NewzIntel.com

Category: Science

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s space station delivers new samples for research

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, May 1 — The latest samples from 25 scientific experiments conducted aboard China’s Tiangong space station, totaling approximately 37.25 kilograms, were brought back to Earth on Wednesday.

    Marking the eighth batch of experimental materials from the orbiting laboratory, the samples were brought back to Earth aboard the Shenzhou-19 return capsule. According to a news release from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) on Thursday, the returned materials originated from experiments in space life sciences, materials science and new space technologies.

    The time-sensitive samples from the space life science experiments were swiftly transported from the landing site to Beijing. At around 9:40 p.m. on Wednesday, following an inspection by the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization under the CAS, the samples were handed over to scientists for further research.

    The biological samples comprise 20 different types, the largest variety ever returned during the operational phase of the space station. They include bone cells, human stem cells, bronchial epithelial cells, human and animal embryos, protein samples, and fruit flies, according to the CAS.

    Researchers will analyze these samples to explore key questions, such as the cellular mechanisms behind bone loss in space, the impact of microgravity on the growth and maintenance of human stem cells, and the role of space radiation in cancer development.

    Studies will also explore how the space environment affects early mammalian embryonic development and alters protein structure-function relationships in microgravity. Additional experiments involving fruit flies will investigate their adaptation to the unique conditions of space.

    The findings are expected to offer crucial data and theoretical support for safeguarding human health during space missions, while also potentially contributing valuable insights to medical research on Earth.

    Materials science samples, including tungsten alloys, high-strength steel, specialized crystals, semiconductor materials, lunar soil reinforcement compounds and novel lubricants, are scheduled to be transported to Beijing later.

    This research also aims to support the development of next-generation materials for a range of advanced applications — including jet engine components, deep-ultraviolet lithography, lunar construction, large deployable space structures such as flexible solar arrays, and durable space lubricants — all of which are vital for future deep-space exploration, according to the CAS.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan Presses Commerce Nominee on NOAA Surveys Needed for Alaska Fishermen

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    05.01.25
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, today pressed the nominee to serve as deputy secretary of the Department of Commerce, Mr. Paul Dabbar, on concerns about the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) ability to complete fisheries stock surveys in Alaska if staffing and approved funding from the department are not prioritized. Sen. Sullivan noted in the committee hearing that conducting surveys is one of the Commerce Department’s core responsibilities with regard to fisheries, and surveys are needed in order for Alaskans to harvest in various fisheries across the state. Sen. Sullivan also demanded that Dabbar and Commerce officials work promptly with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to sign the pending maintenance contract for the Kodiak, Alaska-based NOAA research vessel, Oscar Dyson, which conducts these critically important surveys.
    “When you don’t do stock assessment surveys, you know what happens? My fishermen can’t fish,” said Sen. Sullivan. “All they need is a survey and it’s not happening. I have a whole list and I’m going to mention them here. I hope to hell someone from Commerce is watching. Okay? Because if you’re not doing surveys, that’s the basic stuff you’re supposed to do at NOAA, then my guys can’t fish. They don’t want subsidies. They just want to fish.”
    Fishing and seafood processing employ more Alaskans than any other industry and are vital to the economic well-being of dozens of coastal communities throughout the state. Roughly two-thirds of all seafood harvested in America comes from Alaska’s waters.
    [embedded content]
    Below is a transcript of Sen. Sullivan’s exchange with Mr. Dabbar.
    SEN. SULLIVAN: I think we’re off to a good start, certainly on fisheries. We have this “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential” executive order from President Trump on day one. This includes fisheries, LNG, all kinds of great things in Alaska. Then, just a couple days ago, the “Restoring America’s Seafood Competitiveness” EO. So we’re off to a good start. I want to commend the President, Secretary Lutnick, and their team. But I am concerned, to Senator Cantwell’s point—and this is a big issue—that we’re not having the staffing to do the two things that Commerce has to do for fisheries. American fisheries, unlike CHIPS and Science—a quarter of $1 trillion in subsidies—my guys don’t get subsidized at all. The federal government has to do two things: They need to do robust surveys to inform accurate stock assessments, and they need to do timely promulgation of regulations to open fisheries. That’s it. When the federal government doesn’t do that, you screw the hard-working fishermen of Alaska and America. Just think of “Deadliest Catch.” They do have to compete with Russia and China. To be honest, right now, it’s starting not to look good. I’m starting to get really upset, because when you got—Biden was horrible on the surveys. Horrible. We threw a ton of money at NOAA and the guy did climate change and all this BS. He didn’t do the blocking and tackling of NOAA, which is stock assessment surveys. You guys came in: “Hey, we’re not going to be like Biden.” But you’re not…I’m getting really worried that you guys aren’t doing this either. When you don’t do stock assessment surveys, you know what happens? My fishermen can’t fish. They don’t get $240 billion in subsidies. All they need is a survey and it’s not happening. I got a whole list and I’m going to mention them here. And I hope to hell someone from Commerce is watching. Okay? Because if you’re not doing surveys, that’s the basic stuff you’re supposed to do at NOAA. Then my guys can’t fish. They don’t want subsidies and they just want to fish. Can I get your commitment—and I hope to hell someone from NOAA’s watching this. I got a whole list of surveys right now that looks like you’re not going to complete. So what happens? My fishermen don’t fish. That is wrong. Can I get your commitment—and I hope to hell someone from NOAA and Commerce is watching this right now—get on with the surveys. Can I get your commitment? You can tell I’m a little rattled about this.
    DABBAR: Yes, Senator, and I know that I’ve read your proposed bill, the latest one, and also how understanding research of, for example, salmon in Alaska, where some things are going well strong, and some things are weaker, and why. So I’m certainly committed on that also.
    SULLIVAN: I just need your commitment to get the staffing and money to do the surveys. That’s it. If we’re failing on this, this is not good. Let me ask one final question. This relates. There’s a contract we’re trying to get the Secretary to sign, like right now. It’s for the Oscar Dyson. It’s a NOAA survey vessel homeported in Kodiak, Alaska. It’s coming up for its contract. It needs to be signed this week. Again, I hope Commerce people are watching. Okay? Just sign the contract so we can do the surveys from the Oscar Dyson. That’s a NOAA survey vessel ship. If that’s not signed in the next couple of days, that vessel won’t be able to do surveys. Again, this is blocking and tackling to take care of our fishermen, which is in the President’s EOs. But we’ve got to be able to support them with science. Can I get your commitment on that and maybe have someone get to the Secretary and sign this contract on the Oscar Dyson like today?
    DABBAR: I’ll follow up, and there are people behind me watching, listening to you. I’m certain.
    SULLIVAN: It’s really, really important. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: $HAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Continues To Investigate The Merger – ALBT, NDOI, DNB, RSLS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm in the 2024 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating:

    • Avalon GloboCare Corp. (NASDAQ: ALBT), relating to the proposed merger with YOOV Group Holding Limited. Under the terms of the agreement, Avalon equity holders are expected to own between approximately 2.5% to 2.2% of the common stock of the combined company.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/avalon-globocare-corp-albt/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • Endo, Inc. (OTC: NDOI), relating to the proposed merger with Mallinckrodt plc. Under the terms of the agreement, Endo shareholders will own 49.9% of the combined company on a pro forma basis.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/endo-inc-ndoi/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • Dun & Bradstreet Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: DNB), relating to the proposed merger with Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. Under the terms of the agreement, Dun & Bradstreet shareholders will receive $9.15 in cash for each share of common stock they own.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/dun-bradstreet-holdings-inc-dnb/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • ReShape Lifesciences Inc. (NASDAQ: RSLS), relating to the proposed merger with Vyome Therapeutics, Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, ReShape and Vyome will combine in an all-stock transaction, with ReShape stockholders owning approximately 11.1% of the combined company.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/reshape-lifesciences-inc-rsls/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in any of the above listed companies and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2025 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 1st, 2025 Heinrich, Luján, Colleagues Demand to Know Who Killed Minority Business Development Agency, Why & Where’s the Money Going?

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    “Who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?” Senators ask
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, joined U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, and five Senate Democrats in demanding that Keith Sonderling, the purported Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), promptly turn over key documents and information related to the dismantling of the agency and recent funding termination notices sent to all grantees by a member of Elon Musk’s DOGE. The senators’ demands come as Paul Dabbar, President Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Commerce, appeared on Thursday before the Commerce Committee for his nomination hearing.
    “In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it ‘is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program,’” the senators wrote in a letter to Sonderling, who was confirmed by the Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor in March. “The termination notice further states that, ‘MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.’ …[T]he notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.”
    The senators questioned Sonderling about the notice terminating all MBDA grants, which was signed by Nate Cavanaugh, a member of Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.”  
    “This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department,” their letter continued. “Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?”
    The letter is also signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.).
    In October 2024, Heinrich  led the unveiling of a new, larger office space for the New Mexico Minority Business Development Center in Albuquerque to expand support for local businesses across the state as they create the types of careers New Mexicans can build their families around. Heinrich wrote the legislative provision that established and funded the New Mexico Business Center in 2020, securing more than $2.5 million in federal resources through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency for its staffing and programming.
    Today, during the Senate Commerce hearing on the nomination of Paul Dabbar to be U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce, Luján pressed Mr. Dabbar on the dismantlement of the MBDA by the Trump administration and highlighted the successes of the MBDA. Senator Luján championed an amendment in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make the MBDA permanent. He also secured passage of a provision to double the funding level for the MBDA’s Rural Business Development Center Program and to expand this program’s eligibility to include all Minority-Serving Institutions, which will expand opportunities for New Mexico’s colleges and universities. Additionally, in 2021, Luján championed legislation to make permanent and expand the reach of the Minority Business Development Agency.
    The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:
    The Honorable Keith Sonderling
    Acting Under Secretary for Minority Business Development Agency
    U.S. Department of Commerce
    1401 Constitution Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20230                                              
    Acting Under Secretary Sonderling:
    On March 25, 2025, and April 17, 2025, we sent letters to Secretary Howard Lutnick raising serious concerns about the apparent dismantling of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), despite his testimony before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation stating he would not support doing so. In our April 17 letter, we requested specific documents and information that would help address our outstanding questions and concerns regarding the MBDA. On April 24, 2025, we received a letter from the Department of Commerce (DOC) Acting Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs purporting to respond to our April 17 letter. This response, however, contained a mere three sentences related to the MBDA and failed to answer or meaningfully address any of our requests. Given Secretary Lutnick’s apparent disregard for our concerns about the Department’s actions against the MBDA, we are now requesting you provide documents and information related to this inquiry.
    Since our most recent letter, our offices have obtained information demonstrating that DOC has canceled all MBDA grants—further dismantling an agency Congress statutorily authorized, despite Secretary Lutnick’s testimony to the contrary. In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it “is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program.” The termination notice further states that, “MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.” Beyond these conclusory assertions, however, the notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.
    Raising further concerns, the termination notice was signed by Nate Cavanaugh—who we understand to be part of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—and is signed “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.” Mr. Cavanaugh has reportedly been interviewing employees at the General Services Administration and overseeing efforts to dismantle another agency, the U.S. Institute of Peace. The termination notice indicates that Mr. Cavanaugh now has a DOC e-mail address. This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department. Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?
    Given the lack of responsiveness from the Department to date, we reiterate the requests raised in our April 17, 2025 letter, and request the following additional documents and information no later than May 14, 2025:
    A complete description of Mr. Cavanaugh’s position at DOC, including his title, job description, date(s) of employment, any salary, any benefits, supervisor, and direct reports. Please also identify all other federal e-mail addresses assigned to or used by Mr. Cavanaugh of which you are aware.
    Documents sufficient to show Mr. Cavanaugh’s delegated authority to execute termination notices to MBDA grantees. 
    Documentation sufficient to show your appointment as Acting Under Secretary for Minority Business Development Agency and the date of such appointment.
    A complete description of your decision to delegate your authority to Mr. Cavanaugh for the purpose of terminating MBDA grants, including the extent to which Secretary Lutnick or any other senior DOC official was involved in making this decision.
    A complete description of the types of funded activities that are considered “consistent with the agency’s priorities” and “serve[] the interests of…the MBDA program.”
    A detailed explanation of how the MBDA intends to “repurpos[e] its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda,” including any specific program or activity that has received or is expected to receive repurposed funding.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Daines Introduce Bill to Cut Red Tape, Create Simplified Pathway for Ecosystem Restoration in Regulated Floodplains

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, introduced the Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act with Senator Steve Daines (R-MT). This bipartisan legislation would create a new pathway for ecosystem restoration projects in floodplains that meet specific low-risk criteria and would simplify approval for important restoration work while still upholding flood safety standards.
    Under the current Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) policy, any proposed development in a regulated floodway, whether it’s a shopping mall or salmon habitat, must prove that it will not increase the base flood elevation (BFE) of the area. This requirement is commonly referred to as the “No Rise” rule. While important for protecting communities from increased flood risks, it has had major unintended consequences on important environmental restoration in Washington state and around the country.
    “Here in Washington state ensuring our waterways stay healthy is critical for not just environmental conservation efforts, but important for our communities and economy as well. This legislation will simplify approval of ecosystem restoration projects in floodplains, which is critical for many projects in Washington state where many communities are in a regulated floodway,” said Senator Murray. “Government should be making it easier to protect our environment, not harder. I am proud to be a partner to the many Tribes and advocates in Washington state that have been pushing for the Floodplain Enhancement and Recovery Act, and I will continue to fight for commonsense solutions to protect and restore our ecosystems.”
    In Washington state, many salmon habitat restoration projects involve placing woody debris in a waterway to slow water and make safe spaces for juvenile salmon to develop. These projects, and many others, often fail the “No Rise” rule. Currently, the only way around the rule is to first update FEMA’s flood maps with the projected BFE impacts. This requires extensive and very expensive hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, often performed by a third-party engineer. FEMA then reviews the analyses, replicates them, and approves them internally before giving the okay to move forward, which has taken up to three years to complete. While this process often makes sense in an urbanized, flood-prone community, it is an unnecessary exercise for restoration in remote areas.
    “Critical ecosystem restoration projects across Montana have been abandoned due to FEMA’s onerous and costly ‘No Rise’ rule. This commonsense, bipartisan bill will reduce unnecessary burdens on important conservation and restoration work, while continuing to keep our communities safe from flooding,” said Senator Daines.
    Many communities in Washington have avoided doing restoration work in regulated floodways—which makes up much of the state—to avoid the associated costs. This bill would allow for a more efficient process for ecosystem restoration in a regulated floodplain and addresses the issue of “No Rise,” which has been a priority concern for a number of Tribal communities and salmon advocates in Washington state for the last few years.
    “Ecosystem restoration projects reduce flood risk and restore the natural functions of floodplains,” said Ed Johnstone, Chairman of Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission. “This proposed legislation is a strong step toward removing an undue burden for these essential habitat restoration and nature-based solution projects. Treaty tribes support legislation that keeps communities safe while restoring salmon habitat and protecting treaty rights in the Pacific Northwest.”
    “Restoring healthy floodplains is just one of many nature-based solutions that must be integrated into our national efforts to make communities safer and rivers healthier in the face of increasingly extreme weather,” said Eileen Shader, Senior Advisor for American Rivers Action Fund and a floodplains expert. “Making sure that these cost-efficient and common-sense restoration projects are not limited by inefficiencies in the regulatory framework is an important step in ensuring lives and property are protected.” 
    “The Association of State Floodplain Managers supports this legislation because it is a practical solution balancing the need to identify any relevant impacts of floodplain restoration projects with time, effort and resources to do so,” said Chad Berginnis, Executive Director of The Association of State Floodplain Managers. “The land use and development standards of the NFIP need to be sensibly applied in a way to protect and enhance the natural and beneficial functions of our nation’s floodplains.”  
    “We appreciate Senator Murray’s leadership and partnership in developing this important legislation. It’s a common-sense approach that reduces costs and delays for watershed restoration while maintaining flood safety,” said Casey Sixkiller, Director of the Washington State Department of Ecology. “By giving our federal partners more flexibility in their review processes, this bill will help move critical ecosystem and salmon recovery projects forward without unnecessary regulatory hurdles or added costs.”
    “There are many benefits to having intact natural floodplains. One of them is that they lower the risks associated with flooding. That is one of the main reasons why The Nature Conservancy supports policies, like this one from Senators Murray and Daines, that help scale up work to restore floodplains,” said Cameron Adams, Policy Advisor for The Nature Conservancy. “This bipartisan legislation would give communities the flexibility they want and need to do science-backed ecosystem restoration projects in flood zones. These types of projects don’t just benefit people, but also plants and animals that thrive in healthy landscapes.”
    “Ecosystem restoration projects are a vital tool to address landscape recovery and habitat restoration, especially after major weather events. This amendment would make it easier for local communities to develop effective and necessary restoration projects by streamlining the approval process for ecosystem restoration projects,” said Jeremy Peters, CEO of National Association of Conservation Districts. “NACD appreciates the clarity and flexibility provided in this amendment and looks forward to seeing how local conservation districts will have an even greater impact in areas in need of restoration.”
    Senator Murray has been a champion for protecting and strengthening critical salmon and fish populations throughout her time in the Senate. Senator Murray secured a historic $2.85 billion investment in salmon and ecosystem restoration programs—including $400 million for a new community-based restoration program focused on removing fish passage barriers in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—and in the Inflation Reduction Act, Murray secured hundreds of millions for Washington state priorities including $15 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $3 million to support facilities at the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, $27 million for Pacific salmon research, and more.
    Last Congress, as then-Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Murray protected critical funding for salmon recovery and fishery projects in the Fiscal Year 2024 government spending bills she negotiated and passed into law, including securing: $50 million in the construction of the Howard Hanson Dam Fish Passage facility; $75 million for the Pacific Salmon account at the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), $65 million for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund, $54 million for the EPA’s Puget Sound Geographic Program, and more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Weber Washington Times Op-Ed: The world runs on Southeast Texas energy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Randy Weber (14th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – In a new op-ed in the Washington Times, U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14), the Chairman of the Energy Subcommittee on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee and Vice-Chair of the Energy Subcommittee on the Energy and Commerce Committee, details the urgent need to restore American energy leadership by investing in the Gulf Coast — particularly Southeast Texas.

    Below, please find an excerpt from the op-ed.

    The world runs on Southeast Texas energy

    Washington Times

    By: Representative Randy Weber

    April 28, 2025

    “When America needs energy, it turns to Texas and more specifically, to Southeast Texas. We don’t just refine oil or export gas. We fuel economies, empower allies, and protect national security. In short: we are the energy capital of the world…

    “Our energy sector supports millions of well-paying jobs across America and tens of thousands of those are in Southeast Texas. These are jobs that don’t require four-year degrees, but do demand skill, grit, and the kind of work ethic that built this county. Welders, pipefitters, engineers, rig hands, terminal operators, truck drivers, safety techs this is the American workforce at its best…

    “We have four years to do a lot of important work that has been neglected for years. If we want to continue our energy dominance, we must double down on Southeast Texas…

    “That means investing in critical infrastructure pipelines, ports, and power grids to move our products faster and safer. It means cutting the red tape that delays permits and discourages innovation. It means unleashing the full potential of LNG, hydrogen, and carbon capture, and empowering the hardworking men and women who keep our energy economy running.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Science, Space and Technology Advances Weber’s Next Generation Pipeline Research and Development Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Randy Weber (14th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – The Science, Space and Technology Committee advanced the Next Generation Pipeline Research and Development Act, led by U.S. Reps. Randy Weber (TX-14) and Deborah Ross (NC-2), to strengthens public-private partnerships, increases federal research, development, and demonstration related to the evolution of next-generation pipeline systems, and modernizes existing infrastructure.

    Weber and Ross introduced the legislation on April 3, 2025. Weber also previous introduced the bill in the 118th Congress, where it passed the U.S. House by a vote of 373-41 on September 24, 2024. 

    “I’m proud that the Science, Space, and Technology Committee advanced this commonsense, bipartisan bill to strengthen the backbone of America’s energy infrastructure,” said Rep. Weber. “As we continue unlocking our God-given energy resources, it’s critical that we also invest in the research and development needed to modernize over a million miles of pipeline that keep the lights on, fuel our vehicles, and power American manufacturing. This bill has earned broad, bipartisan support—both now and in the last Congress—and I strongly urge my colleagues to back it when it comes to the House floor.”

    Highlights of the Next Generation Pipeline Research and Development Act:

    1. Authorizing the Secretary of Energy, in coordination with the Secretary of Transportation, the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the Secretary of Interior, and others, to establish a demonstration initiative and joint research and development program for low-to mid-technology readiness level research projects to achieve deployment.
    2. Creating a National Pipeline Modernization Center at the Department of Energy, which will foster collaboration with industry and stakeholders to commercialize cost-effective products and procedures.
    3. Conducting a program at NIST of measurement research, development, demonstration, and standardization to ensure the integrity of pipeline facilities and ensure their safety, security, efficiency, sustainability, and resilience.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Coons, Kiley, and Peters Reintroduce Landmark Legislation to Restore American Innovation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Intellectual Property, and Chris Coons (D-DE) and Representatives Kevin Kiley (R-CA) and Scott Peters (D-CA) reintroduced the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will restore patent eligibility to important inventions across many fields while also resolving legitimate concerns over the patenting of mere ideas, the mere discovery of what already exists in nature, and social and cultural content that everyone agrees is beyond the scope of the patent system. It also affirms the basic principle that the patent system is central to promoting technology-based innovation.
    “Clear, reliable, and predictable patent rights are imperative to enable investments in the broad array of innovative technologies that are critical to the economic and global competitiveness of the United States, and to ensuring the national security of our great country,” said Senator Tillis. “Unfortunately, a series of Supreme Court decisions have rendered patent eligibility law unclear, unreliable, and unpredictable, resulting in U.S. inventors being unable to obtain patents in areas where our economic peers offer patent protection. This is particularly concerning in the economically critical areas of biotechnology and artificial intelligence. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation maintains the existing statutory categories of eligible subject matter, which have worked well for over two centuries, while addressing inappropriate judicially created eligibility limitations by creating clear rules for what is eligible. We cannot allow foreign adversaries like China to overtake us in key areas of technology innovation due to the current state of patent eligibility law. I look forward to continuing to work with all stakeholders on this important matter. Passing patent eligibility reform is one of my top legislative priorities.”
    “When American innovators know their ideas are eligible for patent protection, they take the risks that push us into the future – whether that’s the next medical test or the latest AI technology,” said Senator Coons. “PERA restores clarity to the law on what can be patented and what cannot – guidance that federal courts have been requesting for years and that the Supreme Court has refused to provide. Congress must step up to provide America’s inventors with the stable legal foundation they need to produce the cutting-edge technologies that power our economy.”
    “American innovators have been at a disadvantage in recent years because of the U.S. patent system,” said Representative Kevin Kiley. “Convoluted Supreme Court rulings and tests on subject matter eligibility have made it increasingly difficult for inventors to receive patents, leading to foreign companies overtaking our own. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the bi-partisan Patent Eligibility Restoration Act, which will dramatically reverse this trend, and unleash a tide of economic growth and job creation here at home.”
    “For more than two centuries, a U.S. patent has guaranteed inventions will be protected from theft, helping the U.S. become the innovation capital of the world. San Diego, in particular, is the proud home of a thriving life sciences and technology ecosystem that has benefited from these protections,” said Representative Peters. “Over the last 15 years, however, several Supreme Court decisions have created confusion about what exactly is eligible for a patent. Innovators, consumers, and even the judges who adjudicate patent law have called on Congress to provide clarity on what can be patented. I look forward to working with Congressman Kiley, Senator Coons, and Senator Tillis to advance our Patent Eligibility Restoration Act and protect American innovation.” 
    “Congress has not made substantive changes to what subject matter is patentable in the United States since the Patent Act of 1793, making it difficult for courts, inventors, and the public to understand how 21st-century technologies fit within an 18th Century patent statute,” said Andrei Iancu, board co-chair of C4IP and former Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and USPTO Director from 2018 to 2021. “I commend Congress for advancing PERA in order to finally modernize our patent laws and promote U.S. global leadership in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and other modern technologies.” 
    “PERA provides the clarity needed to unlock the full potential of cutting-edge technologies and solidify U.S. leadership in scientific and technological breakthroughs,” said David Kappos, board co-chair of C4IP and former Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and USPTO Director from 2009 to 2013. “We cannot allow legal uncertainty to stall the next wave of American innovation.”
    “Patent Eligibility is an important issue for cancer patients – both for life-saving, early diagnosis and for promising new treatments.  PERA will provide the certainty needed to enable innovative breakthroughs to reach patients. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute applauds Congress for introducing and advancing this important bill – the patients are waiting.” – Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
    “Passing PERA is essential if the US is to catch up to Europe and Asia, especially China,” said Judge Paul Michel (retired). “They make eligible for patenting many classes of inventions held ineligible here. The very uncertainty of the zone of eligibility is itself an obstacle to companies getting the investments they need to compete both domestically and globally. Only Congress can fix this chaotic mess because the courts are trapped in their own harmful precedents.” 
    “In my former court, which hears patent cases on appeal, concurring and dissenting opinions in patent eligibly cases have proliferated,” said Judge Kathleen O’Malley (retired). “Veteran jurists have described the state of affairs as ‘incoherent,’ ‘unclear,’ ‘fraught,’ and ‘inconsistent.’ The Patent Eligibility Restoration Act would return clarity to patent eligibly law and encourage continued innovation in key emerging technologies – technologies that are central to the United States remaining the world’s innovation leader.”
    “NCLifeSci thanks Senator Tillis for reintroducing the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act of 2025, which restores the confidence in our nation’s patent laws by bringing much needed clarity to Section 101 of the Patent Act. Confidence that the life sciences industry needs to robustly invest in the future of medicine. For too long, fields like diagnostics, precision medicine, cell and gene therapy, RNA medicine, and digital health have been threatened by unclear and uncertain patent-eligibility standards that put America’s innovators at a disadvantage, and that discourage local investment. Through this legislation, our members – which include leading innovators who operate cutting-edge gene therapy manufacturing facilities here in North Carolina and research potential treatments and cures for Alzheimer’s and cancer —will be able to continue to take the bold risks and make the high levels of investment necessary to take fields like these to their next level, with the confidence that our patent laws will continue to hold up through future waves of technological progress.” – NC Life Sciences Organization 
    “The Innovation Alliance applauds Senators Tillis and Coons and Representatives Kiley and Peters for sponsoring the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act, which will provide much needed predictability and clarity to the hopelessly confused law of patent eligibility.  The Supreme Court has provided no workable framework to guide patent owners or the courts, and it has repeatedly refused to clarify the law, rejecting requests by the Federal Circuit and others to do so time and again. Investment dollars are flowing out of the United States as a result, jeopardizing the future of America’s innovation economy. It is past time for Congress to act.” – The Innovation Alliance  
    “This bipartisan and much-needed bill would strike a decade of judicial tinkering that has needlessly turned the question of patent eligibility into a confusing mess and harmed the U.S. versus our economic competitors. While the U.S. has spent a decade holding back innovations in areas such as fintech, diagnostic solutions and medical devices trying to figure out whether they are ‘abstract’ or not, our competitors are moving forward and protecting these inventions. PERA would be particularly beneficial to American startups and innovators by providing the clarity needed to attract investment for new ventures in essential areas such as medical devices, diagnostics, manufacturing and a whole new range of advancements powered by software.”- Alliance of U.S. Startups & Inventors for Jobs
    “AUTM – the association representing technology transfer professionals – thanks Senators Tillis and Coons and others for their leadership in introducing PERA. This legislation is crucially needed to address the ambiguities that the courts have created about what is, and what is not, patent eligible. At a time when the U.S. is competing for innovation leadership, its patent system needs to clearly delineate this process so that it can move forward on numerous discoveries that otherwise would wither on the vine.” – AUTM
    “The reintroduction of the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act (PERA) marks a pivotal move toward restoring clarity and consistency in U.S. patent law. By providing clear statutory guidelines, PERA offers inventors, entrepreneurs, and research institutions the certainty needed to innovate confidently. We commend Senator Tillis and Senator Coons for their leadership on this critical issue and remain committed to collaborating with Congress to support a patent system that fosters transparency and predictability.” – American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA)
    “The Coalition for 21st Century Patent Reform applauds Congress for reintroducing PERA. This legislation represents a significant step forward in clarifying patent eligibility while maintaining necessary standards on what is ultimately patentable.  21C applauds these efforts as they will make sure that the United States remains the most attractive place in the world to invest, invent, and grow.” – The Coalition for 21st Century Patent Reform (21C)
    The following organizations support the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act: Innovation Alliance, C4IP, AUTM, AIPLA, IEEE-USA, USIJ, MDMA, BIO, NCLifeSci, Adeia, Nokia, Sisvel, Conservatives for Property Rights, Eagle Forum Education & Legal Defense Fund, U.S. Business & Industry Council, Center for a Free Economy, Center for Individual Freedom, American Policy Center, Less Government, 60 Plus Association, American Association of Senior Citizens, Frontiers of Freedom, Consumer Action for a Strong Economy, Center for American Principles, Prosperity for Us Foundation, Market Institute, Inventors Defense Alliance, Lauder Partners, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Heritage Action, 21C, Netlist, and FICPI.
    Background:
    Unfortunately, due to a series of Supreme Court decisions, patent eligibility law in the United States has become confused, constricted, and unclear in recent years. This has resulted in a wide range of well-documented negative impacts – inconsistent case decisions, uncertainty in innovation and investment communities, and unpredictable business outcomes.
    As of 2021, all 12 then-sitting judges of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit lamented the state of the law. Witnesses and stakeholders from a wide array of industries, fields, interest groups, and academia have testified and submitted comments confirming the uncertainty and detailing the detrimental effects of patent eligibility confusion in the United States. There is now widespread bipartisan agreement in Congress and across all recent Administrations that reforms are necessary to restore the United States to a position of global strength and leadership in key areas of technology and innovation, such as medical diagnostics, biotechnology, personalized medicine, artificial intelligence, 5G, and blockchain.
    The Patent Eligibility Restoration Act achieves this critical goal by restoring patent eligibility to important inventions across many fields, while also resolving legitimate concerns over patenting of mere ideas, the mere discovery of what already exists in nature, and social and cultural content that everyone agrees is beyond the scope of the patent system, which is a system aimed at promoting technology-based innovation. As a general approach, the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act maintains the existing statutory categories of eligible subject matter, which have worked well for over two centuries, but eliminates the overly malleable set of current judicial exceptions – replacing them with five specific, defined statutory exclusions. By eliminating and replacing the current judicial exceptions, the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act provides predictable patent eligibility for important computer-implemented technological developments and medical advances, creating a solid bedrock for America’s innovation future.
    Full text of the bill is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Heinrich, Colleagues Demand to Know Who Killed Minority Business Development Agency, Why & Where’s the Money Going?

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    “Who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?” Senators ask
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), joined U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, and five Senate Democrats in demanding that Keith Sonderling, the purported Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), promptly turn over key documents and information related to the dismantling of the agency and recent funding termination notices sent to all grantees by a member of Elon Musk’s DOGE. The Senators’ demands come as Paul Dabbar, President Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Commerce, appeared on Thursday before the Commerce Committee for his nomination hearing.
    “In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it ‘is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program,’” the senators wrote in a letter to Sonderling, who was confirmed by the Senate as Deputy Secretary of Labor in March. “The termination notice further states that, ‘MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.’ …[T]he notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.”
    The Senators questioned Sonderling about the notice terminating all MBDA grants, which was signed by Nate Cavanaugh, a member of Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.”  
    “This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department,” their letter continued. “Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?”
    The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.).
    Today, during the Senate Commerce Committee hearing on the nomination of Paul Dabbar to be U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce, Senator Luján pressed Mr. Dabbar on the dismantlement of the MBDA by the Trump administration and highlighted the successes of the MBDA. Senator Luján championed an amendment in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make the MBDA permanent. Senator Luján also secured passage of a provision to double the funding level for the MBDA’s Rural Business Development Center Program and to expand this program’s eligibility to include all Minority-Serving Institutions, which will expand opportunities for New Mexico’s colleges and universities. Additionally, in 2021 Senator Luján championed legislation to make permanent and expand the reach of the Minority Business Development Agency.
    In October 2024, Heinrich  led the unveiling of a new, larger office space for the New Mexico Minority Business Development Center in Albuquerque to expand support for local businesses across the state as they create the types of careers New Mexicans can build their families around. Heinrich wrote the legislative provision that established and funded the New Mexico Business Center in 2020, securing more than $2.5 million in federal resources through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency for its staffing and programming.
    The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:
    Acting Under Secretary Sonderling:
    On March 25, 2025, and April 17, 2025, we sent letters to Secretary Howard Lutnick raising serious concerns about the apparent dismantling of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), despite his testimony before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation stating he would not support doing so. In our April 17 letter, we requested specific documents and information that would help address our outstanding questions and concerns regarding the MBDA. On April 24, 2025, we received a letter from the Department of Commerce (DOC) Acting Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs purporting to respond to our April 17 letter. This response, however, contained a mere three sentences related to the MBDA and failed to answer or meaningfully address any of our requests. Given Secretary Lutnick’s apparent disregard for our concerns about the Department’s actions against the MBDA, we are now requesting you provide documents and information related to this inquiry.
    Since our most recent letter, our offices have obtained information demonstrating that DOC has canceled all MBDA grants—further dismantling an agency Congress statutorily authorized, despite Secretary Lutnick’s testimony to the contrary. In one MBDA termination notice reviewed by our offices, the Department claims the grant is being terminated because it “is unfortunately no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities and no longer serves the interests of the United States and the MBDA Program.” The termination notice further states that, “MBDA is repurposing its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda.” Beyond these conclusory assertions, however, the notice is silent about why the grants are inconsistent with the MBDA’s priorities and programs—which Congress, not the Department, set by statute. And it suggests the DOC or others in the Administration may be using funding appropriated for the MBDA for other, unrelated purposes.
    Raising further concerns, the termination notice was signed by Nate Cavanaugh—who we understand to be part of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—and is signed “Under the Authority of Keith Sonderling, Acting Undersecretary of MBDA.” Mr. Cavanaugh has reportedly been interviewing employees at the General Services Administration and overseeing efforts to dismantle another agency, the U.S. Institute of Peace. The termination notice indicates that Mr. Cavanaugh now has a DOC e-mail address. This raises significant questions regarding Mr. Cavanaugh’s precise role at DOC and the mechanism by which you or other members of DOC leadership delegated him authority to terminate MDBA grants on behalf of the Department. Our offices have also obtained information indicating you may not have been aware these termination notices were being sent out by Mr. Cavanaugh under your authority, which would raise further questions about who is actually running the Department: Secretary Lutnick or Elon Musk and DOGE?
    Given the lack of responsiveness from the Department to date, we reiterate the requests raised in our April 17, 2025 letter, and request the following additional documents and information no later than May 14, 2025:
    A complete description of Mr. Cavanaugh’s position at DOC, including his title, job description, date(s) of employment, any salary, any benefits, supervisor, and direct reports. Please also identify all other federal e-mail addresses assigned to or used by Mr. Cavanaugh of which you are aware.
    Documents sufficient to show Mr. Cavanaugh’s delegated authority to execute termination notices to MBDA grantees. 
    Documentation sufficient to show your appointment as Acting Under Secretary for Minority Business Development Agency and the date of such appointment.
    A complete description of your decision to delegate your authority to Mr. Cavanaugh for the purpose of terminating MBDA grants, including the extent to which Secretary Lutnick or any other senior DOC official was involved in making this decision.
    A complete description of the types of funded activities that are considered “consistent with the agency’s priorities” and “serve[] the interests of…the MBDA program.”
    A detailed explanation of how the MBDA intends to “repurpos[e] its funding allocations in a new direction in furtherance of the President’s agenda,” including any specific program or activity that has received or is expected to receive repurposed funding.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Raman Bahal Receives the School of Pharmacy 2025 Faculty Research Advising Award

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Raman Bahal, Associate Professor of Pharmacy, earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Carnegie Mellon University before receiving post-doctoral training at Yale. After pursuing his interests in pharmaceuticals and physical sciences, Bahal took his versatile knowledge and passion for interdisciplinary sciences to UConn in 2017 as an assistant professor. He went on to apply ambitiously for the role of associate professor a year early, eager to take on more responsibility.  

    During his time at UConn, Bahal has excelled in multiple areas, but prides himself on his students and research: “My students are my accomplishment.” Combining his passion for research and his love for mentoring students throughout their academic journey, Bahal has worked with undergraduate and graduate students in many capacities. The mentorship provided by Bahal has transformed into life-changing results when just last year Bahal and his team launched a startup – called Zeal Therapeutics – to develop a promising drug delivery system to target the kidneys. Bahal is also passionate about therapeutic application, working with a team of faculty and students targeting genomic DNA and RNA to fight cancer cells.  Bahal has explored other research interests throughout various publications.

    “At the end of the day, as long as my students are happy, learning, and progressing – this is what matters.” 

    In addition to his research, Bahal has also taken on leadership roles within the School, including serving on the PTR Chair Committee last year, where he helped guide decisions on the promotion, tenure, and reappointments of faculty members. 

    Raman Bahal. Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutics in the School of Pharmacy onJune 27, 2019. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)

    Bahal is honored to receive the Faculty Research Advising Award and hopes to inspire the next generation of scientists with his mentorship: “Some of the students I’ve worked with have been published as coauthors of our papers – they are strong contributors.” Looking to the future, Bahal wants to continue his mentorship journey. Passionate about building relationships between undergraduate students, Pharm.D. students, Ph.D. students, and postdocs, Bahal wants to be the bridge for relationships forged within the School.  

    Bahal also has an interest in working with students in middle and high school and finding ways to encourage STEM programs within these environments. Hosting events for younger students to visit the UConn labs and be inspired to forge their own paths in the STEM and pharmaceutical fields, Bahal hopes to create symposiums and other events to build connections between high school students and university-level students.  

    Motivated to inspire the next generation of scientists, Bahal truly embodies both the research and advising components of his award. This recognition, which Bahal attributes to UConn’s continuous support, has motivated him to look for even more ways to serve the pharmaceutical industry through his research and UConn Pharmacy through his mentorship.

    “I really like mentoring. That’s my passion.” 

    Bahal will receive his award during commencement weekend in May. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Leads Push to Mitigate Cybersecurity Risks Associated with Unsecured Networks

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — This week, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) led a letter with several colleagues commending Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr on his decision to establish the new Council for National Security within the FCC, and urging him to use the council to mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with unsecured routers.

    In part, the members wrote, “The recent proliferation of cybersecurity incidents underscores the need for the entire federal government to work together to address and deter cyber threats. We write to you today because we believe there is more the FCC can do to reduce the likelihood of such incidents. As the backbone of the Internet, routers play a critical role in securing communications for consumers and businesses. When these devices are insecure, they can serve as gateways for cyberattacks. For example, weak, default, or easily predicted passwords make routers vulnerable to exploitation. Malicious actors can exploit these vulnerabilities in routers to disrupt service, steal sensitive data, or even launch attacks against critical infrastructure…”

    “We are increasingly concerned about the prevalence of these devices and that unsecured routers may allow the CCP to surveil American data or disrupt our networks. Although the Department of Commerce is reviewing whether or not to ban routers made by Chinese-owned companies in the future, many of these devices remain on our networks, which nefarious actors could still leverage.”

    The letter outlines several examples of how the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has repeatedly tried to leverage private companies and create backdoors in our critical infrastructure technology. The letter also highlights that under Chairman Carr’s leadership, the Council for National Security can take action against the CCP by leveraging equipment authorization to require routers to allow only uniquely identifiable devices known to the household and securely authenticated by the network owner.

    See the full letter HERE or read the full text below.

    Dear Chairman Carr,

    Firstly, we write to commend your decision to establish the new Council for National Security within the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), a crucial step in safeguarding America’s telecommunications infrastructure. Congress stands ready to work with you on this initiative to reduce America’s dependence on foreign adversaries, mitigate cyberattack vulnerabilities, and ensure U.S. supremacy in critical technologies.

    As you know, the House Energy and Commerce Committee has worked diligently to combat the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) efforts to leverage private companies to create backdoors in our telecommunications infrastructure. For example, the House of Representatives just recently passed H.R. 866, the ROUTERS Act, to safeguard Americans’ communications networks from foreign-adversary controlled technology, including routers, modems, or devices that combine both. Additionally, in the 118th Congress, the House passed H.R. 7521, the Protecting Americans from the Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which prevents foreign adversary-controlled applications from targeting, surveilling, and manipulating Americans through online applications like TikTok. Congress also worked to ensure that the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Reimbursement Program, or the “Rip and Replace” program, received proper funding to remove untrusted equipment such as Huawei and ZTE from our networks.

    Last year, the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party released their Joint Investigation report into Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Company (ZPMC), a PRC-owned and operated company. The investigation yielded that ZPMC, or a third-party company contracted with ZPMC, installed cellular modems onto STS cranes currently operational at U.S. ports. These installations fall outside the scope of any contract between the affected U.S. ports and ZPMC. The modems created an obscure method to collect information and bypass firewalls in a manner that could potentially disrupt port operations.

    Even more recently, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) reported that the Chinese-made Contec CMS8000 patient monitors contained a hard-coded IP address linked to an unidentified third party, allowing for reverse backdoor functionality. This vulnerability allows for remote access of the medical device and may allow for potential manipulation, risking patient safety and compromising sensitive health data.

    These are just a few examples of how the CCP will use every tool at its disposal to undermine U.S. economic and national security interests to further its agenda. The recent proliferation of cybersecurity incidents underscores the need for the entire federal government to work together to address and deter cyber threats. We write to you today because we believe there is more the FCC can do to reduce the likelihood of such incidents.

    As the backbone of the Internet, routers play a critical role in securing communications for consumers and businesses. When these devices are insecure, they can serve as gateways for cyberattacks. For example, weak, default, or easily predicted passwords make routers vulnerable to exploitation. Malicious actors can exploit these vulnerabilities in routers to disrupt service, steal sensitive data, or even launch attacks against critical infrastructure.

    It has been reported that TP-Link, a Chinese company, owns roughly 65% of the routers used in U.S. homes and small businesses. Additionally, the Department of Defense and other federal government agencies have used TP-Link Routers before. Multiple TP-Link routers have been added to the National Institute of Science (NIST) National Vulnerability Database for containing a directory traversal vulnerability, allowing unauthenticated remote attackers to access sensitive files by sending specially crafted requests.

    We are increasingly concerned about the prevalence of these devices and that unsecured routers may allow the CCP to surveil American data or disrupt our networks. Although the Department of Commerce is reviewing whether or not to ban routers made by Chinese-owned companies in the future, many of these devices remain on our networks, which nefarious actors could still leverage.

    With the new Council for National Security, the FCC can take various actions to mitigate cybersecurity risks associated with unsecured routers. The FCC could leverage equipment authorization through the Telecommunications Certification Body to require routers to allow only uniquely identifiable devices known to the household and securely authenticated by the network owner onto a customer’s network. These steps represent broadly accepted minimum security practices under NIST guidance and are necessary first steps toward protecting our nation’s consumers and networks from cyber risks. Other immediate-term options, such as prohibiting any new sales of TP-Link routers, or requiring ISPs to block new TP-Link routers from being added to home networks, would stop the influx of these devices on networks. Additionally, as we think beyond TP-Link routers, ISP authentication will strengthen U.S. networks’ ability to defend themselves against future untrusted Internet of Things (IoT) devices joining their networks.

    We are confident that, under your leadership, we can advance national cybersecurity initiatives

    and create robust strategies to strengthen U.S. networks against cybersecurity threats. Together,

    we can foster a secure digital environment that instills trust and confidence among users

    nationwide.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall, Rep. Tenney Introduce the No Subsidies for Gender Transition Procedures Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) today introduced the No Subsidies for Gender Transition Procedures Act,a bill that would prohibit taxpayer funding for gender transition procedures covered by Medicaid, Medicare, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Affordable Care Act. The bill also would deny the medical expense tax deduction for gender transition procedures. U.S. Representative Claudia Tenney (R-New York-24) introduced the House companion version of this bill.
    Due to the bill’s targeted approach toward altering the tax code and mandatory spending, Senator Marshall is advocating for this legislation to be included in the FY2025 budget reconciliation package. 
    “Americans overwhelmingly agree that hard-earned taxpayer dollars should not go toward paying for harmful gender transition procedures,” said Senator Marshall. “This legislation delivers on President Trump’s promise, eliminates taxpayer-funded transgender procedures on both minors and adults, and defends our nation’s values. As the reconciliation process continues, I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation and ensure it is included in the One, Big, Beautiful Bill.” 
    “Taxpayers should never be forced to fund dangerous and irreversible gender transition surgeries. The No Subsidies for Gender Transition Procedures Act sets a sweeping precedent by applying to both adults and minors and applying to as many federal funding streams as possible,” said Representative Tenney. “This will ensure that regardless of the age of the individual looking to mutilate themself, the American taxpayer will not be forced to subsidize it. We are working to ensure that not a dime of federal funds can be used to pay for gender transition procedures.”
    This legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska).
    “Americans don’t want tax dollars funding sex change operations for children,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Let’s use that money for real medical treatment, not to prop up gender ideology.”
    “Trans ideology is anti-science, anti-truth, and anti-child – our government cannot make American families complicit in these controversial medical procedures, especially against young and vulnerable people in our society,” said Senator Lee. “Our necessary legislation prevents taxpayer dollars from funding the gender transition regime through reimbursements, Medicare, Medicaid, and other avenues.”
    “American tax dollars should not fund gender reassignment surgery,” said Senator Ricketts. “This bill ends the misuse of tax dollars on these procedures. It also stops federal healthcare facilities from providing these procedures.”
    The legislation is supported by the American Principles Project.
    “Every year, the federal government subsidizes the transgender medical industry with our tax dollars, despite the vast majority of Americans opposing this horrific waste of taxpayer funding,” said Terry Schilling, President of American Principles Project. “The No Subsidies for Gender Transition Procedures Act would deal a serious blow to the woke trans agenda’s biological and fiscal insanity, and I am grateful for Senator Marshall’s leadership on this problem. It’s time for Congress to pass this important legislation.”
    Click HERE to read the full bill text.
    Background:

    By eliminating federal spending on transgender procedures, we can save American taxpayers $200 million.
    25 states and D.C. have Medicaid policies that explicitly cover transgender-related health care.
    Over 276,000 of the 1.3 million transgender adults are enrolled in Medicaid.
    In March of 2025, Senator Marshall introduced the End Taxpayer Funding of Gender Experimentation Act – similar legislation that prohibits the use of federal funding for gender transition procedures and bars federal healthcare facilities, physicians, and providers from providing such procedures.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: OptimizeRx Releases 2025 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass., May 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OptimizeRx Corp. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OPRX), a leading provider of healthcare technology solutions helping life sciences companies reach and engage healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients, has published its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report for 2025.

    As a company focused on optimizing meaningful engagement opportunities at critical junctures of the healthcare journey, we remain dedicated to aligning our mission with our responsibilities as a corporate citizen.

    “Our stakeholders continue to expect us to transparently disclose our commitment to environmental, social, and governance responsibilities,” stated Marion Odence-Ford, Chief Legal Officer & Chief Human Resources Officer. “During calendar year 2024, we enhanced our disclosures on a wide range of ESG topics. We improved our Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) ESG rating, moving from the seventh decile to the first decile and earning prime status. We are proud of our achievements and look forward to realizing more progress in the years to come.”

    ESG Report Highlights:

    Governance:

    • The pursuit of responsible governance is a top-down endeavor, and the Company’s Board of Directors and the Nominating & Governance Committee have worked closely with the Executive Team to ensure our business strategies and practices align with our corporate governance policies.
    • Our annual double-materiality survey has identified a clear three-year trend in the topics our stakeholders care about most. These topics are clustered in three main areas:
      • Data Protection: Customer Privacy and Data & Cybersecurity;
      • Ethics and Governance: Business Ethics, Responsible Marketing & Advertising, Corporate Governance, and Anti-Competitive Behavior; and
      • Human Capital: Human Capital & Resources, Labor Practices & Management, and Talent Acquisition & Retention.

    Planet:

    • This year’s ESG Report continues to build on past successes, adding additional detail in the form of a methodology appendix, more comprehensive data on Scope 1 emissions, and reporting on additional individual greenhouse gases.

    People:

    • OptimizeRx continues to believe that impartiality in employment practices is an essential part of our business and is necessary to contribute to a culture of respect. We provide merit-based opportunities to all individuals without regard to age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, religion, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity.
    • We prioritize recruiting, retaining, and incentivizing a highly qualified workforce as the success of OptimizeRx is dependent on the skills, experience, and efforts of our employees. We also believe that contributions stemming from each employee’s cultural, economic and social background, experience, and thought are essential in making our Company stronger. Collaboration drawn from a range of perspectives enhances decision-making, sparks innovation, and drives better business outcomes. An inclusive culture boosts employee engagement, attracts top talent, and reduces turnover which furthers long-term success.
    • This year, the Company introduced the SPARK employee recognition program to recognize and celebrate Sustained Excellence, Positive Impact, Accountability, Resilience and Kindness.
    • Another recent initiative includes a Competency Model to clearly define competency levels and expectations for skills, knowledge and experience, and to provide department-specific career progression visuals, to guide each employee’s growth and success.

    Prosperity:

    • We remain vigilant in our quest to turn healthcare challenges into opportunities. Not only do these opportunities present us with new ways to grow and learn, but also to do better for our customers, employees, and the patients we impact, because increasing stakeholder value also drives shareholder value.
    • The Company has seen strong adoption of its Dynamic Audience Activation Platform (DAAP), an AI-enabled platform that delivers predictive and privacy-safe marketing solutions that connects life sciences, HCPs and patients across the most robust network of personal and clinical platforms.
    • The 2024 integration of the consumer-focused solutions of Healthy Offers, Inc. (dba Medicx Health), strengthens our ability to deliver on our mission across expanded stakeholder groups with our increased data and analytics capabilities.

    To read OptimizeRx’s full ESG report, please visit the Company’s governance page on its website or click here.

    About OptimizeRx
    OptimizeRx is a leading healthcare technology company that’s redefining how life science brands connect with patients and healthcare providers. Our platform combines innovative AI-driven tools like the Dynamic Audience Activation Platform (DAAP) and Micro-Neighborhood Targeting (MNT) to deliver timely, relevant, and hyper-local engagement. By bridging the gap between HCP and DTC strategies, we empower brands to create synchronized marketing solutions that drive faster treatment decisions and improved patient outcomes.

    Our commitment to privacy-safe, patient-centric technology ensures that every interaction is designed to make a meaningful impact, delivering life-changing therapies to the right patients at the right time. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, OptimizeRx partners with some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical and life sciences companies to transform the healthcare landscape and create a healthier future for all.

    Important Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipates”, “believes”, “estimates”, “expects”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “plans”, “projects”, “targets”, “designed”, “could”, “may”, “should”, “will” or other similar words and expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. All statements that reflect the Company’s expectations, assumptions, projections, beliefs or opinions about the future, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements relating to the Company’s growth, business plans, future performance. These forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and assumptions regarding the Company’s business, the economy, and other future conditions. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted, or quantified. Future events and actual results could differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying the forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties to which forward-looking statements are subject include, but are not limited to, the effect of government regulation, competition, and other risks summarized in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    OptimizeRx Contact 
    Andy D’Silva, SVP Corporate Finance   
    adsilva@optimizerx.com   
      
    Investor Relations Contact
    Steven Halper
    LifeSci Advisors, LLC
    shalper@lifesciadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Resolution Overturning Longfin Smelt ESA Listing Passes House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressional Western Caucus Members celebrated passage of H.J. Res. 78. This Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution, introduced by Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), repeals the Biden Administration’s listing of the longfin smelt as endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act. Once enacted into law, this resolution will halt the proposed designation of critical habitat for this fish species, as well as ensure California’s water remains available for those who need it most, families and farmers.
     

    “The Biden Administration and activist judges have used this listing as a political tool to block progress on California water policy,” said Chairman LaMalfa. “This listing is based on cherry picked scientific anecdotes and even Stanford’s Center for Water California Resources Policy and Management questioned the science of the listing. It adds yet another layer of conflicting regulations that dump tens of millions of acre feet of water out to the Pacific Ocean, with farmers receiving only 40% to 50% of their promised federal and state water. Congress isn’t going to stand by while bureaucrats and environmental lawsuits continue to wreck the water system that feeds our farms, our families, and our economy. I’m glad to see the House take a stand and push back with real solutions that help us grow food, provide water, and keep our economy strong.”

     
    “In the wake of litigation from radical environmentalists, the Biden administration ignored scientific data and inaccurately listed the longfin smelt as endangered,” said House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04). “This decision only created another layer of red tape, cutting off Californians from water resources that are essential to agriculture and daily life. Thanks to Congressman LaMalfa and the entire California Republican delegation’s work, today the House voted to overturn this flawed rule and restore common sense to California while ensuring farmers and communities can access their vital resources.” 

    “California is already facing a water crisis made worse each year by wildfires, drought, and mismanagement. This endangered species listing adds yet another roadblock to delivering water to the communities that need it most,” said Vice Chair Jay Obernolte (CA-23). “I was proud to see this resolution pass the House to stop an unnecessary mandate that would send vital water out to sea instead of to California’s future.”
     
    “California House Republicans are once again taking steps to secure a reliable and affordable water supply for our constituents and farmers,” said Representative Ken Calvert (CA-41). “H.J. Res. 78 will reverse a Biden administration action that was pursued by radical environmentalists to abuse federal regulations in an attempt to limit water supplies for California families and our farms. By restoring commonsense water solutions we can ensure California has the water supplies it needs.”
     
    “Working with Congressman Doug LaMalfa, we are advancing legislation that prioritizes commonsense water solutions for our state,” said Representative Vince Fong (CA-20). “Instead of wasting vital resources to protect a fish that never belonged on the endangered species list, this resolution will restore essential water allocations to support our region. This is a win for our communities to ensure we have reliable and stable water supplies for our homes, businesses, and farms.”
     
    “The Biden Administration’s unnecessary decision to list the longfin smelt as an endangered species is yet another example of an environmental policy not grounded in science that puts fish over people,” said Representative David Valadao (CA-22). “Our families and farmers are already struggling with burdensome regulations that restrict water deliveries and threaten the future of agriculture in the Central Valley, and this rule would have ensured even more of our water is sent out to sea. By passing this resolution, the House is taking an important step forward in rolling back draconian water restrictions that directly affect our farmers, families, and rural communities, and I’m happy to see common sense won.”
     

    This designation, driven by litigation from an environmental group, by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service during the Biden Administration threatens California’s water supply by imposing new restrictions on the Central Valley Project (CVP) and State Water Project (SWP). This listing resulted in subsequent burdensome requirements imposed on the CVP that will divert even more water to the Pacific Ocean instead of supplying farms and families across the state.

     
    Read the resolution here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Logging devastated Victoria’s native forests – and new research shows 20% has failed to grow back

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Maldwyn John Evans, Senior Research Fellow, Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University

    Old growth mountain ash forest in the Maroondah water supply catchment, Victoria. Chris Taylor

    Following the end of native logging in Victoria on January 1 2024, the state’s majestic forests might be expected to regenerate and recover naturally. But our new research shows that’s not always the case.

    We quantified the extent of regeneration following logging in the eucalypt forests of southeastern Australia between 1980 and 2019. This included nearly 42,000 hectares of logged mountain ash forest in Victoria’s Central Highlands.

    We analysed satellite data, logging records, on-ground surveys and drone photography, and discovered that nearly 20% of logged areas failed to regenerate. This represents more than 8,000 hectares of forest lost. All that remains in these areas are grassy clearings, dense shrublands or bare soils.

    We also found the rate of regeneration failure has increased over the past decade. While failure was rare in the 1980s, it became much more common over time – affecting more than 80% of logged sites by 2019.

    These regeneration failures weren’t random. They were found mostly in close proximity to each other, on areas with steep slopes, relatively low elevation, and where the area of clear-felled forest was long and narrow.

    Our research shows more needs to be done to restore Victoria’s forest after logging.

    Failed regeneration in the Upper Thomson water supply catchment.
    Chris Taylor/Lachie McBurnie

    Restoring majestic forests and their vital services

    Victoria is home to some of the most spectacular forests on the planet. They include extensive stands of mountain ash, the tallest flowering plant on Earth, which can grow to almost 100 metres in height. Alpine ash, another giant, can grow up to 60m tall.

    These forests have great cultural significance to Indigenous people and support many recreational and tourism activities.

    Healthy forest ecosystems also deliver clean water and carbon storage services. In fact, mountain ash forests contain more carbon per hectare than most other forests around the world.

    But Victoria’s forests have long been logged for timber and pulp. The main method of logging – clearfelling – scars the landscape, leaving large areas devoid of trees if natural tree regeneration fails.

    Mountain ash is especially vulnerable

    Our research revealed 19.2% of areas logged between 1980 and 2019 in our study area (8,030ha out of 41,819ha cut) failed to regenerate naturally.

    We also found strong evidence of a significant increase in the extent of failed regeneration over 40 years, increasing from less than two hectares per cutblock in 1980 (about 7.5%) to more than nine hectares per cutblock in 2019 (about 85%), on average.

    We found regeneration failure was more likely in mountain ash forests compared with other forest types.

    This adds to the case for listing the mountain ash forests of the Central Highlands of Victoria as a threatened ecological community.

    The presence of non-eucalypt categories of vegetation indicates large areas of regeneration failure in forest near Mt Matlock, in the Central Highlands of Victoria.
    Chris Taylor

    A responsibility to restore

    Under Victoria’s Code of Forest Practice for Timber Production, logged native forests must be properly regenerated within two to three years of harvest.

    That’s because it is nearly impossible for the native forest to regenerate after three years without human intervention. The young trees face too much competition from grass and shrubs.

    These degraded areas no longer hold the value they once did and they cannot provide the same level of ecosystem services such as carbon storage, water purification, or habitat for wildlife.

    With no current government restoration plan, these landscapes will remain degraded indefinitely. The Victorian government retains legal responsibility to restore these degraded forests, but currently lacks any large-scale restoration strategy, making action urgently required.

    Photographs of vegetation categories on logged sites: Eucalyptus regeneration near Toolangi (A), grass-dominated area near Mt Matlock (B), shrubby vegetation at Ballantynes Saddle (C), Daviesia vegetation near Mt Matlock (D), Acacia near Mt Baw Baw (E), and bare earth near Mt Matlock (F).
    Chris Taylor

    A way forward: using green bonds to fund regeneration

    Our research shows the regeneration of forests after logging is not guaranteed. Nature often needs a helping hand. But we need to find ways to fund these projects.

    Globally, governments have used “green bonds” to lower the cost of borrowing tied explicitly to measurable environmental results.

    Victoria already has green bonds “to finance new and existing projects that offer climate change and environmental benefits”. But funds are typically used to finance investments in transport, renewable energy, water and low carbon buildings.

    As part of a coalition of researchers, environmental organisations, and finance sector partners we proposed a A$224 million green bond for forest regeneration. This proposal was put to the Victorian government via the Treasury Corporation of Victoria.

    Green bond funding would help leverage co-investment from the Commonwealth government and philanthropic partners to improve monitoring and biodiversity outcomes in native forests.

    As part of the proposed green bond, areas of logged forest where natural regeneration has failed would be restored.

    Other investments under the green bond could include creating tourism ventures (and associated jobs), controlling feral animals such as deer, and biodiversity recovery – creating habitat for endangered species such as the southern greater glider and Leadbeater’s possum, for example.

    The $224 million required for the ten years of the green bond — or around $22.4 million per year — is less than the substantial losses Victoria incurred on its investment in VicForests over the past decade.

    Our research suggests leaving nature to its own devices would mean losing a fifth of the forests logged over the past 40 years. Bringing the trees back has multiple benefits and would be well worth the investment.

    Maldwyn John Evans receives funding from the Australian Government.

    David Lindenmayer receives funding from The Australian Government, the Australian Research Council and the Victorian Government. He is a Councillor with the Biodiversity Council and a Member of Birdlife Australia.

    Chris Taylor 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. Logging devastated Victoria’s native forests – and new research shows 20% has failed to grow back – https://theconversation.com/logging-devastated-victorias-native-forests-and-new-research-shows-20-has-failed-to-grow-back-254465

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Establishment of the Religious Liberty Commission

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-left”>
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  It shall be the policy of the executive branch to vigorously enforce the historic and robust protections for religious liberty enshrined in Federal law.  The Founders envisioned a Nation in which religious voices and views are integral to a vibrant public square and human flourishing and in which religious people and institutions are free to practice their faith without fear of discrimination or hostility from the Government.  Indeed, the roots of religious liberty stretch back to the early settlers who fled religious persecution in Europe, seeking a new world where they could choose, follow, and practice their faith without interference from the Government.  The principle of religious liberty was enshrined in American law with the First Amendment to the Constitution in 1791.  Since that time, the Constitution has protected the fundamental right to religious liberty as Americans’ first freedom.
    During my first term, I issued Executive Order 13798 of May 4, 2017 (Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty).  Pursuant to that order, the Attorney General issued a memorandum for all executive departments and agencies (agencies) titled “Federal Law Protections for Religious Liberty” on October 6, 2017.  The Supreme Court has also continued to vindicate the Founders’ commitment to religious liberty, including by giving effect to the principle that religious voices should be welcomed on an equal basis in the public square.
    In recent years, some Federal, State, and local policies have threatened America’s unique and beautiful tradition of religious liberty.  These policies attempt to infringe upon longstanding conscience protections, prevent parents from sending their children to religious schools, threaten loss of funding or denial of non-profit tax status for faith-based entities, and single out religious groups and institutions for exclusion from governmental programs.  Some opponents of religious liberty would remove religion entirely from public life.  Others characterize religious liberty as inconsistent with civil rights, despite religions’ vital roles in the abolition of slavery; the passage of Federal civil rights laws; and the provision of indispensable social, educational, and health services.
    President Ronald Reagan reminded us that “freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.”  Americans need to be reacquainted with our Nation’s superb experiment in religious freedom in order to preserve it against emerging threats.  Therefore, the Federal Government will promote citizens’ pride in our foundational history, identify emerging threats to religious liberty, uphold Federal laws that protect all citizens’ full participation in a pluralistic democracy, and protect the free exercise of religion.

    Sec. 2.  Establishment of the Religious Liberty Commission.  (a)  There is hereby established the Religious Liberty Commission (Commission).
    (b)  The Commission shall function as follows:
    (i)     The Commission shall be composed of up to 14 members appointed by the President.  Members of the Commission shall include individuals chosen to serve as educated representatives of various sectors of society, including the private sector, employers, educational institutions, religious communities, and States, to offer diverse perspectives on how the Federal Government can defend religious liberty for all Americans.  The President shall designate a Chairman and Vice Chairman from among the members.  The Commission shall also include the following ex officio members or such senior officials as those members may designate:
                     (A)  the Attorney General;
                     (B)  the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; and
                     (C)  the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy.
    (ii)    Members appointed to the Commission shall serve one term ending on July 4, 2026, which marks the 250th anniversary of American Independence.  If the term of the Commission is extended by the President beyond July 4, 2026, members shall be eligible for reappointment for a 2-year term.  Members may continue to serve after the expiration of their terms until the appointment of a successor.
    (iii) The Commission shall produce a comprehensive report on the foundations of religious liberty in America, the impact of religious liberty on American society, current threats to domestic religious liberty, strategies to preserve and enhance religious liberty protections for future generations, and programs to increase awareness of and celebrate America’s peaceful religious pluralism. Specific topics to be considered by the Commission under these categories shall include the following areas: the First Amendment rights of pastors, religious leaders, houses of worship, faith-based institutions, and religious speakers; attacks across America on houses of worship of many religions; debanking of religious entities; the First Amendment rights of teachers, students, military chaplains, service members, employers, and employees; conscience protections in the health care field and concerning vaccine mandates; parents’ authority to direct the care, upbringing, and education of their children, including the right to choose a religious education; permitting time for voluntary prayer and religious instruction at public schools; Government displays with religious imagery; and the right of all Americans to freely exercise their faith without fear or Government censorship or retaliation.
     (iv)    The Commission shall advise the White House Faith Office and the Domestic Policy Council on religious liberty policies of the United States.  Specific activities of the Commission shall include, to the extent permitted by law, recommending steps to secure domestic religious liberty by executive or legislative actions as well as identifying opportunities for the White House Faith Office to partner with the Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom to further the cause of religious liberty around the world.
    (v)     Members of the Commission shall serve without any compensation for their work on the Commission.  Members of the Commission, while engaged in the work of the Commission, may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, to the extent permitted by law for persons serving intermittently in Government service (5 U.S.C. 5701-5707), consistent with the availability of funds.
    (vi)    To advise members of the Commission:
                 (A)  An Advisory Board of Religious Leaders shall be designated by the President and shall consist of not more than 15 members.  The Advisory Board of Religious Leaders shall be a subcomponent of the Commission and report to the Chairman of the Commission; 
                  (B)  An Advisory Board of Lay Leaders from religious congregations shall be designated by the President and shall consist of not more than 15 members.  The Advisory Board of Lay Leaders shall be a subcomponent of the Commission and report to the Chairman of the Commission; and
                  (C)  An Advisory Board of Legal Experts shall be designated by the President and shall consist of the Attorney General, or the Attorney General’s designee, and not more than 10 attorneys.  The Advisory Board of Legal Experts shall be a subcomponent of the Commission and report to the Chairman of the Commission.
    (vii)   The Commission shall terminate on July 4, 2026, which marks the 250th anniversary of American Independence, unless extended by the President.
    (viii)  The Department of Justice shall provide such funding and administrative and technical support as the Commission may require, to the extent permitted by law and as authorized by existing appropriations.
    (ix)    Insofar as the Federal Advisory Committee Act (chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code) may apply to the Commission or any of its Advisory Boards, any functions of the President under that Act, except for those in sections 1005 and 1013 of that Act, shall be performed by the Attorney General, in accordance with the guidelines and procedures established by the Administrator of General Services.

    Sec. 3.  Severability.  If any provision of this order, or the application of any provision to any agency, person, or circumstance, is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and the application of its provisions to any other agencies, persons, or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.

    Sec. 4.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        May 1, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Chandra Diagnoses Cause of Fracture in Galactic “Bone”

    Source: NASA

    Astronomers have discovered a likely explanation for a fracture in a huge cosmic “bone” in the Milky Way galaxy, using NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and radio telescopes.
    The bone appears to have been struck by a fast-moving, rapidly spinning neutron star, or pulsar. Neutron stars are the densest known stars and form from the collapse and explosion of massive stars. They often receive a powerful kick from these explosions, sending them away from the explosion’s location at high speeds.
    Enormous structures resembling bones or snakes are found near the center of the galaxy. These elongated formations are seen in radio waves and are threaded by magnetic fields running parallel to them. The radio waves are caused by energized particles spiraling along the magnetic fields.

    This new image shows one of these cosmic “bones” called G359.13142-0.20005 (G359.13 for short), with X-ray data from Chandra (colored blue) and radio data from the MeerKAT radio array in South Africa (colored gray). Researchers also refer to G359.13 as the Snake.
    Examining this image closely reveals the presence of a break, or fracture, in the otherwise continuous length of G359.13 seen in the image. The combined X-ray and radio data provides clues to the cause of this fracture.
    Astronomers have now discovered an X-ray and radio source at the location of the fracture, using the data from Chandra and MeerKAT and the National Science Foundation’s Very Large Array. A likely pulsar responsible for these radio and X-ray signals is labeled. A possible extra source of X-rays located near the pulsar may come from electrons and positrons (the anti-matter counterparts to electrons) that have been accelerated to high energies.
    The researchers think the pulsar likely caused the fracture by smashing into G359.13 at a speed between one million and two million miles per hour. This collision distorted the magnetic field in the bone, causing the radio signal to also become warped.
    At about 230 light-years long, G359.13 is one of the longest and brightest of these structures in the Milky Way. To put this into context, there are more than 800 stars within that distance from Earth. G359.13 is located about 26,000 light-years from Earth, near the center of the Milky Way.
    A paper describing these results appeared in the May 2024 issue of the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society and is available here. The authors of the study are Farhad Yusuf-Zadeh (Northwestern University), Jun-Hui Zhao (Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian), Rick Arendt (University of Maryland, Baltimore County), Mark Wardle (Macquarie University, Australia), Craig Heinke (University of Alberta), Marc Royster (College of the Sequoias, California), Cornelia Lang (University of Iowa), and Joseph Michail (Northwestern).
    NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, manages the Chandra program. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Chandra X-ray Center controls science operations from Cambridge, Massachusetts, and flight operations from Burlington, Massachusetts.

    Read more from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
    Learn more about the Chandra X-ray Observatory and its mission here:

    chandra

    https://chandra.si.edu

    This release features two composite images of a long, thin, cosmic structure. With the structure’s vertical orientation, seemingly fragile dimensions, and pale grey color against the blackness of space, the images resemble medical X-rays of a long, thin, bone. The main image shows the structure in its entirety. The inset image is an annotated close-up highlighting an apparent fracture in the bone-like structure.
    The structure, called G359.13, or “The Snake”, is a Galactic Center Filament. These filament formations are threaded by parallel magnetic fields, and spiraling, energized particles. The particles cause radio waves, which can be detected by radio arrays, in this case by the MeerKAT array in South Africa.
    In the first composite image, the largely straight filament stretches from the top to the bottom of the vertical frame. At each end of the grey filament is a hazy grey cloud. The only color in the image is neon blue, found in a few specks which dot the blackness surrounding the structure. The blue represents X-rays seen by NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
    In the annotated close-up, one such speck appears to be interacting with the structure itself. This is a fast-moving, rapidly spinning neutron star, otherwise known as a pulsar. Astronomers believe that this pulsar has struck the filament halfway down its length, distorting the magnetic field and radio signal.
    In both images, this distortion resembles a small break, or spur, in the bone-like filament.

    Megan WatzkeChandra X-ray CenterCambridge, Mass.617-496-7998mwatzke@cfa.harvard.edu
    Lane FigueroaMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama256-544-0034lane.e.figueroa@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ARMD Research Solicitations (Updated May 1)

    Source: NASA

    THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED ON MAY 1, 2025(Added Advanced Air Vehicles Program Fellowship Opportunities.)
    This Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD) solicitations page compiles the opportunities to collaborate with NASA’s aeronautical innovators and/or contribute to their research to enable new and improved air transportation systems.
    Most opportunities to participate in research are officially announced through the Web-based NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System, better known as NSPIRES. You are encouraged to visit the NSPIRES web site, create an account, and sign up for automated email announcements.
    Other types of collaborative opportunities, such as those involving Requests for Information or academic research contests, also are included on this page.
    This page has four major sections:

    Advanced Air Vehicles Program Fellowship OpportunitiesProposals are due by June 11, 2025.
    University Leadership InitiativeStep-A proposals due by June 26, 2025.
    University Student Research ChallengeProposals for Cycle 3 are due by June 26, 2025.

    ROA-2025 NRA Amendment 1 – OPEN
    Advanced Air Vehicles Program Fellowship Opportunities
    (View the full ROA-2025 NRA Amendment 1 text here.)
    This announcement solicits proposals from accredited U.S. institutions for research training grants to begin the academic year. This Notice of Funding Opportunity is designed to support independently conceived research projects by highly qualified graduate students in disciplines needed to help advance NASA’s mission, thus affording these students the opportunity to directly contribute to advancements in STEM-related areas of study. These opportunities are focused on innovation and the generation of measurable research results that contribute to NASA’s current and future science and technology goals.
    Research proposals are sought to address the key challenges summarized in the Elements section at the end of the Amendment 1 document, and which reference NASA’s Hypersonic Technology and Transformational Tools & Technologies projects.
    Notices of Intent are not required.
    A budget breakdown for each proposal is required, detailing the allocation of the award funds by year. The budget document may adhere to any format or template provided by the applicant’s institution. Two pre-proposal teleconferences for potential proposers will be held and meeting links will be posted on NSPIRES.
    Proposals are due by 5 p.m. EDT on June 11, 2025.

    ROA-2024 NRA Amendment 2 – OPEN
    University Leadership Initiative
    (View the full ROA-2024 NRA Amendment 2 text here.)
    NASA’s University Leadership Initiative (ULI) provides the opportunity for university teams to exercise technical and organizational leadership in proposing unique technical challenges in aeronautics, defining multi-disciplinary solutions, establishing peer review mechanisms, and applying innovative teaming strategies to strengthen the research impact.
    Research proposals are sought in six ULI topic areas in Appendix D.4.
    Topic 1: Safe, Efficient Growth in Global Operations
    Topic 2: Innovation in Commercial High-Speed Aircraft
    Topic 3: Ultra-Efficient Subsonic Transports
    Topic 4: Safe, Quiet, and Affordable Vertical Lift Air Vehicles
    Topic 5: In-Time System-Wide Safety Assurance
    Topic 6: Assured Autonomy for Aviation Transformation
    This NASA Research Announcement will utilize a two-step proposal submission and evaluation process. The initial step is a short mandatory Step-A proposal, which is due June 26, 2025. Those offerors submitting the most highly rated Step-A proposals will be invited to submit a Step-B proposal. All proposals must be submitted electronically through NSPIRES at https://nspires.nasaprs.com. An Applicant’s Workshop will be held on Thursday April 30, 2025; 1:00-3:00 p.m. ET (https://uli.arc.nasa.gov/applicants-workshops/workshop9) (Page will be live closer to the event.)
    An interested partners list for this ULI is at https://uli.arc.nasa.gov/partners. To be listed as an interested lead or partner, please send an email to hq-univpartnerships@mail.nasa.gov with “ULI Partnerships” in the subject line and include the information required for the table on that web page.

    ROA-2024 NRA Amendment 4 – OPEN
    University Student Research Challenge
    (View the full ROA-2024 NRA Amendment 4 text here)
    NASA’s University Student Research Challenge (USRC) seeks to challenge students to propose new ideas/concepts that are relevant to NASA Aeronautics.  The challenge will provide students from accredited U.S. colleges or universities with grants for their projects, as well as the challenge of raising cost share funds through a crowdfunding campaign. The process of creating and implementing a crowdfunding campaign acts as a teaching accelerator — requiring students to act like entrepreneurs and raise awareness about their research among the public.
    The solicitation goal can be accomplished through project ideas such as advancing the design, developing technology or capabilities in support of aviation, by demonstrating a novel concept, or enabling advancement of aeronautics-related technologies.
    Notices of Intent are not required for this solicitation.
    Proposals for Cycle 3 are due June 26, 2025.
    Proposals can also be submitted later and evaluated in the second and third cycles.
    The USRC Q&A/Info Session and Proposal Workshop will be held on the days/times below. Please join us on TEAMS using the Meeting Link, or call in via +1 256-715-9946,,317928116#.

    USRC Cycle
    Information Session/Q&A Date
    Proposal Due Date

    Cycle 1
    Sept. 20, 2024 at 2 pm ET
    Nov. 7, 2024

    Cycle 2
    Jan. 27, 2025 at 2 pm ET
    March 13, 2025

    Cycle 3
    May 12, 2025 at 2 pm ET
    June 26, 2025

    Aeronautics Innovation Challenges – OPEN
    NASA’s nationwide team of aeronautical innovators are committed to giving students of all ages opportunities to solve some of the biggest technical challenges facing the aviation community today. Through NASA-sponsored challenges and competitions, students representing multiple disciplines will put their skills to work by designing and building solutions to real-world problems.

    Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations RFI – CLOSED
    View the full ACERO RFI announcement here.
    NASA’s Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response Operations (ACERO) project used this request for information to identify technologies that addressed current challenges facing the wildland firefighting community. NASA was seeking information on data collection, airborne connectivity and communications solutions, unmanned aircraft systems traffic management, aircraft operations and autonomy, and more. This would support development of a partnership strategy for future collaborative demonstrations.
    Interested parties were requested to respond to this notice with an information package submitted via https://nari.arc.nasa.gov/acero-rfi no later than 4 pm ET, October 15, 2023. Submissions were accepted only from U.S. companies.

    Advanced Air Mobility Mission RFI – CLOSED
    View the full AAM RFI announcement here.
    This request for information is being used to gather market research for NASA to make informed decisions regarding potential partnership strategies and future research to enable Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). NASA is seeking information from public, private, and academic organizations to determine technical needs and community interests that may lead to future solicitations regarding AAM research and development.
    This particular RFI is just one avenue of multiple planned opportunities for formal feedback on or participation in NASA’s AAM Mission-related efforts to develop these requirements and help enable AAM. 
    The respond by date for this RFI closed on Feb. 1, 2025, at 6 p.m. EST.

    ROA-2024 NRA Amendment 1 – CLOSED
    (View the full ROA-2024 NRA Amendment 1 text here.)
    The announcement solicited proposals from accredited U.S. institutions for research training grants to begin the academic year. This Notice of Funding Opportunity was designed to support independently conceived research projects by highly qualified graduate students, in disciplines needed to help advance NASA’s mission, thus affording these students the opportunity to directly contribute to advancements in STEM-related areas of study. Advanced Air Vehicle Program fellowship opportunities are focused on innovation and the generation of measurable research results that contribute to NASA’s current and future science and technology goals.
    Research proposals were sought to address key challenges provided in Elements of Appendix A.8.
    A budget breakdown for each proposal was required, detailing the allocation of the award funds by year. The budget document could adhere to any format or template provided by the applicant’s institution.
    Proposals were due by April 30, 2024, at 5 PM ET.

    ROA-2024 NRA Amendment 3 – CLOSED
    (View the full ROA-2024 NRA Amendment 3 text here)
    NASA’s Commercial Supersonic Technology project sought proposals for a fuel injector design concept and fabrication for testing at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.
    The proposal for the fuel injector design aimed to establish current state-of-the-art in low NOx supersonic cruise while meeting reasonable landing take-off NOx emissions. The technology application timeline is targeted for a supersonic aircraft with entry into service in the 2035+ timeframe.
    Proposals were due by May 31, 2024 at 5 pm EDT.

    Competition for NRA awards is open to both academia and industry.
    The current open solicitations for ARMD Research Opportunities are ROA-2024 and ROA-2025.
    Here is some general information to know about the NRA process.

    NRA solicitations are released by NASA Headquarters through the Web-based NASA Solicitation and Proposal Integrated Review and Evaluation System (NSPIRES).
    All NRA technical work is defined and managed by project teams within these four programs: Advanced Air Vehicles Program, Airspace Operations and Safety Program, Integrated Aviation Systems Program, and Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Program.
    NRA awards originate from NASA’s Langley Research Center in Virginia, Ames Research Center in California, Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, and Armstrong Flight Research Center in California.
    Competition for NRA awards is full and open.
    Participation is open to all categories of organizations, including educational institutions, industry, and nonprofits.
    Any updates or amendments to an NRA is posted on the appropriate NSPIRES web pages as noted in the Amendments detailed below.
    ARMD sends notifications of NRA updates through the NSPIRES email system. In order to receive these email notifications, you must be a Registered User of NSPIRES. However, note that NASA is not responsible for inadvertently failing to provide notification of a future NRA. Parties are responsible for regularly checking the NSPIRES website for updated NRAs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Invests in Future STEM Workforce Through Space Grant Awards 

    Source: NASA

    NASA is awarding up to $870,000 annually to 52 institutions across the United States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico over the next four years. The investments aim to create opportunities for the next generation of innovators by supporting workforce development, science, technology, engineering and math education, and aerospace collaboration nationwide. 
    The Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (Space Grant), established by Congress in 1989, is a workforce development initiative administered through NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM). The program’s mission is to produce a highly skilled workforce prepared to advance NASA’s mission and bolster the nation’s aerospace sector. 
    “The Space Grant program exemplifies NASA’s commitment to cultivating a new generation of STEM leaders,” said Torry Johnson, deputy associate administrator of the STEM Engagement Program at NASA Headquarters in Washington. “By partnering with institutions across the country, we ensure that students have the resources, mentorship, and experiences needed to thrive in the aerospace workforce.” 
    The following is a complete list of awardees: 

    University of Alaska, Fairbanks 

    University of Alabama, Huntsville 

    University of Arkansas, Little Rock 

    University of Arizona 

    University of California, San Diego 

    University of Colorado, Boulder 

    University of Hartford, Connecticut 

    American University, Washington, DC 

    University of Delaware 

    University of Central Florida 

    Georgia Institute of Technology 

    University of Hawaii, Honolulu 

    Iowa State University, Ames 

    University of Idaho, Moscow 

    University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 

    Purdue University, Indiana 

    Wichita State University, Kansas 

    University of Kentucky, Lexington 

    Louisiana State University and A&M College 

    Massachusetts Institute of Technology 

    Johns Hopkins University, Maryland 

    Maine Space Grant Consortium 

    University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 

    University of Minnesota 

    Missouri University of Science and Technology 

    University of Mississippi 

    Montana State University, Bozeman 

    North Carolina State University 

    University of North Dakota, Grand Forks 

    University of Nebraska, Omaha 

    University of New Hampshire, Durham 

    Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey 

    New Mexico State University 

    Nevada System of Higher Education 

    Cornell University, New York 

    Ohio Aerospace Institute 

    University of Oklahoma 

    Oregon State University 

    Pennsylvania State University 

    University of Puerto Rico 

    Brown University, Rhode Island 

    College of Charleston, South Carolina 

    South Dakota School of Mines & Technology 

    Vanderbilt University, Tennessee 

    University of Texas, Austin 

    University of Utah, Salt Lake City 

    Old Dominion University Research Foundation, Virginia 

    University of Vermont, Burlington 

    University of Washington, Seattle 

    Carthage College, Wisconsin 

    West Virginia University 

    University of Wyoming 

    Space Grant operates through state-based consortia, which include universities, university systems, associations, government agencies, industries, and informal education organizations engaged in aerospace activities. Each consortium’s lead institution coordinates efforts within its state, expanding opportunities for students and researchers while promoting collaboration with NASA and aerospace-related industries nationwide. 
    To learn more about NASA’s missions, visit: https://www.nasa.gov/ 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amateur Radio Scientists Shine at the 2025 HamSCI Workshop

    Source: NASA

    Love Ham Radio? The HamSCI project fosters collaboration between amateur radio operators and professional researchers. Its goals are to advance scientific research and understanding through amateur radio activities, encourage the development of modern technologies to support this research, and provide educational opportunities for the amateur community and the public. 
    HamSCI held its annual Workshop, ‘HamSCI’s Big Year’, at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in late March. Over 100 members of the HamSCI community attended: researchers, students (secondary through graduate level), and citizen scientist volunteers. Over the two-day event, in-person and virtual participants experienced twenty-five talks on topics ranging from analysis of HamSCI’s 2023/24 Festivals of Eclipse Ionospheric Science events to space weather observations made during the May 10, 2024 geomagnetic superstorm.
    The Workshop hosted a variety of Keynote and Invited Tutorial speakers, including distinguished scientists and leaders in the Amateur (ham) Radio community.  The Workshop concluded with a poster session, featuring current research, ongoing educational activities, and concepts for future events involving Sun-space-Earth science topics.  Posters were submitted from the US, Brazil, Egypt, the United Kingdom, and Turkey.
    Explore the workshop presentations and posters.  Videos of conference presentations will be available at the HamSCI website in a few months.
    HamSCI is supported by NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC) foundation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What’s Up: May 2025 Skywatching Tips from NASA

    Source: NASA

    [embedded content]

    The first week of May brings the annual Eta Aquarid meteors, peaking on the 6th. And sometime in the next few months, astronomers predict a “new star” or nova explosion will become visible to the unaided eye. 

    All Month – Planet Visibility: 

    Venus: Appears very bright and low in the east in the hour before sunrise all month. 

    Mars: Easy to find in the west in the first few hours of the night, all month long. Sets around midnight to 1 a.m. local time. 

    Jupiter: Shines brightly in the west following sunset all month. Early in the month it sets about two hours after the Sun, but by late May it’s setting only an hour after sunset. 

    Saturn: Begins the month next to Venus, low in the eastern sky before sunrise. Quickly separates from Saturn and rises higher in the sky each day before dawn. 

    Daily Highlights
    May 6 – Eta Aquarid Meteors – The peak of this annual shower is early on the morning of May 6th. The two or three nights before that are also decent opportunities to spy a few shooting stars. On the peak night this year, the Moon sets by around 3 a.m., leaving dark skies until dawn, for ideal viewing conditions. Seeing 10-20 meteors per hour is common for the Northern Hemisphere, while south of the equator, observers tend to see substantially more. 
    May 3 – Mars & Moon: The first quarter Moon appears right next to the Red Planet on the 3rd. Find them in the west during the first half of the night that evening. 
    All month – Venus & Saturn: Low in the eastern sky each morning you’ll find bright Venus paired with much fainter Saturn. They start the month close together, but Saturn pulls away and rises higher over the course of the month. 
    All month – Mars & Jupiter: The planets to look for on May evenings are Mars and Jupiter. They’re visible for a couple of hours after sunset in the western sky. 
    All month – Corona Borealis: Practice finding this constellation in the eastern part of the sky during the first half of the night, so you have a point of comparison when the T CrB nova appears there, likely in the next few months. 

    What’s Up for May? Four bright planets, morning and night, a chance of meteor showers, and waiting for a nova. 
    May Planet Viewing 
    For planet watching this month, you’ll find Mars and Jupiter in the west following sunset. Mars sticks around for several hours after it gets dark out, but Jupiter is setting by 9:30 or 10 p.m., and getting lower in the sky each day. The first quarter Moon appears right next to the Red Planet on the 3rd. Find them in the west during the first half of the night that evening. 

    In the morning sky, Venus and Saturn are the planets to look for in May. They begin the month appearing close together on the sky, and progressively pull farther apart as the month goes on. For several days in late May, early risers will enjoy a gathering of the Moon with Saturn and Venus in the eastern sky before dawn. Watch as the Moon passes the two planets while becoming an increasingly slimmer crescent. You’ll find the Moon hanging between Venus and Saturn on the 23rd.   
    Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower 
    Early May brings the annual Eta Aquarid meteor shower. These are meteors that originate from Comet Halley. Earth passes through the comet’s dust stream each May, and again in October. Eta Aquarids are fast moving, and a lot of them produce persistent dust trains that linger for seconds after the meteor’s initial streak.  
    This is one of the best annual showers in the Southern Hemisphere, but tends to be more subdued North of the Equator, where we typically see 10-20 meteors per hour. On the peak night this year, the Moon sets by around 3 a.m., leaving dark skies until dawn, for ideal viewing conditions. While the peak is early on the morning of May 6th, the two or three nights before that are also decent opportunities to spy a few shooting stars. 
    Waiting for a Nova 

    Astronomers have been waiting expectantly for light from a distant explosion to reach us here on Earth. An event called a nova is anticipated to occur sometime in the coming months. Some 3,000 light years away is a binary star system called T Coronae Borealis, or “T CrB.” It consists of a red giant star with a smaller white dwarf star orbiting closely around it. Now the giant’s outer atmosphere is all puffed up, and the dwarf star is close enough that its gravity continually captures some of the giant’s hydrogen. About every 80 years, the white dwarf has accumulated so much of the other star’s hydrogen, that it ignites a thermonuclear explosion. And that’s the nova. 
    T Coronae Borealis is located in the constellation Corona Borealis, or the “Northern Crown,” and it’s normally far too faint to see with the unaided eye. But it’s predicted the nova will be as bright as the constellation’s brightest star, which is about as bright as the North Star, Polaris. You’ll find Corona Borealis right in between the two bright stars Arcturus and Vega, and you can use the Big Dipper’s handle to point you to the right part of the sky. Try having a look for it on clear, dark nights before the nova, so you’ll have a comparison when a new star suddenly becomes visible there. 

    Now, you may have heard about this months ago, as astronomers started keeping watch for the nova midway through 2024, but it hasn’t happened yet. Predicting exactly when novas or any sort of stellar outburst will happen is tricky, but excitement began growing when astronomers observed the star to dim suddenly, much as it did right before its previous nova in 1946. When the nova finally does occur, it won’t stay bright for long, likely flaring in peak brightness for only a few days. And since it’s not predicted again for another 80 years, you might just want to join the watch for this super rare, naked eye stellar explosion in the sky! 
    Here are the phases of the Moon for May. 

    You can stay up to date on all of NASA’s missions exploring the solar system and beyond at NASA Science.
    I’m Preston Dyches from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and that’s What’s Up for this month. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Suburban Chicago Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Cyberstalking Victim He Met Online

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for cyberstalking a victim he met on an online dating platform.

    KEVIN CRUZ met the victim in 2021 on the dating application Grindr.  While the pair communicated about a potential intimate relationship, the victim sent Cruz nude photographs of himself.  Cruz and the victim met in person on several occasions, but while Cruz expressed an interest in pursuing a romantic relationship, the victim did not.

    From December 2021 to mid-2023, Cruz engaged in a course of harassing and intimidating conduct toward the victim.  Cruz created numerous profiles on Grindr and other dating applications in which he impersonated the victim.  Cruz, pretending to be the victim, arranged for men to travel to the victim’s home for sexual encounters.  In some instances, Cruz, pretending to be the victim, instructed the men to enter the victim’s residence and attempt to have sex with the victim even if he resisted, as Cruz said the resistance would be part of a role-playing scenario. Numerous men arrived at the victim’s residence seeking sex as a result of their communications with Cruz.

    Cruz also sent the victim’s nude photographs to the victim’s family members, including his mother, brother, and cousins.  In a text message sent by Cruz to the victim’s mother from a spoofed phone number, Cruz falsely suggested that the victim had committed suicide.

    Cruz, 34, of Oak Park, Ill., pleaded guilty last year to a federal cyberstalking charge.  In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Steven C. Seeger on Wednesday ordered Cruz to pay $17,313.18 in restitution to the victim.

    The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.

    “Defendant’s conduct shocks the conscience,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan L. Shih argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “He created significant risks that the victim would be hurt, injured, and raped.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India Advocates Global Action on Chemicals and Waste at BRS COPs 2025

    Source: Government of India

    India Advocates Global Action on Chemicals and Waste at BRS COPs 2025

    Union Minister for Environment Forest & Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav leads Indian Delegation at high-level Segment in Geneva

    Shri Yadav emphasizes India’s Regulatory Framework and Global Leadership on Plastic Pollution

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 8:27PM by PIB Delhi

    An Inter-Ministerial delegation from India, led by the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, is participating in the Conference of the Parties (COPs) to the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions, taking place in Geneva from 30th April to 1st May, 2025. The theme of this year’s high-level segment is “Make visible the invisible: Sound management of chemicals and wastes.”

    During his address in opening ceremony, Shri Bhupender Yadav emphasized that the theme reflects the global imperative of addressing the often-unseen threats of chemical and waste mismanagement. He reiterated India’s commitment to environmentally sound policies, underpinned by a robust legal and institutional framework.

    Key Interventions and Bilateral Engagements

    At the ministerial roundtable on ‘Means of Implementation’, Shri Yadav highlighted that the effective execution of the BRS Conventions relies significantly on access to finance, technology transfer, capacity-building, technical assistance, and strengthened international cooperation. He outlined India’s integrated approach to implementing the conventions through national legislation such as the Environment (Protection) Act, the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, and the E-Waste Management Rules, 2016, which are supported by sustained investments in institutional and technical infrastructure.

    On the sidelines of the COPs, the Union Minister Shri Yadav participated in a consultation meeting organized by Norway on the work of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on Plastic Pollution. He apprised participants of India’s domestic initiatives such as the ban on identified single-use plastic items and the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging.

    Shri Yadav further underlined India’s pioneering role in international environmental governance under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, highlighting that India introduced a resolution on single use plastics at UNEA-4, bringing the issue to the center of global discourse.

    During the bilateral meeting with Ms. Katrin Schneeberger, Director of the Federal Office for the Environment, Switzerland, Shri Yadav discussed matters related to the development of a legally binding international instrument on plastic pollution, and India’s support for the establishment of a Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals and Waste, as mandated by UNEA resolutions.

    Forward-Looking Engagement

    The High-Level Segment of the BRS COPs features ministerial roundtables and interactive dialogues focused on collaborative global action.

    India remains steadfast in its commitment to multilateral environmental cooperation and will continue to advocate for the interests of developing countries while ensuring equitable, science-based, and sustainable solutions for the planet.

    *****

    GS

    (Release ID: 2125922) Visitor Counter : 51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Rakesh Verma takes charge as Director General, IIIDEM; Ashish Goyal takes charge as Director General, Media

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 7:47PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri. Rakesh Verma, assumes charge as Director General, India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM), New Delhi here today.  Shri Verma is a 1993 batch IAS Officer from Punjab Cadre. He holds a degree in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Delhi. 

    2. Prior to this, he was serving as Additional Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti. Earlier he also served as Additional Secretary and Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism.

    3. Shri. Ashish Goyal, assumed charge as Director General, Media in the Election Commission of India (ECI) today. Shri Goyal is a 1996 batch IIS officer. He holds a Masters in Business Administration from Panjab University and a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh.

    4. Prior to this, he was serving as the Director General of National Museum, Ministry of Culture with additional charge of Director, Salar Jung Museum.

    ******

    PK/GDH/RP

    (Release ID: 2125891) Visitor Counter : 44

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves the proposed combination involving (i) acquisition of 40% shareholding of HCCH by Jubilant Beverages Limited (JBL) and (ii) proposed subscription to CCPS in JBL by Jubilant BevCo Limited and the Investors

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed combination involving (i) acquisition of 40% shareholding of HCCH by Jubilant Beverages Limited (JBL) and (ii) proposed subscription to CCPS in JBL by Jubilant BevCo Limited and the Investors.

    Jubilant Beverages Limited (JBL) and Jubilant BevCo Limited (BevCo) are newly incorporated entities that have recently commenced the business of trading of ready to cook-eat food items on purchase order basis. JBL and BevCo belong to the Jubilant Bhartia Group. The Jubilant Bhartia Group is present in diverse sectors in India such as pharmaceuticals, contract research and development services, proprietary novel drugs, life science ingredients, agri products etc.

    WSSS Investments Aggregator 1 Pte. Ltd. (Investor 1) and WSSS Investments Aggregator 2 Pte. Ltd. (Investor 2) are collectively referred to as ‘Investors’. The Investors are companies incorporated in Singapore and are owned by funds managed by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. (GSAM), an investment manager. GSAM is indirectly wholly owned by Goldman Sachs Group, Inc (USA) (GS). GS, a Delaware corporation, is a global investment banking, securities and investment management firm that provides a range of banking, securities and investment services worldwide. GS together with its group entities comprise the GS Group (JBL, BevCo and the Investors are collectively referred to as the ‘Acquirers’).

    Hindustan Coca-Cola Holdings Private Limited (HCCH/ Target) is a holding company having no independent activities in India and belongs to The Coca-Cola Company (TCCC) group.  Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Private Limited (HCCB) is a subsidiary of the Target. HCCB is engaged in the preparing, packaging, supply and distribution of a variety of Coca-Cola beverages in India. It is also engaged in the preparation and distribution of beverages under the ‘Monster’ brand owned by Monster Inc.

    The proposed combination relates to inter alia: (i) JBL’s proposed acquisition of 40% of the shareholding of HCCH from Hindustan Coca-Cola Overseas Holdings Pte. Ltd., and Bharat Coca-Cola Overseas Holdings Pte. Ltd.; and (ii) BevCo’s and the Investors’ proposed subscription to compulsorily convertible preference shares (CCPS) in JBL. [step (i) and (ii) together comprise the Proposed Combination].

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

    ***** 

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2125860) Visitor Counter : 35

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CCI approves proposed combination involving acquisition in HealthCare Global Enterprises Limited by KKR through Hector Asia Holdings and KIA EBT II Scheme

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 6:25PM by PIB Delhi

    The Competition Commission of India has approved the proposed combination involving acquisition in HealthCare Global Enterprises Limited by KKR through Hector Asia Holdings and KIA EBT II Scheme.

    Hector Asia Holdings II Pte. Ltd. (Hector) is private company incorporated in Singapore. It is an indirectly wholly-owned by investment funds, vehicles and / or accounts advised and managed by various subsidiaries of KKR and Co. Inc (“KKR & Co.” and together with its subsidiaries, “KKR”).

    KIA EBT II Scheme 1, an employee benefit scheme of KIA EBT Trust II (EBT) is an employee benefit scheme of KIA EBT Trust II, a trust settled under the Indian Trusts Act, 1882. Its beneficiaries are employees of KKR.

    KKR is a global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds.

    HealthCare Global Enterprises Limited (Target) is a publicly listed company. It is active in the business of (a) operating multi-specialty hospitals at Bhavnagar, Ahmedabad, Rajkot and Hubli and comprehensive cancer care centres; (b) providing cancer care services, diagnosis and treatment; (c) operating day care clinics, fertility centres, radiology and PET-CT facilities; (d) providing reproductive medicine services; and (e) conducting life sciences, academic research and clinical testing, and diagnostics providing precision medicine solutions.

    Hector along with EBT propose to acquire up to 54% of the diluted voting share capital of the Target from Aceso Company Pte. Ltd. in two tranches. Pursuant to the SEBI (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011, a mandatory tender offer in India will be triggered, requiring Hector to make an open offer to the public shareholders of the Target for acquisition of up to 26% of the expanded voting share capital of the Target. Depending on tendering of shares in the open offer, the Acquirers are expected to hold an eventual stake of between 54% of the expanded voting share capital to 77% of the expanded voting share capital of the Target (Proposed Combination)

    Detailed order of the Commission will follow.

    *****

    NB/AD

    (Release ID: 2125856) Visitor Counter : 28

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025 pays stirring Tributes to the Legend of Bollywood Cinema Manoj Kumar

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES 2025 pays stirring Tributes to the Legend of Bollywood Cinema Manoj Kumar

    WAVES Breakout Session: “Remembering Manoj Kumar: Ace Filmmaker, True Nationalist” Concludes with Emotion, Insight, and Cinematic Legacy

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 5:47PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 1 May 2025

     

    The cinematic waves at WAVES 2025 reached a heartfelt crescendo as the session “Remembering Manoj Kumar: Ace Filmmaker, True Nationalist” paid tribute to one of Indian cinema’s most iconic and patriotic voices. Moderated by noted film critic and podcaster Mayank Shekhar, the session brought together leading voices from the film and literary worlds to reflect on the legacy of the legendary actor, writer, and filmmaker.

    Born Harikishan Giri Goswami in 1937, Manoj Kumar’s life was as dramatic and inspiring as his films. Uprooted by partition, he came to Bombay with dreams but no film connections. A self-made storyteller who initially wrote scripts in Urdu, Kumar crafted a distinct cinematic voice — blending mainstream appeal with a deep sense of nationalism and social conscience.

    Kunal Goswami, actor and son of Manoj Kumar, opened the session with intimate memories: “My father lost everything during Partition, but never lost his vision. From living in refugee camps to scripting iconic stories in Urdu, his journey is a testimony of resilience. He brought Bhagat Singh’s mother to the premiere of ‘Shaheed’— that’s how personal his patriotism was. He created blockbusters that were also deeply nationalistic — a rare feat.”

    Madhur Bhandarkar, National Award-winning director of acclaimed movies such as Page 3, Chandni bar and Fashion remembered in awe Manoj Kumar’s cinematic techniques remarking that the way he shot songs was incredible. Bhandarkar added that Manoj Kumar’s films were layered with nationalism and social realism, something he has tried to echo in his own work. “Chandni Bar was in many ways a subconscious tribute to Manoj Kumar’s ethos.” said Bhandarkar.

    Dr. Raajeev Shrivastav, senior author and lyricist, shared an awe-inspiring tale:

    “At the screening of ‘Shaheed’ in Delhi attended by the then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, the Prime minister asked Manoj Kumar to create a movie based on his slogan ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan.’ Inspired by this, Manoj Kumar wrote the story for Upkaar on the overnight train journey back to Mumbai. Manoj Kumar’s life was a cinematic mission to speak to the common man. In this way his spirit mirrors the essence of WAVES itself.”

    Bharti S. Pradhan, veteran columnist and biographer, offered a poignant reflection:

    “Despite his massive success, he was incredibly approachable.  Even while unwell, he was dreaming of his next film. That was his spirit — always looking forward.”

    A Legacy That Lives On

    Known affectionately as Bharat Kumar, Manoj Kumar was the recipient of numerous accolades including the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. His films — Shaheed, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Upkaar, Kranti — were not just cinematic landmarks but cultural milestones. The session concluded with thumping applause from the audience and a collective sense of gratitude for a man who made patriotism poetic, and storytelling sublime.

     

    * * *

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ AthiraThampi/ Lakshmipriya/ Darshana | 125

    Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com  /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

    (Release ID: 2125827) Visitor Counter : 51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: I don’t have the habit of taking anything for free… I like challenges; Fulfilling constitutional obligations is a primary responsibility – Vice President

    Source: Government of India

    I don’t have the habit of taking anything for free… I like challenges; Fulfilling constitutional obligations is a primary responsibility – Vice President

    If a crime shakes the public conscience, it cannot be covered up; Crime must be resolved according to the law – Vice President

    Comments on dignified constitutional positions like the President and Governor are matters that deserve serious reflection – Vice President

    The Constitution expects dialogue, deliberation, and healthy debate, not confrontation – Vice President

    The real definition of democracy is expression and debate – Vice President

    I have the utmost respect for the judiciary; all institutions should work in coordination – Vice President

    The most dangerous challenge is the one that comes from within, which we cannot discuss – Vice President

    Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 5:02PM by PIB Delhi

    Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar today said, “I like challenges, and fulfilling constitutional obligations is our primary responsibility. No negligence in this regard can be accepted.”

    “A little while ago, I was told, ‘You won’t get [the book] for free either.’ Your Excellency Governor Anandiben Patel, I don’t have the habit of taking anything for free… The most dangerous challenge is the one that comes from within, which we cannot discuss… the challenge that comes from our own people, which has no logical basis, which has no connection with national development, which is related to governance. Not just you, I too am a victim of these challenges, Your Excellency Governor. I myself am a victim, a sufferer of these challenges. But we have a great strength before us, and our strength is our philosophy, which tells us that whenever a crisis arises, look towards the Vedas, look towards the Gita, Ramayana, Mahabharata – ‘You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.’ Whenever challenges come, they will come. Challenges will come such that you feel helpless and think that even walls have ears. So you don’t discuss that challenge even with yourself, but you must never deviate from the path of duty,” he further said.

    Speaking as the chief guest at the book launch event of ‘I Like Challenges’ by Honourable Governor Smt. Anandiben Patel in Lucknow today, he said, “People often say that public memory is short and think that over time, everything will be forgotten. But that’s not the case. Have we forgotten the Emergency? Much time has passed, but the dark shadow of the Emergency is still visible to us today. It was the darkest period in Indian history when people were imprisoned without reason, access to the judiciary was obstructed. Fundamental rights disappeared, millions of people were thrown into jails. We haven’t forgotten this. Similarly, regarding the painful incident that happened recently, I believe — and it is my firm conviction — that we must accept that every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. In a democracy, innocence has a special significance. But whatever the crime may be, it must be resolved according to the law. And if a crime shakes the public conscience, it cannot be covered up. I have stated this with complete clarity. Some people asked me why I am so outspoken on this issue. I got a lot of inspiration from Her Excellency the Governor’s book. And I have made it clear that I like challenges, and fulfilling constitutional obligations is our primary responsibility. No negligence in this regard can be accepted.”

    Expressing deep concern over comments made about constitutional positions, Shri Dhankhar said, “In our Constitution, two positions are considered supreme — one is the President of India, and the other is the Governor. And honourable Chief Minister, they are supreme because the oath you have taken, the oath I have taken, the oath that MPs, ministers, legislators, or any judge has taken — that oath is: I will uphold the Constitution. But Draupadi Murmu ji’s (President) and Anandiben Patel ji’s (Governor) oath is different from this. Their oath is: ‘I will protect, preserve, and defend the Constitution.’ And the second oath is: ‘I will serve the people’ — for the President, it’s the people of India, and for the Governor, it’s the people of the respective state. If comments are made on such dignified and constitutional positions, then according to me, it is a matter that deserves serious reflection.”

    Highlighting the importance of coordination and dialogue between all institutions created by the Constitution, the Vice-President emphasized, “In the last few days, an event has occurred, on which I have also issued a statement, and it is also connected to your state. I want to remind you that the biggest confrontation between the Legislature and the Judiciary happened in this very state. You are all well familiar with this subject. It is our paramount duty to ensure that our constitutional institutions respect each other, and this respect increases when each institution works within its own boundaries. When Institutions respect each other… our Constitution does not expect confrontation, but rather coordination, cooperation, dialogue, deliberation, and healthy debate. The Constitution does not envision conflict between institutions; it promotes a spirit of participation and balance.”

    In the same context, he further said, “All Institutions have their own roles. One should not play the role of another. We should respect the Constitution — literally, in spirit, and in essence, and I have said before, 140 crore people express their sentiments through elections, through their representatives, and those representatives reflect the public mind, and the public holds them accountable in elections. And that’s why I have said in common man’s language that just as the legislature cannot script a judgment, that is the court’s job — similarly, the court cannot make laws.”

    “I have the utmost respect for the judiciary; I have been a soldier of the judiciary. I spent more than four decades as a lawyer. Only in 2019, when I was appointed as the Governor of West Bengal, did I leave the practice of law. I know that there are extremely talented people in the judiciary. The judiciary is of great importance. How strong our democratic system is — is defined by the status of the judiciary. By global standards, our judges are among the best. But I appeal that we should show a spirit of cooperation, coordination, and participation. The executive, judiciary, and legislature — these institutions should work together and in harmony.”, he added.

    Emphasizing the importance of expression and debate in democracy, Shri Dhankhar said, “A very important point has been made, which is extremely necessary for all of us. Why do we call ourselves a democracy? Economic progress, development of institutional framework, expansion of technology — all these are important. But the real definition of democracy is — expression and debate. Expression and dialogue are the foundations of democracy. If there are restrictions on expression, it will be difficult for any nation to call itself democratic. But expression has no meaning if there is no debate with it. If expression reaches such an extent that the speaker thinks ‘I am the only one who is right’ and in all other circumstances, others are wrong, and there is no attempt to listen to them — then this is not the right to expression, but rather its distortion. Democracy is defined only when expression and dialogue flourish together in a comprehensive ecosystem. These two complement each other. And if expression reaches an extreme but there is no dialogue, then the philosophy of our Vedas — pluralism, will end. And in its place will be born ‘ego and arrogance.’ This ‘ego and arrogance’ are fatal for both individuals and institutions.”

    On this occasion, the Vice-President’s spouse Smt. Sudesh Dhankhar, Honourable Governor of Uttar Pradesh Smt. Anandiben Patel, Honourable Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Yogi Adityanath, Cabinet Minister Shri Suresh Khanna, and other dignitaries were also present.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    (Release ID: 2125799) Visitor Counter : 68

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein to Address Graduates in Western North Carolina, Honor Graduates’ Achievements and Resiliency

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein to Address Graduates in Western North Carolina, Honor Graduates’ Achievements and Resiliency

    Governor Stein to Address Graduates in Western North Carolina, Honor Graduates’ Achievements and Resiliency
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    To honor western North Carolina graduates’ achievements and resiliency in the wake of Hurricane Helene, Governor Josh Stein will deliver remarks at the commencement ceremonies of Appalachian State University, Western Carolina University, and Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College on May 9 and 10. Governor Stein will applaud the graduates who have overcome tremendous adversity and encourage them to continue pursuing their dreams.

    “These graduates, many of whom already had their education disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, have demonstrated tremendous resilience in the face of adversity following Hurricane Helene,” said Governor Stein. “I am proud to recognize their determination and grit.”

    Friday, May 9

    Appalachian State University College of Arts and Sciences Commencement Ceremony

    5:00 PM

    Questions should be emailed to news@appstate.edu.  

    Saturday, May 10

    Western Carolina University Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony  

    10:00 AM

    Questions should be emailed to jduvall@wcu.edu.

    Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College Spring Commencement  

    2:00 PM

    Questions should be emailed to kerriaglover@abtech.edu. 

    May 1, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Aquarium Calls Troops to Storm the Beach for May the 4th Beach Cleanup

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Aquarium Calls Troops to Storm the Beach for May the 4th Beach Cleanup

    Aquarium Calls Troops to Storm the Beach for May the 4th Beach Cleanup
    jejohnson6

    FORT FISHER

    Out-of-this-world and all for the planet, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF) invites the community to the 2nd Annual May the 4th Beach Cleanup on Sunday, May 4, 8:30 -10:30 a.m. at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. Hosting beach cleanups is one of many ways the Aquarium leads the community in protecting the environment and it is a vital part of the NCAFF mission to inspire appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments.

     

    “The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is excited to storm the beaches with volunteers from the community, and together, make a difference for the ocean,” said Keely Beard, NCAFF green team representative. “Our green team is committed to leading in projects at the Aquarium and in the community that energize us all to take action for the planet.”
     

    Just in Time for Sea Turtle Nesting Season

    The May the 4th Beach Cleanup is a family friendly way to remove obstacles and trash just as sea turtle nesting season gets underway. Many look forward to donning their favorite costume while taking on the important work of preserving the beautiful Fort Fisher shore.

    Join the May the 4th Beach Cleanup

    Things to Know

    • Wear your favorite costume for a contest!
    • Cool prize for the costume contest winner!

    What to bring

    • Reusable Water Bottles
    • Reusable Gloves

    What NOT to bring*

    • Single-use plastic bags
    • Single-use plastic gloves
    • Single-use plastic water bottles or coffee cups

    *The Aquarium will provide water refill stations, reusable gloves and buckets/bags for trash pickup.

    Leaders in Sustainability

    The Aquarium leads by example offering water refill stations, compostable cups, plates and utensils at the food deck and only aluminum bottles in our vending machines. We also only percolate and pour Bird Friendly® coffee at the Aquarium for staff and events. If you want to head to the Aquarium after the beach cleanup, please reserve tickets at NCAFF Reservations.

    About the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher  
    The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just south of Kure Beach, a short drive from Wilmington, on U.S. 421. The site is less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $12.95 ages 13-61; $10.95 children ages 3-12; $11.95 seniors (62 and older) and military with valid identification; EBT card holders: $3. Free admission for children 2 and younger and N.C. Aquarium Society members and N.C. Zoo members.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Apr 28, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –