U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 06/04/2025 05:00 PM EDT
News Release
U.S. Coast Guard 17th District Alaska Contact: 17th District Public Affairs Office: (907) 463-2065 After Hours: (907) 463-2065 17th District online newsroom
06/04/2025 04:39 PM EDT
KODIAK, Alaska — The Coast Guard is responding to a vessel fire approximately 300 miles south of Adak, Wednesday. Watchstanders at the Seventeenth Coast Guard District command center received a distress alert Tuesday at approximately 3:15 p.m. reporting a fire aboard the cargo ship Morning Midas, a 600-foot U.K.-flagged cargo vessel with 22 crew members and reportedly carrying several thousand vehicles. Watchstanders immediately issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast requesting assistance from vessels in the vicinity of the Morning Midas. Three good Samaritan vessels responded to the incident. Watchstanders also diverted the crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro (WMSL 755) to the area, directed the launch of a C-130J Super Hercules aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak, and positioned an MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter aircrew in Adak. All 22 crew members aboard the Morning Midas evacuated the ship aboard a life raft and were subsequently rescued by the crew of motor vessel Cosco Hellas, one of the good Samaritan vessels on scene, with no reported injuries. The status of the fire is currently unknown, but smoke is still emanating from the vessel. “As the search and rescue portion of our response concludes, our crews are working closely with the vessel’s parent company, Zodiac Maritime, to determine the disposition of the vessel,” said Rear Admiral Megan Dean, commander of the Coast Guard’s Seventeenth District. “We are grateful for the selfless actions of the three nearby vessels who assisted in the response and the crew of motor vessel Cosco Hellas, who helped save 22 lives.” The Morning Midas is estimated to have approximately 350 metric tons of gas fuel and 1,530 metric tons of very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) onboard. They are also reportedly carrying a total of 3,159 vehicles, with 65 being fully electric vehicles and 681 being partial hybrid electric vehicles. This is based on reports to the Coast Guard and is subject to change pending the development of any new information. The Coast Guard is working with the Morning Midas’s parent company Zodiac Maritime to coordinate recovery efforts of the vessel. Zodiac Maritime can be contacted via email at operations@navigateresponse.com or by phone at 44-20-7283-9915 or 65-6222-6375.
NEW YORK, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cipher Mining Inc.(NASDAQ:CIFR) (“Cipher” or the “Company”) today released its unaudited production and operations update for May 2025.
Key Highlights
Key Metrics
May 2025
BTC Mined1
179
BTC Sold
64
BTC Held2
966
Deployed Mining Rigs
75,000
Month End Operating Hashrate (EH/s)
13.5
Month End Fleet Efficiency (J/TH)
18.9
1 Includes May power sales estimates (based on current meter data and nodal prices) equivalent to ~4 bitcoin (using month-end bitcoin price of $104,430) and ~23 BTC mined at JV data centers representing Cipher’s ownership
2 Includes ~334 BTC pledged as collateral
Management Commentary for May
As we enter the month of June, Cipher continues to make excellent progress at its Black Pearl site and remains on track for energization this month. The Phase I building is nearly complete and legacy rigs from the Odessa upgrade have now been relocated and racked, waiting for energization. Cipher has also purchased the remaining balance of mining rigs to fill the 150 MW of power capacity at Phase I of Black Pearl and is prepared to deploy the new rigs upon arrival, which we expect in early July. Upon deployment of those new rigs, Cipher expects its hashrate capacity to increase from ~13.5 EH/s currently to ~23.1 EH/s.
Bitcoin Production and Operations Updates for May 2025
Cipher produced ~1791 BTC in May. As part of its regular treasury management process, Cipher sold ~64 BTC in May, ending the month with a balance of ~9662 BTC.
Legacy rigs from the Odessa upgrade have been relocated and installed at the Black Pearl site
About Cipher
Cipher is focused on the development and operation of industrial-scale data centers for bitcoin mining and HPC hosting. Cipher aims to be a market leader in innovation, including in bitcoin mining growth, data center construction and as a hosting partner to the world’s largest HPC companies. To learn more about Cipher, please visit https://www.ciphermining.com/.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws of the United States. The Company intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and includes this statement for purposes of complying with these safe harbor provisions. Any statements made in this press release that are not statements of historical fact, such as, statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations regarding its planned business model and strategy, its bitcoin mining and HPC data center development, timing and likelihood of success, capacity, functionality and timing of operation of data centers, expectations regarding the operations of data centers, potential strategic initiatives, such as joint ventures and partnerships, and management plans and objectives, are forward-looking statements and should be evaluated as such. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “seeks,” “intends,” “targets,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “strategy,” “future,” “forecasts,” “opportunity,” “predicts,” “potential,” “would,” “will likely result,” “continue,” and similar expressions (including the negative versions of such words or expressions).
These forward-looking statements are based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Cipher and its management, are inherently uncertain. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. New risks and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: volatility in the price of Cipher’s securities due to a variety of factors, including changes in the competitive and regulated industry in which Cipher operates, Cipher’s evolving business model and strategy and efforts it may make to modify aspects of its business model or engage in various strategic initiatives, variations in performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting Cipher’s business, and the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations and to identify and realize additional opportunities. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of Cipher’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on February 25, 2025, and in Cipher’s subsequent filings with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Cipher assumes no obligation and, except as required by law, does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Website Disclosure
The company maintains a dedicated investor website at https://investors.ciphermining.com/ (“Investors’ Website”). Financial and other important information regarding the Company is routinely posted on and accessible through the Investors Website. Cipher uses its Investors’ Website as a distribution channel of material information about the Company, including through press releases, investor presentations, reports and notices of upcoming events. Cipher intends to utilize its Investors’ Website as a channel of distribution to reach public investors and as a means of disclosing material non-public information for complying with disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. In addition, you may sign up to automatically receive email alerts and other information about the Company by visiting the “Email Alerts” option under the Investors Resources section of Cipher’s Investors’ Website and submitting your email address.
Media Contact: Ryan Dicovitsky / Kendal Till Dukas Linden Public Relations CipherMining@DLPR.com
_____________________________
1 Includes May power sales estimates (based on current meter data and nodal prices) equivalent to ~4 bitcoin (using month-end bitcoin price of $104,430) and ~23 BTC mined at JV data centers representing Cipher’s ownership
Source: US Whitehouse
class=”has-text-align-left”>Today marks the 83rd anniversary of America’s seminal victory at the Battle of Midway—a watershed moment in World War II that set the Allied Forces on the path to ultimate triumph over forces of evil.
After the shocking attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, Imperial Japan surged across the Pacific—dealing Allied forces a series of defeats from the fall of the Philippines, to the capture of Hong Kong and Singapore, to devastating air raids over Australia. With the U.S. Navy still reeling from the surprise attack, Japan’s ruthless push for regional dominance seemed unstoppable.
By the summer of 1942, Japan set its sights on Midway Island—a tiny American outpost with massive strategic value, just over 1,000 miles from Hawaii. The Japanese plan was clear: lure what remained of the battered U.S. Pacific Fleet out of Pearl Harbor, destroy it, and capture Midway, from where they would launch further offensives across the Pacific.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt knew our Armed Forces had to act decisively. He tasked Admiral Chester Nimitz, a submariner and newly appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Fleet, with launching a full-scale effort to restore the Navy’s remaining ships to fighting condition. With vital intelligence from American codebreakers, the Allies stayed one step ahead, anticipating the major elements of Japan’s strategy.
At dawn on June 4, 1942, the U.S. Navy struck back. Despite facing a larger enemy force and suffering heavy losses, the U.S. fleet under the command of Admirals Jack Fletcher and Raymond Spruance fought with unmatched resolve. In the course of twenty-four hours, they sank four Japanese aircraft carriers, destroyed a heavy cruiser, and crushed Japanese hopes of advancing deeper into the eastern Pacific—paving the way for our Nation’s acceptance of Japan’s unconditional surrender and the end of World War II in 1945.
Today, former enemies stand united as allies. The United States and Japan have forged an enduring partnership built on the shared values of freedom, sovereignty, and an abiding commitment to peace across the Indo-Pacific. Together, we are advancing the causes of safety, security, prosperity, and liberty—all while confronting threats from China and North Korea.
The epic Battle of Midway stands to this day as a glorious reminder that, even in the face of long odds, perilous danger, and tremendous uncertainty, no challenge is too great for the strength of the American spirit. As our Nation commemorates this legendary battle, we honor the grit of our servicemen, we pay tribute to the sacrifice of our veterans, and we vow to carry forward the legacy of the fallen heroes who secured victory over tyranny in the Pacific 80 years ago.
Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
‘Illegal aliens are facing justice. They are being sent home. And violent criminals, who are here illegally, will no longer plague our communities…The American people, the people of Tennessee and the brave men and women of ICE deserve much better. I look forward to seeing this commitment upheld.’
SEN BILL HAGERTY: Nashville is not a sanctuary city. I won’t let that happen By: Senator Bill Hagerty June 4, 2025 Link here.
Nashville mayor condemns arrests of illegal immigrants. Now, ICE agents are targets of doxxing.
Nashville is not, nor is any other city in Tennessee, a sanctuary city. I intend to make certain that remains the case.
In May in Nashville, ICE conducted a successful operation with Tennessee Highway Patrol to arrest 196 criminal illegal aliens, including a convicted rapist and a suspected murderer.
While I have received every assurance that Nashville and every other city in Tennessee will work in a cooperative manner with law enforcement, make no mistake: I will make certain those commitments are not just lip service.
After the operation, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell condemned ICE’s good work, promoted a fund to provide support dollars for illegal immigrants and their families in Nashville, and even updated an executive order to fast-track the collection of all Nashville government employees’ interactions with ICE.
The mayor’s executive order has – unsurprisingly – led to the doxxing of ICE agents, who have faced a 413% increase in assaults against them while on the job. In Nashville, we know that activists are monitoring ICE activity in the city and alerting each other of ICE’s movements using encrypted group chats.
Did these groups see the doxxed ICE agents’ personal information? How will they use it? How does the mayor ensure these lists of ICE agents do not end up in the wrong hands? These are all questions we shouldn’t have to ask, but now we do.
The cloud of confusion that has arisen from this misstep is unfortunate, and the facts need to be made clear: the state of Tennessee is a state that stands for law enforcement and the protection of its citizens.
The leftwing media is adding fuel to the fire. For example, New York Times opinion writer Margaret Renkl explicitly compares ICE raids in Nashville to the Jim Crow South and the Trail of Tears. Her article – littered with cherry-picked stories from immigrant activists – uses such ridiculous words as “hunt” to suggest that what is happening in my state is not legal. Let me be clear: the only illegality is from those who chose to cross the border illegally.
We know where this all leads: In 2019, an Antifa activist attempted to firebomb an ICE facility in Tacoma, Washington. Thankfully, he was stopped before he could succeed. But his intentions and motivation were clear. In his manifesto, he slandered ICE as “the forces of evil,” and compared their detention facilities to “concentration camp[s].”
Even when such rhetoric from the media and mismanagement on the part of local officials does not inspire acts of domestic terrorism, it still leads to harassment and threats against ICE and other federal law enforcement officers.
In the first Trump presidency, the left shamelessly engaged in doxxing of ICE agents, sharing their personal information in an effort to intimidate them out of their jobs, or even cause direct harm to them. Such private information was even shared by college professors, published by WikiLeaks, and disseminated by the far-left domestic terrorist organization Antifa.
Now that President Donald Trump is back in office, activists have resumed this dangerous tactic. Even state lawmakers have joined in on efforts to expose ICE officers’ identities, with Tennessee Democrat state Representative Aftyn Behn filming herself gleefully stalking ICE agents.
Trump’s historic re-election made it clear: the American people support his immigration agenda, including the removal and deportation of criminal illegal aliens from our communities. Yet some, like Nashville Mayor O’Connell, whether intentional or not, are inhibiting the president’s mission. This will not stand.
The Trump administration and the men and women of ICE have a Herculean task before them in cleaning up what former President Joe Biden facilitated: the largest invasion of our Southern border in history.
For four years, we watched Biden sacrifice our national sovereignty to allow millions to illegally flood our country. Unsurprisingly, this illegal tsunami included murderers, rapists, human traffickers, drug smugglers, people on terrorist watch lists, and more. Today, ICE is working overtime to remove these criminals and make our communities safer.
Here’s the reality: Illegal aliens are facing justice. They are being sent home. And violent criminals, who are here illegally, will no longer plague our communities.
O’Connell should take care to empower ICE and local law enforcement to remove illegal aliens from our communities, not endanger them. The American people, the people of Tennessee and the brave men and women of ICE deserve much better. I look forward to seeing this commitment upheld.
Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Banking and Foreign Relations Committees, joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss the budget reconciliation package, along with two Chinese nationals charged with smuggling and potential agroterrorism.
*Click the photo above or here to watch*
Partial Transcript
Hagerty on the need to pass the budget reconciliation package: “We certainly do respect the effort that Elon undertook with respect to government efficiency. We all want to see cost reductions, but I tell you: my number one goal is to avoid what would otherwise be a greater than $4 trillion tax increase on Americans. I talked with Kevin Hassett yesterday, the National Economic Advisor at the White House. Were that to happen, were we not to pass this, we’d have over $4.2 trillion tax increase on America that would cut GDP growth negative six percent. Certainly, the nation, the world, doesn’t need to see that happen. One of the overarching aims here is to create certainty in our tax code to stimulate more capital investment. That’s exactly what will happen if we pass this. And Leader [John] Thune is right, the Congressional Budget Office essentially conducted malpractice last time in 2017 when they tried to estimate the impact of that Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. They missed it by a trillion dollars of revenue. I’m very optimistic; this will help reduce the deficit.”
Hagerty on the prospective positive financial impacts of the budget reconciliation package: “As I talk to CEOs around the country, they want to make investments here in America, but they need certainty in terms of the rule set. We can deliver that through this bill. We need to do it quickly. And if we do it quickly, we’ll be able to see a 2026 that’s going to be an incredible move forward, lots more capital investment. That capital investment begets more employment. That employment and jobs begets more economic activity. It’s a positive feedback loop that will make America grow at a great degree, much higher than the 1.8 percent that the Congressional Budget Office predicts. And if we’re at three percent or better, we’re going to see that deficit begin to close much more rapidly.”
Hagerty on the arrest of two Chinese nationals for smuggling and potential agroterrorism: “We need to be extremely careful, particularly when you think about the movement that we’ve had with Chinese nationals, particularly those affiliated with the [People’s Liberation Army], moving into our university system. That was precisely the case here. And we need to be very, very careful about who comes in, what they’re bringing with them. And make no mistake, and I’m so pleased that [FBI Director] Kash Patel [is] in the position he’s in, because he’s seeing right through all of this. Make no mistake: the Chinese Communist Party is not our friend. This sort of infiltration, this act of agroterrorism is the last thing we need to see on American soil. And the only way to prevent it is by waking up and realizing that we’ve got to be extraordinarily careful as we allow anybody to come into this country.”
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today is thanking both chambers of the Connecticut General Assembly for approving legislation containing a package of initiatives aimed at protecting the environment, including by taking steps to mitigate the impacts of climate change through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and also to encourage the growth of the clean energy economy and green jobs.
The legislation isHouse Bill 5004, An Act Concerning the Protection of the Environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Associated Job Sectors.
“Connecticut is proud to be a climate leader and this legislation helps keep our state on track to improve our air quality and meet our climate goals,” Governor Lamont said. “Notably, it increases the tools available in our state that will attract business growth in the clean energy sector and the associated jobs that they support. I applaud the legislature for approving this bill and I look forward to signing it when it is transmitted to my desk.”
As required under legislative rules, now that the bill has been approved by both chambers of the General Assembly it will be transmitted to the nonpartisan Legislative Commissioners’ Office for engrossing and supervision of printing in its final form. Once engrossed, it is required to go through an approval process by the Office of the House Clerk, the Office of the Senate Clerk, and the Office of the Secretary of the State before it can finally be transmitted to the governor for his signature. This engrossing and approval process usually takes several days to complete.
Upon receiving the bill, the Office of the Governor will make an announcement when a date has been selected for it to be signed by the governor.
ATLANTA (June 4, 2025) — Today, Sen. John Albers (R–Roswell) recognized the life-saving impact of legislation he authored earlier this year, Senate Bill 58, the Georgia Transporting Life-Saving Organs and Personnel Act, which was signed into law by Governor Brian P. Kemp on May 9, 2025.
The measure creates a legal framework for licensing and operating emergency organ transport vehicles in Georgia, formally recognizing them as ambulance services and authorizing their use on public roads during time-sensitive transplant procedures. The legislation ensures these vehicles can move efficiently and safely without regulatory delays, removing bureaucratic barriers that could otherwise cost lives.
“This legislation means the world to me—not just as a lawmaker, but as a father,” said Sen. Albers. “After donating a Kidney to my son in 2021 I understand and know the urgency that families feel in those moments. When a match is found, every second counts. This law gives patients and medical teams a better chance to succeed.”
SB 58 exempts emergency organ transport vehicles from certain regulatory hurdles such as the Emergency Medical Systems Communications (EMSC) Program and medical adviser requirements. It also ensures appropriate insurance coverage and compliance with Department of Public Health standards, while streamlining coordination between healthcare providers and emergency responders.
“By treating these specialized vehicles as essential emergency services, we are modernizing our healthcare system in a meaningful way,” Sen. Albers added. “Whether it’s a kidney, liver, heart with a team of surgeons rushing to save a life, Georgia now ensures that every tool necessary for an organ transplant has a clear and direct path to where it’s needed most.”
Sen. Albers, Chairman of the Senate Public Safety Committee, has consistently advocated for public safety and healthcare reforms that put people first. SB 58 is a testament to his commitment to addressing real-world challenges with practical solutions and to his deep personal connection to the issue of organ donation. Senator Albers worked with the GA Department of Public Safety, “NORA” Nationwide Organ Recovery Transport Alliance, LifeLink of Georgia, and the Georgia Transplant Foundation to make this a reality.
The law took effect immediately upon its signing in May. Read more about the bill here.
# # # #
Sen. John Albers serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Safety. He represents the 56th Senate District, which includes portions of Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton County. He may be reached at his office at 404.463.8055 or by email at John.Albers@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.
A Washington state man was arrested on a federal criminal complaint alleging he provided material support to the Palm Springs fertility clinic bomber by shipping and paying for significant quantities of ammonium nitrate – an explosive precursor – prior to the suicidal terror attack last month.
Daniel Jongyon Park, 32, of Kent, was arrested last night shortly after his flight from Poland arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Park is charged with providing and attempting to provide material support to terrorists and made his initial court appearance today in the Eastern District of New York.
“This defendant is charged with facilitating the horrific attack on a fertility center in California. Bringing chaos and violence to a facility that exists to help women and mothers is a particularly cruel, disgusting crime that strikes at the very heart of our shared humanity,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We are grateful to our partners in Poland who helped get this man back to America and we will prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Park allegedly sent large amounts of explosive precursors to the man who drove a car bomb to a fertility clinic in Palm Springs, an attack that potentially could have killed innocent people,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The FBI and our partners work together to find and hold accountable those who engage in domestic terrorism and other illegal activity. I also want to express my thanks to authorities in Poland for their vital assistance in this case.”
“This defendant is charged with shipping large quantities of explosive precursors to the man whose suicide bombing last month destroyed a fertility clinic in Palm Springs,” said U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “Domestic terrorism is evil and unacceptable. Those who aid terrorists can expect to feel the cold wrath of justice.”
According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, Guy Edward Bartkus, 25, of Twentynine Palms, California, drove a car containing a bomb to a fertility clinic in Palm Springs on May 17. Bartkus detonated the bomb, killing himself, injuring numerous victims, destroying the fertility clinic’s building, and damaging surrounding buildings and areas. Bartkus’s attack was motivated by his pro-mortalism, anti-natalism, and anti-pro-life ideology, which is the belief that individuals should not be born without their consent and that non-existence is best.
Park – who shares Bartkus’s extremist views – shipped large quantities of explosive precursor materials to Bartkus, including approximately 180 pounds of ammonium nitrate. Days before the Palm Springs bombing, Park paid for an additional 90 pounds (40.8 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate that was shipped to Bartkus.
Park sent the first shipments of approximately 180 pounds (81.7 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate to Bartkus shortly before traveling to Bartkus’s residence, where he stayed with Bartkus from Jan. 25 to Feb. 8. Three days before Park arrived at Bartkus’s house, records from an AI chat application show that Bartkus researched how to make powerful explosions using ammonium nitrate and fuel.
During his stay at Bartkus’s residence, Park and Bartkus spent time in Bartkus’s room as well as in a detached garage “running experiments,” according to the affidavit. This was the same garage where law enforcement, during a search after the May 17 bombing, located significant amounts of chemicals commonly used in the construction of homemade bombs.
Four days after Bartkus conducted the suicide bombing, Park flew to Europe. On May 30, Park was detained in Poland and later was ordered deported to the United States.
If convicted, Park would face a statutory maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI’s Inland Empire Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating this matter. Considerable assistance was provided by the Palm Springs Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department; the FBI’s legal attaché in Warsaw, Polish authorities, and FBI field offices in Seattle, New York, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Portland.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah E. Gerdes and Anna P. Boylan for the Central District of California, and Trial Attorney Patrick J. Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
A New Jersey man pleaded guilty today to tax evasion.
The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: for tax years 2015 and 2016, Matthew Tucci, of West Long Branch, filed tax returns that stated he owed more than $2 million in taxes for both years. Despite admitting that he owed those taxes, Tucci did not fully pay them when they were due. Instead, Tucci purchased real estate and engaged in a series of transactions designed to conceal his interest in those properties.
In 2017, the IRS sent notices to Tucci that he owed taxes, interest, and penalties for 2015 and 2016. After receiving these notices, Tucci transferred multiple properties to an entity owned by another individual, but he continued to exert control over at least two of them. Of the two properties Tucci continued to control, he sold one and refinanced the other. Tucci used the proceeds from these transactions to pay his personal expenses rather than his tax debts. In 2019, Tucci submitted documents to the IRS that falsely claimed that he had no connection to the entity that owned the 12 properties.
Tucci is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 9. He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District of New Jersey made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Catriona Coppler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Belgiovine for the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Find out how a clinical career at VA is different from the private sector. Visit https://www.VAcareers.va.gov to explore careers that are All About Veterans.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Ever wondered what the hiring process is like at VA? Watch to learn more and visit https://www.VAcareers.va.gov to explore jobs that are All About Veterans.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
In episode 5, Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Honorable Paul R. Lawrence, Ph.D., walks viewers through exactly what to do when you see someone on the street holding a sign asking for help. Next time you see that sign, call VA’s National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838.
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
Letter Text (PDF)
Washington (June 4, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y), Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Finance Committee, and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Budget Committee, today wrote to Mark Holmes, PhD, Director of the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, requesting analysis of the impact of House Republicans’ budget bill’s proposed cuts to federal spending on health programs, on rural hospitals, and their surrounding communities.
In the letter the lawmakers write, “The independent, nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates this bill and other regulatory actions by the Trump administration will lead to nearly 14 million Americans losing their health insurance and shifting billions of dollars in health care costs to states. In short, the House-passed budget reconciliation bill is expected to have substantial and devastating impacts to health care access for working families across America, particularly in rural communities. We are deeply concerned that these cuts will increase uncompensated care and make it more difficult for rural hospitals to continue providing services to all patients, paying workers, and keeping their doors open.”
The lawmakers continue, “The magnitude of federal cuts to health programs will inevitably devastate health access for millions of Americans who will see their local hospitals forced to reduce services or close altogether. To help us better understand the devastation of these cuts, we are interested in the Sheps Center’s expert analysis of how this bill will impact rural hospitals and the communities they serve.”
The lawmakers request responses to the following questions by June 11, 2025:
Which U.S. rural hospitals treat the highest share of Medicaid recipients? Please identify these hospitals by name, state, and congressional district.
How many rural hospitals are currently in financial distress or at risk of closure? Please identify these hospitals by state and congressional district and whether these hospitals are eligible for any Medicare rural hospital designation.
If the health care cuts in the House-passed budget reconciliation bill were to become law, would the rural hospitals with the highest share of Medicaid recipients or that are currently in financial distress face risk of closure or having to reduce services (including obstetric and behavioral health care, emergency room services, etc.)
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
Bill Text (PDF)
Washington (June 4, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Representative Steve Cohen (TN-09), a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, today reintroduced the Complete Streets Act, which would transform America’s public roads. The bill would require states to direct a portion of their federal highway funding toward the creation of a Complete Streets Program. A “Complete Street” provides safe and accessible transportation options for children, seniors, and people with disabilities by prioritizing infrastructure for pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit users. The bill would also require future construction projects on public roads to be designed for the safety of all its road users.
“The skyrocketing number of pedestrian and cyclist deaths in our country is a crisis. This moment calls for us to ensure our roads are designed with safety – not speed – as our top priority,” said Senator Markey. “I am grateful for Representative Cohen’s partnership to ensure we prioritize roadway safety and accessibility over a reliance on fast, fossil-fueled vehicles. Let’s build complete streets and complete communities and accelerate into a safer, more accessible future for all.”
“In recent years, we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of pedestrians killed by vehicles, especially in Memphis. Our country is seeing a national safety crisis on our roads. We need streets that can accommodate all means of transportation, from foot traffic and strollers to bicycles, scooters, cars, light trucks and 18-wheelers. The Complete Streets Act will transform communities and make it safer for everyone to make ‘complete’ use of our roadways and adjacent infrastructure,” said Congressman Cohen.
The Complete Streets Act is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and in the House by Representatives Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), and Dina Titus (NV-01).
Under the Complete Streets Act, eligible local and regional entities can use funds from their state’s Complete Streets Program for technical assistance and capital funding to build safe street projects such as sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, and bus stops. The legislation would also phase in a requirement for states to incorporate Complete Streets elements into all new construction and reconstruction.
The legislation is endorsed by the National Complete Streets Coalition, Transportation for America, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, GreenLatinos, and the League of American Bicyclists.
Senator Markey and Representative Cohen first introduced the Complete Streets Act in 2019. Elements of the Complete Streets Act were incorporated into the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act which created the Safe Streets for All grant program. In 2024, Massachusetts received $25 million in funding from the Safe Streets for All program to make roads safer in communities like Lynn, Boston, Fitchburg, and Haverhill.
During the 2024-2025 academic year, the UConn School of Pharmacy fielded a team that placed sixth out of 70 schools or college of pharmacy nationally in the annual Industry Pharmacists Organization (IPhO). The competition is based on a group of students from a school or college of pharmacy working together at a mock pharmaceutical company to submit a plan to launch a brand-new drug onto the US market. This is even more impressive since the UConn School of Pharmacy is in the 30th percentile for class sizes nationally.
Lahar Miriyapalli helped lead the UConn student group and says, “This year, we had an incredible team of 35 participants, led by my amazing functional area co-leads: Brian Portela, Caitlin Raimo, Rachel Antonelli, Mona El-Mouwfi, and Melinda Fan. The competition gives students a chance to build real-world skills and present information the way a pharmaceutical company would. It’s a great way to explore the roles and responsibilities within the industry and gives us the chance to practice some of the key functions these companies carry out.”
This success coincides with the release of a new elective course “Pharmaceutical Industry Fundamentals for Pharmacists,” where pharmaceutical industry experts across the country participated as panelists discussing the roles and responsibilities of pharmacists in areas such as medical communications, pharmacoeconomics, pharmacometrics, regulatory affairs, medical affairs, and research and development. Student also learned about how to position themselves for success in an industry-based career through specialized summer internships, advanced pharmacy practice experiences, and industry fellowships as well as specialized opportunities at the UConn School of Pharmacy including independent research, leadership tracks, and assuming executive board positions in pharmacy organizations. On April 15, 12 of our pharmaceutical industry panelists came to the School of Pharmacy for a half day in person event where they met with students in rotating small groups to provide individual mentorship, review CVs and cover letters, and discuss the value of networking. Students were so appreciative of being able to tap into the expertise of these mentors.
Dr Amy Antipas ’89 discusses research and development with students (C. Michael White / UConn School of Pharmacy Photo).
UConn student Emma Bourgeois said, “Getting the chance to speak with a panel of professionals from various functional areas was truly eye-opening. I was so thankful to receive personalized CV feedback and thoughtful mentorship about pursuing a career in the pharmaceutical industry from professionals who once were in our shoes. The panelists made it evident that building meaningful connections and learning how to network professionally can open doors to future opportunities.”
Even the mentors were personally impacted by meeting with the students. Dr. Margaret Essex commented that, “it is invigorating to work with the next generation of pharmacy professionals. Because of their genuine interest, it is a joy to mentor them about career paths that they may not have imagined.”
The industry pharmacist participants included: Amy Antipas, BS Pharmacy, MS, PhD (Pfizer Inc.), Margaret Essex, BS, Pharm.D., FCPP (Pfizer Inc. retired), Walter McClain, BS, PharmD, MBA, (Pfizer Inc. retired), Carren Jepchumba, Pharm.D. (Eli Lilly), Mary Inguanti, BS, MPH, FACHE (Becton Dickinson), Marie Smith, Pharm.D. (UConn), Amanda Idusuyi, Pharm.D. (Sanofi), Mirina Li, Pharm.D., MS (Adaptive Biotechnologies), Steve Riley, Pharm.D., PhD. (Pfizer Inc.), Chris Tanksi, Pharm.D., MPH, BCCP, BCPS (Pfizer Inc.), Andrew Vilcinskas, Pharm.D. (Sanofi).
Carl Possidente, Pharm.D., a recent retiree from Pfizer, helped to create and coordinate the course with C. Michael White, Pharm.D., Distinguished Professor and Chair of Pharmacy Practice. Dr Possidente says that “During my career I have enjoyed educating pharmacists and health care professionals. It has been rewarding to help students learn about career options within the pharmaceutical industry.”
Dr White says that “Dr Possidente provides the insider’s perspective that I would not be able to replicate if I were doing this course alone. There is a special gravitas that comes from succeeding in the pharmaceutical industry space for so long that cannot be replicated in any other way. His insider view and the insights from so many talented alumni and friends of the UConn School of Pharmacy is what makes this course unique.”
Dr Amanda Idusuyi ’23 discusses marketing and drug information with students (C. Michael White / UConn School of Pharmacy Photo).
Aside from competition placement, another marker of success is how many students are accepted into highly competitive pharmaceutical industry fellowships. Starting in the summer of 2025, seven recent UConn graduates will join these training programs.
Graduating student Rohan Kantesaria says, “Industry fellowships are highly competitive, with a rigorous application process that spans several months. UConn does a great job preparing us for this path through a variety of resources. From guest speakers who share their journeys in the pharmaceutical industry, to a strong alumni network eager to support us, and timely CV reviews and mock interviews, the support has been incredibly helpful. I’m very fortunate to have this strong support system of faculty and peers while navigating this process.”
One way for students to get inside experience in the pharmaceutical industry is through Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences. These one-month rotations allow students to be immersed in a pharmaceutical company every day under the supervision of a pharmacist specialist at the company. Overall, 21 students secured either a one- or two-month industry rotation at eight different companies.
In the high-stakes environment of an emergency department where seconds matter and emotions run high, the smallest acts of awareness and compassion can make a life-changing difference, especially for patients from marginalized communities.
That belief has driven two clinicians in the UConn John Dempsey Hospital Emergency Department (ED), Dr. Danielle Mailloux, assistant professor of Emergency Medicine and Dr. Heather Kurtzman, physician assistant, to take action far beyond the scope of their daily roles. Without any formal administrative title or department mandate, they’ve voluntarily launched a series of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that are reshaping how emergency care is delivered and received at UConn Health.
“Our focus has always been on improving the patient experience and quality of care for those who are too often overlooked or underserved,” says Mailloux. “That includes our deaf patients, patients who speak English as a second language, members of the LGBTQ+ community, women, and people of color.”
Centering Care on Women’s Health and Dignity
The initiative began with a focus on women’s health particularly care for patients who have experienced sexual assault. Mailloux and Kurtzman noticed gaps in training, workflow, and equipment that made these already traumatic encounters even harder for patients and providers alike.
In response, they organized educational workshops led by forensic nurse examiners, retraining all ED Physician Assistants and inviting voluntary participation from board-certified emergency physicians. They established a new provider call list for sexual assault exams, created dedicated sexual assault supply bins stocked with essential items, and secured a specialized OB/GYN exam bed for proper pelvic evaluations.
“The old setup was completely inadequate, we were using makeshift props to perform some of the most sensitive exams a patient can go through,” says Kurtzman. “Now we have the right equipment, the right training, and a process that treats patients with the dignity and care they deserve.”
They also worked with UConn Health’s pharmacy team to stock more inclusive emergency contraception options, including medications effective for patients with higher body weight, an important but often overlooked gap in reproductive care. New electronic order sets for sexual health and STD treatment were developed to streamline care for providers, increasing both consistency and timeliness.
Their work didn’t stop at the bedside. A Women’s Health Symposium co-hosted by the Emergency Department, featuring guest speakers and multidisciplinary collaboration with departments such as OB-GYN, is scheduled for later in the month.
Building a More Inclusive Space for All Patients
Emergency Department providers Heather Kurtzman, PA-c , and Danielle Mailloux, MD in front of the emergency entrance at UConn Health. May 27, 2025 (Tina Encarnacion)
Mailloux and Kurtzman’s efforts expanded quickly from women’s health to other vulnerable populations. Recognizing ongoing complaints from Deaf patients and their families, they developed a new patient flow to ensure faster, more reliable access to live interpreters. They also created visual cue cards with simple phrases translated into multiple languages to ease communication while patients wait for interpretation services.
“Our interpreters are incredible, but they’re stretched thin,” says Mailloux. “This workflow helps us respect both our patients and our interpreter colleagues, making the experience better for everyone involved.”
To support LGBTQ+ patients, they hosted a powerful panel discussion featuring trans individuals, parents of children who have transitioned, and other community voices. This session helped educate staff about the patient’s perspective and led to real changes. They distributed rainbow badge tags and pronoun stickers for ID badges and advocated successfully for inclusive signage throughout the department.
“Just seeing a flag or a pronoun sticker can mean the world to a patient who’s used to feeling invisible or unsafe in medical settings,” says Kurtzman. “These aren’t just symbols; they’re signals of belonging.”
Small Changes, Big Impact
Many of Mailloux and Kurtzman’s projects focus on small, actionable ways to make the ED feel more compassionate and inclusive. They advocated for a wider range of bandage tones of different skin colors. They assembled comfort kits and clothing for patients who must surrender their garments after an assault. They created QR-code posters in restrooms linking discreetly to resources for addiction recovery, human trafficking, and domestic violence, offering a safe and private way for patients to ask for help.
They’ve also collaborated with UConn Health’s addiction services and the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR) to host educational sessions about stigma, harm reduction, and recovery bringing in speakers with lived experience, including CCAR leaders and community-based police officers from a local human trafficking task force.
“We try to combine education with action,” Kurtzman explains. “That way, we’re not just learning we’re changing the environment to reflect those lessons.”
A Grassroots Movement That’s Gaining Momentum
While their work began informally, word has spread. Educational sessions are now open to staff across UConn Health, and participation continues to grow. Their recent Winter Donation Drive for Hartford’s House of Bread marked the Emergency Department’s first coordinated community outreach effort a milestone they hope to build on with more events.
“This work has really lit a fire under us,” Mailloux says. “We’re just people who care deeply about our patients and our colleagues and we’ve realized we actually can make changes that matter.”
“This is our passion project,” says Kurtzman. “It’s voluntary. We do it on our own time. But we believe that everyone who walks into our ED deserves to feel safe, respected, and seen. And that belief is what keeps us going.”
Mailloux and Kurtzman’s work has already changed the Emergency Department in tangible, visible ways, but their mission is far from over.
“We’ve seen how small changes can lead to big improvements,” says Mailloux. “Now we’re asking bigger questions, too.”
One of those questions involves the use of hallway beds, a frequent source of frustration among patients and a growing concern in emergency care settings across the country. Mailloux and Kurtzman have begun researching the demographics of patients placed in hallway beds to explore whether any racial, ethnic, or systemic disparities exist in those decisions.
“It’s about making sure that unconscious bias isn’t playing a role in who gets full room placement and who doesn’t,” says Kurtzman. “We want to make sure every decision we make is rooted in fairness, medical urgency, and equity, not assumption.”
At the same time, they’re rolling out a new educational initiative in the ED’s waiting area: informational slides on TV screens that explain how the Emergency Department works, what patients should expect, and why someone else may be seen before them. The slides will also address common concerns about hallway beds, providing honest, compassionate explanations about how those decisions are made and why it may lead to faster care.
“We want patients to feel informed and empowered,” says Mailloux.
Mailloux and Kurtzman know that not every problem can be solved overnight. But their work proves that with a clear purpose, grassroots leadership, and an unwavering commitment to equity, even a busy Emergency Department can become a more inclusive, compassionate, and responsive place to receive care.
“It’s been pretty cool,” says Mailloux. “Patients are noticing. Colleagues are noticing. And we’re just grateful to be part of something that’s working and evolving.”
The core portion of NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope has successfully completed vibration testing, ensuring it will withstand the extreme shaking experienced during launch. Passing this key milestone brings Roman one step closer to helping answer essential questions about the role of dark energy and other cosmic mysteries. “The test could be considered as powerful as a pretty severe earthquake, but there are key differences,” said Cory Powell, the Roman lead structural analyst at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “Unlike an earthquake, we sweep through our frequencies one at a time, starting with very low-level amplitudes and gradually increasing them while we check everything along the way. It’s a very complicated process that takes extraordinary effort to do safely and efficiently.”
The team simulated launch conditions as closely as possible. “We performed the test in a flight-powered configuration and filled the propulsion tanks with approximately 295 gallons of deionized water to simulate the propellent loading on the spacecraft during launch,” said Joel Proebstle, who led this test, at NASA Goddard. This is part of a series of tests that ratchet up to 125 percent of the forces the observatory will experience. This milestone is the latest in a period of intensive testing for the nearly complete Roman Space Telescope, with many major parts coming together and running through assessments in rapid succession. Roman currently consists of two major assemblies: the inner, core portion (telescope, instrument carrier, two instruments, and spacecraft) and the outer portion (outer barrel assembly, solar array sun shield, and deployable aperture cover). Now, having completed vibration testing, the core portion will return to the large clean room at Goddard for post-test inspections. They’ll confirm that everything remains properly aligned and the high-gain antenna can deploy. The next major assessment for the core portion will involve additional tests of the electronics, followed by a thermal vacuum test to ensure the system will operate as planned in the harsh space environment.
[embedded content] This video highlights some of the important hardware milestones as NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope moves closer to completion. The observatory is almost fully assembled, currently built up into two large pieces: the inner portion (telescope, instrument carrier, two instruments, and spacecraft) and outer portion (outer barrel assembly, solar array sun shield, and deployable aperture cover). This video shows the testing these segments have undergone between February and May 2025. Credit: NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
In the meantime, Goddard technicians are also working on Roman’s outer portion. They installed the test solar array sun shield, and this segment then underwent its own thermal vacuum test, verifying it will control temperatures properly in the vacuum of space. Now, technicians are installing the flight solar panels to this outer part of the observatory. The team is on track to connect Roman’s two major assemblies in November, resulting in a whole observatory by the end of the year that will then undergo final tests. Roman remains on schedule for launch by May 2027, with the team aiming for as early as fall 2026.
The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is managed at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, with participation by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California; Caltech/IPAC in Pasadena, California; the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore; and a science team comprising scientists from various research institutions. The primary industrial partners are BAE Systems Inc. in Boulder, Colorado; L3Harris Technologies in Rochester, New York; and Teledyne Scientific & Imaging in Thousand Oaks, California. By Ashley BalzerNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
Christina Zeringue remembers being 10 years old, looking to the sky through her new telescope to view the Moon and planets on Christmas night. It opened her eyes to space and inspired her journey from the backyard to NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. “I became fascinated with astronomy and learning about stars and constellations, the solar system and planetary orbits, solar and lunar eclipses, and challenging myself to find stars and nebula at different distances from Earth,” Zeringue said. “I was able to do and learn so much just from my own yard.” She became obsessed with following the development and images produced from the Hubble Space Telescope, which launched on a space shuttle that featured three main engines tested at NASA Stennis. Zeringue desired to learn more about the universe and find a way to be part of the effort to continue exploring. The Kenner, Louisiana, native ultimately made her way to NASA Stennis following graduation from the University of New Orleans. As the NASA Stennis chief safety and mission assurance officer, Zeringue is responsible for safety and mission success of all site activities. These include both rocket propulsion testing and operation of the NASA Stennis federal city, where NASA and more than 50 federal, state, academic, public, and private aerospace, technology, and research organizations located onsite share in operating costs while pursuing individual missions.
“I have a broad range of responsibilities, which allows me to work with many talented people, pushes me to learn and develop new skills, and keeps my work interesting every day,” Zeringue said. Zeringue’s work has supported NASA’s Artemis campaign to return astronauts to the Moon through her contributions to RS-25 engine testing and Green Run testing of NASA’s SLS (Space Launch System) core stage ahead of the successful launch of Artemis I. The Pearl River, Louisiana, resident often encounters engineering or safety challenges where there is not a clear answer to the solution. “We work together to understand new problems, determine the best course of action, and create new processes and ways to handle every challenge,” she said. In total, Zeringue has worked 28 years at NASA Stennis – 14 as a contractor and 14 with NASA. As a contractor, Zeringue initially worked as test article engineer for the Space Shuttle Main Engine Program. She followed that by serving as the quality systems manager, responsible for the quality engineering and configuration management of various engine systems, such as the space shuttle main engine, the RS-68 engine or Delta IV vehicles, and the J-2X upper stage engine. Zeringue transitioned to NASA in 2011, first as a facility systems safety engineer and then as chief of the operations support division within the NASA Stennis Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate. Her proudest career moment came early when working on final inspection of a new high pressure fuel turbopump. She noted a piece of contamination lodged behind the turbine shroud, which had been missed in previous inspections. Ultimately, the part was returned for disassembly before its next flight. “While our post-test inspections can sometimes become routine, that day still stands out to me as a way that I really knew I directly contributed to the safety of our astronauts,” she said. From the time Zeringue first looked through her new telescope, to her role as NASA Stennis chief safety and mission assurance officer, each moment along the way has contributed to the advice Zeringue shares with anyone considering a career with NASA. “Stay curious, invest in your own development, share your expertise with others, and try something new every day,” she said.
Listen to this audio excerpt from Liliana Villarreal, Artemis Landing & Recovery Director:
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Lili Villarreal fell in love with space exploration from an early age when she and her family visited the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. So, it should come as no surprise that when the opportunity came for her to start working on NASA’s Artemis missions to explore the Moon and build the foundation for the first crewed mission to Mars, she jumped at it.
Liliana Villareal Artemis Landing & Recovery Director
She currently serves as the Artemis Landing and Recovery Director, helping retrieve the astronauts and Orion spacecraft after they splash down in the Pacific Ocean following their mission in space. Originally from Cartagena, Colombia, Villarreal moved to Miami, Florida, when she was 10 years old with the goal of one day entering the aerospace industry. In 2007, her dream came true, and she became a part of the NASA team. Prior to becoming the landing and recovery director, Villarreal served as the deputy flow director for the Artemis I mission, responsible for the integration, stacking, and testing of the SLS (Space Launch System) rocket and Orion spacecraft inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center.
“I kind of came in about a couple of years before we started processing Artemis I,” Villarreal said. “It took a while to get to the good parts of operations where it’s like, ‘Oh my god, we have everything here, and we’re starting to put everything together. And every day is a different day. Every day we have to figure out, ‘OK, what happened? How are we going to solve it?’ That’s the fun part about being an engineer out here.” Throughout her NASA career, she’s also had the opportunity to work in the operations division for the International Space Station Program.
Liliana Villareal Artemis Landing & Recovery Director
Currently, she and the team are training for Artemis II – the first crewed mission under Artemis to send four astronauts around the Moon and back. Part of the training includes rehearsing the steps and procedures to make sure they’re ready for crewed flights. This includes conducting underway recovery tests where NASA and U.S. Navy teams practice retrieving astronauts from a representative version of Orion at sea and bringing them and the spacecraft back to the ship. “I think it’s an amazing thing what we’re doing for humanity,” Villarreal said. “It’s going to better humanity, and it’s a steppingstone to eventually us living in other worlds. And I get to be part of that. You get to be part of that. How cool is that?”
strong>FRANKFORT, Ky. –A Disaster Recovery Center has been relocated in Butler County to offer in-person support to Kentucky uninsured and underinsured survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides. The new Disaster Recovery Center in Butler County is located at:
Morgantown Elementary School, 210 Cemetery St., Morgantown, KY 42261 Working hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p.m. Central Time, Sunday. Disaster Recovery Centers are one-stop shops where you can get information and advice on available assistance from state, federal and community organizations. You can get help to apply for FEMA assistance, learn the status of your FEMA application, understand the letters you get from FEMA and get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistance. The U.S. Small Business Administration representatives and resources from the Commonwealth are also available at the Disaster Recovery Centers to assist you. FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. The deadline to apply is June 25. You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance. No appointment is needed. To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance. There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. When you apply, you will need to provide:
A current phone number where you can be contacted. Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying. Your Social Security Number. A general list of damage and losses. Banking information if you choose direct deposit. If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860 and www.fema.gov/disaster/4864. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.
EDISON, NJ – U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer continued her America at Work listening tour this week with visits to Long Island, New York, and Edison, New Jersey, where she met with apprentices and observed hands-on training in welding, framing, and acoustical work.
“Our nation’s skilled workforce is thriving under President Trump’s leadership, with thousands of new jobs created on Long Island and in New Jersey since he took office,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “This week, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of investments in top-notch training programs that drive local economic growth. When we invest in skills and opportunity, we empower men and women to build better lives for themselves and their families. I appreciate Congressmen Garbarino, LaLota, and Kean hosting me on my America at Work tour and will continue working with them to Make America Skilled Again.”
“Long Island has long been a leader in workforce innovation, and today’s visit showcased the strong partnerships between labor, education, and government that are building pathways to good-paying jobs for local workers,” said Rep. Andrew Garbarino. “From apprentices learning the trades at Local 290 to advanced technical training programs at Suffolk County Community College, these initiatives are not only equipping our workforce with the skills they need – they’re also strengthening Long Island’s economic future. I thank Secretary Chavez-DeRemer for making the trip and recognizing the importance of continued investment in our skilled workforce.”
“Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s visit to Suffolk County and her engagement with Long Island’s blue-collar labor leaders highlight the new Republican Party’s commitment to supporting both business growth and hardworking Americans through fair wages, safe working conditions, and expanded opportunities,” said Rep. Nick LaLota. “To keep our region competitive, we must continue investing in workforce development and modern infrastructure. In Congress, I’ll keep fighting for commonsense solutions that strengthen job training, connect workers to good-paying careers, and grow Long Island’s economy from the ground up.”
New York
Joined by Reps. Garbarino and LaLota, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visited the Northeast Regional Council of Carpenters Local 290 Training Center in Hauppauge, where she observed hands-on technical instruction in welding, framing, and acoustical work. She also engaged with apprentices to discuss the importance of developing practical skills.
Later, they toured Suffolk County Community College’s National Offshore Wind Training Center in Brentwood, a state-of-the-art program preparing local workers for careers in the emerging offshore wind industry. The group also toured specialized training facilities focused on fire awareness, sea survival, and working-at-heights safety – critical for ensuring safe and effective operations in offshore environments.
The Secretary concluded her Long Island stop with a roundtable discussion hosted by the Society for Human Resource Management to discuss strategies for building workplaces that help both people and businesses thrive.
New Jersey
In Edison, the Secretary visited the Northeast Carpenters Training Center in Edison with Rep. Kean. This state-of-the-art, union-owned facility, part of the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical Centers, provides hands-on training in carpentry, millwright work, cabinetmaking, and floor laying. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer emphasized the importance of developing pathways to success through high-quality workforce development programs that equip apprentices with the resources they need to excel.
“From construction and manufacturing to transportation infrastructure, everything built in New Jersey is built by the hands of dedicated tradesmen and women,” said Rep. Tom Kean Jr. “Today’s visit to the Northeast Carpenters Training Center, alongside Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, was an incredible opportunity to see the next generation of skilled laborers in action. The center’s workforce development programs show how strong partnerships between labor, industry, and educators equip students with the skills, leadership, and safety training they need to succeed on the job and return home safely to their families each night. As we invest in infrastructure, innovation, and nationwide projects, New Jersey will continue to lead the way due to its strong and skilled workforce. I want to thank Secretary Chavez-DeRemer for her continued leadership and for visiting the great Garden State.”
Secretary Chavez-DeRemer launched her America at Work listening tour in early April to bring real-world feedback from American workers to policymakers in Washington. Recent stops have included visits to Colorado and Arizona, highlighting best practices and successful workforce development initiatives across the country.
Learn more about Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s efforts to strengthen America’s skilled workforce.
ALBANY, NY – The U.S. Department of Labor has entered into a settlement agreement with Adidas America Inc. that requires the company to pay $235,000 in fines and implement enhanced safety measures at multiple facilities.
The agreement comes after the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration conducted a 2024 follow-up inspection at an Adidas warehouse in upstate New York. OSHA initially cited for hazards in 2021 during an inspection that found missing guardrails and an unsafe ladder.
Inspectors returned in 2024 to find that Adidas had not corrected the hazards cited in 2021 and found an additional unsafe ladder violation.
The May 30, 2025, settlement requires Adidas to implement enhanced abatement measures at its facilities in New York, New Jersey, and Puerto Rico, including adopting a comprehensive Safety and Health Management program, retraining employees on fall hazards, assessing and auditing potential fall hazards at each facility, and discontinuing use of overhead storage in the facilities.
Adidas also agreed to pay $235,000 in penalties.
Adidas America Inc. is a subsidiary of Adidas AG, an athletic apparel and footwear corporation headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany.
OSHA’s Warehousing page provides solutions to prevent injuries from hazards including forklifts, slips, trips and falls and materials handling. The agency’s stop falls website offers safety information and video presentations in English and Spanish to teach workers about fall hazards and proper safety procedures.
TRENTON, N.J. – Thousands of public sector and State workers gathered at the New Jersey State House Annex today to deliver a message to state lawmakers to put a stop to skyrocketing healthcare costs for New Jersey’s public sector workforce.
Since 2022, healthcare premiums for State workers have increased by 40% while local government workers have seen a 59% compounded increase. The premium increases are putting a huge strain on workers and on the healthcare system itself and are a key driver of the affordability crisis in New Jersey. A typical local government employee earning $65,000 is currently paying over $8,000 for a family plan. With the most recent increases in premiums, that same employee is paying almost $9,500 for that same plan in 2025, effectively eliminating any negotiated salary increase.
A coalition of labor unions, including the Communications Workers of America (CWA), the New Jersey State AFL-CIO, AFSCME NJ, AAUP-AFT, AFT New Jersey, the Council of New Jersey State Colleges, URA-AFT, HPAE, IFPTE, and others, is fighting for legislation to make healthcare more affordable, require fair pricing for healthcare services, and improve the governance and transparency of the State healthcare plan.
“New Jersey’s public sector workers keep our state running every single day, and they should not be punished with unaffordable healthcare costs,” said Dennis Trainor, CWA District 1 Vice President. “It’s time for lawmakers to take real action to rein in healthcare profiteering and deliver the affordability, transparency, and accountability that public workers—and all New Jerseyans—deserve.”
Public sector union workers are fighting for common-sense cost control and solutions like claims auditing, enforcing existing contracts with insurance carriers, and fair pricing that would rein in the costs of care overall, generating enormous savings for the State, local governments, and workers.
“What’s not to like about this proposal?” asked New Jersey State AFL-CIO President Charles Wowkanech. “It has produced massive savings in other states and could save New Jersey taxpayers $1.1 billion annually. It helps to control ever-increasing property taxes by slowing down out-of-control increases in health insurance premiums for public employees. It provides much-needed relief to workers who, during a time of historic inflation, are seeing every penny of their raises get eaten up by double-digit increases in health insurance premiums. Considering the dire condition of the State Health Benefits Plan, I urge the legislature to pass this bill now,” he concluded.
“When we say healthcare, we mean justice. I stand with my brothers and sisters because together, we can make healthcare affordable, accessible, and equitable for everyone,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (District 15). “No one should have to choose between getting treatment and paying the mortgage, the rent, or the light bill. That’s why I show up. That’s why I fight! Let’s END Chapter 78 TOGETHER!”
“Healthcare costs in New Jersey have skyrocketed, and proposed federal Medicaid cuts would rip away healthcare from hundreds of thousands of New Jerseyans—especially children, seniors, and people with disabilities,” said Assemblyman Cody Miller (District 4). “No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying for their medicine or doctor’s visit. That’s why we’re fighting to pass legislation that puts patients before profits. We can make New Jersey a leader in affordable, quality healthcare for every resident.”
“The ever-increasing healthcare costs have devastating financial and emotional effects for our members in the State Benefits Health Program. New Jersey’s working families deserve better. Reference-based pricing in healthcare will provide a fair-market standard that ensures transparency, cost reduction, affordability, and quality healthcare,” said Susanna Tardi, Ph.D., the Executive Vice President of Higher Education, AFTNJ.
“The State needs to embrace the common-sense reforms that public sector unions have been offering for years,” said Steve Tully, AFSCME NJ Executive Director. “These reforms will ensure the long-term stability of the State Health Benefits Plan while making healthcare more affordable for workers and the taxpayers.”
“Healthcare is a human right, and New Jersey public workers need high-quality, affordable coverage to safeguard our health and the rest of the state,” said Christine O’Connell, President of the Union of Rutgers Administrators-American Federation of Teachers, Local 1766. “Public workers have provided countless practical solutions to lower healthcare costs. These common-sense reforms are reflected in the legislative proposal we are calling for today, which is fair for workers, good for the public, and will serve the state more efficiently and effectively than plans being developed by health insurance companies generating profit by denying preventative and necessary medical care.”
“Across New Jersey’s public colleges and universities, faculty—both full-time and part-time—dedicate themselves to the mission of higher education, often contingent workers putting in hours that match or exceed full-time roles. Yet too many are now forced to choose between keeping their healthcare and paying their bills. Premiums in the State Health Benefits Program have surged, putting enormous pressure on those who already qualify while leaving others, like adjunct faculty, completely priced out of access,” said Tom Raggio, Rutgers Adjunct Faculty Union. “Healthcare is not a luxury. It is a human right. This crisis exposes the broken structure of a system where workers who serve our students and institutions are either burdened by unaffordable costs or locked out entirely. We need bold reform—one that not only reins in rising premiums but ensures that all faculty, including adjuncts, are eligible for quality, affordable healthcare based on the work they do—not based on their ability to buy into the system at an unsustainable cost.”
“This legislation seeks to contain consumer pricing with no reduction in benefits, while increasing oversight and transparency at minimal cost to the state,” said HPAE President Debbie White. “It would help contain the spiraling costs of health insurance for our public workers.“
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About CWA: The Communications Workers of America represents working people in telecommunications, customer service, media, airlines, health care, public service and education, manufacturing, tech, and other fields.