Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI: Draganfly and Autonome Labs Announce Teaming Agreement to Deliver UAV-Based Demining Mesh Deployment Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tampa, FL, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) (FSE: 3U8) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”) an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems is pleased to announce a strategic teaming agreement with Autonome Labs, a humanitarian tech innovator, to develop an integrated aerial deployment solution for M.A.G.I.C, (Mine and Ground Inert Clearance) Autonome’s groundbreaking mesh-based demining system.

    The collaboration will pair Draganfly’s Heavy Lift drone platform with Autonome’s M.A.G.I.C. system to safely and efficiently deploy demining mesh designed to detonate and neutralize landmines across hazardous terrain. This joint solution enables rapid clearance of explosive threats, significantly reducing risk to human demining teams and accelerating the restoration of safe, usable land.

    “This partnership reflects the best of what our technology is capable of, saving lives, rebuilding communities, and bringing hope where it’s needed most,” said Cameron Chell, CEO of Draganfly. “Working with Autonome Labs allows us to deliver real-world impact in some of the most challenging environments.”

    The Heavy Lift drone platform, engineered for accuracy and high-capacity transport, will be adapted to support low-altitude, precision deployment of Autonome’s smart mesh system.

    “Our collaboration with Draganfly represents a critical step forward in the way autonomous technologies are deployed in high-risk environments,” said Kyle Debanks, COO of Autonome Labs. “By combining our smart demining mesh system with Draganfly’s proven drone platform, we’re enabling a safer, more scalable solution for clearing dangerous terrain—ultimately protecting lives and restoring access to vital land.”

    Initial integration and testing will begin in 2025, with plans to pilot the system in post-conflict regions later in the year.

    About Autonome Labs

    Autonome Labs is a technology company specializing in advanced autonomous and robotic systems for complex and high-stakes environments. With a mission to transform industries through safe, reliable, and AI-driven solutions, Autonome develops cutting-edge technologies that address real-world challenges—from automated drone platforms to autonomous firefighting robots and intelligent systems designed for extreme conditions. By combining deep technical expertise with a forward-thinking approach, Autonome Labs delivers scalable solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and operational performance across a wide range of industries.

    About Draganfly

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO; CSE: DPRO; FSE: 3U8A) is a pioneer in drone solutions, AI-driven software, and robotics. With over 25 years of innovation, Draganfly has been at the forefront of drone technology, providing solutions for public safety, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying. The Company is committed to delivering efficient, reliable, and industry-leading technology that helps organizations save time, money, and lives.

    For more information, visit www.draganfly.com.

    For investor details, visit:

    Media Contact
    media@draganfly.com

    Company Contact
    info@draganfly.com

    This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Company with respect to future business activities and operating performance. Often, but not always, forward-looking information and forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or statements formed in the future tense or indicating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” (or other variations of the foregoing) be taken, occur, be achieved, or come to pass. Forward-looking information includes information regarding: the anticipated benefits of, and estimated revenue to be generated by, the teaming agreement; the integration of technology and products between Draganfly and Autonome; the timeline to develop, integrate and begin testing an an integrated aerial deployment solution for M.A.G.I.C; the business plans and expectations of the Company; and expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Forward-looking information is based on currently available competitive, financial, and economic data and operating plans, strategies, or beliefs of management as of the date of this news release, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors may be based on information currently available to the Company, including information obtained from third-party industry analysts and other third-party sources, and are based on management’s current expectations or beliefs. Any and all forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflects expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Forward-looking information and forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to it and on assumptions it believes to be not unreasonable in light of all of the circumstances. In some instances, material factors or assumptions are discussed in this news release in connection with statements containing forward-looking information. Such material factors and assumptions include, but are not limited to: the anticipated benefits and revenues of the agreement to Draganfly; meeting the continued listing requirements of the Nasdaq; and including, but not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s 20-F (equivalent to an Annual Information Form) under the section “Risk Factors” and Draganfly’s most recent filings in accordance with securities regulations in Canada on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this news release and, other than as required by law, the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on such information.

    Neither the CSE nor the Nasdaq accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: WISeKey Confirms June Launch of Next-Generation WISeSat Satellite with SpaceX Featuring Encrypted Communications and SEALCOIN Integration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISeKey Confirms June Launch of Next-Generation WISeSat Satellite with SpaceX Featuring Encrypted Communications and SEALCOIN Integration

    Geneva, Switzerland, May 1, 2025 –WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a leading global cybersecurity, blockchain, and IoT company, today announces the upcoming launch of its next-generation WISeSat.Space satellite aboard a SpaceX mission in June 2025. This milestone marks a major technological step forward for WISeSat.Space’s secure space communications infrastructure and the deployment of Transactional IoT (t-IoT) solutions directly from orbit.

    The upcoming satellite launch introduces two significant innovations: first, the capability to establish secure, encrypted communications with WISePhone mobile devices, and second, the integration of SEALCOIN, a decentralized agent embedded in the satellite enabling machine-to-machine (M2M) transactions from space. These features significantly enhance the utility of WISeSat.Space’s constellation, as it evolves toward a fully decentralized, secure IoT and communications network supporting autonomous digital ecosystems.

    This development supports WISeSat.Space’s ongoing mission to deliver secure, scalable IoT connectivity from space and strengthens European independence in satellite communications. By anchoring its infrastructure in Europe, WISeSat.Space ensures data sovereignty and helps reduce reliance on non-European providers for strategic technologies, in line with EU objectives for technological resilience and autonomy.

    The new generation of WISeSat.Space satellites are compact picosatellites that leverage SEALSQ Corp. (“SEALSQ”) (NASDAQ: LAES) semiconductors and WISeKey’s advanced cryptographic keys, including quantum-resistant algorithms. These satellites are optimized for secure, low-power, and long-range data collection in off-grid and remote locations. Their applications span environmental monitoring, disaster management, industrial automation, and smart agriculture. The technology ensures encrypted end-to-end data transmission, enabling safe and reliable operations in critical sectors.

    The launch will also include a Proof of Concept (PoC) demonstrating SEALCOIN’s potential to facilitate secure, decentralized satellite-initiated transactions with IoT devices without human intervention. Built on Hedera’s Decentralized Ledger Technology (DLT), SEALCOIN offers transparent, tamper-proof, and autonomous transaction capability,paving the way for a scalable transactional IoT infrastructure. This breakthrough sets the stage for next-generation M2M applications in smart cities, logistics, environmental sensing, and beyond.

    WISeSat a secure nanosatellite platform developed by WISeKey, through its space division, WISeSat.Space, is designed to provide resilient, encrypted, and globally accessible connectivity for IoT ecosystems. Its primary function is to enable secure, satellite-based communication for IoT devices deployed in remote, hard-to-reach, or infrastructure-poor areas where traditional terrestrial networks (such as fiber, 4G/5G, or Wi-Fi) are unavailable, unreliable, or too costly to implement.

    A key use case is in precision agriculture, where WISeSat can connect sensors measuring soil moisture, temperature, crop health, and irrigation needs, helping farmers optimize yields, reduce water waste, and increase sustainability,even in rural or developing regions. This satellite connectivity ensures constant data flow regardless of geography or local telecom limitations.

    Another important application is in environmental monitoring and climate science. Sensors deployed in remote forests, oceans, glaciers, or protected natural areas can transmit real-time data on air quality, deforestation, wildlife movement, or water levels. This helps governments, researchers, and NGOs make faster decisions on conservation, disaster prevention, or policy implementation.

    In industries such as oil and gas, mining, and maritime logistics, WISESat provides critical connectivity to monitor and control assets located in offshore rigs, remote mines, or cargo ships. This includes real-time tracking of machinery health, fuel consumption, emissions, and security status. Similarly, in global supply chains, the platform enables secure monitoring of the condition and location of containers and high-value goods as they traverse continents, oceans, and customs zones, greatly reducing theft, spoilage, and logistical inefficiencies.

    Healthcare is another frontier where WISESat is impactful. In remote or underserved areas, health monitoring devices and mobile clinics can use the satellite network to transmit patient data securely to centralized hospitals or doctors, enabling telemedicine and diagnostics even during emergencies or pandemics. It is especially critical for applications like vaccine refrigeration monitoring, ensuring proper storage temperatures in regions lacking stable electricity or cellular coverage.

    WISeSat also enhances disaster response capabilities. During earthquakes, hurricanes, blackouts or wildfires, terrestrial infrastructure is often destroyed or disrupted. WISeSat ensures that emergency response units and sensor networks continue to transmit data on ground conditions, population movement, and structural damage, enabling faster, data-driven response coordination.

    From a cybersecurity standpoint, WISESat integrates WISeKey’s advanced cryptographic technologies, including post-quantum encryption developed through its SEALSQ subsidiary. This makes it suitable for high-security applications such as defense, critical infrastructure monitoring, smart cities, and government communication, where data integrity and identity verification are essential. It also supports remote identity management, enabling secure authentication of both devices and users over satellite links.

    WISeSat serves as a critical enabler of secure digital transformation in sectors where uninterrupted, trustworthy, and decentralized connectivity is mission-critical. It bridges the digital divide and protects data integrity from the sky, ushering in a new era of trusted space-based communications.

    In parallel, the satellite’s upgraded semiconductor components, developed by SEALSQ, will enhance processing and communications capabilities, enabling faster and more responsive data transmission. These improvements are essential for real-time monitoring and automation in industries affected by climate change and other dynamic conditions.

    With this launch, WISeKey reaffirms its commitment to advancing secure, decentralized digital infrastructure from space while supporting Europe’s leadership in satellite innovation. The June mission represents a major leap forward in enabling trusted connectivity, secure IoT transactions, and autonomous systems that extend far beyond Earth’s surface.

    About WISeKey

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com 
    WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@equityny.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: 100 Days of Fighting Fake News

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: 100 Days of Fighting Fake News

    lass=”text-align-center”> From Stories on Criminals to Statistics, DHS has been Holding the Media Accountable for Spreading Disinformation to the American people 
    WASHINGTON— During President Trump’s 100 days in office, the Department of Homeland Security published a non exhaustive list of facts, to help set the record straight on numerous false and misleading stories that have spread around news coverage and social media

    The list can be found below:
    The Facts on Noteworthy Individuals Deported or Prevented from Entering the U

    S

    The Deportation Of American Citizens

    The media has FALSELY claimed that ICE is deporting US citizen children of illegal aliens

    This is false

    In both cases the mother made the determination to take her children with her back to Honduras

    DHS takes our responsibility to protect children seriously and will continue to work with federal law enforcement to ensure that children are safe and protected

    The Trump Administration is giving parents in this country illegally the opportunity to self-deport and take control of their departure process with the potential ability to return the legal, right way and come back to live the American dream

    The CBP Home app is a free and easy way to self deport

    Kilmar Abrego Garcia – The “Maryland Man”

    Garcia is NOT an American citizen

    He is a citizen of El Salvador who had been living in the country illegally

    In 2019, two courts – an immigration court and an appellate immigration court – ruled that he was not only a member of MS-13, but that he was in our country illegally

    There was a deportation order for him dating back to 2019

    Further details about Garcia’s history prove that he is far from innocent

    In 2020, his wife filed a petition for protection citing three separate instances of violence
    In 2021, his wife filed for a restraining order against him due to domestic violence

    In 2022, Garcia was pulled over by Tennessee Highway Patrol with 8 people crammed into one car

    Despite telling the officers that they were going on a trip from Houston, Texas to Temple Hills, Maryland, there was no sign of luggage in the car

    It was later revealed that the vehicle Garcia was driving during this stop was registered to another illegal alien who had been convicted of human trafficking, Jose Roman Hernandez Reyes

    The media further claimed that the Supreme Court ordered the Trump Administration to return Garcia to the United States

    This is another falsehood

    The Supreme Court unanimously overturned that judge’s ruling but instead said that the United States should “facilitate” Garcia’s return

    This would only be possible if the government of El Salvador decided to return him, in which case the United States would have to provide transportation

    It’s up to Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele and the government of El Salvador if they want to return him

    But as President Bukele said during his Oval Office visit with President Trump, he has no intention of releasing a terrorist and sending him back to the United States

    When President Trump declared MS-13 a foreign terrorist organization, Abrego Garcia became no longer eligible for any form of immigration relief in the United States

    He had a valid deportation order

    Furthermore, the Supreme Court also held that EVEN IF El Salvador returned this MS-13 member to the United States, we could deport him a second time

    NO version of this legally ends with him ever living in the U

    S

    , because he is a citizen of El Salvador

    The foreign policy of the United States is conducted by the President – not by a court – and no court in the United States has the power to conduct the foreign policy of the United States

    Dr

    Rasha Alawieh – “The Brown University Assistant Professor”

    Dr

    Rasha Alawieh was an assistant professor at Brown University

    She was in the United States with an H-1B visa

    She was deported back to her home country of Lebanon after she admitted to attending the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, a brutal terrorist who led Hezbollah and was responsible for killing hundreds of Americans

    The media tried to portray Alawieh’s case as an example of a “lawful immigrant” being deported

    But they completely ignored her direct and alarming ties to radical Islamic terrorism, including her veneration of a dead terrorist leader

    Alfredo “Alex” Orellana – “The Caregiver”

    Alfredo “Alex” Orellana has multiple charges on his record from 2012 to 2019, including: distributing drugs, drug possession, assault and battery, failure to appear to court (twice), theft at the second degree, and larceny

    He has since been arrested and faces deportation

    The New York Times wrote a lengthy article on Orellana’s case

    Their article painted a picture of a loving 31-year-old caregiver who was the “best friend” of a 28-year-old autistic man

    They also pointed to the fact that Orellana had a green card

    The press tried to paint him as a victim who was a caretaker, despite violent charges on his record

    Jerce Reyes Barrios – “The Venezuelan Soccer Player”

    Jerce Reyes Barrios was in the United States illegally

    He was a member of the vicious Tren de Aragua gang, and he was deported to El Salvador

    He has tattoos that are consistent with those indicating membership in the vicious Tren de Aragua gang

    His own social media indicates that he is a Tren de Aragua member

    That hasn’t stopped the media, however

    They tried to whip up a frenzy over this deported criminal gang member, publishing wild claims that he was deported because of a tattoo of a soccer team on his arm

    The facts are the facts

    Our intelligence assessments go beyond just social media and tattoos

    We are confident in our findings

    Nascimento Blair – “The Ex-Con”

    Blair was an illegal alien living in the United States who was tried and convicted for kidnapping and sentenced to 15 years in prison

    The New York Times published a fawning profile about this criminal illegal alien

    In 2008, he was ordered removed out of the country

    However, because of the Biden administration’s open border policies, this criminal illegal alien was released onto the streets of New York

    The Trump administration is putting the American people first by getting this criminal illegal alien off the streets and out of our country

    “The French Scientist Denied Entry Over His Political Views”

    In March, a French scientist was denied entry into the United States

    The researcher in question was in possession of confidential information on his electronic device from Los Alamos National Laboratory

    This was in clear violation of a non-disclosure agreement – something he admitted to taking without permission and attempted to conceal to authorities

    The mainstream media ran with the baseless narrative that this individual was blocked from entering the U

    S

    because of social media posts that were critical of President Trump

    This lie was even echoed by France’s Minister for Higher Education, Philippe Baptiste

    His political beliefs were not considered at all in his removal

    Marie Lepère and Charlotte Pohl – “German Tourists Turned Away on Vacation”

    Two German tourists were denied entry after attempting to enter the U

    S

    under false pretenses

    Both claimed they were touring California but later admitted that they intended to work

    One used a Visitor visa, while the other used the Visa Waiver Program

    Under U

    S

    immigration laws, work is prohibited for these visas

    The media version of events depicted two young women who tried to go on a five-week backpacking trip through the United States

    The media claimed that the two – aged 18 and 19 – were “deported” because they simply wanted to go on a fun, loosely-planned trip

    These travelers weren’t deported—they were denied entry

    And the reason for their removal was visa fraud, not because of the planning nature of their so-called “vacation

    Jose Hermosillo – “The American Citizen Detained by Border Patrol”

    Hermosillo turned himself in to immigration authorities on April 8

    He approached Border Patrol in Tucson, Arizona and declared that he had entered the U

    S

    illegally

    He completed a sworn statement identifying as a Mexican citizen who had entered unlawfully

    He was processed and appeared in court on April 11

    Afterwards, he was held by the U

    S

    Marshals in Florence, Arizona

    A few days later, his family presented documents showing U

    S

    citizenship

    The charges were dismissed, and he was released to his family

    The media, instead of reporting the facts, created a false and baseless story that an American citizen was illegally detained

    Hermosillio’s arrest was the direct action of his own actions and statements

    When his citizenship was confirmed, he was promptly released back to his family

    Kseniia Petrova – “The Russian Scientist Trying to Cure Cancer”

    Kseniia Petrova, a Russian researcher working for Harvard University, was lawfully detained after lying to federal officers about carrying substances into the country

    A subsequent K9 inspection uncovered undeclared petri dishes, containers of unknown substances, and loose vials of embryonic frog cells, all without proper permits

    Messages found on her phone revealed she planned to smuggle the materials through customs without declaring them

    She knowingly broke the law and took deliberate steps to evade it

    But upon her detainment, the media rushed to defend her by claiming that her research could help to cure cancer

    The facts of the matter are simple: Petrova broke the law and actively planned to do so

    Her research does not make her exempt from the laws of our country

    Renato Subotic – “The MMA Coach”

    Subotic is an MMA coach who entered the United States under a visa waiver program that prohibits compensation – only travel reimbursements are allowed

    When Subotic was detained under American law, the media claimed that he was thrown in prison and deported for no real reason

    Here are the facts: Subotic couldn’t meet the requirement to prove he wasn’t being compensated for participating at a high-dollar, multi-day event

    The law is clear: the burden of proof is on the traveler

    Since he couldn’t provide detailed answers or the necessary documentation for compensation related to the work event, he was held until the next available flight out the following day

    Ricardo Jesus Prada Vasquez – The “Disappearing” Delivery Driver

    Yet again, the media has manufactured a fake controversy on behalf of a terrorist gang member and criminal illegal alien

    Ricardo Jesus Prada Vasquez is a Venezuelan national and confirmed member of Tren De Aragua

    He entered the United States illegally on November 29, 2024 at the Brownsville, Texas Port of Entry via the CBP One App

    The Biden administration, like it did with so many other dangerous criminals, released Prada Vasquez back into the United States

    On January 15th, Prada was encountered trying to enter the U

    S

    from Canada

    He was detained, investigated, and confirmed as a member of TDA and a public safety threat

    On February 27, a judge ordered him removed from the U

    S

    He was then removed to El Salvador

    The media, however, has falsely claimed that Prada Vasquez was an innocent delivery driver who was “disappeared” by the government

    Prada Vasquez was living and working in the U

    S

    illegally, he was a member of a criminal gang designated as a terrorist organization, and was deported with full compliance with American law

    Jeanette Vizguerra – “The Activist Who Needed Sanctuary”

    Jeanette Vizguerra is a convicted criminal alien from Mexico who has a final order of deportation issued by a federal immigration judge

    She illegally entered the United States near El Paso, Texas, on Dec

    24, 1997, and has received legal due process in U

    S

    immigration court

    The media, however, has tried to turn her into a martyr

    They claim she was an “activist” who needed “sanctuary

    ” In reality, she getting famous and making money for breaking the law

    Under President Trump, this is a nation of laws

    We will find, arrest, and deport illegal aliens, no matter how famous the media thinks they are

    Vizguerra was in the United States illegally

    She was convicted of breaking the law

    She was deported

    If you come to our country illegally, we will deport you, and you will never return

    The safest option for illegal aliens is to self-deport, so they still have the opportunity to return and live the American dream

    The Facts on Those Who Have Abused The Privilege of a Student Visa 

    Yunseo Chung – “The Columbia Student”

    Yunseo Chung, who was born in South Korea, is a Columbia University student who engaged in concerning conduct on-campus

    This includes her being arrested by NYPD during a pro-Hamas protest at Barnard College

    Mahmoud Khalil – “The Activist Leader at Columbia”

    Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student from Syria, is one of the ringleaders of the vicious, anti-American, anti-Semitic protests at Columbia University

    His activities are aligned with Hamas, a designated terrorist organization

    On March 9, 2025, in support of President Trump’s executive orders prohibiting anti-Semitism, and in coordination with the Department of State, U

    S

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Khalil

    But upon his arrest, radical student protesters at Columbia and across the country have attempted to turn him into a martyr, waving signs and banners bearing his likeness

    Taking over private buildings, inciting violence, harassing Jewish students, defacing buildings, and passing out terrorist propaganda do not constitute free speech

    A judge ruled that Khalil’s deportation can move forward

    He will be removed from our country

    Mohsen Mahdawi – “The Palestinian at Columbia University”

    Mahdawi is a Palestinian who has been living in the United States on a visa while he was studying at Columbia University

    Like many other anti-Israel student protesters, supporters in the media tried to claim that Mahdawi was a victim of political persecution

    But his rhetoric on the war in Israel proves his terrorist sympathies

    In the wake of October 7, Mahdawi said he could empathize with Hamas’s attack on Israel

    He appeared on “60 Minutes” justifying the massacre

    He organized and led pro-Hamas protests on Columbia University’s campus, harassed Jewish students, and openly displayed his support for a terrorist organization

    Leqaa Kordia – “The Palestinian at Columbia University”

    Leqaa Kordia was another Columbia Student who actively participated in anti-American, pro-terrorist activities on campus

    However, her arrest had nothing to do with her radical activities

    Kordia was arrested for immigration violations due to having overstayed her F-1 student visa, which had been terminated on January 26, 2022 for lack of attendance

    Dogukan Gunaydin – “The University of Minnesota Student”

    Dogukan Gunaydin, a graduate student at the University of Minnesota,was arrested after a visa revocation by the State Dept

    related to a prior criminal history for a DUI

    Contrary to the mainstream media’s quick speculation that he was arrested due to his involvement in student protests, his protest activity had nothing to do with his detainment

    Badar Khan Suri – “The Georgetown Foreign Exchange Student”

    Suri was a foreign exchange student at Georgetown University actively spreading Hamas propaganda and promoting antisemitism on social media

    The media calls him a “scholar” who was innocent of any wrongdoing, even though he was married to the daughter of a senior advisor for to Hamas terrorist group

    Momodou Taal – “The Cornell University Student”

    Taal was unapologetic in his pro-terrorist views

    Taal, a foreign student studying at Cornell University, participated in pro-Hamas protests on campus

    He has a pinned post on his X profile that talks about a so-called “Zionist genocide,” and also states “Long live the student intifada!”

    Other Fake News Narratives Corrected 

    The Biden Administration’s inflated deportation numbers

    DHS uncovered what should be a massive scandal: the Biden administration was cooking the books on ICE arrest data

    They were purposefully misleading the American public by categorizing individuals processed and released into the interior of the United States as ICE arrests

    Of course, the media ignored this fact

    Instead, they falsely claimed that the Biden administration had carried out more arrests than the Trump administration

    Tens of thousands of cases recorded as “arrests” were, in fact, instances where illegal aliens were simply processed and released into American communities

    Many of these were violent criminals and gang members

    The previous administration counted these as arrests even though no immigration enforcement action was taken

    During fiscal year 2024, ICE made 113,431 arrests but the vast majority of those were what we call “pass-through” arrests

    They are called pass-through arrests because ICE didn’t take enforcement actions against these aliens

    They just passed through ICE before they were released in the U

    S

    interior and told to report to an ICE office

    None of the arrests made by ICE since January 20th are pass-through arrests

    The difference between recent arrests and those from Biden’s last year is that, now we’re taking enforcement actions against each and every illegal alien arrested

    ICE Boston Militia rumors:

    The media eagerly fed and spread a false social media rumor that an ICE agent who conducted arrests of criminal illegal aliens in New England was a “militia leader” from Arizona

    The reality? He is a federal law enforcement office who has worked with ICE to help keep New England communities safe for years

    This claim was not only false, but also inflammatory and places the safety of federal officers in jeopardy

    Our ICE officers are facing 300% increase in assaults while carrying out enforcement operations

    Due process and treatment rumors in CECOT:

    These aliens HAVE had due process – we have a stringent law enforcement assessment in place that abides by due process under the U

    S

    Constitution

    The reality is that prison isn’t supposed to be fun

    It’s a necessary measure to protect society and punish bad guys

    It is not meant to be comfortable

    What’s more: prison can be avoided by self-deportation

    CBP Home makes it simple and easy

    If you are a criminal alien and we have to deport you, you could end up in Guantanamo Bay or CECOT

    Leave now

    DOGE and ICE allegedly collecting sensitive data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

    The Biden administration flooded the U

    S

    with tens of millions of illegal immigrants, many of which are exploiting the American taxpayer by illegally getting Medicare and other benefits meant for law-abiding Americans

    President Trump consistently promised to protect Medicare for eligible beneficiaries

    To keep that promise, DOGE, CMS, and DHS are exploring an initiative to ensure that illegal aliens are not receiving these benefits not meant for them

    The media claimed that ICE is working with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to access sensitive personal information in order to identify illegal aliens

    These claims are meant to frighten the American people, when in reality this process is working to keep them and their benefits safe from exploitation by illegal aliens

    ICE HSI presence at schools

    ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) works relentlessly to protect Americans, especially children, who are put in danger by illegal alien activity

    This includes investigations into potential child sex trafficking

    But the media has tried to spin their investigative work into the idea that they are going to elementary schools to arrest children

    HD Cooke Elementary School, Washington D

    C

    At the HD Cooke Elementary School in Washington D

    C

    , ICE did not conduct any enforcement action at the school

    HSI agents were present at the school unrelated to any kind of enforcement action

    Russel Elementary and Lillian Elementary in Los Angeles:

    At two different elementary schools in Los Angeles, California, HSI officers were conducting wellness checks on children who arrived unaccompanied at the border

    It had nothing to do with immigration enforcement

    DHS is leading efforts to conduct welfare checks on these children to ensure that they are safe and not being exploited, abused, and sex trafficked

    Unlike the previous administration, President Trump and Secretary Noem take the responsibility to protect children seriously and will continue to work with federal law enforcement to reunite children with their families

    In less than 70 days, Secretary Noem and Secretary Kennedy have already reunited nearly 5,000 unaccompanied children with a relative or safe guardian

    Immigrant children detained at Old McDonald Farm in New York

    In early April, a raid was carried out on a dairy farm in New York after the execution of a federal criminal warrant for an illegal alien in possession of + distributing child sexual abuse materials

    Upon the execution of the search warrant at Old McDonalds Farm in Sackets Harbor, New York, authorities encountered seven additional illegal aliens on the premises, including a mother and her three children

    We immediately began conducting an investigation to ensure these children are not being sexually exploited

    But rather than address the very real evidence of child sexual abuse, the media chose to focus on the fact that a woman and her three children were taken into custody

    DHS takes its responsibility to protect children seriously and our ICE officers are working every day to remove pedophiles from American communities

    TDA members being identified via tattoos

    Some have claimed that DHS’ assessments of TDA and other gang memberships are based solely on the tattoos that certain illegal aliens have

    DHS intelligence assessments go well beyond just gang affiliate tattoos and social media

    Tren De Aragua is one of the most violent and ruthless terrorist gangs on planet earth

    They rape, maim, and murder for sport

    President Trump and Secretary Noem will not allow criminal gangs to terrorize American citizens

    We are confident in our law enforcement’s intelligence, and we aren’t going to share intelligence reports and undermine national security every time a gang member denies he is one

    That would be insane

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Floods Give Way to a Burst of Desert Life

    Source: NASA

    Floodwaters transformed the typically parched Australian interior as they flowed across the continent. In late March 2025, more than a year’s worth of rain fell in one week in parts of Queensland, setting off intense and destructive flooding in Channel Country. Swollen rivers submerged towns and pasturelands while draining toward Lake Eyre (also called Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre). But as waters receded, swathes of green emerged.
    The reawakening of desert life along Cooper Creek is on display in these false-color images. On April 6 (left), floodwaters filled the river channel downstream of Windorah, a town that saw some of its highest river levels on record in the preceding days. By April 22 (right), water levels had subsided somewhat, allowing vegetation to spring up from the moist ground. The images were acquired with the OLI-2 (Operational Land Imager-2) on Landsat 9. The band combination (6-5-4) helps distinguish where water and vegetation are present.
    Downstream of this area, floodwater isolated the small town of Innamincka. On April 10, the highest-ever river level was recorded in that location, according to news reports, and residents braced for weeks of impassable roadways into and out of town. The water level surpassed the previous record set in 1974, a historic year for outback flooding. Beyond Innamincka, floods forced Coongie Lakes National Park to close.

    By April 28, levels along Cooper Creek at Coongie Lakes had begun to fall slowly, according to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. But the surge of water would continue to transform the desert. The false-color image above, captured by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Terra satellite on April 28, shows a wider view of Channel Country and the ephemeral flooding and greening.
    The image reveals Cooper Creek spilling into Strzelecki Creek, which feeds Lake Blanche. The lake typically fills only in years with large floods or when Cooper Creek sees high flows for consecutive years. According to one analysis, Lake Blanche filled only six times in 100 years starting in 1895. When water does reach this area, it creates wetland habitat that can attract hundreds of thousands of waterbirds.
    Cooper Creek and other large seasonal rivers in the outback drain toward Lake Eyre (about 200 kilometers west of Lake Blanche), which is situated at the continent’s lowest point and is dry much of the time. Every few years, enough water remains in rivers after partially evaporating and soaking into the floodplains to flow all the way to the lake, but it is rare for it to fill completely. Meteorologists think the volume of water coming across the desert in early 2025 might lead to the most substantial filling of Lake Eyre in at least 15 years.
    NASA Earth Observatory images by Michala Garrison, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey and MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Story by Lindsey Doermann.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Carroll County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Carroll County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Carroll County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Carroll County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Carroll County is located at:Carrollton Utilities Operations, 900 Clay St

    , Carrollton, KY 41008 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

     FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

     To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

    You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

     There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    minh

    phan
    Wed, 04/30/2025 – 20:03

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Owen County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Owen County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Owen County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    –A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Owen County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Owen County is located at:Three Rivers District Health Department, 60 Old Monterey Road, Owenton, KY 40359 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

     FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

    To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

     You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

    There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    minh

    phan
    Wed, 04/30/2025 – 20:02

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Butler County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Butler County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Butler County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Butler County at 1 p

    m

    April 30 to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Butler County is located at:Gasper River Association of Baptists, 530 Helm Lane, Morgantown, KY 42261 Working hours are 1 – 7 p

    m

    Central Time April 30, and then 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Monday through Saturday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

    FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

     To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

    You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

     There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    minh

    phan
    Wed, 04/30/2025 – 20:16

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Christian County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Christian County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Christian County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center is opening in Christian County at 1 p

    m

    on April 30 to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Christian County is located at:Murray State University Classrooms #207, #209, #213, 5305 Ft

    Campbell Blvd

    , Hopkinsville, KY 42240 Working hours are 1 – 7 p

    m

    Central Time April 30, and then 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

    FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

     To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

    You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

     There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    minh

    phan
    Wed, 04/30/2025 – 20:11

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kentucky Survivors Can Apply for FEMA Assistance and SBA Disaster Loan at the Same Time After April Storms

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Kentucky Survivors Can Apply for FEMA Assistance and SBA Disaster Loan at the Same Time After April Storms

    Kentucky Survivors Can Apply for FEMA Assistance and SBA Disaster Loan at the Same Time After April Storms

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – In addition to applying for FEMA assistance, homeowners and renters in designated Kentucky counties have the option to apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the U

    S

    Small Business Administration at various stages of their recovery

    While FEMA doesn’t require survivors to apply for an SBA loan before being considered for FEMA assistance, the SBA can offer financial support to individuals and business owners to aid their recovery

    Homeowners and renters in Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties can apply for federal assistance

    How To Apply for FEMA AssistanceSurvivors in the Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties who have disaster-caused damage or loss from the April storm can apply for federal disaster assistance under the major disaster declaration DR-4864 in several ways:Online at DisasterAssistance

    gov

    Visit any Disaster Recovery Center

    To find a center close to you, visit fema

    gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 29169”)

    Use the FEMA mobile app

    FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis

    Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    It is open 7 a

    m

    to 10 p

    m

    Eastern Daylight Time

    Help is available in many languages

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service

     The deadline to apply under DR-4864-KY is June 25

    How to Apply for SBA Disaster LoansThe SBA offers disaster loans to assist businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters with their recovery

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for disaster loans to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate and damaged or destroyed personal property

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for loans to cover physical damage

    Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) are also available to qualified businesses and nonprofits to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    minh

    phan
    Wed, 04/30/2025 – 20:00

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in McCracken County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in McCracken County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in McCracken County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in McCracken County at 1 p

    m

    on April 30 to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in McCracken County is located at:McCracken County Emergency Management Complex Training Room, 3700 Coleman Road, Paducah, KY 42001 Working hours are 1 – 7 p

    m

    Central Time April 30, and then 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Central Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

     FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

     To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

    You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

     There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    minh

    phan
    Wed, 04/30/2025 – 20:08

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dusty Days Are Here Again for El Paso

    Source: NASA

    Spring and early summer are generally dusty in the Borderplex region of the Chihuahuan Desert—a transnational area that spans parts of southern New Mexico, West Texas, and the Mexican state of Chihuahua. With the region gripped by exceptional drought, this has been especially true in 2025.
    The latest in a string of storms lofted particles from dried lakes and other parched sources in northern Chihuahua and New Mexico and sent them streaming toward El Paso, Juárez, and Las Cruces. The MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) on NASA’s Aqua satellite captured this image on April 27, 2025. The event followed a large dust storm that hit the region a week earlier, as well as other major dust storms in early and mid-March.
    Research indicates that March, April, and May are typically the most active months for airborne dust in El Paso. But the dust season so far this year has been “truly exceptional—one for the record books,” said Thomas Gill, an environmental scientist at the University of Texas at El Paso. For decades, Gill has used satellite observations and models to track dust activity around the planet and in the Borderplex region.
    He said this latest event is the tenth “full-fledged dust storm” of the year in El Paso, meaning it was dusty enough to restrict visibility to less than half a mile. For comparison, the average is 1.8 storms per year. “You would have to go back to 1936—during the Dust Bowl—to find a year with more,” Gill said. During the Dust Bowl years of 1935 and 1936, El Paso had 13 and 11 dust storms, respectively.
    Unusual drought and windy conditions are fueling the surge in dust. “We’re in the worst drought we’ve seen in at least a decade, and this March was the windiest we’ve seen in more than 50 years,” Gill added.
    Research shows dust storms can pose considerable hazards. In a 2023 analysis, Gill and several colleagues pointed out that the dangers of dust are often underappreciated. They contribute to deadly traffic accidents and elevate the risk of cardiorespiratory problems that lead to emergency room visits.
    Dust may also help spread a fungal infection called Valley Fever, though the precise role of dust storms remains a topic of ongoing research and debate. In another analysis, Gill and colleagues estimated that dust storms cause more than $150 billion in economic damage each year, with farmers, the health care sector, the renewable energy industry, and households bearing large costs.
    Several tools powered by NASA data and satellites are available to meteorologists, scientists, and others tracking dust storms. The Worldview browser hosts timely data and imagery from several satellites, and NASA’s Global Modeling and Assimilation Office has tools for real-time weather analysis and reanalysis.
    Gill collaborates frequently with a NASA-sponsored health and air quality team led by George Mason University’s Daniel Tong. That team is working to develop better ways of forecasting and analyzing how dust storms can affect air quality. Researchers with NASA’s SPoRT (Short-term Prediction Research and Transition) project have also developed a new technique that uses machine learning to improve the tracking of dust plumes at night.
    “It should be interesting to see how far the dust from this event travels,” noted Santiago Gasso, a University of Maryland atmospheric scientist based at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. “Some of it could be headed to the Great Lakes, New England, and maybe even to Greenland, as happened after one of the storms in March.”
    Up to this point in the 2025 season, the Borderplex region has seen 28 days with dust. Over the past quarter century, the average for an entire year is 22 days. “We still have several more weeks of the dust season to go,” added Gill, noting that forecasters are warning of more dust as early as this weekend.
       
    NASA Earth Observatory image by Wanmei Liang, using MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Story by Adam Voiland.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center in Johnson County To Permanently Close, Help Is Still Available

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Johnson County is permanently closing at 7 p.m. April 30.
     
    The Disaster Recovery Center in Johnson County is located at:
     
    KCTCS Mayo Campus, Auditorium Building C, 508 Third St., Paintsville, KY 41240 
    Working hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Wednesday.
    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs. Representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.
    Click here to find centers that are already open in Kentucky. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. 
    Kentucky homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson and Woodford counties can apply for federal assistance.
    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance. No appointment is needed. To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362.
    You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance. There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
    When you apply, you will need to provide:

    A current phone number where you can be contacted.
    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
    Your Social Security Number.
    A general list of damage and losses.
    Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

    For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.
    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: 100 Days of Making America Safe Again

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: 100 Days of Making America Safe Again

    WASHINGTON – In just 100 days, President Trump and Secretary Noem have delivered major victories addressing the crisis at the southern border, removing violent criminal illegal aliens from American communities, and stopping the flow of illicit drugs into our homeland

    He’s accomplished more in 100 days than most presidents achieve in an entire term

    PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT:   

    Thanks to President Trump, we have the most secure border in American history

    On day one, President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border

    President Trump immediately reinstated “Remain in Mexico” and ended catch and release

    Daily border encounters have plunged 95% since President Trump took office

    Under President Trump’s leadership, Secretary Noem and Secretary Kennedy have reunited nearly 5,000 unaccompanied children with a safe relative or guardian

    Migrants are turning BACK before they even reach our border— migration through Panama’s Darien Gap is down 99

    99%

    President Trump is finishing the border wall

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) already has 85 miles of new construction either planned or under construction

    United States (U

    S

    ) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U

    S

    Coast Guard (USCG) have seized nearly 232,000 pounds of fentanyl and other illicit drugs—stopping them from ever reaching American communities

    President Trump is fulfilling his promise to carry out mass deportations—starting with the worst of the worst

    The Trump Administration empowered our brave men and women in law enforcement to use common sense to do their jobs effectively

    DHS repealed Biden-era rules that allowed criminal aliens to hide from law enforcement in places like schools and churches to avoid arrest

      
    DHS returned to using the term “illegal alien” which is the statutory language

    President Trump will not allow political correctness to hinder law enforcement

    President Trump mobilized the federal government to help with immigration enforcement

    DHS deputized the Texas National Guard, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Prisons, U

    S

    Marshals, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, members of the State Department and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to assist with immigration operations

    Operation Tidal Wave, the first 287(g) enforcement operation coordinated with state and federal law enforcement partners, resulted in over 800 arrests

    DHS has secured 579 signed agreements with state and local partnerships under 287(g)

    President Trump and Secretary Noem are empowering state and local law enforcement to get these criminal illegal aliens off our streets

    The Trump Administration has arrested over 158,000 illegal aliens in 2025 alone, including more than 600 members of Tren de Aragua

    Under President Trump, U

    S

    Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) is targeting the worst of the worst, 75% of their arrests are criminal illegal aliens with convictions or pending charges

     
    To fulfill President Trump’s promise to carry out mass deportations, the administration is now detaining some of the most dangerous illegal aliens, including violent criminals and members of terrorist gangs, at Guantanamo Bay

    At President Trump’s direction, DHS deported nearly 300 Tren de Aragua and MS-13 terrorists to the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) Prison in El Salvador, where they no longer pose a threat to the American people

    At President Trump’s direction, Secretary Noem launched a multimillion-dollar nationwide and international ad campaign, urging illegal aliens to leave the U

    S

    voluntarily or face deportation with no chance of return

    President Trump ended the CBP One app that allowed more than one million aliens to illegally enter the U

    S

    The Trump Administration replaced this disastrous program with the CBP Home app, which has a new self-deportation reporting feature for aliens illegally in the country

    So far, thousands of illegal aliens have used the app to self-deport

    The Trump Administration is enforcing the Alien Registration Act which requires aliens to register with the federal government

    If illegal aliens fail to comply, they face fines and imprisonment

    Deportations have already exceeded 142,000—this is just the beginning

    President Trump is putting the safety of Americans first and delivering justice for victims of illegal aliens and drug cartels

    President Trump signed the Laken Riley Act, which mandates the federal detention of illegal aliens accused of theft, burglary, assaulting a law enforcement officer, or any crime resulting in death or serious bodily injury

    President Trump designated international drug cartels and other criminal gangs, such as MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations

    This enables a whole-of-government approach to dismantle their drug and human trafficking operations

    The days of unchecked cartel and gang violence are over

    The Trump Administration secured the extradition of 29 Mexican drug cartel members who are facing charges including racketeering, drug-trafficking, murder, illegal use of firearms, money laundering, and other crimes

    Some of these individuals include:

    Rafael Caro Quintero, alleged to have been among those responsible for the 1985 murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena and others

    This cartel kingpin unleashed violence, destruction, and death across the U

    S

    and Mexico and spent four decades atop DEA’s most wanted fugitives list

    Martin Sotelo, alleged to have participated in the 2022 murder of Deputy Sheriff Ned Byrd

    Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, alleged to have helped lead the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación

    Ramiro Perez Moreno and Lucio Hernandez Lechuga, alleged to be high-ranking members of Los Zetas

    The Trump Administration extradited Eswin Mejia, an illegal alien arrested for killing 21-year-old Sarah Root in a drunk driving crash, from Honduras

    President Trump reopened the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) office, which was shuttered by the Biden Administration

    President Trump and Secretary Noem are standing up for the victims of illegal alien crime and ensuring they have access to much needed resources and support they deserve

    President Trump is restoring integrity and common sense to our legal immigration system

    President Trump ended the broad abuse of humanitarian parole and returned the program to a case-by-case basis

    As part of this effort, Secretary Noem terminated the Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela parole programs

    President Trump restored integrity to our immigration system by returning the Temporary Protect Status (TPS) immigration program to its original status: temporary

    No longer will this program be abused and exploited by illegal aliens

    Secretary Noem rescinded the previous administration’s extension of Venezuelan, Haitian, and Afghan TPS

    President Trump is returning common sense to our legal immigration system and national security by revoking visas of terrorist sympathizers

    Those who glorify and support terrorists who kill Americans are not welcome in the U

    S

    Some examples include:

    ICE arrested Mahmoud Khalil, a former Columbia University graduate student who led activities aligned with Hamas and passed out pro-Hamas propaganda flyers

    Dr

    Rasha Alawieh was deported after she admitted to attending the funeral of Hassan Nasrallah, a brutal terrorist who led Hezbollah and was responsible for killing hundreds of Americans

    ICE arrested Badar Khan Suri, a Georgetown foreign exchange student whose father-in-law is a senior advisor to Hamas

    To keep America safe, DHS is now conducting enhanced vetting of visa applicants, including monitoring foreign aliens’ social media accounts to identify any support for terrorist organizations

    President Trump is using tariffs as a negotiating tool to force other countries to take decisive action that puts American safety, prosperity, and national security first

    President Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on countries that have been ripping off America for years

    Unfair trade practices made our supply chain dependent on foreign adversaries, eroded our industrial base, and hurt American workers

    This has gravely impacted our national security

    Now, President Trump is fighting back and putting America first

    President Trump’s tariffs forced Mexico to deploy 10,000 troops on our southern border to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal aliens into our country and Canada to add thousands of personnel to the northern border

    Under President Trump, Secretary Noem refocused DHS to its core mission of protecting the American homeland and eliminating government waste

    The USCG eliminated an ineffective information technology (IT) program, saving nearly $33 million, and is now focusing resources where they’re most needed to protect our homeland

    The Trump Administration stopped aliens on the Terror Watchlist from receiving Medicaid benefits

    Secretary Noem ended the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) FEMA grant program that was wasteful and ineffective

    This resulted in nearly a billion dollars being directed to the Disaster Relief Fund

    To stop policies that were magnets for illegal immigration, DHS froze all funding to non-governmental organizations that facilitate illegal immigration and announced a partnership with the U

    S

    Department of Housing and Urban Development to ensure taxpayer dollars do not go to housing illegal aliens

    Secretary Noem ended collective bargaining for the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Transportation Security Officers, which constrained TSA’s chief mission to safeguard our transportation systems and keep Americans safe

    Bottom Line: President Trump campaigned on border security and immigration enforcement, the American people voted for it, and Secretary Noem and DHS are delivering beyond anyone’s expectations

    President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue fighting every day to secure our border and keep American communities safe

    This is just the beginning of a new Golden Age of America

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Juno Mission Gets Under Jupiter’s and Io’s Surface

    Source: NASA

    New data from the agency’s Jovian orbiter sheds light on the fierce winds and cyclones of the gas giant’s northern reaches and volcanic action on its fiery moon.
    NASA’s Juno mission has gathered new findings after peering below Jupiter’s cloud-covered atmosphere and the surface of its fiery moon, Io. Not only has the data helped develop a new model to better understand the fast-moving jet stream that encircles Jupiter’s cyclone-festooned north pole, it’s also revealed for the first time the subsurface temperature profile of Io, providing insights into the moon’s inner structure and volcanic activity.
    Team members presented the findings during a news briefing in Vienna on Tuesday, April 29, at the European Geosciences Union General Assembly.
    “Everything about Jupiter is extreme. The planet is home to gigantic polar cyclones bigger than Australia, fierce jet streams, the most volcanic body in our solar system, the most powerful aurora, and the harshest radiation belts,” said Scott Bolton, principal investigator of Juno at the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. “As Juno’s orbit takes us to new regions of Jupiter’s complex system, we’re getting a closer look at the immensity of energy this gas giant wields.”

    Lunar Radiator
    While Juno’s microwave radiometer (MWR) was designed to peer beneath Jupiter’s cloud tops, the team has also trained the instrument on Io, combining its data with Jovian Infrared Auroral Mapper (JIRAM) data for deeper insights.
    “The Juno science team loves to combine very different datasets from very different instruments and see what we can learn,” said Shannon Brown, a Juno scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. “When we incorporated the MWR data with JIRAM’s infrared imagery, we were surprised by what we saw: evidence of still-warm magma that hasn’t yet solidified below Io’s cooled crust. At every latitude and longitude, there were cooling lava flows.”
    The data suggests that about 10% of the moon’s surface has these remnants of slowly cooling lava just below the surface. The result may help provide insight into how the moon renews its surface so quickly as well as how as well as how heat moves from its deep interior to the surface.
    “Io’s volcanos, lava fields, and subterranean lava flows act like a car radiator,” said Brown, “efficiently moving heat from the interior to the surface, cooling itself down in the vacuum of space.”
    Looking at JIRAM data alone, the team also determined that the most energetic eruption in Io’s history (first identified by the infrared imager during Juno’s Dec. 27, 2024, Io flyby) was still spewing lava and ash as recently as March 2. Juno mission scientists believe it remains active today and expect more observations on May 6, when the solar-powered spacecraft flies by the fiery moon at a distance of about 55,300 miles (89,000 kilometers).

    Colder Climes
    On its 53rd orbit (Feb 18, 2023), Juno began radio occultation experiments to explore the gas giant’s atmospheric temperature structure. With this technique, a radio signal is transmitted from Earth to Juno and back, passing through Jupiter’s atmosphere on both legs of the journey. As the planet’s atmospheric layers bend the radio waves, scientists can precisely measure the effects of this refraction to derive detailed information about the temperature and density of the atmosphere.
    So far, Juno has completed 26 radio occultation soundings. Among the most compelling discoveries: the first-ever temperature measurement of Jupiter’s north polar stratospheric cap reveals the region is about 11 degrees Celsius cooler than its surroundings and is encircled by winds exceeding 100 mph (161 kph).
    Polar Cyclones
    The team’s recent findings also focus on the cyclones that haunt Jupiter’s north. Years of data from the JunoCam visible light imager and JIRAM have allowed Juno scientists to observe the long-term movement of Jupiter’s massive northern polar cyclone and the eight cyclones that encircle it. Unlike hurricanes on Earth, which typically occur in isolation and at lower latitudes, Jupiter’s are confined to the polar region.
    By tracking the cyclones’ movements across multiple orbits, the scientists observed that each storm gradually drifts toward the pole due to a process called “beta drift” (the interaction between the Coriolis force and the cyclone’s circular wind pattern). This is similar to how hurricanes on our planet migrate, but Earthly cyclones break up before reaching the pole due to the lack of warm, moist air needed to fuel them, as well as the weakening of the Coriolis force near the poles. What’s more, Jupiter’s cyclones cluster together while approaching the pole, and their motion slows as they begin interacting with neighboring cyclones.
    “These competing forces result in the cyclones ‘bouncing’ off one another in a manner reminiscent of springs in a mechanical system,” said Yohai Kaspi, a Juno co-investigator from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel. “This interaction not only stabilizes the entire configuration, but also causes the cyclones to oscillate around their central positions, as they slowly drift westward, clockwise, around the pole.”
    The new atmospheric model helps explain the motion of cyclones not only on Jupiter, but potentially on other planets, including Earth.
    “One of the great things about Juno is its orbit is ever-changing, which means we get a new vantage point each time as we perform a science flyby,” said Bolton. “In the extended mission, that means we’re continuing to go where no spacecraft has gone before, including spending more time in the strongest planetary radiation belts in the solar system. It’s a little scary, but we’ve built Juno like a tank and are learning more about this intense environment each time we go through it.”
    More About Juno
    NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a division of Caltech in Pasadena, California, manages the Juno mission for the principal investigator, Scott Bolton, of the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio. Juno is part of NASA’s New Frontiers Program, which is managed at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, for the agency’s Science Mission Directorate in Washington. The Italian Space Agency funded the Jovian InfraRed Auroral Mapper. Lockheed Martin Space in Denver built and operates the spacecraft. Various other institutions around the U.S. provided several of the other scientific instruments on Juno.
    More information about Juno is at: https://www.nasa.gov/juno
    News Media Contacts
    DC AgleJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.818-393-9011agle@jpl.nasa.gov
    Karen Fox / Molly WasserNASA Headquarters, Washington202-358-1600karen.c.fox@nasa.gov / molly.l.wasser@nasa.gov
    Deb SchmidSouthwest Research Institute, San Antonio210-522-2254dschmid@swri.org
    2025-062

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Soars to New Heights in First 100 Days of Trump Administration

    Source: NASA

    Today is the 100th day of the Trump-Vance Administration after being inaugurated on Jan. 20. In his inaugural address, President Trump laid out a bold and ambitious vision for NASA’s future throughout his second term, saying, “We will pursue our manifest destiny into the stars, launching American astronauts to plant the Stars and Stripes on the planet Mars.” NASA has spent the first 100 days in relentless pursuit of this goal, continually exploring, innovating, and inspiring for the benefit of humanity.
    “In just 100 days, under the bold leadership of President Trump and acting Administrator Janet Petro, NASA has continued to further American innovation in space,” said Bethany Stevens, NASA press secretary. “From expediting the return of American astronauts home after an extended stay aboard the state-of-the-art International Space Station, to bringing two new nations on as signatories of the Artemis Accords, to the historic SPHEREx mission launch that takes us one step closer to mapping the secrets of the universe, NASA continues to lead on the world stage. Here at NASA, we’re putting the America First agenda into play amongst the stars, ensuring the United States wins the space race at this critical juncture in time.”
    A litany of victories in the first 100 days set the stage for groundbreaking success throughout the remainder of the term. Read more about NASA’s cutting-edge work in this short, yet dynamic, period of time below:
    Bringing Astronauts Home Safely, Space Station Milestones

    America brought Crew-9 safely home. NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore, Suni Williams, and Nick Hague, along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, returned to Earth after a successful mission aboard the International Space Station, splashing down in the Gulf of America. Their safe return reflects America’s unwavering commitment to the agency’s astronauts and mission success.
    A new, American-led mission launched to space. The agency’s Crew-10 mission is currently aboard the space station, with NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, joined by international partners from Japan and Russia. NASA continues to demonstrate American leadership and the power of space diplomacy as we maintain a continuous human presence in orbit.
    The agency welcomed home NASA astronaut Don Pettit, concluding a seven-month science mission aboard the orbiting laboratory. Pettit landed at 6:20 a.m. Kazakhstan time, April 20 on his 70th birthday, making him NASA’s oldest active astronaut and the third oldest person to reach orbit.
    NASA astronaut Jonny Kim launched and arrived safely at the International Space Station, marking the start of his first space mission. Over eight months, he’ll lead groundbreaking research that advances science and improves life on Earth, proving once again that Americans are built to lead in space.
    The four members of the agency’s SpaceX Crew-11, NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov were named by NASA. Launching no earlier than July 2025, this mission continues America’s leadership in long-duration human spaceflight while strengthening critical global partnerships.
    NASA announced Chris Williams will launch in November 2025 for his first spaceflight. His upcoming mission underscores the pipeline of American talent ready to explore space and expand our presence beyond Earth.
    NASA is inviting U.S. industry to propose two new private astronaut missions to the space station in 2026 and 2027 – building toward a future where American companies sustain a continuous human presence in space and advance our national space economy.
    NASA and SpaceX launched the 32nd Commercial Resupply Services mission, delivering 6,700 pounds of cargo to the International Space Station. These investments in science and technology continue to strengthen America’s leadership in low Earth orbit. The payload supports cutting-edge research, including:

    New maneuvers for free-flying robots

    An advanced air quality monitoring system

    Two atomic clocks to explore relativity and ultra-precise timekeeping

    Sending Humans to Moon, Mars

    Teams began hot fire testing the first of three 12-kW Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) thrusters. These high-efficiency thrusters are a cornerstone of next-generation spaceflight, as they offer greater fuel economy and mission flexibility than traditional chemical propulsion, making them an asset for long-duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. For Mars in particular, SEP enables three key elements required for success:

    Sustained cargo transport

    Orbital maneuvering

    Transit operations

    NASA completed the fourth Entry Descent and Landing technology test in three months, accelerating innovation to achieve precision landings on Mars’ thin atmosphere and rugged terrain.
    NASA’s Deep Space Optical Communications experiment aboard Psyche broke new ground, enabling the high-bandwidth connections vital for communications with crewed missions to Mars.
    Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost Mission One successfully delivered 10 NASA payloads to the Moon, advancing landing, autonomy, and data collection skills for Mars missions.
    Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission achieved the southernmost lunar landing, collecting critical data from challenging terrain to inform Mars exploration strategies.
    NASA cameras aboard Firefly’s Blue Ghost lander captured unprecedented footage of engine plume-surface interactions, offering vital data for designing safer landings on the Moon and Mars.
    The agency’s Stereo Cameras for Lunar Plume-Surface Studies (SCALPSS) 1.1 aboard Blue Ghost collected more than 9,000 images of lunar descent, providing insights on lander impacts and terrain interaction to guide future spacecraft design.
    New SCALPSS hardware delivered for Blue Origin’s Blue Mark 1 mission also is enhancing lunar landing models, helping build precision landing systems for the Moon and Mars. The LuGRE (Lunar Global Navigation Satellite System Receiver Experiment) on Blue Ghost acquired Earth navigation signals from the Moon, advancing autonomous positioning systems crucial for lunar and Mars operations.
    The Electrodynamic Dust Shield successfully cleared lunar dust, demonstrating a critical technology for protecting equipment on the Moon and Mars.
    Astronauts aboard the space station conducted studies to advance understanding of how to keep crews healthy on long-duration Mars missions.
    NASA’s Moon to Mars Architecture Workshop gathered industry, academic, and international partners to refine exploration plans and identify collaboration opportunities.

    Artemis Milestones

    NASA completed stacking the twin solid rocket boosters for Artemis II, the mission that will send American astronauts around the Moon for the first time in more than 50 years. This is a powerful step toward returning our nation to deep space.
    At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, teams joined the core stage with the solid rocket boosters inside the Vehicle Assembly Building.
    Engineers lifted the launch vehicle stage adapter atop the SLS (Space Launch System) core stage, connecting key systems that will soon power NASA’s return to the Moon.
    Teams received the Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage and moved the SLS core stage into the transfer aisle, clearing another milestone as the agency prepares to fully integrate America’s most powerful rocket.
    NASA attached the solar array wings that will help power the Orion spacecraft on its journey around the Moon, laying the groundwork for humanity’s next giant leap.
    Technicians installed the protective fairings on Orion’s service module to shield the spacecraft during its intense launch and ascent phase, as NASA prepares to send astronauts farther than any have gone in more than half a century.
    The agency’s next-generation mobile launcher continues to take shape, with the sixth of 10 massive modules being installed. This structure will carry future Artemis rockets to the launch pad.
    NASA and the Department of Defense teamed up aboard the USS Somerset for Artemis II recovery training, ensuring the agency and its partners are ready to safely retrieve Artemis astronauts after their historic mission around the Moon.
    NASA unveiled the Artemis II mission patch. The patch designates the mission as “AII,” signifying not only the second major flight of the Artemis campaign but also an endeavor of discovery that seeks to explore for all and by all.

    America First in Space

    NASA announced the first major science results from asteroid Bennu, revealing ingredients essential for life, a discovery made possible by U.S. leadership in planetary science through the OSIRIS-REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security-Regolith Explorer) mission. The team found salty brines, 14 of the 20 amino acids used to make proteins, and all five DNA nucleobases, suggesting that the conditions and ingredients for life were widespread in our early solar system. And this is just the beginning – these results were from analysis of only 0.06% of the sample.
    NASA was named one of TIME’s Best Companies for Future Leaders, underscoring the agency’s role in cultivating the next generation of American innovators.
    NASA awarded contracts to U.S. industry supporting Earth science missions,  furthering our understanding of the planet while strengthening America’s industrial base.
    As part of the Air Traffic Management-Exploration project, NASA supported Boeing’s test of digital and autonomous taxiing with a Cessna Caravan at Moffett Federal Airfield. The test used real-time simulations from the agency’s Future Flight Central to gather data that will help Boeing refine its systems and safely integrate advanced technologies into national airspace, demonstrating American aviation leadership.
    NASA successfully completed its automated space traffic coordination objectives between the agency’s four Starling spacecraft and SpaceX’s Starlink constellation. Teams demonstrated four risk mitigation maneuvers, autonomously resolving close approaches between two spacecraft with different owner/operators.  
    In collaboration with the National Institute of Aeronautics, NASA selected eight finalists in a university competition aimed at designing innovative aviation solutions that can help the agriculture industry. NASA’s Gateways to Blue Skies seeks ways to apply American aircraft and aviation technology to enhance the productivity, efficiency, and resiliency of American farms. 
    In Houston, United Airlines pilots successfully conducted operational tests of NASA-developed technologies designed to reduce flight delays. Using technologies from the Air Traffic Management Exploration project, pilots flew efficient re-routes, avoiding airspace with bad weather upon departure. United plans to expand the use of these capabilities, another example of how NASA innovations benefit all humanity. 
    On March 11, NASA’s newest astrophysics observatory, SPHEREx, launched on its journey to answer fundamental questions about our universe, thanks to the dedication and expertise of the agency’s team. Riding aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, SPHEREx will scan the entire sky to study how galaxies formed, search for the building blocks of life, and look back to the universe’s earliest moments. After launch, SPHEREx turned on its detectors, and everything is performing as expected.

    Also onboard were four small satellites for NASA’s PUNCH (Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere) mission, which will help scientists understand how the Sun’s outer atmosphere becomes solar wind. These missions reflect the best of the agency – pushing the boundaries of discovery and expanding our understanding of the cosmos.

    On March 14, NASA’s EZIE (Electrojet Zeeman Imaging Explorer) mission launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base. This trio of small satellites will study auroral electrojets, or intense electric currents flowing high above Earth’s poles, helping the agency better understand space weather and its effects on our planet. The mission has taken its first measurements, demonstrating that the spacecraft and onboard instrument are working as expected.
    The X-59 quiet supersonic aircraft cleared another hurdle on its way to first flight. The team successfully completed an engine speed hold test, confirming the “cruise control” system functions as designed. 
    NASA researchers successfully tested a prototype that could help responders fight and monitor wildfires, even in low-visibility conditions. The Portable Airspace Management System, developed by NASA’s Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations project, safely coordinated simulated operations involving drones and other aircraft, tackling a major challenge for those on the front lines. This is just one example of how NASA’s innovation is making a difference where it’s needed most. 
    NASA’s Parker Solar Probe completed its 23rd close approach to the Sun, coming within 3.8 million miles of the solar surface while traveling at 430,000 miles per hour – matching its own records for distance and speed. That same day, Parker Solar Probe was awarded the prestigious Collier Trophy, a well-earned recognition for its groundbreaking contributions to heliophysics. 
    In response to severe weather that impacted more than 10 states earlier this month, the NASA Disasters Response Coordination System activated to support national partners. NASA worked closely with the National Weather Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency serving the central and southeastern U.S. to provide satellite data and expertise that help communities better prepare, respond, and recover. 
    As an example of how NASA’s research today is shaping the transportation of tomorrow, the agency’s aeronautics engineers began a flight test campaign focused on safely integrating air taxis into the national airspace. Using a Joby Aviation demonstrator aircraft, engineers are helping standardize flight test maneuvers, improving tools to assist with collision avoidance and landing operations, and ensuring safe and efficient air taxis operations in various weather conditions.
    NASA premiered “Planetary Defenders,” a new documentary that follows the dedicated team behind asteroid detection and planetary defense. The film debuted at an event at the agency’s headquarters with digital creators, interagency and international partners, and now is streaming on NASA+, YouTube, and X. In its first 24 hours, it saw 25,000 views on YouTube – 75% above average – and reached 4 million impressions on X. 
    Finland became the 53rd nation to sign the Artemis Accords, reaffirming its commitment to the peaceful, transparent, and responsible exploration of space. This milestone underscores the growing global coalition led by the United States to establish a sustainable and cooperative presence beyond Earth.
    In Dhaka, Bangladesh, NASA welcomed a new signatory to the Artemis Accords. Bangladesh became the 54th nation to commit to the peaceful, safe, and responsible exploration of space. It’s a milestone that reflects our shared values and growing global momentum, reaffirming the United States’ leadership in building a global coalition for peaceful space exploration. 
    At NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, engineers conducted calibration flights for a new shock-sensing probe that will support future flight tests of the X-59 quiet supersonic demonstrator. Mounted on a research F-15D that will follow the X-59 closely in flight, the probe will gather data on the shock waves the X-59 generates, providing important data about its ability to fly faster than sound, but produce only a quiet thump.
    In its second asteroid encounter, Lucy flew by the asteroid Donaldjohanson and gave NASA a close look at a uniquely shaped fragment dating back 150 million years – an impressive performance ahead of its main mission target in 2027.
    A celebration of decades of discovery, NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope celebrated its 35th anniversary with new observations ranging from nearby solar system objects to distant galaxies – proof that Hubble continues to inspire wonder and advance our understanding of the universe.
    The SPHEREx team rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange, spotlighting NASA’s newest space telescope and its bold mission to explore the origins of the universe.
    NASA received six Webby Awards and six People’s Voice Awards across platforms – recognition of America’s excellence in digital engagement and public communication.
    The NASA Electric Aircraft Testbed and Advanced Air Transport Technology project concluded testing of a 2.5-megawatt Wright Electric motor designed to eventually serve large aircraft. The testing used the project’s capabilities to simulate altitude conditions of up to 40,000 feet while the electric motor, the most powerful tested so far at the facility, ran at both full voltage and partial power. NASA partnered with the Department of Energy on the tests.
    U.S. entities can now request the Glenn Icing Computational Environment (GlennICE) tool from the NASA Software Catalog and discover solutions to icing challenges for novel engine and aircraft designs. A 3D computational tool, GlennICE allows engineers to integrate icing-related considerations earlier in the aircraft design process and enable safer, more efficient designs while saving costs in the design process.

    For more about NASA’s mission, visit:

    Home Page

    -end-
    Bethany StevensHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1600bethany.c.stevens@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Mercer County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Mercer County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Mercer County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Mercer County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Mercer County is located at: Mercer County Health Department, 900 N

    College St

    , Harrodsburg, KY 40330 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

    Representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors

    FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

     To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

    You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

     There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    Apply Separately for Each DisasterWhen two or more disasters are declared in the same state, FEMA ensures survivors receive all eligible assistance while preventing a duplication of federal benefits

    Disaster survivors affected by multiple disasters should apply with FEMA separately for each individual disaster

     When applying for FEMA assistance, be sure to specify the damage and the date it occurred to ensure you are applying under the correct declaration number

    DR-4860-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, landslides and mudslides that occurred from Feb14 – March 7

    Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson, Woodford counties may be eligible

    The deadline to apply under DR-4860-KY is May 25

    DR-4864-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred on April 2 and continuing

    Homeowners and renters in the Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties may be eligible

     Homeowners and renters in Woodford County may be eligible for federal assistance under DR-4860-KY or/and DR-4864-KY

    If you had property damage or loss in Woodford County from the February severe incident, and then again from the April severe incident, you will need to complete two separate disaster assistance applications

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 04/29/2025 – 14:07

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Offers Assistance for April Storm Survivors in Kentucky

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Offers Assistance for April Storm Survivors in Kentucky

    FEMA Offers Assistance for April Storm Survivors in Kentucky

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – FEMA is offering a wide variety of help to people affected by the April severe storms in Kentucky

    Every homeowner or renter who suffered damage or loss is encouraged to apply

    Money provided by FEMA does not have to be repaid

    FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs and other needs not covered by insurance

    Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster

    The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts

    Money provided by FEMA may include:Serious Needs: Money for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation

    Displacement: Money to help with housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster

    The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options while you look for a rental unit

    Home Repair or Replacement: Money to help you repair or replace your home damaged by the disaster

    The money can also help with pre-existing damage to parts of your home where the disaster caused further damage

    Rental Assistance: Money you can use to rent housing if you are displaced from your home because of the disaster

    Personal Property: Money to help you repair or replace appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster

    This can also include money for books, uniforms, tools, additional computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment

    Child Care: Money to help you pay for increased or childcare expenses caused by the disaster

    Transportation: Money to help you repair or replace a vehicle damaged by the disaster when you don’t have another vehicle you can use

    Moving and Storage Expenses: Money to help you move and store personal property from your home to prevent additional damage

    Applicants should keep their current contact information on file with FEMA as the agency may need to schedule a home inspection or get additional information

    How To Apply for FEMA AssistanceSurvivors in the Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties who have disaster-caused damage or loss from the April storm can apply for federal disaster assistance under the major disaster declaration DR-4864 in several ways:Online at DisasterAssistance

    gov

    Visit any Disaster Recovery Center

    To find a center close to you, visit fema

    gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 29169”)

    Use the FEMA mobile app

    FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis

    Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    It is open 7 a

    m

    to 10 p

    m

    Eastern Daylight Time

    Help is available in many languages

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service

     Apply Separately for Each DisasterWhen two or more disasters are declared in the same state, FEMA ensures survivors receive all eligible assistance while preventing a duplication of federal benefits

    Disaster survivors affected by multiple disasters should apply with FEMA separately for each individual disaster

     When applying for FEMA assistance, be sure to specify the damage and the date it occurred to ensure you are applying under the correct declaration number

    DR-4860-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, landslides and mudslides that occurred from Feb14 – March 7

    Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson, Woodford counties may be eligible

    The deadline to apply under DR-4860-KY is May 25

    DR-4864-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred on April 2 and continuing

    Homeowners and renters in the Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties may be eligible

    The deadline to apply under DR-4864-KY is June 25

    Homeowners and renters in Woodford County may be eligible for federal assistance under DR-4860-KY or/and DR-4864-KY

    If you had property damage or loss in Woodford County from the February severe incident, and then again from the April severe incident, you will need to complete two separate disaster assistance applications

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 04/29/2025 – 13:47

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Anderson County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Anderson County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Anderson County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Anderson County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

     The new Disaster Recovery Center in Anderson County is located at: Anderson County Community Center, 1026 County Park Road, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1-7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

    Representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors

    You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the U

    S

    Small Business Administration

    No appointment is needed

     To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

    If you are unable to visit a center, there are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    Apply Separately for Each DisasterWhen two or more disasters are declared in the same state, FEMA ensures survivors receive all eligible assistance while preventing a duplication of federal benefits

    Disaster survivors affected by multiple disasters should apply with FEMA separately for each individual disaster

     When applying for FEMA assistance, be sure to specify the damage and the date it occurred to ensure you are applying under the correct declaration number

    DR-4860-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, landslides and mudslides that occurred from February 14 – March 7

    Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson, Woodford counties may be eligible

    The deadline to apply under DR-4860-KY is May 25

    DR-4864-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred on April 2 and continuing

    Homeowners and renters in the Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties may be eligible

    The deadline to apply under DR-4864-KY is June 25

    Homeowners and renters in Woodford County may be eligible for federal assistance under DR-4860-KY or/and DR-4864-KY

    If you had property damage or loss in Woodford County from the February severe incident, and then again from the April severe incident, you will need to complete two separate disaster assistance applications

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 04/29/2025 – 13:24

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Clark County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Clark County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Clark County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Clark County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Clark County is located at: Clark County Emergency Operations Center, 200 Maryland Ave

    , Winchester, KY 40391 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

    Representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors

    FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

     To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

    You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

     There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    Apply Separately for Each DisasterWhen two or more disasters are declared in the same state, FEMA ensures survivors receive all eligible assistance while preventing a duplication of federal benefits

    Disaster survivors affected by multiple disasters should apply with FEMA separately for each individual disaster

     When applying for FEMA assistance, be sure to specify the damage and the date it occurred to ensure you are applying under the correct declaration number

    DR-4860-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, landslides and mudslides that occurred from Feb14 – March 7

    Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson, Woodford counties may be eligible

    The deadline to apply under DR-4860-KY is May 25

    DR-4864-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred on April 2 and continuing

    Homeowners and renters in the Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties may be eligible

     Homeowners and renters in Woodford County may be eligible for federal assistance under DR-4860-KY or/and DR-4864-KY

    If you had property damage or loss in Woodford County from the February severe incident, and then again from the April severe incident, you will need to complete two separate disaster assistance applications

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 04/29/2025 – 13:59

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Jessamine County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Jessamine County

    Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Jessamine County

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Jessamine County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the April severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides

    The new Disaster Recovery Center in Jessamine County is located at: Jessamine County Senior Citizens Center, 111 Hoover Drive, Nicholasville, KY 40356 Working hours are 9 a

    m

    to 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 – 7 p

    m

    Eastern Time, Sunday

    FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs

    Representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors

    FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the April storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible

    The deadline to apply is June 25

    You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance

    No appointment is needed

     To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema

    gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362

    You don’t have to visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance

     There are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance

    gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362

    If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    When you apply, you will need to provide:A current phone number where you can be contacted

    Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying

    Your Social Security Number

    A general list of damage and losses

    Banking information if you choose direct deposit

    If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

    Apply Separately for Each DisasterWhen two or more disasters are declared in the same state, FEMA ensures survivors receive all eligible assistance while preventing a duplication of federal benefits

    Disaster survivors affected by multiple disasters should apply with FEMA separately for each individual disaster

     When applying for FEMA assistance, be sure to specify the damage and the date it occurred to ensure you are applying under the correct declaration number

    DR-4860-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, landslides and mudslides that occurred from Feb14 – March 7

    Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson, Woodford counties may be eligible

    The deadline to apply under DR-4860-KY is May 25

    DR-4864-KY for the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred on April 2 and continuing

    Homeowners and renters in the Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties may be eligible

     Homeowners and renters in Woodford County may be eligible for federal assistance under DR-4860-KY or/and DR-4864-KY

    If you had property damage or loss in Woodford County from the February severe incident, and then again from the April severe incident, you will need to complete two separate disaster assistance applications

    For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4860 and www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4864

    Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x

    com/femaregion4

    martyce

    allenjr
    Tue, 04/29/2025 – 13:57

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Where Does Gold Come From? NASA Data Has Clues

    Source: NASA

    Since the big bang, the early universe had hydrogen, helium, and a scant amount of lithium. Later, some heavier elements, including iron, were forged in stars. But one of the biggest mysteries in astrophysics is: How did the first elements heavier than iron, such as gold, get created and distributed throughout the universe?
    “It’s a pretty fundamental question in terms of the origin of complex matter in the universe,” said Anirudh Patel, a doctoral student at Columbia University in New York. “It’s a fun puzzle that hasn’t actually been solved.”
    Patel led a study using 20-year-old archival data from NASA and ESA telescopes that finds evidence for a surprising source of a large amount of these heavy elements: flares from highly magnetized neutron stars, called magnetars. The study is published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.
    Study authors estimate that magnetar giant flares could contribute up to 10% of the total abundance of elements heavier than iron in the galaxy. Since magnetars existed relatively early in the history of the universe, the first gold could have been made this way.
    “It’s answering one of the questions of the century and solving a mystery using archival data that had been nearly forgotten,” said Eric Burns, study co-author and astrophysicist at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge.
    How could gold be made at a magnetar?
    Neutron stars are the collapsed cores of stars that have exploded. They are so dense that one teaspoon of neutron star material, on Earth, would weigh as much as a billion tons. A magnetar is a neutron star with an extremely powerful magnetic field.
    On rare occasions, magnetars release an enormous amount of high-energy radiation when they undergo “starquakes,” which, like earthquakes, fracture the neutron star’s crust. Starquakes may also be associated with powerful bursts of radiation called magnetar giant flares, which can even affect Earth’s atmosphere. Only three magnetar giant flares have been observed in the Milky Way and the nearby Large Magellanic Cloud, and seven outside.
    Patel and colleagues, including his advisor Brian Metzger, professor at Columbia University and senior research scientist at the Flatiron Institute in New York, have been thinking about how radiation from giant flares could correspond to heavy elements forming there. This would happen through a “rapid process” of neutrons forging lighter atomic nuclei into heavier ones.   
    Protons define the element’s identity on the periodic table: hydrogen has one proton, helium has two, lithium has three, and so on. Atoms also have neutrons which do not affect identity, but do add mass. Sometimes when an atom captures an extra neutron the atom becomes unstable and a nuclear decay process happens that converts a neutron into a proton, moving the atom forward on the periodic table. This is how, for example, a gold atom could take on an extra neutron and then transform into mercury. 
    In the unique environment of a disrupted neutron star, in which the density of neutrons is extremely high, something even stranger happens: single atoms can rapidly capture so many neutrons that they undergo multiple decays, leading to the creation of a much heavier element like uranium.
    When astronomers observed the collision of two neutron stars in 2017 using NASA telescopes and the Laser Interferomete Gravitational wave Observatory (LIGO), and numerous telescopes on the ground and in space that followed up the initial discovery, they confirmed that this event could have created gold, platinum, and other heavy elements. But neutron star mergers happen too late in the universe’s history to explain the earliest gold and other heavy elements. Recent research by co-authors of the new study — Jakub Cehula of Charles University in Prague, Todd Thompson of The Ohio State University, and Metzger — has found that magnetar flares can heat and eject neutron star crustal material at high speeds, making them a potential source.

    New clues in old data
    At first, Metzger and colleagues thought that the signature from the creation and distribution of heavy elements at a magnetar would appear in the visible and ultraviolet light, and published their predictions. But Burns in Louisiana wondered if there could be a gamma-ray signal bright enough to be detected, too. He asked Metzger and Patel to check, and they found that there could be such a signature.
    “At some point, we said, ‘OK, we should ask the observers if they had seen any,’” Metzger said.
    Burns looked up the gamma ray data from the last giant flare that has been observed, which was in December 2004. He realized that while scientists had explained the beginning of the outburst, they had also identified a smaller signal from the magnetar, in data from ESA (European Space Agency)’s INTErnational Gamma-Ray Astrophysics Laboratory (INTEGRAL), a recently retired mission with NASA contributions. “It was noted at the time, but nobody had any conception of what it could be,” Burns said.
    Metzger remembers that Burns thought he and Patel were “pulling his leg” because the prediction from their team’s model so closely matched the mystery signal in the 2004 data. In other words, the gamma ray signal detected over 20 years ago corresponded to what it should look like when heavy elements are created and then distributed in a magnetar giant flare.
    Patel was so excited, “I wasn’t thinking about anything else for the next week or two. It was the only thing on my mind,” he said.
    Researchers supported their conclusion using data from two NASA heliophysics missions: the retired RHESSI (Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager) and the ongoing NASA’s Wind satellite, which had also observed the magnetar giant flare. Other collaborators on the new study included Jared Goldberg at the Flatiron Institute.
    Next steps in the magnetar gold rush
    NASA’s forthcoming COSI (Compton Spectrometer and Imager) mission can follow up on these results. A wide-field gamma ray telescope, COSI is expected to launch in 2027 and will study energetic phenomena in the cosmos, such as magnetar giant flares. COSI will be able to identify individual elements created in these events, providing a new advancement in understanding the origin of the elements. It is one of many telescopes that can work together to look for “transient” changes across the universe.
    Researchers will also follow up on other archival data to see if other secrets are hiding in observations of other magnetar giant flares.
    “It very cool to think about how some of the stuff in my phone or my laptop was forged in this extreme explosion of the course of our galaxy’s history,” Patel said.
    Media Contact
    Elizabeth LandauHeadquarters, Washington202-358-0845elandau@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Key markers on the bumpy road to this election

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    When we look back, we can see the road to election day has had a multitude of signposts, flashing red lights, twists, turns and potholes. Some came before the formal campaign; others in the final countdown days; some have been major, others symbolic.

    The importance of certain markers has been obvious in the moment; the significance of others became clear in retrospect. Here is a recap of a few of those that have shaped this campaign and its battle for votes.

    1. Anthony Albanese’s January 6 $7.2 billion announcement to upgrade the Bruce Highway

    Why start here? Because this was the prime minister jumping out of the blocks at the start of January, with multiple announcements over the summer. Albanese laid down policy groundwork in these weeks, giving voters time to absorb the initiatives.

    In contrast, Peter Dutton, although he had a “soft” launch on January 12, was running slowly, believing voters weren’t yet paying attention.

    2. Donald Trump’s inauguration

    January 21 unleashed a tsunami; its waves would wash over the coming months, and profoundly affect the election. At first, the Coalition thought – wrongly – that the election of Trump would favour it, but Labor became the beneficiary. Many Australians (including Dutton) were appalled at the way Trump and Vice President JD Vance treated Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. Later, Trump’s tariffs hit Australia (although not as hard as many countries).

    Dutton argued he’d be better able than Albanese to handle the capricious president, but it became a spurious debate. Labor painted Dutton as Trump-lite and some of his decisions played into its hands, notably appointing in late January Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price to a Musk-like role to pursue efficiencies in government. She later made the comparison even more obvious by saying the Coalition would “make Australia great again”.

    But the central factor was this: suddenly, the world had become more uncertain and many voters would think it wasn’t the time to change.

    3. The Reserve Bank’s cut in interest rates on February 18

    The amount was modest, 25 basis points, but the psychology was the thing. The cut reinforced Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ argument that the worst was over and the outlook was positive. In the campaign’s final week, just at the right time for the government, inflation figures pointed to another expected cut in May.

    4. Cyclone Alfred’s March 7 election delay

    Albanese appeared set to call an April 12 poll, when the approaching winds blew the plan off course. The prime minister was able to put himself at the middle of the response to the cyclone, projecting himself as a national leader as distinct from a partisan one; he appeared with Queensland LNP Premier David Crisafulli, and at the Canberra National Situation Room.

    The election delay meant Labor had to bring down the March 25 budget. Many in the government had wanted to avoid a budget, because of its deficits into the distance. But the budget became a useful frame for the start of the formal campaign, with Albanese going to Government House at the end of budget week.

    5. Dutton’s budget reply

    The opposition leader’s reply contained his proposal to cut petrol excise but did not include tax cuts. The opposition had already voted against the government’s budget tax cut package, and committed to repealing it.

    The excise move was popular – Dutton would visit countless service stations over coming weeks – but the government was able to say a Coalition government would raise taxes.

    At his campaign launch subsequently, Dutton promised a $1,200 tax offset, despite earlier flagging he would not be able to announce any income tax relief during the campaign. The tax offset was an attempt to rectify what had been the mistake of thinking that the Coalition – traditionally committed to lower taxes – could go to the election on the wrong side of the tax argument.

    6. Dutton’s April 7 backtrack on working from home

    The opposition policy to get public servants back into the office all week was a disaster-in-the-making from the start. Workers in the private sector would, rightly, see it as sending a signal to non-government employers.

    Women hated the policy, and it would further alienate the female vote. Dutton had to ditch the idea and apologise. Finance spokeswoman Jane Hume didn’t help the retreat by saying it was a good policy that hadn’t found its appropriate time.

    7. News on April 15 that the Russians wanted to base planes in Papua

    The story appeared on the respected military site Janes, and Dutton rushed to pick it up, but went off half-cocked, declaring wrongly that the Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto had announced the Russian request. It was symptomatic of Dutton being under-prepared. He had to make another apology.

    8. Neo-Nazis heckle during the Welcome to Country at the Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance Anzac Day Dawn Service

    This led to Dutton launching into “culture wars” in the final days of the campaign. In criticising the disruption, he at first said, “We have a proud Indigenous heritage in this country and we should be proud to celebrate it as part of today”.

    Subsequently he said most veterans didn’t want the Welcome to Country as part of the Anzac Day ceremonies, although it was a matter for the organisers. In general, he believed Welcome to Country ceremonies were used too frequently.

    Dutton segued the controversy back to criticism of the Voice, and seized on confusing remarks by Foreign Minister Penny Wong to claim Labor was still committed to bringing in a Voice, something Albanese flatly denied.

    9. The price of eggs

    In the last of the four debates neither leader could specify the cost of a dozen eggs. Dutton was way out ($4.20); Albanese rather closer (“$7, if you can find them.”. It was a small moment but sent the message that even in a cost-of-living election, the leaders do live in bubbles.

    10. Dutton comments on Thursday

    Almost at the road’s end, the opposition leader appealed to voters to overlook a flawed campaign. “This election really is a referendum not about the election campaign but about the last three years.”

    Asked if there was anything he could have done differently, he said “we should have called out Labor’s lies earlier on”.

    It was as though he was speaking to a postmortem, while praying for a miracle.

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Grattan on Friday: Key markers on the bumpy road to this election – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-key-markers-on-the-bumpy-road-to-this-election-255613

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI: TC Energy reports solid first quarter 2025 results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Expect to place approximately $8.5 billion of projects into service in 2025, tracking to roughly 15 per cent under budget

    Announced $2.4 billion of new natural gas and nuclear power generation growth projects

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TC Energy Corporation (TSX, NYSE: TRP) (TC Energy or the Company) released its first quarter results today. François Poirier, TC Energy’s President and Chief Executive Officer commented, “As natural gas and electricity are forecasted to drive the majority of growth in final energy consumption through 2035, we are pleased to announce two new growth projects that represent strategic investments in North America’s energy future. We have approved the Northwoods project on our ANR system, designed to serve electric generation demand in the U.S. Midwest, including data centres and overall economic growth.” Poirier continued, “Demonstrating our commitment to delivering long-lived value through investment in high-quality, emission-less nuclear power generation, we have also sanctioned Unit 5 at Bruce Power for its Major Component Replacement. Backed by long-term contracts with credible counterparties and attractive build multiples1, these projects collectively highlight our disciplined strategy and our ability to capture high-value, low-risk opportunities across our portfolio.”

    Financial Highlights
    (All financial figures are unaudited and in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted)

    • First quarter 2025 financial results from continuing operations2:
      • Comparable earnings3 of $1.0 billion or $0.95 per common share compared to $1.1 billion or $1.02 per common share in first quarter 2024
      • Net income attributable to common shares of $1.0 billion or $0.94 per common share compared to $1.0 billion or $0.95 per common share in first quarter 2024
      • Comparable EBITDA2 of $2.7 billion, similar to first quarter 2024
      • Segmented earnings of $2.0 billion compared to $1.9 billion in first quarter 2024
    • Reaffirming 2025 outlook:
      • Comparable EBITDA is expected to be $10.7 to $10.9 billion4
      • Comparable earnings per common share (EPS) outlook remains consistent with our 2024 Annual Report, and is expected to be lower than 2024
      • Capital expenditures are anticipated to be $6.1 to $6.6 billion on a gross basis, or $5.5 to $6.0 billion of net capital expenditures5
    • Declared a quarterly dividend of $0.85 per common share for the quarter ending June 30, 2025.

    Operational Highlights

    • Canadian Natural Gas Pipelines deliveries averaged 27.6 Bcf/d, up eight per cent compared to first quarter 2024
      • Total NGTL System deliveries set a new record of 17.8 Bcf on February 18, 2025
      • Canadian Mainline receipts averaged 5.0 Bcf/d, an increase of 14 per cent compared to first quarter 2024
    • U.S. Natural Gas Pipelines daily average flows were 31.0 Bcf/d, up five per cent compared to first quarter 2024
      • GTN set a new all-time record of 3.2 Bcf on February 19, 2025
      • Deliveries to LNG facilities averaged 3.5 Bcf/d, up five per cent compared to first quarter 2024
    • Mexico Natural Gas Pipelines flows averaged 3.1 Bcf/d, six per cent higher than first quarter 2024
      • Set a daily flow record of 4.1 Bcf on March 31, 2025
    • Bruce Power achieved 87 per cent availability in first quarter 2025, reflecting a planned outage on Unit 5
    • Cogeneration power plant fleet achieved 98.6 per cent availability in first quarter 2025, attributed to fewer forced outages and spring outages completed successfully ahead of plan.

    Project Highlights

    • The Southeast Gateway pipeline is ready for service. CFE has agreed to our contracted rate and accepted all requirements for in-service. Approval of our regulated rates from the Comisión Nacional de Energía (CNE) is expected by the end of May, at which time we anticipate the in-service of the Southeast Gateway pipeline. While 100 per cent of our capacity is contracted with the CFE and we have no requests for interruptible service, approval of the regulated rate by the CNE is normal course prior to commencing service. The 1.3 Bcf/d, 715-kilometre natural gas pipeline was constructed approximately 13 per cent under the original cost estimate in less than three years from the project’s final investment decision
    • Approved the Northwoods project, an expansion project on our ANR system designed to provide 0.4 Bcf/d of capacity to serve natural gas-fired electric generation demand in the U.S. Midwest, including data centres and overall economic growth. The project has an anticipated in-service date of late 2029 with an estimated cost of approximately US$0.9 billion, and expects to deliver a compelling build multiple in the range of five to seven times
    • Received approval of the Unit 5 Major Component Replacement (MCR) final cost and schedule estimate from the Ontario Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) on April 2, 2025. The $1.1 billion Unit 5 MCR is expected to commence in fourth quarter 2026 with a return to service in early 2030
    • ANR and GLGT each filed Section 4 Rate Cases with FERC requesting an increase to their respective maximum transportation rates expected to become effective November 1, 2025, subject to refund. We will pursue a collaborative process to find a mutually beneficial outcome with our customers through settlement.
        three months ended
    March 31
    (millions of $, except per share amounts)     2025       20241  
             
    Income        
    Net income (loss) attributable to common shares from continuing operations     978       988  
    per common share – basic   $ 0.94     $ 0.95  
             
    Segmented earnings (losses)        
    Canadian Natural Gas Pipelines     516       501  
    U.S. Natural Gas Pipelines     1,109       1,043  
    Mexico Natural Gas Pipelines     211       212  
    Power and Energy Solutions     135       252  
    Corporate     (5 )     (61 )
    Total segmented earnings (losses)     1,966       1,947  
             
    Comparable EBITDA from continuing operations        
    Canadian Natural Gas Pipelines     890       846  
    U.S. Natural Gas Pipelines     1,367       1,306  
    Mexico Natural Gas Pipelines     233       214  
    Power and Energy Solutions     224       320  
    Corporate     (5 )     (16 )
    Comparable EBITDA from continuing operations     2,709       2,670  
    Depreciation and amortization     (678 )     (635 )
    Interest expense included in comparable earnings     (840 )     (780 )
    Allowance for funds used during construction     248       157  
    Foreign exchange gains (losses), net included in comparable earnings     (10 )     43  
    Interest income and other     51       75  
    Income tax (expense) recovery included in comparable earnings     (292 )     (281 )
    Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests included in comparable earnings     (177 )     (171 )
    Preferred share dividends     (28 )     (23 )
    Comparable earnings from continuing operations     983       1,055  
    Comparable earnings per common share from continuing operations   $ 0.95     $ 1.02  
             
        three months ended
    March 31
    (millions of $, except per share amounts)     2025       2024  
             
    Cash flows2        
    Net cash provided by operations3     1,359       2,042  
    Comparable funds generated from operations3,4     1,949       2,436  
    Capital spending5     1,809       1,897  
    Disposition of equity interest, net of transaction costs6           (38 )
             
    Dividends declared        
    per common share   $ 0.85   7 $ 0.96  
             
    Basic common shares outstanding(millions)        
    – weighted average for the period     1,039       1,037  
    – issued and outstanding at end of period     1,040       1,037  
    1. Results reflect continuing operations.
    2. Includes continuing and discontinued operations.
    3. Represents three months of Liquids Pipelines earnings in first quarter 2024 compared to Liquids Pipelines earnings of nil for the three months ended March 31, 2025. Refer to the Discontinued operations section and the 2024 Annual Report for additional information.
    4. Comparable funds generated from operations is a non-GAAP measure used throughout this news release. This measure does not have any standardized meaning under GAAP and therefore is unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is net cash provided by operations. For more information on non-GAAP measures, refer to the Non-GAAP Measures section of this news release.
    5. Capital spending reflects cash flows associated with our Capital expenditures, Capital projects in development and Contributions to equity investments. Refer to Note 4, Segmented information of our Condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information.
    6. Included in the Financing activities section of the Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows.
    7. Reflects TC Energy’s proportionate allocation following the spinoff Transaction.

    CEO Message
    Throughout the first three months of 2025, TC Energy showcased the strength of our business and our position as an industry leading natural gas and power and energy solutions company. While evolving macroeconomic conditions continue to contribute to market uncertainty, we have reaffirmed our 2025 outlook based on our highly contracted, low-risk business with 97 per cent of our comparable EBITDA underpinned by rate-regulation and/or long-term take-or-pay contracts. We delivered strong operational and financial results, achieving approximately one per cent growth in both comparable EBITDA and segmented earnings compared to first quarter 2024, despite removing a second unit from service at Bruce Power for its MCR. These results continue to demonstrate the overall resiliency of our business. We remain focused on maximizing the value of our assets through safety and operational excellence, executing our selective portfolio of growth projects and ensuring financial strength and agility as we deliver solid growth, low risk and repeatable performance for our shareholders.

    The Southeast Gateway pipeline is now ready for service, representing a significant milestone in project execution. The 1.3 Bcf/d, 715-kilometre natural gas pipeline was constructed approximately 13 per cent under the original cost estimate in less than three years from the project’s final investment decision. Our partner and customer, CFE, has agreed to our contracted rate and accepted all requirements for in-service. We are jointly working with the CNE and the Secretary of Energy to obtain the approval of the regulatory rates, required for interruptible service. While 100 per cent of our capacity is contracted with the CFE and we have no requests for interruptible service, approval of the regulated rate by the CNE is normal course and required by Mexican regulation prior to commencing service. We expect to receive CNE approval by the end of May, at which time we anticipate the in-service of the Southeast Gateway pipeline. Southeast Gateway in-service will represent an important inflection point for TC Energy, contributing significant long-term contracted cash flow to our overall growth profile. The Government of Mexico has announced plans to bring approximately 29 gigawatts of new installed capacity online by 2030, including approximately 8.5 gigawatts of capacity from new natural gas plants6. The Southeast Gateway project is a critical component of this plan, strategically positioned to support operations of 10 of 14 planned natural gas power plants that support the country’s transition to lower-emitting, more reliable sources of energy while driving economic growth and energy security.

    As natural gas and electricity are forecasted to drive the majority of growth in final energy consumption through 2035, TC Energy’s portfolio of natural gas and power assets are presented with attractive in-corridor opportunities with visibility through the end of the decade. Reflecting this opportunity, we have sanctioned the Northwoods project on our ANR system in the range of a five to seven times build multiple. Under a 20 year, take-or-pay contract, the estimated US$0.9 billion project is designed to serve natural gas-fired electric generation demand in the U.S. Midwest, including data centres and overall economic growth. The estimated in-service date of the 0.4 Bcf/d capacity project is late 2029. The Northwoods project exemplifies our strategic focus on executing high value, in-corridor, low-risk projects at attractive build multiples, underpinned by long-term take-or-pay contracts with creditworthy counterparties, allowing us to continue to deliver solid growth, low risk and repeatable performance.

    Looking forward, led by a three-fold increase in LNG exports, strong growth in power generation driven by coal-to-gas conversions and data centre demand, we expect our assets will play a pivotal role in the delivery of reliable, affordable and sustainable energy. Our origination pipeline remains one of the most robust we have seen in decades, with several projects in advanced stages of development, largely related to coal-to-gas conversions and data centre demand growth. Over the past six months, we have sanctioned approximately $4 billion of new capital projects and believe we have line of sight to an increased cadence of project announcements in the second half of 2025 and into 2026. While we anticipate the majority of incremental capital would be weighted toward the end of the decade, we have added capital expenditures in 2025 and 2026 that further enhances our comparable EBITDA growth profile in 2027 and beyond, while ensuring the safety and reliability of our systems. These investments directly support service provided to our customers and their requests for capacity additions. Consistent with our disciplined approach to capital allocation, we expect projects to align with our target of five to seven times build multiples and underpinned by long-term contracts with strong counterparties.

    As electricity demand in Ontario is anticipated to grow 75 per cent by 20507, Bruce Power continues play a critical role. On April 2, 2025, we received approval of the Unit 5 MCR final cost and schedule estimate from the Ontario IESO. The $1.1 billion Unit 5 MCR is expected to commence in fourth quarter 2026 with a return to service in early 2030. As we progress the refurbishment program at Bruce Power, the team remains focused on achieving the highest level of reliability, availability and safety performance at the site. On January 31, 2025, Unit 4 was removed from service to commence its MCR program, with a return to service expected in 2028. Unit 3 MCR and Unit 4 MCR continue to advance on plan for both cost and schedule. The average 2025 plant availability percentage, excluding the Unit 3 and Unit 4 MCR programs, is expected to be in the low-90 per cent range, and reflects planned maintenance on Unit 2 anticipated in the third quarter of 2025. The MCR program provides TC Energy with line of sight to meaningful growth capital at attractive returns through the end of the decade, backed by a long-term contract to 2064 with the Ontario IESO.

    We continue to expect approximately $8.5 billion of projects to be placed into service in 2025, which includes the Southeast Gateway pipeline project. Our focus on project execution is a cornerstone of our strategic priorities. For the remaining projects anticipated to be placed in service in 2025, we are tracking to schedule and below initial cost estimates. High-grading projects remains a priority to optimize returns to maximize value. We will continue to sanction projects with a compelling risk/return profile to fill our $6.0 billion annual net capital expenditure limit and extend the duration of our project backlog, ensuring visibility to growth opportunities through 2030. Through this, we can continue to organically grow comparable EBITDA to support our three to five per cent dividend growth target and further reduce leverage over time.

    TC Energy’s Board of Directors approved a quarterly common share dividend of $0.85 per common share for the quarter ending June 30, 2025, equivalent to $3.40 per common share on an annualized basis.

    Teleconference and Webcast
    We will hold a teleconference and webcast on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 6:30 a.m. (MDT) / 8:30 a.m. (EDT) to discuss our first quarter 2025 financial results and Company developments. Presenters will include François Poirier, President and Chief Executive Officer; Sean O’Donnell, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer; and other members of the executive leadership team.

    Members of the investment community and other interested parties are invited to participate by calling 1-833-752-3826 (Canada/U.S.) or 1-647-846-8864 (International toll). No passcode is required. Please dial in 15 minutes prior to the start of the call. Alternatively, participants may pre-register for the call here. Upon registering, you will receive a calendar booking by email with dial in details and a unique PIN. This process will bypass the operator and avoid the queue. Registration will remain open until the end of the conference call.

    A live webcast of the teleconference will be available on TC Energy’s website at TC Energy — Events and presentations or via the following URL: https://www.gowebcasting.com/13942. The webcast will be available for replay following the meeting.

    A replay of the teleconference will be available two hours after the conclusion of the call until midnight EDT on May 8, 2025. Please call 1-855-669-9658 (Canada/U.S.) or 1-412-317-0088 (International toll) and enter passcode 6585702.

    The unaudited interim Condensed consolidated financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) are available on our website at www.TCEnergy.com and will be filed today under TC Energy’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

    About TC Energy
    We’re a team of 6,500+ energy problem solvers connecting the world to the energy it needs. Out extensive network of natural gas infrastructure assets is one-of-a-kind. We seamlessly move, generate and store energy and deliver it to where it is needed most, to home and businesses in North America and across the globe through LNG exports. Our natural gas assets are complemented by our strategic ownership and low-risk investments in power generation.

    TC Energy’s common shares trade on the Toronto (TSX) and New York (NYSE) stock exchanges under the symbol TRP. To learn more, visit us at www.TCEnergy.com.

    Forward-Looking Information
    This release contains certain information that is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties and is based on certain key assumptions. Forward-looking statements are usually accompanied by words such as “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “estimate” or other similar words. Forward-looking statements in this document may include, but are not limited to, statements related to expectations with respect to Southeast Gateway, including receipt of CNE approval, in-service date, cash flows and other impacts, expectations related to Northwoods project, including expected in-service dates and related expected capital expenditures, expected comparable EBITDA and comparable earnings in total and per common share and the sources thereof, expectations with respect to Bruce Power, including the MCR program and associated cost and schedule estimates, expectations with respect to the approximate value of projects to be placed in-service in 2025, expectations with respect to identified FERC rate cases, including timelines, processes and outcomes, expectations with respect to our strategic priorities, and the execution thereof, expectations with respect to our ability to maximize the value of our assets through safety and operational excellence, expected cost and schedules for planned projects, including projects under construction and in development and the associated capital expenditures, expectations about energy demand levels and drivers thereof, expectations about our ability to execute our identified portfolio of growth projects and ensure financial strength and agility, our ability to deliver solid growth, low risk and repeatable performance, our expected net capital expenditures, including timing, and expected industry, market and economic conditions, and ongoing trade negotiations, including their expected impact on our business, customers and suppliers. Our forward-looking information is subject to important risks and uncertainties and is based on certain key assumptions. Forward-looking statements and future-oriented financial information in this document are intended to provide TC Energy security holders and potential investors with information regarding TC Energy and its subsidiaries, including management’s assessment of TC Energy’s and its subsidiaries’ future plans and financial outlook. All forward-looking statements reflect TC Energy’s beliefs and assumptions based on information available at the time the statements were made and as such are not guarantees of future performance. As actual results could vary significantly from the forward-looking information, you should not put undue reliance on forward-looking information and should not use future-oriented information or financial outlooks for anything other than their intended purpose. We do not update our forward-looking information due to new information or future events, unless we are required to by law. For additional information on the assumptions made, and the risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ from the anticipated results, refer to the most recent Quarterly Report to Shareholders and the 2024 Annual Report filed under TC Energy’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov and the “Forward-looking information” section of our Report on Sustainability and our GHG Emissions Reduction Plan which are available on our website at www.TCEnergy.com.

    Non-GAAP and Supplementary Financial Measure
    This release contains references to the following non-GAAP measures: comparable EBITDA, comparable earnings, comparable earnings per common share and comparable funds generated from operations. These non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning as prescribed by GAAP and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. These non-GAAP measures are calculated by adjusting certain GAAP measures for specific items we believe are significant but not reflective of our underlying operations in the period. These comparable measures are calculated on a consistent basis from period to period and are adjusted for specific items in each period, as applicable except as otherwise described in the Condensed consolidated financial statements and MD&A. Refer to: (i) each business segment and the discontinued operations section for a reconciliation of comparable EBITDA to segmented earnings (losses); (ii) Consolidated results section and the discontinued operations section for reconciliations of comparable earnings and comparable earnings per common share to Net income attributable to common shares and Net income per common share, respectively; and (iii) Financial condition section for a reconciliation of comparable funds generated from operations to Net cash provided by operations. Refer to the Non-GAAP Measures section of the MD&A in our most recent quarterly report for more information about the non-GAAP measures we use. The MD&A is included with, and forms part of, this release. The MD&A can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca under TC Energy’s profile.

    This release contains references to build multiple, which is non-GAAP ratio which is calculated using capital expenditures and comparable EBITDA, of which comparable EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure. We believe build multiple provides investors with a useful measure to evaluate capital projects.

    This release also contains references to net capital expenditures, which is a supplementary financial measure. Net capital expenditures represent capital costs incurred for growth projects, maintenance capital expenditures, contributions to equity investments and projects under development, adjusted for the portion attributed to non-controlling interests in the entities we control. Net capital expenditures reflect capital costs incurred during the period, excluding the impact of timing of cash payments. We use net capital expenditures as a key measure in evaluating our performance in managing our capital spending activities in comparison to our capital plan.

    Download full report here: https://www.tcenergy.com/siteassets/pdfs/investors/reports-and-filings/annual-and-quarterly-reports/2025/tce-2025-q1-quarterly-report.pdf

    Media Inquiries:
    Media Relations
    media@tcenergy.com
    403.920.7859 or 800.608.7859

    Investor & Analyst Inquiries:
    Gavin Wylie / Hunter Mau
    investor_relations@tcenergy.com
    403.920.7911 or 800.361.6522


    1 Build multiple is a non-GAAP ratio calculated by dividing capital expenditures by comparable EBITDA. Please note our method for calculating build multiple may differ from methods used by other entities. Therefore, it may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. For more information on non-GAAP measures and the supplementary financial measure, refer to the Non-GAAP and Supplementary financial measure section of this news release.
    2 Prior year results have been recast to reflect the Liquids Pipelines business as a discontinued operation as a result of the Spinoff Transaction.
    3 Comparable EBITDA, comparable earnings and comparable earnings per common share are non-GAAP measures used throughout this news release. These measures do not have any standardized meaning under GAAP and therefore are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The most directly comparable GAAP measures are Segmented earnings, Net income attributable to common shares and Net income per common share, respectively. We do not forecast Segmented earnings. For more information on non-GAAP measures, refer to the Non-GAAP Measures section of this news release.
    4 Based on USD/CAD foreign exchange rate of 1.35.
    5 Net capital expenditures are adjusted for the portion attributed to non-controlling interests and is a supplementary financial measure used throughout this news release. For more information on non-GAAP measures and the supplementary financial measure, refer to the Non-GAAP and Supplementary financial measure section of this news release.
    6 Source: Government of Mexico, CFE fourth quarter 2024 investor presentation
    7 Source: Ontario Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom proclaims Apprenticeship Day 2025

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 30, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring April 30, 2025, as “Apprenticeship Day.”

    The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below.

    PROCLAMATION

    National Apprenticeship Day is a nationwide celebration recognizing apprenticeships as a vital career pathway that is key to the prosperity and vitality of our state. We are proud to be a national leader in growing the number and type of apprenticeships, enabling more Californians to pursue rewarding careers while strengthening our economy.

    Apprenticeships are integral to California’s Master Plan for Career Education, a pragmatic strategy for career readiness that prioritizes hands-on learning and real-life skills in career education. Working in coordination with the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, the Master Plan takes a bottom-up approach to workforce and economic development that is responsive to the emerging needs of the economy and specific to sectors, regions, and individuals’ skills and experience.

    The state has made historic efforts to increase access to apprenticeships across industries, proudly supporting 91,493 active registered apprentices. We are invested in initiatives to sustain and scale registered apprentice programs, through initiatives like Apprenticeship Innovation Funding, which has made $52 million available in its third round of funding to reimburse the program and training costs for growing apprenticeship programs.

    All Californians deserve the opportunity to gain the skills that build a lasting career. Through the California Opportunity Youth Apprenticeship Grant program, the state is committing an additional $16 million to expand access to pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities for young people. This investment, together with the Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship Grant, is expanding pathways into the construction industry and helping ensure that California’s skilled workforce reflects California’s communities.

    Apprentices offer an impactful alternative to traditional education paths that benefit employers as well as workers by filling skill gaps in critical areas and helping businesses grow. Supporting the next generation of skilled workers is how we have built the fourth-largest economy in the world – and a workforce that is the envy of the world.

    NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim April 30, 2025 as “Apprenticeship Day.”

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 30th day of April 2025.

    GAVIN NEWSOM
    Governor of California

    ATTEST:
    SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.
    Secretary of State   

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces launch of new AI tool to supercharge the approval of building permits and speed recovery from Los Angeles Fires

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 30, 2025

    What you need to know: The state of California is providing LA City and County a new AI-powered e-check software free of charge to speed the pace at which local governments are approving building permits.

    LOS ANGELES – Leveraging the power of private sector innovation, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the launch of a new artificial intelligence-driven software to aid Los Angeles City and County in accelerating the approval process for rebuilding permits to help communities recover more quickly from the Eaton and Palisades fires. 

    “The current pace of issuing permits locally is not meeting the magnitude of the challenge we face. To help boost local progress, California is partnering with the tech sector and community leaders to give local governments more tools to rebuild faster and more effectively.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The software, created by Archistar, will be provided free of charge to the local governments and to users through a partnership between the state and philanthropic partners including LA Rises and Steadfast LA with contributions from Autodesk and Amazon.

    “Bringing AI into permitting will allow us to rebuild faster and safer, reducing costs and turning a process that can take weeks and months into one that can happen in hours or days,” said Steadfast LA Chairman Rick Caruso. “Working with our coalition partner Mike Hopkins and Amazon, I’m proud Steadfast LA identified Archistar as the right company to develop and apply this game-changing technology. Now we can work with great philanthropic organizations, including LA Rises, to provide this critical tool at no cost to taxpayers. We will continue bringing forward new technology and ideas to cut through red tape and expedite this recovery.”

    While the state has no direct role in the local permit approval process, Governor Newsom has worked aggressively to cut red tape, remove obstacles, and provide every available resource to local governments so they can fast-track permits and rebuild quickly. 

    The software uses computer vision, machine learning, and automated rulesets to instantly check designs against local zoning and building codes in the assessment process for building permits. This technology will allow property owners to pre-check their building plans before submission to ensure they submit valid plans, thus avoiding frustrating delays and expediting the review process once received by city or county staff.

    Once fully implemented by local leaders, this e-check tool will improve efficiency, accuracy, transparency, and speed of the rebuilding process from the Eaton and Palisades fire while also improving the experience for disaster survivors.

    “Getting residents home quickly and safely is my top priority,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “Last week, I signed an Executive Directive to spearhead an AI pilot program to streamline the permitting process for Palisades residents. With the announcement of this AI solution, we’re infusing new technologies into City Hall processes to ensure nothing stands in the way of families getting home – and to keep our recovery effort on track to be the fastest in modern California history. I thank Governor Newsom and our County partners for their collaboration on this exciting effort.”

    The County of Los Angeles has also committed to using the software and passed a Board Resolution to establish a unified permitting authority for the Altadena one-stop recovery center.

    “I’m excited to see Los Angeles County embrace innovative technology like Archistar to accelerate the rebuilding process in Altadena and neighboring communities recovering from the Eaton Fire,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “This AI tool has the potential to save homeowners valuable time by helping them submit code-compliant plans from the start. I appreciate Governor Newsom’s stewardship of this opportunity and SoCal Grantmakers for their fiduciary support. Their help—along with collaboration from our County’s permitting departments—helped make this opportunity possible. Our collective work will help ensure we’re delivering real, efficient solutions to those working hard to rebuild their lives. Our wildfire survivors deserve nothing less.”

    “Together, government and philanthropy are standing with our community to ensure a safe, swift, and lasting recovery from the Palisades and Eaton Fires,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “With new AI-powered tools and LA County’s One-Stop Permitting Centers, we’re cutting red tape to help residents rebuild and return home sooner. I’m grateful to Governor Newsom, Steadfast LA, and LA Rises for their investment in our recovery.”

    The technology is already being used by more than 25 forward-looking municipalities across the United States, Canada, and Australia, including cities like Vancouver, Austin, Houston and Seattle as well as states like Colorado, British Columbia (Canada) and New South Wales (Australia). In addition to providing the software free of charge in Los Angeles, the tool is now available on a statewide contract that any local government can now access quickly to streamline their own plan review process. 

    Today’s announcement is part of a broader effort to cut red tape and harness innovation in the LA fire recovery process. 

    Cutting red tape

    Governor Newsom issued an executive order to streamline the rebuilding of homes and businesses destroyed — suspending permitting and review requirements under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the California Coastal Act. The Governor also issued an executive order further cutting red tape by reiterating that permitting requirements under the California Coastal Act are suspended for rebuilding efforts and directing the Coastal Commission not to issue guidance or take any action that interferes with or conflicts with the Governor’s executive orders. Additionally, he signed an executive order to cut more red tape and continue streamlining rebuilding, recovery, and relief for survivors. The Governor also issued an executive order removing bureaucratic barriers, extending deadlines, and providing critical regulatory relief to help fire survivors rebuild, access essential services, and recover more quickly.

    Efficient, engaged, effective

    Since the start of his administration in 2019, Governor Newsom has made efficiency and engagement a top priority, implementing new technologies and practices that make government more efficient and responsive to the people it serves. In 2019, the Governor established the Office of Data Innovation to help advance this important work. 

    As the birthplace of tech, California is at the forefront in the study and implementation of AI in government. In 2023, Governor Newsom issued an executive order directing state agencies to utilize Generative AI technologies to improve state services and help solve important issues. Since that time, the state has integrated AI and other efficiency solutions to make state government work faster and even more effective.

    To help provide the Los Angeles community with a stronger voice in the rebuilding and recovery efforts, Governor Newsom launched Engaged California, a new platform that gives Californians a unique opportunity to share their thoughts and connect with other people on topics that are important to them. It creates new opportunities for Californians to connect with their government to inform and shape policy through honest, respectful discussions.

    The program was launched in February with the first use case focusing on the impacts of the Los Angeles wildfires.
     

    Partnerships Key 

    Today’s announcement was made possible through partnerships with philanthropic and community organizations who are aiding wildfire recovery in Los Angeles.

    Autodesk is a global leader in design and make technology, empowering innovators across architecture, engineering, construction, product design, manufacturing, and media.

    Steadfast LA is a civic nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating the rebuilding of Los Angeles after the devastating wildfires by bringing together top leaders, bold ideas, and effective solutions to get things done right and fast.

    LA Rises is a unified recovery initiative that brings together private sector leaders to support rebuilding efforts led by the city of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County and the State of California. In January, the Governor enlisted Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, business leader and basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and Casey Wasserman, LA28 Chairperson and President to lead and recruit others to this private sector and philanthropic effort.

    Track LA’s recovery, including the latest air quality results, at CA.gov/LAfires.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom deploys first-in-the-nation GenAI technologies to improve efficiency in state government

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 29, 2025

    What you need to know: California continues to improve efficiency and engagement in state government by advancing its first-in-the-nation project to integrate cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology into state operations.

    Los Angeles, California – California continues to implement Governor Gavin Newsom’s Executive Order on Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), today with Governor Newsom announcing the state has entered into three new agreements to utilize GenAI to reduce highway congestion, improve roadway safety, and enhance customer service in a state call center. 

    The announcement today, made at Accenture headquarters in Los Angeles, is part of Governor Newsom’s ongoing strategy to implement technologies and practices that make state operations more efficient and responsive to the people it serves. In 2023, Governor Newsom issued an executive order directing state agencies to utilize GenAI technologies to improve state services and help solve important issues. Since that time, the state has integrated AI and other efficiency solutions to make state government work faster and even more effective.

    GenAI is here, and it’s growing in importance every day. We know that state government can be more efficient, and as the birthplace of tech it is only natural that California leads in this space. In the Golden State, we know that efficiency means more than cutting services to save a buck, but instead building and refining our state government to better serve all Californians.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Leading in efficiency 

    California is leading in the effort to implement AI and other technologies into state government operations, quickly adopting projects through its new innovative procurement method, Request for Innovative Ideas (RFI2). RFI2 allows the state to quickly test technology through safe and secure environments, providing the state and the innovator community valuable insights while protecting state data. RFI2 was adopted by the state in 2019, after Governor Newsom sought to improve the onerous state purchasing process and help the state to more efficiently adopt these new technologies.

    Leading in engagement

    Governor Newsom has also implemented new technologies through the Office of Data and Innovation, including the groundbreaking new Engaged California project. This first-in-the-nation digital democracy platform is currently being used to help the community in the Los Angeles wildfire recovery. Today, Governor Newsom will also host a roundtable event in the LA area to meet with stakeholders integral in the Engaged California project — and to discuss projects for expansion statewide. 

    “We are committed to harnessing the latest technologies to better serve Californians. With GenAI, we’re improving government service while also showing the benefits this California-based industry can bring to governments all over the world.” California Government Operations Agency Secretary Nick Maduros

    Projects moving forward today include:

    GenAI to reduce highway congestion 

    The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) released a problem statement to process and interpret complex data to improve its traffic pattern analysis, address bottlenecks, and enhance overall traffic management. To solve this issue, Azure Open AI, GenAI technology developed by Microsoft and utilized by Accenture, LLP, used a vast amount of data from authentic, well-recognized sources to analyze potential transportation scenarios and develop solutions, including reducing traffic congestion, enhancing incident response, and improving transit reliability. 

    The next phase of this project will analyze real-time and historical data from roadways to predict traffic bottlenecks, detect incidents faster, and identify locations for safety enhancements. This cutting-edge solution will empower Caltrans to improve mobility and reduce traffic delays across the state.

    “California is a global leader in GenAI innovation, and the signing of these contracts provides the state an essential tool to help solve some of our most pressing transportation challenges. Under Governor Newsom’s leadership, California is enthusiastically advancing this cutting-edge technology and will now harness its power to help save lives and streamline mobility for all people.” California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin 

    GenAI for traffic safety 

    Caltrans will also be using GenAI to investigate near misses of injuries/fatalities to identify risky areas and monitor interventions designed to increase safety of vulnerable road users, including bike riders and pedestrians. Under the contract, Deloitte Consulting, LLP used Gemini GenAI technology to help identify high-collision locations and recommended targeted safety improvements across the highway system to proactively address road safety risks — especially for vulnerable road users. 

    By analyzing various datasets—including crash records, roadway conditions, and equity indicators—GenAI uncovered patterns, prioritized safety interventions, and delivered data-driven insights to help the department better protect all Californians on the road. In the next phase, the tool will expand upon the datasets to better identify and address locations in need of safety upgrades which will be evaluated by the department prior to taking any actions. 

    “These historic contracts exemplify Caltrans’ commitment to innovation and being a national leader in adopting new technologies to improve lives and communities. Using GenAI through smart, responsible implementation will be a game changer in developing solutions to ease traffic gridlock and reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roadways.” Caltrans Director Tony Tavares

    GenAI to enhance customer service

    The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) will use GenAI to swiftly search more than 16,000 pages of reference materials and assist staff in providing responses to taxpayers via telephone and live chat. 

    During a pilot project carried out over the last 10 months, Claude, a next-generation AI assistant developed by Anthropic, was utilized by Symsoft Solutions LLC to reduce the time it takes to handle an average CDTFA customer inquiry. Typically, during peak tax filing periods, an additional 280 staff from throughout the department are temporarily reassigned to provide backup to the call center. With this new technology, CDTFA will be able to continue providing excellent customer service while limiting the need for disruptions from staff reassignments. 

    “California is demonstrating that GenAI can help us improve the way we do business for Californians.  This project will serve as a proof point moving forward to see if we can scale this technology across state government call centers.” CDTFA Director Trista Gonzalez.

    GenAI, the California way

    California will continue to implement GenAI for the benefit of all Californians, presenting additional challenges and calling for new GenAI projects by AI innovators. The second round brings the state closer to possibly using GenAI for operational efficiencies in housing, workforce planning, and bill analysis. The work is ongoing, and the state anticipates wrapping up this second round by summer 2025.  

    For more information about why California is the home of GenAI, visit GenAI.ca.gov.

    GenAI for productivity

    Also in response to the Governor’s executive order to help implement AI solutions to make state government more efficient, effective, and productive, the state is now implementing additional AI solutions for state departments. The state recently launched a first-in-the-nation State Digital Assistance AI tool through the California Department of Technology, which will be provided to eight state departments through a pilot program. The departments will utilize the tool through a pilot program to test how GenAI can help increase productivity by assisting staff to quickly develop images, and summarize and analyze state data.

    California has also rolled out Microsoft 365 Copilot chat for state departments, which is being offered at no cost to the state for the pilot period. Copilot Chat is a GenAI assistant to enhance staff productivity by streamlining information analysis, assisting with content creation, answering questions, and more. 

    Harnessing the power of AI

    AI is already changing the world, and California will play a pivotal role in defining that future. Home to Silicon Valley and the birthplace of the tech industry, California continues to dominate as the leader in AI. The state is home to 32 of 50 top AI companies worldwide.

    In addition to California’s efforts to deploy GenAI in state government, Governor Newsom co-hosted a GenAI summit in May 2024 with leaders across academia, industry, civil society, and government to discuss how the state can best use this transformative technology on behalf of Californians. 

    First of-its-kind effort with NVIDIA

    In August 2024, the state partnered with NVIDIA to launch a first-of-its-kind AI collaboration. The initiative, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom and NVIDIA founder & CEO Jensen Huang, aims to train students, educators and workers; support job creation and promote innovation; and use AI to solve challenges that can improve the lives of Californians.

    Staying ahead of threats 

    Last year, Governor Newsom also signed a series of bills to crack down on sexually explicit deepfakes and require AI watermarking, protect performers’ digital likenesses, and combat deepfake election content.

    Recent news

    News What you need to know: California is filing a lawsuit today against the Trump administration for dismantling AmeriCorps, which puts service and volunteer programs across the country and in California at risk. SACRAMENTO — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney…

    News SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement congratulating newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney:“Jennifer and I warmly congratulate Prime Minister Mark Carney on his party’s election victory in Canada. California looks…

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring April 28, 2025 as “Workers’ Memorial Day.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONOn Workers’ Memorial Day, we acknowledge, remember, and honor…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: California sues Trump administration for dismantling AmeriCorps

    Source: US State of California 2

    Apr 29, 2025

    What you need to know: California is filing a lawsuit today against the Trump administration for dismantling AmeriCorps, which puts service and volunteer programs across the country and in California at risk.

    SACRAMENTO — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that California, along with other states, is suing the Trump administration over recent DOGE efforts to dismantle AmeriCorps – the federal agency vital to supporting volunteer and service efforts in California and across the country.  

    As the federal government cuts AmeriCorps programs, the state is recruiting for the California Service Corps program — already the largest service corps in the nation, surpassing the size of the Peace Corps.

    Service sits at the very core of who we are as Americans. California is suing the Trump administration to defend thousands of hardworking service members and the communities they serve.

    These actions by President Trump and Elon Musk not only threaten our funding – they vandalize our values. We’re going to fight to stop them.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    In the complaint today, the Attorney General Bonta and a multistate coalition argue that by abruptly canceling critical grants and gutting AmeriCorps’ workforce, the Trump Administration is effectively shuttering the national volunteer agency and ending states’ abilities to support AmeriCorps programs within their borders. 

    “AmeriCorps volunteers bring out the best in America and in our communities. By abruptly canceling critical grants and gutting AmeriCorps’ workforce and volunteers, DOGE is dismantling AmeriCorps without any concern for the thousands of people who are ready and eager to serve their country — or for those whose communities are stronger because of this public service,” said Attorney General Bonta. “In California, AmeriCorps volunteers build affordable housing, clean up our environment, and address food insecurity in communities across our state. California has repeatedly taken action to hold the Trump Administration and DOGE accountable to the law — and we stand prepared to do it again to protect AmeriCorps and the vital services it provides.”

    In 2024, at least 6,150 California members served at more than 1,200 locations, including schools, food banks, homeless shelters, health clinics, youth centers, veterans’ facilities, and other nonprofit and faith-based organizations. When the devastating fires struck Los Angeles earlier this year, AmeriCorps members were on the ground, distributing supplies and supporting families. The agency’s shutdown ends these efforts.

    “DOGE isn’t just cutting jobs — they’re attacking the very people who keep California strong,” said GO-Serve Director Josh Fryday. “They’re coming after the service members who responded to the LA fires, the tutors helping our kids and the young leaders caring for our seniors. It’s outrageous, it’s illegal and we won’t back down. In California, we’re not just defending service — we’re strengthening it. California is doubling down, and we trust the courts will strike this down and uphold the values we fight for every day.” 

    California Service Corps is the largest service force in the nation, consisting of four paid service programs:   

     Combined, it is a force larger than the Peace Corps and is mobilized at a time when California is addressing post-pandemic academic recovery, rebuilding from the LA fires and planning for the future of the state’s workforce. 

    In the 2023-24 service year, AmeriCorps members in California: 

    • Provided 4,397,674 hours of service
    • Tutored/mentored 73,833 students
    • Supported 17,000 foster youth with education and employment 
    • Planted 39,288 trees

    Members helped 26,000 households impacted by the LA fires and packed 21,000 food boxes.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement congratulating newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney:“Jennifer and I warmly congratulate Prime Minister Mark Carney on his party’s election victory in Canada. California looks…

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring April 28, 2025 as “Workers’ Memorial Day.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONOn Workers’ Memorial Day, we acknowledge, remember, and honor…

    News What you need to know: DOGE is ramping up its work to dismantle AmeriCorps. California will sue to stop it. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement after California received notice from the federal government of termination of its…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – The need to update Europe’s policy on the Ukrainian conflict given recent diplomatic trends and the changing international landscape – E-000683/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The President of the Commission welcomed the proposal for a ceasefire which came out of the US-Ukraine talks in Jeddah on 11 March 2025, as a positive development that can be a step towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. She declared that the EU is ready to take its full part in the upcoming peace negotiations[1].

    Similarly, the High Representative/Vice-President, in the statement on behalf of the EU, welcomed the ceasefire proposal, as well as humanitarian efforts and the resumption of the United States’ intelligence sharing and security assistance.

    She reiterated that the EU’s objective is to support Ukraine to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting peace, based on the principles of the United Nations’ Charter and international law.

    She declared that the EU is ready to play its full part in supporting the upcoming steps, together with Ukraine, the United States, and other partners. She underlined that it is now for Russia to show its willingness to achieve peace[2].

    • [1] https://x.com/vonderleyen/status/1899538326438261074
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/11/ukraine-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union-following-the-ukraine-us-meeting-in-saudi-arabia/
    Last updated: 30 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Closure of mines and lignite-fired power stations in Western Macedonia: a great cause of suffering for the people – E-001603/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001603/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)

    Heightened competition between the EU and Russia and competitive planning by the US are paving the way for further increases in the cost of energy and basic commodities. The implementation of the EU’s green strategy is also marked by the closure, by the Greek Government and Public Power Corporation, of the Meliti and Megalopoli coal-fired power stations and the planned closure of the one in Agios Dimitrios and of the mines that supply them. Power plants harnessing a local fuel, lignite, are being replaced by plants running on imported natural gas. This is depriving the people of access to cheap electricity, while fostering unemployment in Western Macedonia and jeopardising national energy security.

    The Commission’s action plan for ‘cheaper natural gas imports’ increases dependence on LNG from the US, which is more expensive, while guaranteeing lower relative energy prices for large industrial groups.

    Can the Commission say:

    • 1.How does it view the fact that the ‘green’ energy strategy pursued by the EU and national governments is determined by the requirements and interests of business groups?
    • 2.What view does it take of the fact that ending dependence on Russian gas, abandoning cheap domestic lignite and shifting towards more expensive LNG from the US and the measures to increase the share of renewable energy sources under the conditions of the ‘liberalised market’ only result in further increases in costs for ordinary households, exploitative labour conditions for workers in the sector and a blight on the people of Western Macedonia?

    Submitted: 22.4.2025

    Last updated: 30 April 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – “Flow” wins 2025 LUX Audience Award

    Source: European Parliament

    The film “Flow”, directed by Latvian Gints Zilbalodis, was awarded the 2025 LUX Audience Award at a ceremony on Tuesday in the European Parliament in Brussels.

    Flow“, a Latvian, French and Belgian co-production, tells the story of Cat, a solitary animal whose home is devastated by a great flood. In his efforts to adapt to a new world, Cat finds refuge on a boat populated by other animals. The film deals with issues that are central in the European Parliament’s work: climate change, migration, displacement, and resilience.

    “The LUX Audience Award is more than just a prize. It is a testament to the European Parliament’s commitment to democracy, freedom of expression and the role of cinema in reflecting and shaping our societies. It brings European stories closer to people and brings people closer to the work of the European Parliament. This year’s five nominated films represent some of the most urgent and compelling issues of our time, issues that are at the core of the European Parliament’s agenda,” European Parliament Vice-President Sabine Verheyen (EPP, DE) said in a video message shown during the ceremony in the European Parliament hemicycle in Brussels.

    “We have had five compelling narratives and five very different LUX Audience Award nominees: they are an inspiration to filmmakers and the public, not only for celebrating the extraordinary variety of European cinema but also for demonstrating its ability to entertain and elevate at the same time. The cinematic art in Europe is a perfect example of how culture can make a significant contribution to society and advocate for compassion, empathy and change in an otherwise divided world,” Mike Downey, honorary president of the LUX Selection Committee and chair of the European Film Academy, said following the announcement of the winner.

    The four other films shortlisted for the award were: “Animal” by Greek director Sofia Exarchou, “Dahomey” by French director Mati Diop, “Intercepted” by Ukranian director Oksana Karpovych, and “Julie keeps quiet” by Belgian director Leonardo van Dijl.

    The winning film was chosen by combining a public vote and a vote by MEPs, each weighted at 50%.

    Press point

    After the ceremony, a press point with the chair of Parliament’s Committee on Culture and Education, Nela Riehl (Greens, DE), representatives of the winning film, and Mike Downey, will take place in front of room SPAAK 03C050. The press point will be webstreamed via the European Parliament Multimedia Centre.


    LUX Audience Award

    Through the LUX Audience Award, a unique pan-European audience film prize, Parliament has supported the distribution of European films since 2007, by providing subtitles in 24 EU languages for shortlisted films. The LUX Audience Award has garnered a reputation for quality by selecting European co-productions that engage with topical political and social issues and encourage debate about European values.

    The European Parliament works with the European Film Academy, the European Commission, and the Europa Cinemas network to reach a wider audience and to continue to strengthen the links between people and politics.

    MIL OSI Europe News