Category: United States of America

MIL-OSI USA: I-90 Vantage Bridge work pauses on weekends and holidays to accommodate summer travel
Source: Washington State News 2

VANTAGE – Construction on Interstate 90 across the Vantage Bridge will be adjusted to help traffic flow during peak travel times for the Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day holidays.

All four lanes of the Vantage Bridge will be open during busy summer holidays:
- Memorial Day: Friday, May 23 – Sunday, June 1
- Fourth of July: Thursday, July 3 – Tuesday, July 8
- Labor Day: Thursday, Aug. 28 – Tuesday, Sept. 2
The bridge will be reduced to one lane in each direction on weekdays (Monday through Friday) and all lanes will be open on Saturdays and Sundays through July 8. Starting Wednesday, July 9, traffic will be reduced to a single lane in each direction seven days a week, except for Labor Day weekend, until the project wraps up for the season in November.

Repair work on the Vantage Bridge began in spring 2024. The completion of the project is scheduled for 2028.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: North Carolinians and Organizations Awarded Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service
Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: North Carolinians and Organizations Awarded Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service

North Carolinians and Organizations Awarded Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service
lsaito
Wed, 05/21/2025 – 11:28

Raleigh, NC
Earlier this month, 20 people and two organizations representing 21 counties received the State of North Carolina’s highest award for volunteer service: the Governor’s Medallion Award. The award is presented annually by the N.C. Commission on Volunteerism & Community Service, or VolunteerNC.

“I am proud to honor these public-spirited volunteers who have each made a profound impact on their communities,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am grateful for their dedication and hard work – may their leadership inspire more North Carolinians to follow their example.”

Medallion recipients received their awards in a ceremony at the North Carolina State Capitol, where they were joined by Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt, VolunteerNC Chair Dr. Joe Blosser, VolunteerNC Executive Director Briles Johnson, and Volunteerism Coordinator Kenneth McLellan.

“We were excited to honor these extraordinary volunteers from across North Carolina who work selflessly and tirelessly to make our state a better place,” said Briles Johnson, Executive Director of VolunteerNC. “Medallion award recipients serve their communities in so many ways: combating food insecurity, assisting the elderly, mentoring youth, disaster relief and more.”

The recipients of the 2025 Governor’s Medallion for Volunteer Service are:
- Gerry Tygielski of Ashe County, Habitat for Humanity
- Darlene Sanders of Catawba County, Exodus Home
- Sera Cuni of Chatham County, Feed-Well Fridges
- Gregory Carr of Duplin County, Greenevers Volunteer Fire Department
- Brad Freeman of Durham County, PetPals NC
- Thao Sommerville of Forsyth County, work to preserve Vietnamese culture
- Patricia Adams of Franklin County, Sowing Seeds
- Erna Bright of Gates County, Gates County Broadband Task Force
- JaQuavion Stainback of Granville County, Shepard Youth Ranch
- Gary Grant of Halifax County, agricultural sustainability and rural empowerment
- Howard Bakken of Henderson County, Chikaming Goat Herd at the Carol Sandburg Home NHS
- Adrianna Noel Goodwin of Hyde County, Ocracoke School
- Mike Davidson of Iredell County, American Legion, American Legion Boy Scouts, Beulah Baptist Church, and Iredell Christian Ministry
- American Red Cross NC Screening Team of Jones County, Red Cross
- Janice Scions of Lee County, Enrichment Center of Lee County
- Joy Harklerode of McDowell County, Mercy Fund Animal Rescue
- Dr. Elesia Glover of Mecklenburg County, Posh Pack Inc.
- Julie McClintock of Orange County, Bolin Creek
- DH Conley High School ROTC of Pitt County, Senior Games
- Maxton McDowell of Randolph County, community organizations and social services
- Becky and Chip Craig of Wayne County, Kiwanis Miniature Train Project
The 2026 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award nomination form will be available this fall. Nominations are submitted to the County Award Coordinator in each county. Please visit volunteernc.org for more information.
May 21, 2025

MIL OSI USA News –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Participates in a Bilateral Meeting with the President of South Africa

Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

The White House

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cy-HJ2wRZs

MIL OSI Video –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Kaptur Remarks at Fiscal Year 2026 Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation Budget Hearing

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

Full Hearing Recording Available Here

Washington, DC — Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Ranking Member of the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks at the subcommittee’s fiscal year 2026 budget hearing for the Army Corps of Engineers (Civil Works) and the Bureau of Reclamation:

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Good morning, everyone. Thank you for joining us. You build America, and we respect that. I welcome this opportunity to examine recent actions for the budget requests for the Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation.

Thank you to our witnesses for devoting your lives to the nation and for joining us today. Your agencies play a critical role in developing the resources of our land while mindful of our obligations to future generations. Your vital work strengthens our economy, sustains life on Earth, and ensures public safety against the now constant onslaught of both increasing natural and human-caused disasters across our country, which is growing in population, headed to half a billion people. For example, the Corps played a vital role in clearing the waterways after the Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. Thank you so much. And you are currently carrying out wildfire debris removal in Los Angeles County. Thank you for your exemplary service to our country. You hold us together, and all those who serve in the Corps and the Bureau.

The proposed cuts to the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation are not just misguided — they are dangerous. Slashing their budgets and eroding their workforce endangers people’s lives and public safety, undermines economic growth, and weakens our national — the national welfare of the country — in the face of climate change.

Let’s start with the Corps of Engineers. Your work is not just about dams and levees. It’s about protecting lives and building America’s public infrastructure to manage flood control systems that safeguard our communities from the devastating effects of extreme weather. And we saw that this past week, with the terrible tornadoes from St. Louis and all surrounding states.

Along the shores of Lake Erie — the largest freshwater system in the world — we know what’s at stake. Erosion, rising lake levels, the problems with algal blooms, and increasingly violent storms threaten homes, businesses, and public assets. We cannot build a safe and a habitable environment for our growing population on shrinking budgets and shrinking staff.

In the Great Lakes region, modernization of projects like the Soo Locks are a prime example of long overdue investments that will turbocharge our economy. One hundred percent of America’s domestic iron ore passes through the Soo Locks. Think about how important that makes this strategic infrastructure.

Steel is a $500 Billion industry, it supports 123 thousand middle-class jobs, and I’m a strong advocate for reshoring the US steel industry and growing those numbers, but we have to modernize the shipping lanes and the waterways, and our ports, for today and the future. This project will ensure our heartlands’ maritime, industrial, agricultural, and commercial products are safe and efficiently moved.

Think about our region, it is the shortest distance by way of the Atlantic Ocean to the ports of northern Europe and beyond. Canada, the Great Lakes, and St. Lawrence Seaway hasten global trade, and President Eisenhower understood its place within our continental enterprise and global defense. So must we, as we witness the dawn of the new arctic age.

Similarly, the Brandon Road project, aims at arresting the potential enormous economic and environmental damage that can be unleashed by the invasion of the Asian carp. They could exterminate local and regional aquatic fish and species, and that would be devastating to our Great Lakes’ $7 Billion fishery and its $16 Billion recreational boating industry. These are astounding numbers.

The Corps of Engineers has a return on investment of over 200 to 1 in terms of economic benefits for every dollar invested. Ports, locks, and inland waterways maintained by the Corps are vital arteries for our very large nation and its commerce. In the Great Lakes region alone, these investments ensure that goods — from American steel to Ohio soybeans — can reach domestic and global markets. And cuts to this work would cause costly delays, limit our competitiveness, and harm local economies.

Now, to the Bureau of Reclamation. Though it serves primarily the Western United States, its importance cannot be overstated. The Bureau manages water supply for over 31 million Americans in the dry, and I guess I would say, coming from my part of the country drier, Western states, irrigates 10 million acres of farmland, and generates hydropower for millions of homes.

In this time of unprecedented drought and water stress, we must bolster — not diminish — Reclamation’s capacity to invest in sustainable water systems and innovative conservation technologies. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Herbert Hoover understood what development west of the Mississippi River would require. So must we.

Let’s be clear: disinvestment in the Corps and Bureau now will lead to higher costs down the road. Deferred maintenance becomes disaster recovery. Preventable failures become national emergencies.

I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle — this is not the time to retreat. It is time to lead. We must provide these agencies with the resources they need to protect our growing population, strengthen our economy, and safeguard our environment for generations to come.

Finally, I truly condemn the extreme politicization of critical Army Corps’ construction funding decisions, as we saw in last week’s work plan. It is yet another reminder that Congress must reclaim its authority over funding decisions by passing full-year appropriations bills.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and Members and our guests. I yield back.

# # #

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal, Sanders, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Make Public Colleges and Universities Tuition Free
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

WASHINGTON, DC – As President Trump and congressional Republicans are working overtime to make college unaffordable and unattainable for millions of working-class families in order to provide tax breaks to billionaires, Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), today introduced legislation to make public colleges and universities tuition free for 95% of students. The College for All Act would be the most transformative investment in higher education in 60 years and would substantially improve the lives of millions of students throughout the United States.

“Congress can and must ensure that working families never have to take out crushing loans to purse an education,” said Jayapal. “The College for All Act will free students from a lifetime of debt, invest in working people, and transform higher education across America by making a degree more accessible to poor and working families across this country. This is more important now than ever as Trump continues to attack education in this country through attempts to strip funding from universities and to dismantle the Department of Education.”

“In a highly competitive global economy where technology is changing the very nature of work and the jobs we perform, we need the best educated workforce in the world,” said Sanders. “Our nation used to lead the world in the percentage of adults with a college degree. Today, we are in 11th place behind countries like Japan, South Korea, Canada, the United Kingdom and Switzerland. That is not a prescription for a strong American economy of the future. It is a prescription for failure. Instead of increasing the cost of college in order to give more tax breaks to billionaires, we have a better idea. We are going to make public colleges and universities tuition free so that working class students can succeed and are not burdened with a lifetime of debt.”

Making public colleges and universities tuition free is not a radical idea. In 1944, as World War II was coming to an end, the U.S. government made free higher education available to all those who served in the armed forces. That act not only improved the financial well-being of the Greatest Generation, but it also laid the groundwork for the greatest expansion of the American middle class in U.S history. Moreover, over 50 years ago, many of our most prestigious public colleges and universities were also tuition free or virtually tuition free.

Since this legislation was first introduced ten years ago, several colleges and universities in America have provided free tuition for working class and middle class students including every state college in New Mexico, the State University of New York, the University of Texas, the University of Wisconsin, and Arkansas State University.

Other wealthy countries like France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland have made their public colleges and universities tuition free or virtually tuition free because they understand the value of investing in their young people.

The College for All Act would guarantee tuition-free community college for all students and allow students from single households earning up to $150,000 a year, and married households earning up to $300,000 a year, to attend college without fear of being saddled with student loan debt.

The College for All Act would also:
- Double the maximum Pell Grant award for students enrolled at public and private non-profit colleges;
- Establish a $10 billion grant program to improve student outcomes and address equity gaps at underfunded public colleges and universities;
- Triple federal TRIO program funding;
- Double GEAR UP funding; and
- Double mandatory funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs).
Read the bill text here.

Read a summary of the bill here.

Issues: Arts & Education

MIL OSI USA News –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: Sidetrade introduces first-ever AI Cash Collection Agent, autonomous and interactive
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New AI-native agent shifts Order-to-Cash from smart automation to autonomous execution, live today throughout global finance teams

Sidetrade, the global leader in AI-powered Order-to-Cash applications, has today unveiled a seismic breakthrough in enterprise finance; the world’s first-ever AI Cash Collection Agent, operating live and autonomously from a digital standpoint.

Powered by Sidetrade’s Data Lake, the new Aimie orchestrates Order-to-Cash (O2C) processes, executing phone calls, interacting with debtor clients, escalating and flagging issues or exceptions for human follow-up actions where necessary. Announced at the Gartner CFO & Finance Executive Conference today, this launch marks a decisive leap beyond automation.

Ushering in a new era for CFOs, Global Business Services, and Shared Services
In the current economic climate, traditional financial systems, rule-based automation, large teams handling low-value calls, and follow-up email campaigns have all revealed their limitations. The race for competitiveness is not just won with automation. It is also won with speed, precision, and the ability to make sense of vast and fragmented data. Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), Global Business Services, and Shared Services leaders must accelerate cash flow generation, reduce operational overheads, and scale faster.

Aimie is now agentic. Designed as an enterprise teammate, her first capability is being an autonomous Cash Collection Agent, trained on $7.2 trillion in payment experiences and insights from 40 million buyers worldwide. “Simply put, Aimie does not wait for instructions,” said Rob Harvey, Chief Product Officer at Sidetrade. “Aimie does much more than merely follow a script; she makes decisions. That’s the real breakthrough. Agentic AI propels Order-to-Cash processes beyond automation into autonomous decision-making, unlocking new levers for sustainable financial performance. By combining human oversight with self-directed agents, we are creating an opening for more adaptive, scalable finance operations, where manual processes do not hold back growth.”

Aimie’s Cash Collection Agent is ready for deployment across Europe and North America:
- Autonomous outbound calling (first contact calls, follow-up calls, voicemail messages) with personalized dialogues suited to every situation;
- Outcome qualification with automatic case updates;
- Escalation when a material risk is detected.
Unlike static bots, Aimie continuously learns from live outcomes, adjusts outreach strategies, and refines prioritization using predictive signals from Sidetrade’s Data Lake.

Championing consistency to elevate performance
Early adopters are already experiencing real-world impact. “What I love most about Aimie isn’t the cost savings; it’s her consistency,” said Stephen Dyer, VP Credit & Collections at OpenText. “I manage 100+ collectors globally, and inconsistency is inevitable. Aimie guaranteed precise, repeatable execution which is a game-changer! She also helps to reshape the modern customer 360, enabling us to move past traditional customer experiences toward a data-driven, personalized relationship that can be replicated at scale.”

Aimie empowers Sidetrade customers with distinctive capabilities:
- Rapidly learning a company’s culture, products, and terminology, adapting communication in a way that feels native to their brand.
- Engaging in interactive, qualified conversations with thousands of buyers at scale, acting as a fully-fledged game-changer for managing massive SMB account portfolios, at low cost.
- Speaking up to 29 languages: allowing for seamless cash collection in local languages and contexts.
- Making 1,000 outbound calls daily, operating 24/5.
- Accelerating cash flow by scaling the most effective channel in collections: outbound calling.
Aimie takes on the high-volume, low-value tasks that drain finance teams, automating repetitive work with consistency, wherever the geography. The results? Reduced administrative burden on accounts receivable, so talent can refocus on strategic impact. Speaking with early adopters, Harvey commented: “They are not worried about a robot taking their job… because most of them already feel like they are doing the robot’s job. Moreover, they are aware that if we fail to design an AI co-worker, tomorrow’s finance will feel less human as they will be stuck talking to accounts payable robots instead of solving real strategic problems.”

Building on CFOs economic environment
Aimie’s unique advantage is Sidetrade’s Data Lake, which manages 10 payment events per second across one billion transactions, making it the largest real-time O2C behavioral database in the market. “Aimie’s intelligence comes from context-rich data, not just clever LLM’s,” said Mark Sheldon, Sidetrade’s Chief Technology Officer. “Generic AI systems lack the contextual data needed to operate as domain experts. But Aimie does. With $7.2 trillion in behavioral payment signals, Aimie adapts with pinpoint precision, and she keeps learning. Finance departments gain access to a new resource: tireless and infinitely scalable.”

Sidetrade has been training finance-specific models since 2015, with generative capabilities added in 2024. The AI Cash Collection Agent is part of a broader rollout of Sidetrade’s new agentic AI, which includes purpose-built agentic functionalities for email auto-response, portal data extraction, and cash application exception handling. As an AI orchestrator, Aimie coordinates a team of domain-specific agents to run the O2C cycle autonomously. “AI goes agentic,” stated Harvey. “Each agent operates independently to process thousands of customer emails and payments per day. Together, they represent a step-change in how finance teams execute their O2C processes.”

Sheldon concluded: “Short-term, what companies need to define is the level of autonomy they are willing to delegate to agents, the role human oversight should play, and how best to optimize their resources in this new paradigm. Rather than giving in to fears around agentic AI or human replaceability, I encourage business leaders to rethink the role of people within organizations that fully harness this technological shift. The most forward-thinking leaders already augment operational efficiency while repositioning their teams toward higher-value, strategic work.”

Aimie, Sidetrade’s AI Cash Collection Agent, is now available for early adopters. Meet Aimie, here.

Media relations @Sidetrade
Christelle Dhrif +33 6 10 46 72 00 cdhrif@sidetrade.com
About Sidetrade (www.sidetrade.com)
Sidetrade (Euronext Growth: ALBFR.PA) provides a SaaS platform designed to revolutionize how cash flow is secured and accelerated. Leveraging its new-generation agentic AI, nicknamed Aimie, Sidetrade analyzes $7.2 trillion worth of B2B payment transactions daily in its Cloud, thereby anticipating customer payment behavior and the attrition risk of 40 million buyers worldwide. Sidetrade has a global reach, with 400+ talented employees based in Europe, the United States, and Canada, serving global businesses in more than 85 countries. Among them: AGFA, BMW Financial Services, Bunzl, DXC, Engie, Inmarsat, KPMG, Lafarge, Manpower, Morningstar, Page, Randstad, Safran, Saint-Gobain, Securitas, Siemens, UGI, Veolia.
For further information, visit us at www.sidetrade.com and follow @Sidetrade on LinkedIn.
In the event of any discrepancy between the French and English versions of this press release, only the English version is to be taken into account.

Attachment
- Sidetrade introduces first-ever AI Cash Collection Agent, autonomous and interactive
The MIL Network –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: XRP News: 7 Days Left, Buy $XDX Before XenDex Presale Closes and Exchange Listings Begin
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

Buy XDX

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

A First-of-Its-Kind Platform on XRPL

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

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

Presale Details (Final Phase)
- Soft Cap: Filled
- Hard Cap: Almost Filled
- Price: 1.25 XRP = 10 XDX
- Minimum Buy: 150 XRP
Buy Now Before the Presale Ends: https://xendex.net/presale

Confirmed Listings on Major Exchanges

Once the presale closes, $XDX will be listed on:
- Binance
- Gate.io
- MEXC
- BitMart
- FirstLedger
- MagneticX
Buy $XDX Now Before Listing On Binance

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

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

Join the XenDex Community

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

Contact:
Frank Richards
Frank@xendex.net

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

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

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

The MIL Network –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: King, Colleagues Demand Explanation for DOGE Cuts at VA Impacting Healthcare for Maine Veterans

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), senior members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), led their House and Senate colleagues in a letter to Doug Collins, the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) requesting detailed information on the hundreds of cancelled contracts across the agency impacting earned health care and benefits for veterans in Maine. In the letter, the senators slam the Secretary’s untruthful narrative about these various contract cancellations across the country and demand answers on the true updated list of canceled contracts.
The letter comes on the heels of mass firings and contract cancellations executed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at the request of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The members began, “Since February, our Committees have made more than a dozen requests, many of them bipartisan, for you to provide Congress with the complete lists of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) contracts you have cancelled or proposed be cancelled. Today, we write to once again demand these lists. In addition, we are requesting a briefing from VA officials on the process by which contracts were and continue to be identified and cancelled, any meaningful advance consultation with career VA officials whose programs are impacted by these cancellations, and all activities of the VA-designated Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) personnel or liaisons and other DOGE personnel involved in VA programs, operations, and management. Our requests for information on DOGE operations at VA began on February 12, 2025, and to date have received no substantive response.”
“…Now, more than two months later, Congress is still waiting for accurate and complete information on the contracts you have cancelled, the contracts you have restored after being cancelled, the process the Department is using, and documentation for the savings generated and reinvested. When asked about receiving this information and a briefing on DOGE’s operations at the Department, your leadership stated simply that VA “will not be providing a briefing on the issue.” Additionally, even though many of these contracts were officially cancelled more than two months ago, your staff has indicated “VA cannot release any contract lists as this is all ‘pre-decisional’ until the Contracting Officer officially notifies and signs the termination letter and negotiates potential settlement costs.” This statement is another attempt to hide the truth from Congress and runs counter to logic given that many companies and public databases list hundreds of VA contracts as already cancelled,” the members continued.
The members concluded, “So that we may conduct our independent and constitutionally authorized oversight of the Department, we ask again for a copy of the list of more than 870 contracts cancelled or proposed for cancellation you discussed in your social media posting and video on February 24 and 25, 2025, which you indicated had a value of $2 billion; a copy of the list of 585 cancelled contracts VA announced publicly on March 3, 2025, with an estimated value of $1.8 billion; and a list of all contracts cancelled by VA from January 20, 2025, to present. Further, we request a briefing to the Committees to explain the timeline and process by which these contracts were selected and ordered cancelled; how the material provided to Congress on May 16, 2025, was assembled; and on DOGE operations inside VA related to contracts and more generally.”
Representing one of the states with the highest rates of military families and veterans per capita, Senator King is a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. A member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), he works to ensure American veterans receive their earned benefits and that the VA is properly implementing various programs such as the PACT Act, the State Veterans Homes Domiciliary Care Flexibility Act, and the John Scott Hannon Act. Recently, Senator King introduced bipartisan legislation to help reduce suicides among veterans by providing free secure firearm storage to veterans. In addition, he helped pass the Veterans COLA Act, which increased benefits for 30,000 Maine veterans and their families. This year, he cosponsored the bipartisan Major Richard Star Act that would provide more combat-injured veterans with their full earned benefits. Most recently, he joined Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS), Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, in introducing bipartisan legislation to permanently authorize a program that would expand access to veteran disability claims exams.
Recently, Senator King introduced bipartisan legislation alongside SVAC Chairman Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) to improve care coordination for veterans who rely on both VA health care and Medicare. In February, Senator King was honored by the Disabled American Veterans as its 2025 Legislator of the Year. Last year, he was recognized by the Wounded Warrior Project as the 2024 Legislator of the Year for his “outstanding legislative effort and achievement to improve the lives of the wounded, ill, and injured veterans.” Senator King recently joined SVAC Ranking Member Senator Blumenthal in writing a letter to Secretary Collins raising concerns over proposed $1 spending limits on VA purchase cards which are used to pay for gas to transport disabled veterans to apportionments, buy medical supplies and more. Senator King also joined his colleagues in raising concerns over proposed plans to terminate 83,000 VA employees and demanded information from the VA in a previous letter to Secretary Collins.
The full text of the letter can be found here and below.
+++
Dear Secretary Collins,
Since February, our Committees have made more than a dozen requests, many of them bipartisan, for you to provide Congress with the complete lists of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) contracts you have cancelled or proposed be cancelled. Today, we write to once again demand these lists. In addition, we are requesting a briefing from VA officials on the process by which contracts were and continue to be identified and cancelled, any meaningful advance consultation with career VA officials whose programs are impacted by these cancellations, and all activities of the VA-designated Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) personnel or liaisons and other DOGE personnel involved in VA programs, operations, and management. Our requests for information on DOGE operations at VA began on February 12, 2025, and to date have received no substantive response.
On February 24 and 25, 2025, you publicly celebrated on social media your plan, carried out with Elon Musk and DOGE, to cancel hundreds of VA contracts you claimed were for “PowerPoint slides and meeting minutes” and you indicated were valued at $2 billion. After you had given the orders for career officials in the Department to start the cancellations, a list of more than 870 contracts was leaked to Congress and the media. In reality, these contracts were predominantly for direct services for veterans or supporting VA operations including: suicide prevention and mental health treatment; radiology services; outreach regarding burial benefits and health care services; cancer care; the PACT Act; disability claims processing and audits; and ensuring safe and clean facilities. Amazingly, while claiming the purpose of cancelling these contracts was to improve efficiency and reduce waste, you also directed the cancellation of more than a dozen contracts whose purpose was to assist VA in conducting oversight activities to identify and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse and follow the recommendations of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the VA Office of Inspector General.
When the true purpose and impact of your mass contract cancellations were exposed, you and your leadership team directed career officials to pause some cancellations, stating in an internal email “VA Leadership is reconsidering previous guidance,” and “further contract reviews will be conducted to arrive at a new final decision.” Records show some contracts previously cancelled at your direction were then reversed while others remain cancelled. On March 3, 2025, you announced that instead of more than 870 contracts, you would cancel 585 contracts with an alleged value of $1.8 billion. This announcement provided no detail or information to support that claim while also stating VA would redirect about $900 million toward health care, benefits, and services for VA beneficiaries – again without evidence.
Also, on March 3, 2025, the Department indicated the 585 contracts would be cancelled “over the next few days” and that “the termination of these contracts will not negatively affect Veteran care, benefits or services, and will help VA better focus on its core mission: providing the best possible care and services to Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.” In your response to Senator King’s letter requesting information on these contracts, you refused to take accountability for your chaotic contract cancellation process and subsequent damage control. Your letter describes “a deliberative, multi-level review that involved the career subject-matter expert” but then admits the feedback from these experts was disregarded until after the fact when “VA rapidly reversed and restored contracted services in response to feedback from resident expert specialties, to include radiation safety, Veteran suicide prevention, and all other critical VA mission areas to avoid any clinically significant effect on patient care.” If this was in fact a consultative and deliberate process, why did the Department have to reverse your orders of just a few days prior to blindly terminate hundreds of contracts?
Now, more than two months later, Congress is still waiting for accurate and complete information on the contracts you have cancelled, the contracts you have restored after being cancelled, the process the Department is using, and documentation for the savings generated and reinvested. When asked about receiving this information and a briefing on DOGE’s operations at the Department, your leadership stated simply that VA “will not be providing a briefing on the issue.” Additionally, even though many of these contracts were officially cancelled more than two months ago, your staff has indicated “VA cannot release any contract lists as this is all ‘pre-decisional’ until the Contracting Officer officially notifies and signs the termination letter and negotiates potential settlement costs.” This statement is another attempt to hide the truth from Congress and runs counter to logic given that many companies and public databases list hundreds of VA contracts as already cancelled.
Further, on May 16, 2025, your staff provided Congress with a list of more than 445 contracts which it indicated were “terminated and closed contracts” and then went on to say “there are additional contracts in negotiation to be closed, and this list does not include contracts modified to change scope. The frequently mentioned list of over 800 contracts was not released by VA as finale (sic) and complete; it was an initial review followed by several additional reviews.” Our initial review of these statements and the information provided indicates a number of contradictions and inaccuracies, and raises numerous additional concerns and questions.
First, the statements from VA staff attempt to once-again mischaracterize the sequence of events associated with your multi-month effort to withhold information about your disorganized contract cancellation effort. The public record is clear: you directed the cancellation of hundreds of contracts impacting services for veterans and only reversed yourself when the nature of those contracts were publicly disclosed. Second, the list of 447 contracts includes at least 80 that were terminated during the Biden Administration. Third, according to the documentation you provided, the list of canceled contracts totals $120.8 billion dollars in contracting value and claimed savings. Given VA’s entire budget for Fiscal Year 2025 is approximately $426.3 billion, the value of these contracts would represent 28 percent of the Department’s budget. This questionable number is compounded by numerous contracts with wildly inaccurate value/savings figures. For example, one contract labeled “VA Program Management Support Services Contract” is shown with an astronomical value of $44.8 billion. However, federal data shows the value of this contract at approximately $85 million – meaning the Department has misstated the value by $44 billion. Finally, a number of the contracts provided do not appear on the list of cancelled contracts in the official Federal government system of record – the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS). All of these points call into question the accuracy of the data in the document you provided to Congress.
We firmly support VA efforts to regularly review services procured by the Department. And that process should be built into any functioning acquisition and program management operation at VA. However, cancelling hundreds of contracts in a several-day period and then scrambling to restore dozens just a few days later is not an indication of good program management. It’s an indication of waste and incompetence.
So that we may conduct our independent and constitutionally authorized oversight of the Department, we ask again for a copy of the list of more than 870 contracts cancelled or proposed for cancellation you discussed in your social media posting and video on February 24 and 25, 2025, which you indicated had a value of $2 billion; a copy of the list of 585 cancelled contracts VA announced publicly on March 3, 2025, with an estimated value of $1.8 billion; and a list of all contracts cancelled by VA from January 20, 2025, to present. Further, we request a briefing to the Committees to explain the timeline and process by which these contracts were selected and ordered cancelled; how the material provided to Congress on May 16, 2025, was assembled; and on DOGE operations inside VA related to contracts and more generally. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Statement of Sen. Mark R. Warner on the Passing of Congressman Gerry Connolly

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued the below statement on the passing of Congressman Gerry Connolly:
“I am heartbroken over the loss of my dear friend Gerry Connolly.
“I’ve known Gerry for more than 35 years. To me, he exemplified the very best of public service. Just this past Sunday, I was honored to join his wife Smitty, daughter Caitlin, and the Fairfax community in celebrating his decades of service. While Gerry couldn’t be there in person, his presence was felt throughout the room. He was there in spirit, as he always is when people come together in the name of service and progress.
“Gerry was a fighter. His sharp mind, boundless energy, and deep commitment to the people of Northern Virginia made him a force to be reckoned with, whether on the Fairfax Board of Supervisors or in Congress. He met every challenge with tenacity and purpose, including his final battle with cancer, which he faced with courage, grace, and quiet dignity.
“Today, my thoughts are with Smitty, Caitlin, and all who loved him. We have lost a giant in Virginia public life, and he will be deeply missed.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Slam GOP Tax Bill for Raising Taxes on Working Families to Fund Windfalls for the Ultra-Wealthy

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (D-VA) issued the following statement blasting the GOP’s partisan tax bill that would raise taxes on the lowest-income Americans while handing six-figure windfalls to the wealthiest 0.1% of taxpayers:
“At a time when working families are struggling with the rising cost of living, Donald Trump and Washington Republicans are asking them to pay more so the ultra-rich can get a handout. The numbers speak for themselves: under the terms of the tax plan championed by President Trump and Republicans in Congress, the bottom rung of the income ladder will see their taxes hiked by more than 50% in order to give the richest 0.1% a $188,000 tax cut. That’s not what Virginians sent us here to do, and we will fight tooth and nail to stop it. We call on Republicans to drop this sham of a bill and instead work with us to provide meaningful relief to working families by bringing down housing and child care costs, cutting taxes for working- and middle-class Americans, and lowering prescription drug prices.”
The nonpartisan Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimates that in the year 2029, when the permanent effects of the GOP tax plan are felt, those earning less than $15,000 a year would see a 53.5% increase in their federal taxes compared to current law. Meanwhile, the top 0.1% – roughly 197,000 taxpayers – would receive a collective $37.1 billion tax cut, amounting to $188,324 per person.
New analysis from the Yale Budget Lab further underscores just how skewed the GOP bill is in favor of the wealthy. The lowest-income households would lose about $800 a year because of the GOP bill, amounting to a 4% hit to their budgets, while the richest 5% would walk away with an average annual windfall of $27,000. Overall, nearly 80% of the bill’s total benefits would go to the top 20% of earners.
Warner and Kaine have been sounding the alarm about the effects of the GOP plan on Virginia if Republicans in Congress continue to insist on gutting vital programs in order to pay for tax breaks for the richest Americans, noting that the GOP bill would strip health insurance from more than 262,000 Virginians, raise energy costs for Virginia households, and jeopardize more than 20,000 Virginia jobs at clean energy and manufacturing facilities benefiting from Inflation Reduction Act investments.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Landsat at Work: Conserving Water and Growing High Quality Grapes
Source: US Geological Survey
Breadcrumb

News
Landsat at Work: Conserving Water and Growing High Quality Grapes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Broader Collaboration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MIL OSI USA News –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Italian Food Emporium Joins Rural Jump-Start Program, Bringing Artisan Pasta to Montrose

Source: US State of Colorado

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

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

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Emanuel Jones Appointed to Joint High School Athletics Overview Committee

Source: US State of Georgia

ATLANTA (May 21, 2025) — Last week, Lt. Governor Burt Jones appointed Sen. Emanuel Jones (D–Decatur) to the Joint High School Athletics Overview Committee.

“I am honored to be appointed to the Joint High School Athletics Overview Committee,” said Sen. Jones. “High school athletics play a vital role in the lives of Georgia’s students and communities. I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure fairness, transparency and equity in our state’s athletic associations’ operations.”

The Joint High School Athletics Overview Committee is a bipartisan legislative committee in charge of reviewing and providing oversight of high school athletic associations across Georgia. The committee comprises 12 members from the Georgia General Assembly. Additional Senate members appointed to the committee include Sen. Randy Robertson (R–Cataula), Sen. Jason Anavitarte (R–Dallas), Sen. Sonya Halpern (D–Atlanta) and Sen. Chuck Payne (R–Dalton). Sen. Billy Hickman (R–Statesboro), Chairman of the Senate Education and Youth Committee, will serve as the Senate Co-Chair of the committee.

# # # #

Sen. Emanuel Jones represents the 10^th Senate District, which includes a portion of DeKalb County. He may be reached at 404.656.0502 or via email at emanuel.jones@senate.ga.gov.

For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Statement On The Passing Of Gerry Connolly

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today issued the following statement on the passing of his longtime friend and colleague, Congressman Gerry Connolly:

“Gerry Connolly was one of a kind, and I am heartbroken that he has passed.

“Gerry will leave a towering legacy of accomplishment in Fairfax County, he was a forceful advocate for our region and the people in it. Everyone who runs for office says they want ‘to get stuff done,’ but comparatively few actually succeed. Gerry got stuff done for years in Fairfax, where he advocated successfully for projects including the Silver Line and the Cross County Trail, which now bears his name. Then he brought the same attitude and outlook to Congress, where he wrote and passed a major postal reform, led efforts to create the Washington Metrorail Safety Commission, and was one of the most tireless and active advocates for the federal workforce ever to serve in Congress. Gerry was especially proud to have been named the House’s ‘most effective legislator,’ and to have earned the trust of his colleagues to lead our Caucus on oversight and government reform, topics he knew more about than almost anyone.

“Everyone who worked with him knew Gerry as a pugnacious fighter for his constituents, for good government, and for a range of causes around the world. He was also warm, witty, and loyal, and he loved acting in community theater as a company member of the Providence Players of Fairfax. Above all, Gerry was beloved by his family, friends, and staff. Megan and I send our condolences to all of them, and especially my best wishes to Smitty, Caitlin, and their family.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: REP LIEU STATEMENT ON PASSING OF RANKING MEMBER GERRY CONNOLLY

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement on the passing of Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA).

“Congress and Virginia’s 11^th District lost a legislative titan today with the passing of Gerry Connolly. I join his family, friends, colleagues, and constituents in mourning this monumental loss. Gerry was a skillful lawmaker with a passion for making sure our government worked efficiently, ethically, and always for the people. In addition to his work as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, Gerry was a passionate voice on foreign relations. I was grateful to get to work with him over the years on the Foreign Affairs Committee. Gerry was a lifelong public servant who cared deeply about making a difference and serving his community in Northern Virginia. We will miss him.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Former Vice President Chen attends inauguration of Pope Leo XIV

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

May 18, 2025
No. 161

Former Vice President Chen Chien-jen, serving as special envoy of President Lai Ching-te, together with his wife and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs François Chihchung Wu, attended the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV on the morning of May 18. In an audience with the pontiff following the ceremony, Mr. Chen conveyed greetings from President Lai and the sincere congratulations of the government, people, and Catholic community of Taiwan.

Upon arriving for the ceremony in St. Peter’s Square, Mr. Chen was received by a ceremonial officer for the Holy See. The inauguration, a grand and solemn occasion, took around two hours. According to statistics released by the Holy See, more than 150 delegations attended. Before the ceremony commenced, Mr. Chen exchanged greetings with Paraguayan Chamber of Deputies Speaker Raúl Latorre; Guatemalan Special Envoy and Ambassador to the Holy See Alfredo Vásquez Rivera; other officials from diplomatic allies; and delegates from the United States, Japan, Europe, and numerous other friendly countries. He also extended felicitations to and shared cordial interactions with several high-ranking members of the Vatican clergy, including Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Secretary of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue Monsignor Indunil Janakaratne Kodithuwakku Kankanamalage.

After the inauguration, Pope Leo received the heads of national delegations. Mr. Chen presented the pontiff with a congratulatory letter from President Lai, a commemorative set of postage stamps depicting four of Taiwan’s Catholic churches—St. Joseph’s Church in Jinlun Village, Taitung County; the Holy Family Catholic Church in Taipei City; the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Wanjin Village, Pingtung County; and the Holy Rosary Cathedral Basilica in Kaohsiung City—and a collection of postcards on Holy See artifacts jointly produced by Taiwan and the Apostolic Nunciature in Taiwan, highlighting the close connection between the Catholic Church in Taiwan and the Holy See. Mr. Chen also presented Pope Leo with a photo taken in 2020, when the pontiff was serving as bishop of the Chiclayo Diocese in Peru. The picture showed him accepting antipandemic supplies donated by Taiwan. The materials, delivered in cartons labeled “Taiwan Box,” were donated to Cáritas Chiclayo and other Peruvian healthcare and charitable organizations by the Pingtung County Government and Dr. Lai Hsien-yung of Hualien County’s Mennonite Christian Hospital. The government and people of Taiwan provided proactive assistance to the international community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, fulfilling their international responsibilities and demonstrating that Taiwan could help and that Taiwan was helping.

When Mr. Chen arrived at the airport in Rome on May 17, he met with Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini, who had also made the trip to attend the papal inauguration. Mr. Chen also attended a mass and prayer service for peace led by Bishop John Lee Keh-mien, President of the Chinese Regional Bishops’ Conference of Taiwan, at St. Benedict’s Monastery. On May 18, Mr. Chen had dinner with 16 prominent members of the Catholic clergy and several key officials and ambassadors of diplomatic allies, including Special Delegate of the Holy See to the Sovereign Military Order of Malta Cardinal Silvano Tomasi and Haitian Special Envoy and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Alrich Nicolas.

Since establishing diplomatic ties 83 years ago, Taiwan and the Holy See have enjoyed a profound diplomatic alliance and shared the core values of religious freedom, human rights, peace, and benevolence. The two sides will build on their existing friendship and solid foundation of cooperation in humanitarian assistance and other domains to further deepen bilateral relations and together make even greater contributions to the world. (E)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA sincerely appreciates international support for Taiwan’s bid to participate in WHO and WHA

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

May 19, 2025
No. 163

The 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) is opening in Geneva on May 19. Following proactive efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and related overseas missions, Taiwan’s bid to participate in the WHA has received staunch and concrete support from the Group of Seven (G7), the executive and legislative branches of government of more than 50 countries, the European Union, the European Parliament, and representative offices of like-minded nations in Taiwan. MOFA expresses sincere appreciation for this support.

Eleven of Taiwan’s diplomatic allies, as members of the World Health Organization (WHO), submitted a proposal to the WHO Secretariat to invite Taiwan to participate in the WHA as an observer, requesting that the proposal be included as a supplementary item on this year’s WHA agenda. Saint Lucia Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre personally wrote a letter urging WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to invite Taiwan to attend the WHA. The parliaments of Guatemala, Palau, and Saint Christopher and Nevis adopted resolutions backing Taiwan.

The magnitude of support for Taiwan from like-minded countries has continued to grow. The current US administration has publicly endorsed Taiwan’s international participation more than 10 times. This includes a joint statement issued at the US-Japan leaders’ summit by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in February, which for the first time contained text advocating Taiwan’s meaningful involvement in international organizations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed firm US support for Taiwan’s international participation during his congressional confirmation hearing as well as in interviews and joint statements issued at two meetings with the foreign ministers of Japan and the Republic of Korea. The United States twice spoke up for Taiwan at the WHO Executive Board session held in February. In April, it publicly refuted China’s misuse of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 2758 at the UN Security Council for the first time, reiterating that the resolution did not preclude Taiwan’s participation in the UN system or other multilateral fora. In terms of US congressional support, the House of Representatives passed the Taiwan International Solidarity Act without opposition on May 5. The act urged the US government to resist China’s efforts to suppress Taiwan through mischaracterization of UNGA Resolution 2758. In addition, nine US state legislatures approved resolutions backing Taiwan’s involvement in international organizations.

Furthermore, in a joint statement issued following a meeting in March, the G7 foreign ministers reaffirmed support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations. On May 15, the European Union expressed a similar stance and recognized the extraordinary contributions Taiwan can make through its digital healthcare capabilities. In February, the European Parliament overwhelmingly adopted a resolution on the implementation of the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy, which backed Taiwan’s meaningful participation in relevant world bodies.
High-ranking European officials who publicly spoke up for Taiwan included Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong, Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard, and Swedish Minister for Social Affairs and Public Health Jakob Forssmed. A total of 534 members of the European Parliament and 29 national parliaments across Europe cosigned a letter of the Formosa Club reaffirming support for Taiwan. The World Medical Association and other professional groups endorsed Taiwan’s participation in WHO and the WHA as they had done in the past.

MOFA thanks the representative offices in Taiwan of the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Germany, Japan, and Lithuania for issuing a joint statement for the fifth year prior to the WHA affirming the immense benefits that Taiwan could bring to WHA discussions. The statement also emphasized that there was no legitimate reason for Taiwan’s exclusion from the WHA and that Taiwan’s absence would undermine the spirit of inclusive global public health cooperation and safety that WHO’s founding documents called for.

MOFA points out that these positive developments fully demonstrate that China’s unreasonable obstruction of Taiwan’s participation in WHO has gained little traction or support among nations worldwide. MOFA reiterates that UNGA Resolution 2758 and WHA Resolution 25.1 make no mention of Taiwan, have nothing to do with Taiwan, and therefore cannot be cited as a legal basis for precluding Taiwan from participating in WHO or other international organizations or multilateral mechanisms or fora. MOFA asks that the WHO Secretariat listen closely to member countries, stop further condoning political manipulation by China, and instead work to realize WHO’s goals of “Leaving No One Behind” and “One World for Health” so as to fulfill its responsibility to maintain and improve the health and well-being of all people. MOFA also asks that Taiwan be allowed full and unobstructed participation in all WHO meetings, mechanisms, and activities, including the WHA. (E)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Scientists design gene delivery systems for cells in the brain and spinal cord

Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

News Release
Wednesday, May 21, 2025

NIH-funded breakthrough could enable targeted therapies for many neurological disorders.

Research teams funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have created a versatile set of gene delivery systems that can reach different neural cell types in the human brain and spinal cord with exceptional accuracy. These delivery systems are a significant step toward future precise gene therapy to the brain that could safely control errant brain activity with high precision. In contrast, current therapies for brain disorders mostly treat only symptoms.
The new delivery systems carry genetic material into the brain and spinal cord for targeted use by specific cell types. This platform has the potential to transform how scientists can study neural circuits. It provides researchers with gene delivery systems for various species used in research, without the need for genetically modified, or transgenic, animals. Examples include illuminating fine structures of brain cells with fluorescent proteins and activating or silencing circuits that control behavior and cognition.
“Imagine this new platform as a delivery truck dropping off specialized genetic packages in specific cell neighborhoods in the brain and spinal cord,” said John Ngai, Director of the NIH’s Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies® Initiative, or The BRAIN Initiative®. “With these delivery systems, we can now access and manipulate specific cells in the brain and spinal cord – access that was not possible before at this scale.”
The new delivery tools, which use a small, stripped-down adeno-associated virus (AAV) to deliver DNA to target cells, can be broadly applied across many species and experimental systems, including small tissue samples removed during human brain surgeries. The delivery systems have been tested, or validated, in intact living systems, which is an important step for introducing new tools for widespread use. The newly published toolkit includes:

Dozens of delivery systems that selectively target key brain cell types, including excitatory neurons, inhibitory interneurons, striatal and cortical subtypes, brain blood vessel cells, and hard-to-reach neurons in the spinal cord that control body movement and are damaged in several neurological diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal muscular atrophy
Computer programs powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that can identify genetic “light switches,” known as enhancers, that turn genes on in specific brain cell types, using data from many different species – cutting considerable time and effort for scientists looking for these genetic switches.

Overall, this collection of research tools will significantly accelerate understanding of the human brain. Importantly, the toolkit enables access to specific brain cell types in the prefrontal cortex, an area that’s critical for decision-making and uniquely human traits. With other tools in the collection, scientists can better study individual cells and communication pathways known to be affected in several neurological diseases. These include seizure disorders, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Huntington’s disease – as well as various neuropsychiatric conditions.
AAV-based treatments are already approved for some conditions, such as spinal muscular atrophy for which a 2016 approval of a gene therapy known as Zolgensma transformed the lives of infants and young children who once faced severe disability or early death. The new collection of gene delivery resources lays the groundwork for more precise treatments that target only affected cells in the brain, spinal cord, or brain blood vessels.
The toolkit is available at distribution centers including Addgene, a global supplier of genetic research tools. This collection of publications offers researchers standard operating procedures and user guides for these tools.
The work is supported by the NIH’s Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies® Initiative, or The BRAIN Initiative®. Funding issued less than four years ago launched a large-scale, team-run project to design new molecular tools that can be useful to many research laboratories. The Armamentarium for Precision Brain Cell Access aims to develop precise and reproducible access to cells and circuits in experimental research models of the brain and spinal cord. The large-scale project brings together experts in the field of molecular biology, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence (AI). The eight papers appear in the May 21 issue of the journals Neuron, Cell, Cell Reports, Cell Genomics, and Cell Reports Methods.
Grants: UF1MH130701, UH3MH120096, U24MH133236, UF1MH128339, UM1MH130981, R01MH123620, U19MH114830, P510D010425, U420D011123, S10MH126994, UH3MH120094, UF1MH130881, F30DA053020, R01FD007478, U01AG076791, R35GM127102, RF1MH114126, UH3MH120095, RF1MH121274, R01MH113005, UH3MH120095
The Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies® Initiative and The BRAIN Initiative® are registered trademarks of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The NIH BRAIN Initiative, a multidisciplinary collaboration across 10 NIH Institutes and Centers, is uniquely positioned for cross-cutting discoveries in neuroscience to revolutionize our understanding of the human brain. By accelerating the development and application of innovative neurotechnologies, The BRAIN Initiative® is enabling researchers to understand the brain at unprecedented levels of detail in both health and disease, improving how we treat, prevent, and cure brain disorders. The BRAIN Initiative involves a multidisciplinary network of federal and non-federal partners whose missions and current research portfolios complement the goals of The BRAIN Initiative.
About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: May 21, 2025 DART Paratransit Workers Vote to Authorize Strike as NLRB Issues Complaint Against Transdev

Source: US Amalgamated Transit Union

Dallas, TX – After months of delay tactics, refusals to bargain, and disrespect from DART Paratransit contractor Transdev, DART paratransit workers overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike, empowering Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1338-Dallas, TX, to call for a strike if necessary.

The workers voted 106-2 in favor of union representation on March 5. Rather than respect the workers’ clear decision, Transdev responded with baseless objections to the election—providing no evidence to support its claims, a fact acknowledged by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). In response, the federal government has issued a formal complaint against Transdev, citing violations of workers’ rights.

“Since the 106–2 vote, these workers have faced retaliation, harsher penalties, and broken promises—including a wage increase that was promised and then pulled back. Transdev continues to show total disregard for the people who make their service run,” said Kenneth Day, ATU International Vice President. “Workers now believe that taking action is the only path forward and are urging DART leadership to intervene.”

The DART paratransit workers provide a critical service for people with disabilities and seniors across the Dallas area, who rely on them each day to get to the doctor, grocery store, and other important destinations.

“This vote sends a loud and clear message to DART that it’s time to step in and save Transdev from themselves,” said ATU International President John Costa. “Our members are devoted to this work and to their riders, who depend on them and will make every effort to avoid a strike. However, Transdev must act reasonably and recognize that the workers have spoken—and so has the federal government.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DEP and PGC Host Falcon Banding Livestream Event

Source: US State of Pennsylvania

May 22, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA

ADVISORY – DEP and PGC Host Falcon Banding Livestream Event

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will host the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s (PGC) banding of the 2025 Rachel Carson State Office Building peregrine falcon nestlings on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The event will be livestreamed at 10 AM on the DEP Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaDEP/ and PAcast at https://pacast.com/live/dep.

“For over two decades, peregrine falcons have nested on the Rachel Carson State Office Building in downtown Harrisburg – the longest active nest site in Pennsylvania,” said DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley. “It’s fitting that so many falcons have been born and raised on the building that bears Rachel Carson’s name.”

Patti Barber, Endangered Bird Specialist with PGC, will lead the team in bringing the nestlings in from the 15th floor ledge. Barber will weigh them, inspect their health, and put light metal bands around their legs for identification. This year there are three nestlings that will be banded. Not all of the falcons will be banded on the livestream.

Falcon banding helps wildlife biologists to track the birds and allows birdwatchers from all over the world an opportunity to learn more about the peregrine’s flight patterns and where they establish new nesting sites. Falcons born on the ledge at the Rachel Carson State Office Building have been identified up and down the Atlantic coast, from Florida to Canada. Birdwatchers can report bands they see to ReportBand.gov.

The peregrine falcon was removed from the federal Endangered Species List in 1999 and the Pennsylvania Threatened List in 2021 but remains federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Pennsylvania Game and Wildlife Code.

In the coming weeks, the young falcons will begin learning to fly. Volunteers with the Falcon Watch and Rescue monitor the falcons and recover them as they land near the Rachel Carson State Office Building. Anyone interested in joining the Falcon Watch and Rescue volunteers should contact Sue Hannon at hbgfalconwatch@gmail.com.

Since 2002, a total of 90 eggs have hatched, making the Rachel Carson State Office Building nest site the longest, continuously successful nest site in the Commonwealth.

Follow the conversation on X at @FalconChatter.

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s website, or follow DEP on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or LinkedIn.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Pushing Boundaries and Becoming Beacons for Positive Change
Source: US State of Connecticut

The Academy of Distinguished Engineers, class of 2025, gathered for this year’s induction ceremony last week on the UConn Storrs campus. The annual event featured comments from JC Zhao, dean of the College of Engineering (CoE), and was emceed by 2024 inductees Rashi Akki, and Mark Raymond. Attendees included new Academy inductees and GOLD Rising Star recipients, their friends and family, as well as past Academy members.

Zhao praised the class of 2025 for its accomplishments and contributions to engineering research, leadership and societal impact.

“This was my first Academy of Distinguished Engineers awards ceremony since becoming dean of the College of Engineering,” Zhao says. “I take great pride in recognizing and celebrating the amazing achievements of our Academy inductees and Rising Stars. It was also a pleasure meeting these CoE graduates, their families and the previous awardees who joined us.

Dean JC Zhao (left) and He Li, Academy 2025 GOLD Rising Star (Christopher LaRosa/UConn Photo)

“These highly accomplished men and women are a testament to the overall quality of education we offer here at UConn, as well as recognition for the many CoE faculty and mentors who helped guide them. We are proud of their achievements and look forward to hearing about their continued successes and their positive impact on our society.”

Induction into the Academy recognizes CoE alumni for their exemplary contributions to the engineering profession through research, practice, education, policy or service, says Kylene Perras, assistant dean, Operations and Strategic Initiatives. The GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) Rising Star awards recognize graduates over the past decade who inspire the world around them through their contributions to engineering and society.

“The Academy’s members are considered to be among the most successful and distinguished engineers in their respective fields,” Perras adds. “They each represent UConn Engineering, with distinction and strong leadership, and inspire current and future CoE students. And while they may not have been in the field for as many years, our Rising Stars also are making their mark and cutting successful professional trails.”

Academy inductee Erika Lindeberg (Christopher LaRosa/UConn Photo)

One of this year’s inductees, Erika Lindeberg, earned her B.S. and M.S. degrees in civil engineering at UConn. She is a senior project manager and group leader at Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., a global leader in advanced manufacturing, energy, environmental, life sciences, transportation and more. Prior to joining Jacobs, she worked for the Connecticut Department of Transportation, including five years spent as principal engineer in their Division of Traffic Engineering.

“Both of my parents are UConn alumni and taught me the importance of mentoring and of working for the common good,” Lindeberg says. “As engineers, we have a profound responsibility to ensure that the effective application of engineering and science serve a higher purpose and improve the comfort and safety of human life. To that end, sharing our knowledge, which includes mentoring others, is a critical responsibility and obligation.”

JC Zhao (left) and Academy inductee Nasir Mannan (Christopher LaRosa/UConn Photo)

Another inductee, Nasir Mannan, earned his B.S. degree in mechanical engineering in 2007 at the then School of Engineering at UConn. Mannan is the principal engineer at the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology’s Advanced Design Automation and Metrology lab, where he leads the integration of 4.0 technologies to help strengthen the U.S. supply chain. Like Lindberg, he shared similar sentiments about the need to help others and to become beacons for positive change.

“In addition to building things, we create, innovate, discover and connect. All society is one human race, and the work we’re doing can push the boundaries of what’s possible, as well as what’s needed,” Mannan says. “I’m grateful for this recognition, and excited about the future and the opportunities we share to greatly improve the quality of life on earth for all beings through the technology we create and help implement as engineers.”

This year’s inductees are:
- James Bosse: B.S., M.S., and Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering, University of Connecticut (’09, ’12, ’14)
- Marat Kulakhmetov: B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’09), M.S. and Ph.D., Aeronautics and Astronautics, Purdue University (’11, ’16)
- Michael Lamont: B.S., Civil Engineering, University of Connecticut (’91)
- John Leonard: B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’89), M.S., Mechanical Engineering, Arizona State University (’94)
- Erika Lindeberg: B.S. and M.S., Civil Engineering, University of Connecticut (’94, ’04)
- Nasir Mannan: B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’07)
- Steven Naboicheck: B.S., Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Connecticut (’81)
- Frederick Sporck: B.S., Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Connecticut (’78), M.S., Physics, University of Vermont (’84)
- Adrian Weidmann: B.S., Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut (‘02)
- Peyman Zamani: B.S., Computer Science and Engineering, Master of Business Administration, University of Connecticut (’95, ’06)
This year, the GOLD (Graduates of the Last Decade) Rising Star recipients are:
- Yongduk Lee: B.S., M.S., Hankyong National University (’06, ’08), Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’15)
- He Li: B.S., Beijing University of Technology (’05), M.S., University of Saskatchewan (’08), Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut (’15)
- Qin Lu: B.S., University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (’13), Ph.D., Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Connecticut (’18)
MIL OSI USA News –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI: Insurtech Insights USA 2025 Returns with the Industry’s Most Influential Gathering of Innovators and Executives
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Insurtech Insights USA 2025, the largest and most influential gathering of insurance decision-makers in North America, returns to the Javits Center in New York City on June 4–5, 2025. This year’s edition will host more than 6,000 attendees and 400+ speakers over two days of high-impact programming, strategic networking, and transformative industry dialogue.

A powerful roster of global insurance and insurtech leaders is confirmed to attend, including senior executives from Munich Re, AXA, Sun Life, MetLife, Solera, Owl.co, Federato, Clearspeed, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, Majesco, AgentSync, and many more. This world-class conference will serve as a launchpad for bold ideas, cross-sector collaboration, and the technological reinvention of the insurance industry.

“At Insurtech Insights, we believe in building bridges between tradition and transformation,” said Kristoffer Lundberg, CEO of Insurtech Insights. “In 2025, we’re proud to host the world’s most forward-thinking insurers and innovators as they tackle the industry’s most urgent challenges. From leveraging GenAI and automation, to reimagining underwriting, claims, and customer engagement. This is more than a conference, it’s the heartbeat of the insurance revolution.”

Insurtech Insights USA 2025 will feature curated keynote presentations, interactive panels, fireside chats, and startup showcases, exploring the innovations shaping the insurance industry’s future. Topics will include:
- Generative AI in operations and claims
- Climate risk modeling and sustainability
- Embedded insurance and customer experience
- Data ethics and regulatory evolution
- Technology-driven strategies for growth and efficiency etc
With more than 97% of past attendees recommending the event, Insurtech Insights has become a trusted space for industry professionals looking to challenge conventional thinking, identify emerging opportunities, and build the next generation of insurance solutions. Attendees leave equipped with both strategic vision and tactical insights, making it a must-attend for innovation leaders across all insurance lines—life, health, property & casualty, commercial, and specialty.

This year’s event also places a spotlight on global collaboration and inclusivity, bringing together voices from across the Americas, Europe, and Asia to address shared challenges such as digital transformation, talent acquisition, climate adaptation, and regulatory modernization. As the industry faces unprecedented disruption, Insurtech Insights USA 2025 is the definitive platform to navigate what’s next.

For more information and to secure your pass, visit the website here.

About Insurtech Insights USA

Insurtech Insights USA is the leading global conference for the insurtech industry, bringing together experts, innovators, and thought leaders to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of insurance. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and disruption, Insurtech Insights USA provides a platform for networking, learning, and driving meaningful change in the insurance sector.

For media queries and other information, please contact:

Girish Jaggi
Senior Account Manager
The MicDrop Agency
girish@themicdropagency.com
+1 (289) 623 3627

The MIL Network –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders, Jayapal, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Make Public Colleges and Universities Tuition Free

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
WASHINGTON, May 21 – As President Trump and congressional Republicans are working overtime to make college unaffordable and unattainable for millions of working-class families in order to provide tax breaks to billionaires, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), and nine Senate colleagues, today introduced legislation to make public colleges and universities tuition free for 95% of students. The College for All Act would be the most transformative investment in higher education in 60 years and would substantially improve the lives of millions of students throughout the United States.
Joining Sanders as cosponsors are Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.).
“In a highly competitive global economy where technology is changing the very nature of work and the jobs we perform, we need the best educated workforce in the world,” said Sanders. “Our nation used to lead the world in the percentage of adults with a college degree. Today, we are in 11th place behind countries like Japan, South Korea, Canada, the United Kingdom and Switzerland. That is not a prescription for a strong American economy of the future. It is a prescription for failure. Instead of increasing the cost of college in order to give more tax breaks to billionaires, we have a better idea. We are going to make public colleges and universities tuition free so that working class students can succeed and are not burdened with a lifetime of debt.”
“Congress can and must ensure that working families never have to take out crushing loans to purse an education,” said Jayapal. “The College for All Act will free students from a lifetime of debt, invest in working people, and transform higher education across America by making a degree more accessible to poor and working families across this country. This is more important now than ever as Trump continues to attack education in this country through attempts to strip funding from universities and to dismantle the Department of Education.”
Making public colleges and universities tuition free is not a radical idea. In 1944, as World War II was coming to an end, the U.S. government made free higher education available to all those who served in the armed forces. That act not only improved the financial well-being of the Greatest Generation, but it also laid the groundwork for the greatest expansion of the American middle class in U.S history. Moreover, over 50 years ago, many of our most prestigious public colleges and universities were also tuition free or virtually tuition free.
Since this legislation was first introduced ten years ago, several colleges and universities in America have provided free tuition for working class and middle class students including every state college in New Mexico, the State University of New York, the University of Texas, the University of Wisconsin, and Arkansas State University.
Other wealthy countries like France, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland have made their public colleges and universities tuition free or virtually tuition free because they understand the value of investing in their young people.
The College for All Act would guarantee tuition-free community college for all students and allow students from single households earning up to $150,000 a year, and married households earning up to $300,000 a year, to attend college without fear of being saddled with student loan debt.
The College for All Act would also:
Double the maximum Pell Grant award for students enrolled at public and private non-profit colleges;
Establish a $10 billion grant program to improve student outcomes and address equity gaps at underfunded public colleges and universities;
Triple federal TRIO program funding;
Double GEAR UP funding; and
Double mandatory funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs).
Read the bill text here.
Read a summary of the bill here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: President Cyril Ramaphosa on a working visit to the United States of America

Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

President Cyril Ramaphosa on a working visit to the United States of America

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7yXCKRAi_E

MIL OSI Video –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio on U.S. Foreign Aid Reforms, China

Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

“We still will provide more foreign aid, more humanitarian support than the next 10 countries combined. Than the entire OECD and far more than China. ” — Secretary of State Marco Rubio to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on May 20, 2025

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_O-KJyDpalk

MIL OSI Video –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Glenn Ivey Honors the Legacy of Congressman Gerry Connolly

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Ivey – Maryland (4th District)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Glenn Ivey (D-MD) today issued the following statement in remembrance of his esteemed colleague, Congressman Gerry Connolly, who passed away on May 21, 2025, after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend and colleague, Congressman Gerry Connolly. For more than three decades, Gerry was a tireless advocate for the federal workforce and a steadfast defender of our democracy. His leadership on the House Oversight and Accountability Committee, as the Ranking Member, was pivotal in promoting transparency, integrity, and accountability across the executive branch.

“Congressman Connolly’s commitment to federal employees was unwavering. As a senior member of the Oversight Committee and the Subcommittee on Government Operations, he was a passionate and effective voice for active and retired federal workers. At a time when federal employees faced growing threats to their pay, benefits, and job security, Gerry stood firm. He championed landmark legislation like the Telework Enhancement Act and the Postal Service Reform Act, recognizing that a strong, modern government begins with supporting the people who serve it.

“His impact extended beyond domestic policy. Congressman Connolly brought deep foreign policy expertise to Congress and served twice as President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, where he worked to strengthen global alliances and advance international stability.

“Even while facing his own health challenges, Gerry never stopped fighting for others. He remained a leading voice on immigration reform, pushing for pragmatic, compassionate policies that balanced border security with the protection of immigrant and refugee rights.

“His legacy is one of integrity, intellect, and public service. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, staff, and all who are grieving this tremendous loss. Congressman Connolly’s life and leadership will continue to inspire all of us who are privileged to serve.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Young Kim, Dave Min Lead Bipartisan Wildfire Prevention Bill
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Dave Min (CA-47) introduced the Building Resiliency and Understanding of Shrublands to Halt (BRUSH) Fires Act. Elex Michaelson with Fox 11 News first reported on the bipartisan effort. Watch here.

This bipartisan bill aims to evaluate and boost wildfire mitigation efforts in shrubland ecosystems and ensure land managers and first responders have the tools necessary to combat extreme brush fires.

“My community faced the wrath of the Airport Fire that burned nearly 24,000 acres less than a year ago. The more we fact find from past wildfires, the better we can ensure our first responders are prepared for future wildfires,” said Congresswoman Kim, who represents the canyon communities under U.S. Forest Service – Cleveland National Forest. “We must do all we can to support our first responders running into harm’s way to keep us safe, which is why I’m proud to join fellow Orange County Rep. Dave Min to lead the BRUSH Fires Act.”

“The recent LA wildfires illustrated the massive and unique wildfire risks that Southern California communities face,” said Rep. Min. “As climate change has accelerated, the annual Santa Ana winds are blowing more fiercely and the foliage is drier than it’s ever been, creating the conditions every year for ever more intense wildfires. I’m pleased to be leading this bipartisan effort to make Orange County safer.”

“We appreciate the leadership of Representatives Min and Kim in the introduction of the BRUSH Fires Act,” said Scott Morrson, California State Director of the Nature Conservancy. “Shrubland ecosystems are different than forests. Therefore, they require different strategies to mitigate the risk that wildfires pose. These strategies should be based in science. In California, shrubland ecosystems are biodiversity hotspots and home to millions of people, and to plants and animals that exist nowhere else on earth. Human-caused ignitions are now the leading cause of fires, with wind-driven embers starting fires far ahead of the fire front, damaging ecosystems while putting millions of lives at risk. To be effective, any approach to mitigating the risk of fire to people and structures must be based on sound science and will require collaboration between agencies at different levels of government.”

Specifically, the BRUSH Fires Act would direct the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to:
- Evaluate the effectiveness of its wildfire mitigation methods in shrubland ecosystems; and,
- Submit and make publicly available a report to Congress that summarizes findings, identifies steps that USFS is taking to update its operational practices and protocols, and evaluates opportunities to improve coordination with non-federal entities in highest-risk areas.
The bill is endorsed by the Nature Conservancy, the California Fire Chiefs Association, Endangered Habitats League, California Chaparral Institute, and Irvine Ranch Conservancy.

Bill text and additional background can be found here.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 22, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK reaffirms support for Ukraine, tightens sanctions on Russia, and urges ceasefire: UK statement to the OSCE
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Speech

UK reaffirms support for Ukraine, tightens sanctions on Russia, and urges ceasefire: UK statement to the OSCE

UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer, says that despite claiming commitment to peace, Russia has escalated its military aggression by refusing to engage in peace talks, launching record-breaking drone attacks on Ukrainian civilians, and continuing to violate international law.
Thank you, Madame Chair. When Russia initiated its war of aggression on Ukraine on 24 February 2022, there was no doubt about the illegality of this undertaking. The full-scale invasion contravened all the underpinning documents of this organisation to which we are all signatories and violates international law. The responsibility for this illegal military invasion absolutely sits with Russia. However, Russia continues to blame others for prolonging the conflict that they started and continues to accuse others of seeking to ‘gain military superiority’ in a conflict that they initiated.

The UK’s continued and unwavering support to Ukraine is not about achieving military superiority but about defending a sovereign nation under attack. The UK, along with our allies, has consistently emphasised that military aid is in support of Ukraine’s self-defence and aimed at helping Ukraine uphold its territorial integrity in accordance with international law. Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently reiterated that the UK’s goal is peace, not escalation.

In contrast, the Russian Federation insist that they remain committed to a negotiated solution, but their actions say otherwise. While President Zelenskyy travelled to Istanbul on 15th May to attend peace talks, supported by the USA and hosted by Türkiye, in good faith, President Putin refused to the same. On the same day President Putin dodged the possibility for constructive negotiations, his Armed Forces launched 112 drones at Ukrainian cities, killing and injuring civilians. On 17th May, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission confirmed that a Russian drone hit a bus evacuating civilians in Ukraine’s Sumy region, killing nine non-combatants. On 18th May, Russia launched 273 one-way attack (OWA) drones against multiple targets in Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk and Donetsk oblasts. This is reportedly the largest wave of uncrewed aerial systems Russia has launched into Ukraine – surpassing the 267 drones launched on 23rd February 2025.

This is not evidence of a genuine commitment to peaceful resolution. This is fundamentally military escalation and an increase in the indiscriminate targeting of civilians. As a result, the UK is further increasing sanctions on Russia as President Putin further intensifies these strikes on Ukrainian civilians. Yesterday we announced the sanctioning of 100 targets across Russian energy, and financial services sectors, the Russian military industrial complex and its third country suppliers, and malign actors involved in democratic interference and Russia’s information war on Ukraine.

At the opening session of the FSC on 14th May, The Russian delegation spoke of the ‘need to increase the effectiveness of the FSC’. We couldn’t agree more. The UK supports the opportunity to pursue the politico-military advantages of the FSC, to encourage enhanced implementation of arms control, and of confidence- and security-building measures. But this is impossible whilst Russia continues to violate the principles of the Helsinki Final Act, and broader international law. The UK also agrees with another comment from Russia’s opening address last week that ‘the FSC is not a place for hate speech and incitement to confrontation’. And we would encourage Russia to refrain from disrespectful language in the forum, particularly towards Ukraine, and of spreading disinformation about the intentions of the UK and our allies. We look forward to a constructive trimester.

The UK will continue to play a leading role in accelerating work on Ukraine’s future security, and we strongly urge Russia to commit to an immediate, complete and unconditional 30-day ceasefire to buy the space and conditions for further negotiations. Europe is ready if President Putin chooses the path of peace. Thank you, Madame Chair.

Updates to this page

Published 21 May 2025

Invasion of Ukraine

UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals

Move to the UK if you’re coming from Ukraine

Homes for Ukraine: record your interest

Find out about the UK’s response
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 22, 2025

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

Source: United States Small Business Administration

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

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

Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

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

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

Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for nonprofits and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

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

DLOCs hours of operations are listed below.

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

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

Closes permanently at COB Friday, May 23

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

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

Closed Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day

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

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

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

To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The deadline to return physical damage applications is July 21, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 20, 2026.

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About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 22, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: Pagan’s Motorcycle Club Member Pleads Guilty for Armed Assault and Attempted Assault Against Rivals

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

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A member of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays for his involvement in an armed assault and an attempted armed assault against members of rival motorcycle clubs.

Jeremiah Z. Hahn, also known as “Pass Out,” 42, of Cameron, Mo., pleaded guilty today to one count of assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, one count of attempting to commit assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering, and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.

On May 30, 2022, Hahn and other members of the Pagan’s and their support club, assaulted a lone rival motorcycle gang member at a business in Grain Valley, Mo. In addition to fists, Hahn used an axe handle during the assault, causing physical injury to the victim.

On Sep. 3, 2022, Hahn and other members of the Pagan’s and their support club, travelled to Topeka, Ks., to carry out a revenge attack against another rival motorcycle gang. The plan was to “catch a stray” and “smash on sight” any rival member they saw. The Pagan’s were aware that the rival motorcycle gang were having an event in Topeka that day, and the plan was to use either an axe handle or a gun on one of the rival gang members. After arriving in Topeka, a rival member was spotted in a hotel parking lot. As Hahn, who was armed with a gun, prepared to shoot the rival, a disagreement occurred among members, and the group returned to the Kansas City area.

Following both events, Hahn and others present were awarded patches for their participation.

On May 3, 2023, Hahn was stopped by a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper on eastbound Highway 36 in Dekalb County, Mo., for speeding. Hahn, who was riding a black, 2012 Harley Davidson motorcycle, had passed the trooper, traveling 98 mph in a 65-mph zone. Initially, Hahn attempted to flee the trooper and reached speeds ranging from 100-102 mph before stopping. Following Hahn’s arrest, the trooper discovered a Smith and Wesson, model M&P Shield, .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun, in Hahn’s front pants’ pocket. Hahn, who had felony convictions out of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri, stated that he had stolen the gun approximately a week and a half earlier from a member of a rival motorcycle club in St. Joseph, Mo.

Under federal statutes, Hahn is subject to a sentence of up to twenty years in prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the FBI, the Independence, Mo., Police Department, the Blue Springs, Mo., Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.

Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force

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

MIL Security OSI –

May 22, 2025

Category: United States of America

Landsat at Work: Conserving Water and Growing High Quality Grapes

Grapevine researcher turns to satellites for considerable water-use challenge

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

A Broader Collaboration

UK reaffirms support for Ukraine, tightens sanctions on Russia, and urges ceasefire: UK statement to the OSCE

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