.
    Related Information

    Related Information

    ###

    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.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Approves Gardenia (Genipin) Blue Color Additive While Encouraging Faster Phase-Out of FD&C Red No. 3

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 14, 2025

    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it had granted Gardenia Blue Interest Group’s (GBIG) color additive petition to use the color gardenia (genipin) blue in various foods, at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice. It is the fourth color derived from natural sources approved by the FDA for use in foods in the last two months.
    The FDA action is in line with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s priority to work with industry to phase out the use of all synthetic, petroleum-based dyes from the nation’s food supply as part of the administration’s broader Make America Healthy Again initiative.
    Since Secretary Kennedy announced a series of measures in April to work with industry to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes in food, about 40 percent of the food industry has committed to a voluntary phase-out of such dyes.
    “Every day, children are exposed to synthetic chemicals in food that serve no purpose and threaten their health,” Secretary Kennedy said. “The FDA’s approval of gardenia blue shows we’re finally putting kids first. Thanks to Dr. Marty Makary’s bold leadership, we’re cutting through industry influence and taking decisive action to Make America Healthy Again.”
    Gardenia (genipin) blue is derived from the fruit of the gardenia, a flowering evergreen. The FDA has approved the color additive for use in sports drinks, flavored or enhanced non-carbonated water, fruit drinks and ades, ready-to-drink teas, hard candy, and soft candy.
    “This expedited timeline underscored our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the food supply, said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “Now, by expanding the palette of available colors derived from natural sources, food manufacturers have a variety of options available that will make it easier to end their use of petroleum-based dyes.”
    The three colors derived from natural sources approved in May were: galdieria extract blue, a blue colorant derived from the unicellular red algae Galdieria sulphuraria; calcium phosphate, a white powder; and butterfly pea flower extract, a blue color that can be used to achieve a range of shades including bright blues, intense purple, and natural greens.
    Under section 721 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, color additives must be FDA-approved before they may be used in foods. The FDA determines whether a color additive is safe to use by considering the projected human dietary exposure to the color additive, the additive’s toxicological data, and other relevant information, such as published literature. Once the FDA approves a color additive, any manufacturer can use the coloring in accordance with the conditions of use.
    In addition to approving a new color additive, the FDA also announced today that it had sent a letter to manufacturers encouraging them to accelerate the phase-out of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods, including dietary supplements, sooner than the January 15, 2027, required deadline. This earlier phase-out was another of the series of measures introduced by Secretary Kennedy in April.
    “The FDA believes that accelerating the phase out of the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods will help further the goal of Making America Healthy Again,” the FDA said in the letter.
    On Friday, July 11, Consumer Brands—a national trade association for manufacturers of consumer packaged goods—announced their voluntary commitment to encourage the makers of America’s food and beverage products to remove certified Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors from products served in schools nationwide by the start of the 2026–2027 school year.
    Related Information

    Related Information

    ###

    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.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Approves Gardenia (Genipin) Blue Color Additive While Encouraging Faster Phase-Out of FD&C Red No. 3

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 14, 2025

    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it had granted Gardenia Blue Interest Group’s (GBIG) color additive petition to use the color gardenia (genipin) blue in various foods, at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice. It is the fourth color derived from natural sources approved by the FDA for use in foods in the last two months.
    The FDA action is in line with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s priority to work with industry to phase out the use of all synthetic, petroleum-based dyes from the nation’s food supply as part of the administration’s broader Make America Healthy Again initiative.
    Since Secretary Kennedy announced a series of measures in April to work with industry to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes in food, about 40 percent of the food industry has committed to a voluntary phase-out of such dyes.
    “Every day, children are exposed to synthetic chemicals in food that serve no purpose and threaten their health,” Secretary Kennedy said. “The FDA’s approval of gardenia blue shows we’re finally putting kids first. Thanks to Dr. Marty Makary’s bold leadership, we’re cutting through industry influence and taking decisive action to Make America Healthy Again.”
    Gardenia (genipin) blue is derived from the fruit of the gardenia, a flowering evergreen. The FDA has approved the color additive for use in sports drinks, flavored or enhanced non-carbonated water, fruit drinks and ades, ready-to-drink teas, hard candy, and soft candy.
    “This expedited timeline underscored our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the food supply, said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “Now, by expanding the palette of available colors derived from natural sources, food manufacturers have a variety of options available that will make it easier to end their use of petroleum-based dyes.”
    The three colors derived from natural sources approved in May were: galdieria extract blue, a blue colorant derived from the unicellular red algae Galdieria sulphuraria; calcium phosphate, a white powder; and butterfly pea flower extract, a blue color that can be used to achieve a range of shades including bright blues, intense purple, and natural greens.
    Under section 721 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, color additives must be FDA-approved before they may be used in foods. The FDA determines whether a color additive is safe to use by considering the projected human dietary exposure to the color additive, the additive’s toxicological data, and other relevant information, such as published literature. Once the FDA approves a color additive, any manufacturer can use the coloring in accordance with the conditions of use.
    In addition to approving a new color additive, the FDA also announced today that it had sent a letter to manufacturers encouraging them to accelerate the phase-out of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods, including dietary supplements, sooner than the January 15, 2027, required deadline. This earlier phase-out was another of the series of measures introduced by Secretary Kennedy in April.
    “The FDA believes that accelerating the phase out of the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods will help further the goal of Making America Healthy Again,” the FDA said in the letter.
    On Friday, July 11, Consumer Brands—a national trade association for manufacturers of consumer packaged goods—announced their voluntary commitment to encourage the makers of America’s food and beverage products to remove certified Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors from products served in schools nationwide by the start of the 2026–2027 school year.
    Related Information

    Related Information

    ###

    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.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Approves Gardenia (Genipin) Blue Color Additive While Encouraging Faster Phase-Out of FD&C Red No. 3

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 14, 2025

    Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it had granted Gardenia Blue Interest Group’s (GBIG) color additive petition to use the color gardenia (genipin) blue in various foods, at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice. It is the fourth color derived from natural sources approved by the FDA for use in foods in the last two months.
    The FDA action is in line with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s priority to work with industry to phase out the use of all synthetic, petroleum-based dyes from the nation’s food supply as part of the administration’s broader Make America Healthy Again initiative.
    Since Secretary Kennedy announced a series of measures in April to work with industry to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes in food, about 40 percent of the food industry has committed to a voluntary phase-out of such dyes.
    “Every day, children are exposed to synthetic chemicals in food that serve no purpose and threaten their health,” Secretary Kennedy said. “The FDA’s approval of gardenia blue shows we’re finally putting kids first. Thanks to Dr. Marty Makary’s bold leadership, we’re cutting through industry influence and taking decisive action to Make America Healthy Again.”
    Gardenia (genipin) blue is derived from the fruit of the gardenia, a flowering evergreen. The FDA has approved the color additive for use in sports drinks, flavored or enhanced non-carbonated water, fruit drinks and ades, ready-to-drink teas, hard candy, and soft candy.
    “This expedited timeline underscored our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes in the food supply, said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “Now, by expanding the palette of available colors derived from natural sources, food manufacturers have a variety of options available that will make it easier to end their use of petroleum-based dyes.”
    The three colors derived from natural sources approved in May were: galdieria extract blue, a blue colorant derived from the unicellular red algae Galdieria sulphuraria; calcium phosphate, a white powder; and butterfly pea flower extract, a blue color that can be used to achieve a range of shades including bright blues, intense purple, and natural greens.
    Under section 721 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, color additives must be FDA-approved before they may be used in foods. The FDA determines whether a color additive is safe to use by considering the projected human dietary exposure to the color additive, the additive’s toxicological data, and other relevant information, such as published literature. Once the FDA approves a color additive, any manufacturer can use the coloring in accordance with the conditions of use.
    In addition to approving a new color additive, the FDA also announced today that it had sent a letter to manufacturers encouraging them to accelerate the phase-out of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods, including dietary supplements, sooner than the January 15, 2027, required deadline. This earlier phase-out was another of the series of measures introduced by Secretary Kennedy in April.
    “The FDA believes that accelerating the phase out of the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods will help further the goal of Making America Healthy Again,” the FDA said in the letter.
    On Friday, July 11, Consumer Brands—a national trade association for manufacturers of consumer packaged goods—announced their voluntary commitment to encourage the makers of America’s food and beverage products to remove certified Food, Drug & Cosmetic (FD&C) colors from products served in schools nationwide by the start of the 2026–2027 school year.
    Related Information

    Related Information

    ###

    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.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Most of the planned coal capacity retirements are in the Midwest or Mid-Atlantic regions

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    July 14, 2025

    Based on what power plant owners and operators have reported to EIA, the total operating capacity of U.S. coal-fired power plants is scheduled to fall from 172 gigawatts (GW) in May 2025 to 145 GW by the end of 2028, according to our Preliminary Monthly Electric Generator Inventory. On a regional basis, 58% of the planned coal capacity retirements are in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions.

    Coal consumption in the U.S. electric power sector has fallen since its peak in the late 2000s because of increased competition from other electricity sources, especially from natural gas and renewables. Furthermore, coal-fired power plants have been subject to regulations regarding emissions that require plants to add equipment, modify processes, or stop operation.

    Our inventory of operating capacity and planned retirements reflects power plant operators’ responses to our monthly survey as of May 2025. These plans may change as operators respond to changing environmental and other policies and power market dynamics.

    For example, Talen Energy, in collaboration with the PJM Interconnection and other entities, recently agreed to delay retirement of its Brandon Shores coal-fired power plant in Maryland until 2029. Talen Energy had previously planned to retire Brandon Shores in June 2025. Similarly, in May 2025, the U.S. Department of Energy ordered a 90-day delay of the planned retirement of Consumers Energy’s J.H. Campbell plant in Michigan.

    Potential changes to regulations add uncertainty to power plant operation and retirement decisions. In particular, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reconsidering several regulations that would affect coal plants. For example, in April 2024, EPA released new steam electric effluent limitations guidelines (ELG) that limit the discharge of toxic metals and other pollutants in wastewater coming from coal-fired power plants. These more stringent limitations are currently set to take effect in 2028 but are among the regulations EPA is reconsidering.

    In addition, an April 8 executive order provided 47 companies with a two-year exemption from more stringent Mercury and Air Toxic Standards (MATS) issued by EPA last year. The exemption runs from July 8, 2027, to July 8, 2029. Many coal-fired plants added pollution-control systems in the previous decade to comply with MATS regulations.

    Principal contributor: Jonathan Church

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Magazine: All Together Now

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Each time the Huskies win another championship, it is not just the team’s performance that galvanizes UConn Nation; it is the collective experience of fans chanting in unison in Gampel or at Rentschler, celebrating together in the streets, and proudly displaying their UConn gear that forges a strong sense of community. By synchronizing our appearances, our actions, and — as my research team’s studies reveal — our emotions, fandom compels us to act as one, look as one, and feel as one.

    Growing up in Greece, I witnessed this deep emotional investment firsthand. Entire cities would come to a standstill before a football derby, with those not in the stadium glued to their televisions. I met couples who left their own wedding receptions early to attend a match, showing up at the stadium still dressed in their wedding attire. Scientific research shows that sports fans can identify so strongly with their team that they experience the game’s emotional highs and lows as though they were playing the game themselves. One study shows testosterone levels rising among fans of the winning team and falling among those of the losing team. Those reactions can even be observed in the brain.

    When a team of researchers placed Red Sox and Yankees fans in a brain scanner and showed them real games, they found that fans watching a negative performance by their team activated the regions of the brain typically associated with the experience of pain. Correspondingly, their team’s success triggered activity in an area related to the brain’s reward system. Intriguingly, similar feelings of pleasure were elicited by watching their opponents fail.

    And while the game itself provides excitement and fosters engagement, recent research suggests that the strongest connections among fans are often forged in the stands, through ritualized interactions that shape and reinforce collective identities.

    My research team has been exploring these effects at UConn and beyond. In a real-life experiment, we used wearable technology to track the emotional responses of Husky fans over an entire basketball season. As they watched the men’s and women’s games live, either in the stadium or on television, we found that those in the stadium reported more meaningful experiences and felt a stronger sense of connection with other fans ­compared to those watching together on TV. These shared experiences even left measurable traces in their bodies: Fans in the stadium exhibited greater emotional synchrony, their hearts beating in unison. In fact, physical co-presence was the most important predictor of emotional synchrony overall, more so than any element of the game itself, such as its pace, outcome, or score difference.

    Read on for more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Magazine: All Together Now

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Each time the Huskies win another championship, it is not just the team’s performance that galvanizes UConn Nation; it is the collective experience of fans chanting in unison in Gampel or at Rentschler, celebrating together in the streets, and proudly displaying their UConn gear that forges a strong sense of community. By synchronizing our appearances, our actions, and — as my research team’s studies reveal — our emotions, fandom compels us to act as one, look as one, and feel as one.

    Growing up in Greece, I witnessed this deep emotional investment firsthand. Entire cities would come to a standstill before a football derby, with those not in the stadium glued to their televisions. I met couples who left their own wedding receptions early to attend a match, showing up at the stadium still dressed in their wedding attire. Scientific research shows that sports fans can identify so strongly with their team that they experience the game’s emotional highs and lows as though they were playing the game themselves. One study shows testosterone levels rising among fans of the winning team and falling among those of the losing team. Those reactions can even be observed in the brain.

    When a team of researchers placed Red Sox and Yankees fans in a brain scanner and showed them real games, they found that fans watching a negative performance by their team activated the regions of the brain typically associated with the experience of pain. Correspondingly, their team’s success triggered activity in an area related to the brain’s reward system. Intriguingly, similar feelings of pleasure were elicited by watching their opponents fail.

    And while the game itself provides excitement and fosters engagement, recent research suggests that the strongest connections among fans are often forged in the stands, through ritualized interactions that shape and reinforce collective identities.

    My research team has been exploring these effects at UConn and beyond. In a real-life experiment, we used wearable technology to track the emotional responses of Husky fans over an entire basketball season. As they watched the men’s and women’s games live, either in the stadium or on television, we found that those in the stadium reported more meaningful experiences and felt a stronger sense of connection with other fans ­compared to those watching together on TV. These shared experiences even left measurable traces in their bodies: Fans in the stadium exhibited greater emotional synchrony, their hearts beating in unison. In fact, physical co-presence was the most important predictor of emotional synchrony overall, more so than any element of the game itself, such as its pace, outcome, or score difference.

    Read on for more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Magazine: All Together Now

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Each time the Huskies win another championship, it is not just the team’s performance that galvanizes UConn Nation; it is the collective experience of fans chanting in unison in Gampel or at Rentschler, celebrating together in the streets, and proudly displaying their UConn gear that forges a strong sense of community. By synchronizing our appearances, our actions, and — as my research team’s studies reveal — our emotions, fandom compels us to act as one, look as one, and feel as one.

    Growing up in Greece, I witnessed this deep emotional investment firsthand. Entire cities would come to a standstill before a football derby, with those not in the stadium glued to their televisions. I met couples who left their own wedding receptions early to attend a match, showing up at the stadium still dressed in their wedding attire. Scientific research shows that sports fans can identify so strongly with their team that they experience the game’s emotional highs and lows as though they were playing the game themselves. One study shows testosterone levels rising among fans of the winning team and falling among those of the losing team. Those reactions can even be observed in the brain.

    When a team of researchers placed Red Sox and Yankees fans in a brain scanner and showed them real games, they found that fans watching a negative performance by their team activated the regions of the brain typically associated with the experience of pain. Correspondingly, their team’s success triggered activity in an area related to the brain’s reward system. Intriguingly, similar feelings of pleasure were elicited by watching their opponents fail.

    And while the game itself provides excitement and fosters engagement, recent research suggests that the strongest connections among fans are often forged in the stands, through ritualized interactions that shape and reinforce collective identities.

    My research team has been exploring these effects at UConn and beyond. In a real-life experiment, we used wearable technology to track the emotional responses of Husky fans over an entire basketball season. As they watched the men’s and women’s games live, either in the stadium or on television, we found that those in the stadium reported more meaningful experiences and felt a stronger sense of connection with other fans ­compared to those watching together on TV. These shared experiences even left measurable traces in their bodies: Fans in the stadium exhibited greater emotional synchrony, their hearts beating in unison. In fact, physical co-presence was the most important predictor of emotional synchrony overall, more so than any element of the game itself, such as its pace, outcome, or score difference.

    Read on for more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Magazine: All Together Now

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Each time the Huskies win another championship, it is not just the team’s performance that galvanizes UConn Nation; it is the collective experience of fans chanting in unison in Gampel or at Rentschler, celebrating together in the streets, and proudly displaying their UConn gear that forges a strong sense of community. By synchronizing our appearances, our actions, and — as my research team’s studies reveal — our emotions, fandom compels us to act as one, look as one, and feel as one.

    Growing up in Greece, I witnessed this deep emotional investment firsthand. Entire cities would come to a standstill before a football derby, with those not in the stadium glued to their televisions. I met couples who left their own wedding receptions early to attend a match, showing up at the stadium still dressed in their wedding attire. Scientific research shows that sports fans can identify so strongly with their team that they experience the game’s emotional highs and lows as though they were playing the game themselves. One study shows testosterone levels rising among fans of the winning team and falling among those of the losing team. Those reactions can even be observed in the brain.

    When a team of researchers placed Red Sox and Yankees fans in a brain scanner and showed them real games, they found that fans watching a negative performance by their team activated the regions of the brain typically associated with the experience of pain. Correspondingly, their team’s success triggered activity in an area related to the brain’s reward system. Intriguingly, similar feelings of pleasure were elicited by watching their opponents fail.

    And while the game itself provides excitement and fosters engagement, recent research suggests that the strongest connections among fans are often forged in the stands, through ritualized interactions that shape and reinforce collective identities.

    My research team has been exploring these effects at UConn and beyond. In a real-life experiment, we used wearable technology to track the emotional responses of Husky fans over an entire basketball season. As they watched the men’s and women’s games live, either in the stadium or on television, we found that those in the stadium reported more meaningful experiences and felt a stronger sense of connection with other fans ­compared to those watching together on TV. These shared experiences even left measurable traces in their bodies: Fans in the stadium exhibited greater emotional synchrony, their hearts beating in unison. In fact, physical co-presence was the most important predictor of emotional synchrony overall, more so than any element of the game itself, such as its pace, outcome, or score difference.

    Read on for more.

    MIL OSI USA News –