NewzIntel.com

Category: Sport

  • MIL-Evening Report: Compression tights and tops: do they actually benefit you during (or after) exercise?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ben Singh, Research Fellow, Allied Health & Human Performance, University of South Australia

    Olena Yakobchuk/Shutterstock

    You’ve seen them in every gym: tight black leggings, neon sleeves and even knee-length socks.

    Compression gear is everywhere, worn by weekend joggers, elite athletes and influencers striking poses mid-squat.

    But do compression garments actually improve your performance, or is the benefit mostly in your head?

    Let’s dive into the history, the science and whether they are worth your money.

    From hospitals to hashtags

    Compression garments didn’t start in sport. They were originally used in medical settings to improve blood flow in patients recovering from surgery or with circulation issues such as varicose veins.

    Doctors found tight garments that applied gentle pressure to limbs could help move blood and reduce swelling.

    But in the late 1990s and early 2000s, athletes, scientists and sports brands began experimenting with compression wear in training and competition.

    Companies such as SKINS, 2XU, and Under Armour entered the scene with bold promises: improved performance, reduced fatigue and faster recovery.

    Then, by the 2010s, compression wear wasn’t just for athletes – it had become a fashion statement.

    Social media helped drive the trend: influencers wore these items in gym selfies, TikTokers praised the sleek, sculpted look. And with the rise of athleisure, compression garments became everyday apparel, blending fitness with fashion.

    What are these garments supposed to do?

    Compression gear is designed to fit tightly against the skin and apply gentle, consistent pressure to muscles. The big claims made by manufacturers include:

    You’ll hear gym-goers say they feel “more supported” or “less sore” after using compression gear.

    Some even report improved posture or a mental boost – like stepping into a superhero suit.

    What the science says

    Research into compression garments has been growing steadily and the results are mixed – but interesting.

    A 2013 major meta-analysis reported moderate benefits across several recovery markers, including lower levels of creatine kinase (a sign of muscle damage) and less delayed-onset muscle soreness up to 72 hours after exercise.

    A 2016 review found compression garments reduced muscle soreness and swelling and boosted muscle power and strength. These improvements were up to 1.5 times greater (compared to people who didn’t wear compression garments) in some cases.

    Building on this, a 2017 review found people who wore compression gear recovered strength more quickly, with noticeable improvements within eight to 24 hours after a workout. Strength recovery scores were around 60% higher in those wearing compression gear compared to those who didn’t.

    But the findings are not consistent. A 2022 review of 19 trials found little effect on strength during the first few days post-exercise.

    And when it comes to actual performance, a comprehensive 2025 review of 51 studies concluded compression garments do not enhance race time or endurance performance in runners. And while they may reduce soft tissue vibration (which might feel more comfortable), they offered no meaningful edge in speed, stamina or oxygen use.

    Overall, in simpler terms: compression gear may help you recover faster but don’t expect it to turn you into an Olympic sprinter.

    When compression gear might help (and when it won’t)

    Here are some situations when compression garments can be genuinely useful:

    But don’t count on them to:

    • improve your times: there’s no strong evidence they boost speed or endurance

    • make you stronger: while some research has noted improvements in strength and power, this won’t necessarily have a noticeable effect on your athletic performance

    • replace training or good sleep: recovery still depends on the basics – rest, hydration and nutrition.

    So, should you wear them?

    Compression outfits won’t magically transform your body or training results. But they aren’t a waste of money either.

    If they make you feel more comfortable, confident or supported, that’s a valid reason to wear them. The psychological boost alone can be enough to enhance motivation or focus.

    And when it comes to post-exercise recovery, the evidence is solid enough to justify keeping a pair in your gym bag.

    Think of them like a good pair of shoes. They won’t run the race for you, but they might make the journey a little smoother.

    And if you’re just wearing them for the outfit photo on Instagram? That’s fine, too. Sometimes, confidence is the best workout gear of all.

    Ben Singh 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. Compression tights and tops: do they actually benefit you during (or after) exercise? – https://theconversation.com/compression-tights-and-tops-do-they-actually-benefit-you-during-or-after-exercise-255719

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Youth sports exchange to bridge cultures, strengthen ties

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

    NANJING, China, May 21 — The 2025 Belt and Road Youth Sports Exchange Week (Jiangsu) officially launched on Wednesday in Jiangyin, east China’s Jiangsu Province, gathering nearly 500 international students from 66 countries and regions.

    Held at Jiangyin Feima Water City from May 20 to 27, the event features a lineup of activities, including youth men’s 3×3 basketball invitational, youth outdoor sports challenge, and youth orienteering training camp. These initiatives aim to create a dynamic platform for cross-cultural dialogue and friendly competition.

    “Sports transcend barriers. They are a universal language that connects everyone, regardless of nationality or background,” said Mutai Ronald Kipsang, a Kenyan doctoral student at Nanjing Agricultural University. “Through teamwork and our shared pursuit of excellence, we unite. This event isn’t just about skills. It’s about building lasting friendships and exchanging ideas.”

    Now in its fifth consecutive year, the exchange week has evolved into a flagship cultural initiative for Jiangsu, a province renowned for its economic vitality, educational resources, and strategic ties with Belt and Road partners. By integrating sports with storytelling, the event highlights Jiangsu’s cultural heritage while strengthening bonds among global youth through shared athletic experiences.

    Leveraging its geographic advantages and robust economic and academic infrastructure, Jiangsu has deepened collaboration with Belt and Road countries and regions in trade, technology, and people-to-people exchanges.

    The annual event underscores this commitment, using sports as a medium to promote Chinese culture, share local narratives, and nurture a spirit of peace, friendship, and cooperation among participants.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Top-seed Sun cruises into last 16 at TT worlds

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

    Top-seeded Chinese Sun Yingsha defeated France’s Charlotte Lutz in straight sets to reach the women’s singles last 16 at the World Table Tennis Championships on Wednesday.

    Sun Yingsha serves during the women’s singles round of 32 match between Sun Yingsha of China and Charlotte Lutz of France at ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals Doha 2025 in Doha, Qatar, May 21, 2025. (Xinhua/Xiao Yijiu)

    “Go go Shasha!” rooted for by a loud crowd, the 24-year-old superstar clinched an 11-4, 11-6, 11-6, 11-1 victory over the 20-year-old and world No. 92.

    “This was our first meeting, and I had studied her match videos,” said Sun after a 29-minute match. “She is young and promising.”

    Sun will next play against South Korea’s Shin Yu-bin, who advanced over Italy’s Gaia Monfardini in a score of 11-5, 8-11, 11-9, 14-12, 16-14.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investing in community regeneration

    Source: Scottish Government

    Projects to unlock economic growth and tackle poverty.

    Projects across Scotland will benefit from Scottish Government investment to help regenerate communities and drive economic growth.

    More than £21.5 million from two Scottish Government funds will bring 24 disused or derelict sites and buildings into use, creating more than 160 jobs and support nearly 900 training opportunities.

    Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes confirmed the 2025-26 allocations from the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF) and Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme (VDLIP) during a visit to Powderhall in north Edinburgh.

    City of Edinburgh Council will receive £1.4 million for remedial works at the former waste disposal site, paving the way for a housing-led regeneration project that will provide 259 homes, including affordable housing.

    Other initiatives being supported include:

    • reviving a slate quarry in Cullipool owned and operated by the Isle of Luing Community Trust
    • converting a former tram depot in Dundee into a new transport museum
    • redeveloping a former derelict school into energy efficient housing units in Borrodale on the Isle of Skye
    • creating film production suites and a training centre at a former glue factory in Glasgow
    • extending Lochvale House community centre in Dumfries to include a café and soft play area

    The announcement coincides with a call for expressions of interest in 2026-27 funding to support regeneration projects in disadvantaged communities. As set out in the 2025 Programme for Government, future Scottish Government support for regeneration projects will be channelled through one national fund – the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund – to streamline the application and delivery process.

    The Deputy First Minister said:

    “This funding will help to transform derelict sites the length and breadth of Scotland, creating homes, jobs and facilities that drive economic growth, tackle poverty and help support and growing thriving communities.

    “This funding forms part of a wider £62.15 million investment by the Scottish Government towards regeneration projects in 2025-26. This will help to revitalise green spaces, town centres and derelict sites to benefit people across Scotland.

    “The 2025 Programme for Government stets out our renewed commitment to supporting regeneration projects across the country with one streamlined fund delivering this vision from next year.”

    The RCGF is delivered in partnership with COSLA.

    COSLA’s Spokesperson for Environment and Economy, Councillor Gail Macgregor, said:

    “Today’s announcement sees the return of invaluable tools and resources for local authorities to help deliver on the regeneration aspirations of the communities which they represent.

    “The diversity of successful projects on show demonstrates how localised approaches can deliver benefits across the country and showcase the best of partnership between local authorities and our communities to deliver economic and social renewal.

    “We look forward to continuing to work with Scottish Government on regeneration in the months to come.”

    City of Edinburgh Council’s Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said:

    “Our development plans at Powderhall are breathing new life into an excellently located, long unused industrial site, and are set to deliver hundreds of much-needed new homes and work and community spaces too.

    “The transformation of Powderhall is already well underway with the restoration of the former stable block, which retains unique heritage features of the site’s former use.   

    “Regenerating a historic, brownfield site like Powderhall is complex, challenging, and costly therefore I warmly welcome this Scottish Government investment.”

    Background

    Regeneration Projects supported through the RCGF and VDLIP fund in 2025/2026:

    Fund

    Organisation

    Project

    Award

    RCGF

    Angus Council

    Arbroath Courthouse Community Trust

    £2,138,985

    RCGF

    Argyll & Bute Council

    Fyne Futures Local Food Production and Training Centre

    £250,000

    RCGF

    Argyll & Bute Council

    Isle of Luing Community Owned Slate Quarry

    £1,747,936

    RCGF

    City of Edinburgh Council

    Spartans Youth Work and Education Building

    RCGF

    Clyde Gateway

    Baltic Street Play

    £850,000

    RCGF

    Dumfries and Galloway Council

    Let’s Get Sporty – Lochvale House

    £1,572,370

    RCGF

    Dundee City Council

    Dundee Museum of Transport – A Catalyst for Regeneration of Stobswell

    £1,001,430

    RCGF

    Fife Council

    Together Cowdenbeath People’s Centre

    £1,000,000

    RCGF

    Glasgow City Council

    SEC Possilpark

    £600,000

    RCGF

    Glasgow City Council

    Glue Factory

    £398,169

    RCGF

    Highland Council

    Glen Urquhart Public Hall

    £602,500

    RCGF

    Inverclyde Council

    Bank St. Community Hub

    £515,000

    RCGF

    South Lanarkshire Council

    Cathcart Road Net Zero Industrial Units

    £963,000

    VDLIP

    City of Edinburgh Council

    Powderhall Housing-Led Regeneration

    £1,400,000

    VDLIP

    Clyde Gateway

    Cuningar Loop Woodland Park Completion

    £500,000

    VDLIP

    Dumfries and Galloway Council

    Annan Harbour Regeneration – Phase 1

    £1,343,683

    VDLIP

    Dundee City Council

    Placemaking Lochee

    £695,000

    VDLIP

    East Dunbartonshire Council

    Lennoxtown Community Greenspace Project

    £472,952

    VDLIP

    Glasgow City Council

    Milton Discovery Wood

    £655,200

    VDLIP

    Glasgow City Council

    Tureen Street School Conversion

    £1,978,441

    VDLIP

    Highland Council

    Borrodale School Renovation Project

    £450,000

    VDLIP

    North Ayrshire Council

    Kyle Road Phase 2 Development

    £892,990

    VDLIP

    North Lanarkshire Council

    Cumbernauld Village Green-Blue Space

    £735,770

    VDLIP

    Renfrewshire Council

    Ferguslie Green Line – Belltrees

    £650,436

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Charges Eastchester Man With Sexual Exploitation Of A Child And Receipt And Distribution Of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today the arrest of THOMAS JAMES PUCCINI, 28.  PUCCINI is charged with the sexual exploitation of three minors and with receiving and distributing child pornography.  PUCCINI was arrested today and presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy in White Plains federal court and detained.

    “Thomas James Puccini’s alleged crimes are every parent’s nightmare,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Puccini, a football coach, held himself out as a trusted member of his school community, yet he was preying on our most innocent and vulnerable. The women and men of the Southern District will use every tool available to bring to justice those who exploit our children.”

    HSI New York Acting Special Agent in Charge James Manning said: “As alleged, the defendant violated parents’ and students’ trust through his vile acts against children. A wolf in sheep’s clothing, he worked closely with kids and teenagers nearly every day, all allegedly while hiding his shameful dark side of exploitation, and committing crimes against the same minors placed under his care. The abhorrent crimes of which he is accused have no place in our society, and I commend HSI New York’s Hudson Valley investigators, alongside our law enforcement partners, for placing the safety of vulnerable New Yorkers above all else.”

    Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace said: “For months, our criminal investigators worked hard to build the strongest possible case against the defendant, and today’s federal charges are the product of these efforts. I extend my thanks to U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Jay Clayton for his collaboration and partnership on this case. Our office will continue to assist S.D.N.Y. throughout all phases of Mr. Puccini’s prosecution.”

    As alleged in the Complaint filed on May 20, 2025 in White Plains federal court and statements made in court[1]:

    THOMAS JAMES PUCCINI worked as a football coach for a high school (“School-1”) in Westchester County. In July of 2024, PUCCINI became the interim athletic director for the school district in which the high school was located. 

    Victim-1:  In November 2021, Victim-1, who was 17 years old and a student at School-1, was contacted by a Snapchat account with the name “alex_fundi2.”  Victim-1 received a nude image of a female from “alex_fundi2” and believed that he was communicating with a female.  “She” told him that she knew him and went to School-1. Victim-1 sent “her” nude photos of himself, including photos showing his penis. After sending images for approximately a week or two, Victim-1 blocked the “alex_fundi2” account.  Then, Victim-1 received messages from a CashApp account (“CashTag-1”) directing Victim-1 to add “alex_fundi2” back. The messages stated, among other things, “I have your pics and vids,” and told Victim-1 to “add me or I send your pics.”  Victim-1 unblocked “alex_fundi2” and sent “alex_fundi2” sexually explicit images of Victim-1. 

    Victim-1 continued to send sexually explicit images to “alex_fundi2” until in or about 2023, when Victim-1 was a freshman in college. 

    The user of CashTag-1 provided CashApp with the name “Thomas Puccini,” PUCCINI’s date of birth, and PUCCINI’s address in Westchester. Records from Snapchat relating to the “alex_fundi2” account show that an IP address that returned to PUCCINI’s residence in Westchester County was used over 13,000 times to access the “alex_fundi2” account. Further, the “alex_fundi2” account is associated with an email that begins with “puccini01” and ends in “.edu.”

    Victim-2: Victim-2 and other middle-schoolers used School-1’s weight room to prepare for Junior Varsity football. PUCCINI supervised them in the weight room. Beginning when Victim-2 was 13 years old and in eighth grade, PUCCINI communicated with Victim-2 through Snapchat, using a Snapchat account with the user name, “tommytutts66,” and requested that Victim-2 take and send PUCCINI photos and videos of Victim-2’s penis.  PUCCINI also sent Victim-2 photos of his penis. PUCCINI specified exactly what he wanted Victim-2 to show him, and, based on his instructions, Victim-2, on numerous occasions, took and sent PUCCINI photos and videos showing various angles of Victim-2’s penis, showing Victim-2 masturbating, showing Victim-2 “finishing” (i.e., ejaculating) with the audio on, and showing Victim-2 laying with his semen on his chest. On numerous occasions, at PUCCINI’s request, PUCCINI and Victim-2 would “race” to see who could masturbate to ejaculation first. The winner would have to send a video or photo capturing the “finish.” 

    A search warrant executed at PUCCINI’s residence on November 1, 2024 resulted in the seizure of, among other things, PUCCINI’s desktop computer. The computer contained an iCloud backup with approximately 8000 messages to or from Victim-2 between January 2017 and December 2020.  In hundreds of these messages, PUCCINI referred to masturbating, to Victim-2’s penis, and/or requested that Victim-2 take and send him photos of his penis.

    Victim-3: Victim-3, who was 16 years old, and “alex_fundi2” communicated via Snapchat in 2023.  Victim-3 took and transmitted sexually explicit images to “alex_fundi2” in exchange for the promise of expensive gifts.  On January 10, 2023, at approximately 11:24 p.m., “alex_fundi2” told Victim-3, “If I send you for the jacket, I’m going to need you to send those 2 vids and then…. As many vids as I want and of anything that I want until Monday.”  At 11:25 p.m., Victim-3 responded, “monday” and “jesus” and “and as long as it doesn’t involve ass stuff.” Thereafter, Victim-3 transmitted numerous files to “alex_fundi2” containing sexually explicit images of Victim-3.

    Victim-4: Victim-4 and “alex_fundi2” communicated via Snapchat in 2023.  Victim-4 told “alex_fundi2” that he was 18 years old and “alex_fundi2” told Victim-4 that he was similarly aged.  “Alex_fundi2” asked Victim-4 for sexually explicit images of Victim-4 when he was 15 or 16.  On June 11, 2023, at approximately 1:50 p.m., Victim-4 transmitted a sexually explicit photo and a sexually explicit video of Victim-4 to “alex_fundi2.”  In both the photo and video, Victim-4 was 15. 

    In November 2024, PUCCINI was charged in Westchester County, New York with Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree.

    On an occasion in February 2022, the “alex_fundi2” account engaged in a conversation with a user (“User-1”) on Snapchat and asked, “Can I give you a snapchat to add and you try to get pics/vids from the account?” User-1 told “alex_fundi2,” “Sure” and “I don’t mind being yo undercover bud.” Thereafter, “alex_fundi2” transmitted a Snapchat user name to User-1.  The Snapchat user name belonged to a student who had attended School-1 from 2015 to 2019.  PUCCINI’s desk top computer contained thousands of messages with that student from in or about August 2015 to September 2020. Many of the messages contained requests for sexually explicit images from the student.         

    PUCCINI changed the display name of the “alex_fundi2” account on multiple occasions and the various display names he used included, Young & Horny,” “Young NY Vers Bottom Horny,” “Zach,” “Alexandra Fundi,” “Alex Fundi,” “Horny Twink,” and “zach _parker0.”

    There may be more victims of this alleged conduct. If you have information to report or you had contact with the Snapchat accounts, “alex_fundi2,” “tommytuts66,” or any of the display names described above contact Homeland Security Investigations through its toll-free Tip Line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or by completing its online tip form.  Both are staffed around the clock by investigators. From outside the U.S. and Canada, callers should dial 802-872-6199.  Hearing-impaired users can call TTY 802-872-6196.

    *                *                *

    PUCCINI, 28, of Eastchester, New York is charged in Counts One, Two and Three with sexual exploitation of a minor. Counts One, Two and Three each carry a maximum sentence of thirty years’ imprisonment and a mandatory minimum of fifteen years’ imprisonment. Count Four carries a maximum of twenty years’ imprisonment and a mandatory minimum of five years. The statutory maximum sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. 

    Mr. Clayton praised the efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office, the Westchester County Police Department, the Eastchester Police Department, the Rockland Police Department, the Lake Forest Police Department, and the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office. 

    The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant United States Attorney Marcia S. Cohen is in charge of the prosecution.   

    [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Miller Exposes Title IX Violations in Illinois

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon calling attention to a clear violation of Title IX that occurred at the Naperville Community Unit School District 203 in which the school district allowed a biological male to participate in a female-only athletic competition.

    In the letter, Congresswoman Miller expressed opposition saying that any school district  that permits biological males to compete in girls’ sports should have its federal funds reviewed immediately for revocation, citing violations of Title IX protections.

    Read the full letter HERE.

    “Girls across Illinois are being forced to compete on an unfair playing field, and it’s time to say enough. JB Pritzker’s radical trans agenda is destroying women’s sports and betraying an entire generation of young female athletes,” said Congresswoman Mary Miller. “Let me be clear: if you violate Title IX, you must be held accountable to the full extent of the law. I will not let our girls be pushed aside and silenced.”

    In April, Congresswoman Mary Miller previously sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon calling for an immediate investigation into the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) and the State of Illinois for actions that undermine fairness and safety in girls’ sports.

    Congresswoman Mary Miller introduced H.R. 2452, the Keep Our Girls Safe Act. This legislation would codify President Trump’s Executive Order 14201 and strip federal funding from any school that defies the commonsense protections for women and girls.

    Read more about the recent letter on Fox News.

    Congresswoman Miller currently serves as Chair of the Congressional Family Caucus and sits on the Committees on Agriculture, Education and Workforce, and House Administration.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Introduces Tuskegee President to Senate HELP Committee, Discusses Cost versus Benefits of Higher Education

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Dr. Andrew Gillen, Dr. Michael Lindsay, Dr. Mark Brown, Mr. Mike Pierce, and Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart during a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing on the state of higher education. During the hearing, Sen. Tuberville discussed the reasons for the skyrocket of prices in higher education institutions during recent years. 
    Sen. Tuberville also introduced Dr. Mark Brown, President of Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama, to the Committee.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or watch on YouTube or Rumble. 
    Sen. Tuberville’s introduction of Dr. Brown can be found below or on YouTube or Rumble.

    INTRODUCTION OF DR. MARK BROWN:
    TUBERVILLE: “It’s my pleasure to introduce our second witness, Dr. Mark A. Brown. As a matter of fact, he’s about 20 miles from where I live, as we speak, in Auburn, Alabama. Dr. Brown is the president of Tuskegee University, home of the Tuskegee Airmen, who we’re very proud of. It’s a Historically Black College in Alabama. He is the first alumnus in Tuskegee’s 143-year-history to lead the university. A retired Air Force Major General, Dr. Brown brings unmatched experience in education leadership, federal student aid policy, and HBCU advancement. We are thankful to have you here today to hear your perspective, Dr. Brown. “
    ON THE COST OF HIGHER EDUCATION:
    TUBERVILLE: “Gentlemen, thanks for being here. I’m passionate about this. I spent [40] years in education—more than anybody in this room probably, maybe other than Dr. Graham, although you spent a little time in the military. I’ve been in high schools all across this country, almost in all 50 states. We’ve gone backwards. [We’re here] today to talk about higher education. I spent 30 years in that and have done a lot of great things for a lot of kids, men and women, rich and poor. It’s got to be merit based, folks. If we don’t merit base this thing, we will not survive as an educational system. This country gives you an opportunity.
    I was in a situation where athletics was merit-based. I didn’t care who you were. I had to win games. I recruited kids that had good grades, would go to class, and could play football. And if they couldn’t do those three things and work at it, I didn’t recruit them. It’s got to be the same thing in college in terms of getting a good education. I know of a school that has a happiness degree. That [isn’t] gonna get it. I’m for paying everybody’s way through college, but not for a degree where when they get out, they can’t get a job at Walmart. We need degrees that kids can prosper [with], raise a family, and have a great life in this country. So, I’d like to ask each one of you just one question, starting over with Dr. Gillen.
    Dr. Gillen, what factors do you see that have caused massive skyrocketing costs at our universities across the country?”
    GILLEN: “So, I would argue that the main driver of higher college cost is what’s called the Bowen Revenue Theory of Cost. When you look at higher education, […] the idea here is not that, you know, higher faculty salaries or increases in institutional aid are driving higher spending. It’s that when more revenue is available, colleges will spend as much as they can. And it makes sense, these are all mission driven institutions, right? If you give each of these schools a million more dollars, they’ll find a good way to spend it. The problem is if you keep doing that, eventually those good ways to spend it aren’t so convincing anymore. But when we have these mission driven institutions, the more money they have, the more money they’re going to spend.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Dr. Lindsay?”
    LINDSAY: “I think the opportunity that is before is, as you say, to bring accountability and outcomes. And I think we have to be very intentional about the kind of formation that’s occurring on our campuses. I’m really proud of the fact that we have something called the Good Work Initiative, which is basically trying to transform on campus employment opportunities where students are paid a little bit more than minimum wage to give them a little bit more spending money, but we also pair it with professional development and vocational discernment exercises to help them. So, that when they graduate, they actually have that kind of professional experience. It’s a pilot [program]. We’ve had good success with it. We’re allowing the opportunity for more students to take on more leadership roles, giving them good things for their resumes, but also buttressing their opportunities when they graduate.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Dr. Brown?”
    BROWN: “Senator, I’ll use a real example. I went to my Board of Trustees for this upcoming year and said that I would like to freeze tuition for two years at our school. They approved the freezing of the tuition, but when I looked at the cost of insurance—which is a subcomponent of that tuition—we had to go up. So, the real cost to the customer—the family—was more.
    The same is true of the cost of dining, the cost of food that goes into a dining hall contract, and the cost of the utilities it takes to run the campus. My campus is much like any other business. Those costs, we would not be able to absorb, and so our cost went up because costs in the economy went up. It was not that we would spend more because we had more. Those costs were real, and we had to realize those as a school [that] operates just like a business in that sense.”
    LOWERY-HART: “Thank you for the question. I would say in the community college sector, there hasn’t been a massive skyrocket rising in prices. At Austin Community College, we haven’t raised tuition in 12 years. I think we’ve raised it once in 15 [years]. We’re the sector of higher education that lives within our means, because our students are so price-sensitive. And I think there could be a lot to learn from how community colleges effectively manage their budgets.”
    TUBERVILLE: “I agree with you on that. I’ve been in a lot of community colleges. You do a good job, by the way. And I think more kids need to go to community colleges.
    Mr. Pierce?”
    PIERCE: “I think it’s my turn to talk about for-profit colleges, which seems to be missing from my colleague’s responses to your question. We have watched the proprietary sector raise costs far in excess of other sectors of the higher education system. And we’ve also watched some of the largest participants in the for-profit college market turn into private non-profit colleges or enter into deals with public colleges. I think we’re not at a place where we were a decade ago talking about the proprietary sector. We should be looking at the backroom deals that some of the largest colleges in the country are cutting with these private companies and how these deals are driving the increase in costs that are being pushed on our most vulnerable students.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Good. Thank you.
    Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove Leads Bipartisan Letter to Secretary Rubio Outlining Steps to Address the Visa Backlog Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup, LA28 Olympics

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

    WASHINGTON, DC — In anticipation of Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s first appearance before the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) led 55 lawmakers in a bipartisan letter to Secretary Rubio inquiring about the State Department’s plans to ensure quick and secure visa processing for the expected influx of visitors coming to the U.S. for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2028 Olympic Games, and other major international sporting competitions. Reps. Young Kim (R-CA),  Darin LaHood (R-IL), and Nikema Williams (D-GA) joined as co-leads. 

    Currently, six countries–Canada, Colombia, Honduras, India, Turkey, and UAE—have at least one U.S. diplomatic post with visa appointment wait times that extend beyond the start of the first FIFA26 game in the United States. 

    “The Olympics have the potential to bring up to 15 million visitors to the U.S. and produce an estimated $18 billion in economic impact. Over 5 billion viewers are projected to watch the FIFA World Cup, which could bring millions of visitors to the United States across 11 cities and generate an estimated $3.75 billion in economic revenue,” the lawmakers wrote.

    They continued, “However, the success of these games hinges on the State Department’s ability to efficiently process the visa applications of spectators, athletes, and media, including providing adequate visa appointment availability and strategically offering visa interview waiver services where appropriate.

    “To meet the moment, the State Department must not take a business-as-usual approach. Accommodating the anticipated surge in international visitation will require innovative solutions in the visa adjudication process that will allow us to maintain security safeguards while reducing unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. It is critical to begin preparations now to demonstrate our nation’s ability to welcome the world,” the lawmakers concluded.

    The letter also encouraged the Administration to update its current visa process to address visa processing challenges, including strategies to:

    • Develop a visa issuance process that maintains necessary security protocols while expediting processing for accredited individuals and entities participating in the games;
    • Ensure Consular Affairs is sufficiently resourced to support visa processing offices at overseas posts, disseminate information to Consular Affairs officers regarding games-related visa appointments, and handle the increased demand for visas well ahead of the games;
    • Establish protocols for visa issuance and entry from countries that are sanctioned or do not have U.S. consular offices, ensuring that all eligible athletes and support staff can participate in the games; and
    • Consider regulatory adjustments or other measures to reduce visa appointment wait times.

     
    The full letter is HERE.

    Reps. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Young Kim, Darin LaHood, and Nikema Williams were joined by Reps. David Valadao, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Jonathan L. Jackson, Gilbert Ray Cisneros Jr., Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Aumua Amata Coleman, María Elvira Salazar, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson Jr., Pramila Jayapal, Jasmine Crockett, Kweisi Mfume, Ken Calvert, Josh Gottheimer, Nanette Diaz Barragán, Ted W. Lieu, Raja Krishnamoorthi, LaMonica McIver, Eric Swalwell, Frederica S. Wilson, Stephen F. Lynch, Nydia M. Velázquez, Emanuel Cleaver, Don Bacon, William R. Keating, Luz M. Rivas, Kevin Mullin, Dina Titus, Greg Stanton, Rick Larsen, Brendan F. Boyle, Tom Cole, Julia Brownley, Suzan K. DelBene, Michael T. McCaul, Michael V. Lawler, Robert Garcia, Mikie Sherrill, Emily Randall, Gabe Amo, Zoe Lofgren, Ami Bera, Suhas Subramanyam, Pete Aguilar, Dan Goldman, Sylvia R. Garcia, Julie Johnson, Nellie Pou, Derrick Van Orden, Kevin Kiley, Laura Friedman, and Jay Obernolte. 
     

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Hosts Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus Roundtable With Professional Athletes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Hosts Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus Roundtable With Professional Athletes

    WATCH: Padilla joins athletes to share stories and reduce stigma surrounding mental healthWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), co-founder of the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus, and Members of the Senate and Congressional bipartisan mental health caucuses commemorated Mental Health Awareness Month by hosting a roundtable in the Capitol with professional athletes focusing on the growing mental health crisis and overcoming the harmful associated stigma. U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.-06), co-chair of the Congressional Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, also joined the roundtable.
    According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 1 in 5 American adults experience a mental illness each year. However, less than half of individuals in crisis actually receive mental health services. While many challenges prevent people from seeking help, one of the biggest hurdles is the historic stigma associated with mental health, tragically causing many individuals to be ashamed or embarrassed to get the help they need for themselves or their loved ones. The roundtable aimed to tear down this stigma and reinforce the message that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reducing stigma and talking about mental health are the most important ways to open doors to lifesaving care for those who need it most.
    The roundtable featured remarks from Senate and House mental health caucus co-chairs and NFL, NBA, MLS, and NWSL players.
    “It’s one thing to build the strength to deal with a mental illness — particularly in high-pressure environments like professional sports — and it’s another to use that strength to help others by publicly sharing your story,” said Senator Padilla. “By bringing voices to the table from outside the political realm this Mental Health Awareness Month, I hope more people suffering in silence can see these stories and the athletes they look up to, and we can start to break down the stigma surrounding mental health. Regardless of political affiliation, we can all agree that we need more investments in mental health care — not less — and I will keep advocating for the services and resources that we know can save lives.”
    “I know from personal experience what it’s like to watch someone struggle with their mental health and feel helpless. That is why discussions like these are so important, and I’m grateful to the athletes who shared their stories and perspectives on how to connect more people with care,” said Representative Salinas. “It takes a lot of courage to open up about your personal mental health journey. My hope is that by having honest conversations like this one, we will finally break the stigma and encourage more Americans to seek help if they need it.”
    Senator Padilla is a leading advocate for expanding mental health care access, especially for underserved communities. In 2023, Padilla launched the bipartisan Senate Mental Health Caucus to serve as a forum for Senators to collaborate on and promote bipartisan legislation and solutions, hold events to raise awareness of critical mental health issues, and destigmatize mental health. Earlier this month, Padilla condemned the Trump Administration’s proposed dissolution of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) as part of the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) restructuring plan and the White House Office of Management and Budget’s HHS budget proposal. Earlier this year, Padilla led 12 Democratic Senators in warning HHS Secretary Kennedy that additional staffing cuts at SAMHSA would have disastrous ramifications for millions of Americans struggling with mental and behavioral health challenges. Padilla applauded the Federal Communications Commission for making critical improvements to the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by adopting the main provisions of his Local 9-8-8 Response Act of 2023. 
    Additionally, Padilla introduced bipartisan legislation earlier this year to combat the growing youth mental health crisis in America through early intervention and prevention services. Last year, Padilla passed a Senate resolution to raise the alarm about the mental health care crisis American children face and highlight the urgent need to increase our investment in mental health care for children and adolescents. Padilla previously introduced a trio of bills to address the unique mental health needs of military children, Latinos, and farm workers.
    Video of Senator Padilla’s opening remarks at today’s roundtable is available here, and his closing remarks are available here. Footage of his remarks can be downloaded here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How outdoor sports can support youth as they navigate climate change

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Brett Tomlinson, Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Educaiton, Nipissing University

    As climate change continues to impact the way we interact with our planet, it’s critical to consider ways we can encourage youth to participate in climate action initiatives.

    Young people across Canada are feeling frightened about the future of the planet. A Canadian study published in 2023 surveyed 1,000 young participants on their feelings about climate change. Sixty-six per cent of respondents said they felt anxiousness or hopelessness about climate change, while 78 per cent said it impacts their overall mental health.

    There are a number of ways to approach this overwhelming emotion, considering it could result not only in poor quality of life for youth but also continued inaction for the planet.

    My research in outdoor physical education leads me to consider more positive behaviour for youth in association to climate change that could likely benefit youth and the planet. The challenge is finding opportunities to develop pro-environmental behaviours and environmental stewardship with Canadian youth.



    Read more:
    6 ways to build resilience and hope into young people’s learning about climate change

    It’s about more than time outdoors

    When looking to develop pro-environmental behaviours, one way could be to simply encourage more time outdoors. But research from Germany suggests that just interacting with nature is not enough; rather, young people need to find ways to engage with nature and use the natural landscape to develop an emotional connection with the environment.

    According to the German study, certain sports can lead to more environmentally sustainable attitudes and behaviours from participants. Some sports in particular — like cross-country skiing, mountain biking or triathlon — increase those positive behaviours more than others. This isn’t simply because participants are alone within a natural setting; it’s because the focus of the sport is on the natural landscape.

    To explain a bit further, soccer, for example, is typically played outside but often on a manicured, sometimes artificial, field that is in many ways devoid of any natural influence.

    Alternatively, mountain biking requires participants to ride on trails that take them directly through forested areas or spaces that are selected based on their unique natural landscape. As athletes participate in sports more frequently and spend more time within nature, they then develop a stronger emotional connection to the space they’re in. This leads to pro-environmental behaviours and attitudes, which can then generate environmental stewardship.



    Read more:
    Earth Day 2024: ‘Green muscle memory’ and climate education promote behaviour change

    Rock climbing

    Within rock climbing groups and organizations, there is evidence suggesting members frequently participate in beneficial environmental stewardship projects. Outdoor rock-climbing groups typically manage spaces — sometimes privately owned, but frequently under government jurisdiction in provincial or national parks — to ensure safe and responsible climbing practices. Climbers rely on ropes, equipment and bolts to ensure safety as they’re climbing.

    But another obvious factor is the rock face they climb. The connection to rock and the climbing routes over those rock faces help foster a sense of environmental stewardship within climbers. Similar to mountain biking, the process starts with an introduction to the sport, but slowly develops into more care and attention paid to the natural spaces where climbers practise their activity.

    One American study indicates that rock climbing organizations often find opportunities to clean up the areas where they climb, and also look to maintain the natural features of that space.

    The research finds that for climbers, the challenge is to maintain natural spaces and keep the rock as pristine as possible. This also extends to conservation efforts to ensure that space maintains its use for climbing as opposed to turning it into a more urban or commercialized area.

    The joy that participants received from the sport of climbing initiated this environmental stewardship and maintained progressive action in local environmental initiatives.

    Element of physical risk

    One thing to note is that climbing and mountain biking do involve an element of physical risk.

    Doing some research on these sports can help youth assess risks alongside what can be gained from participating. But it’s also important to acknowledge that encouraging young people to foster deeper connections to nature as opposed to having simple interactions with outdoor spaces doesn’t mean they have to cycle down a mountain or climb a massive rock wall.

    Risk cannot be completely eliminated from outdoor sports and recreation, but there can be great social and personal benefit from participating in these types of activities.

    Instead of a high-risk sport, educators and outdoor leaders can influence participants with simpler actions. I am aware of outings involving outdoor hikes, or taking time at night to gaze at the stars and listen to the sounds of nature, that have sparked in young people an interest in outdoor spaces — and caring for them.

    Such experiences can then lead young people to continue to explore outdoor adventure and sport, that can , significantly, foster an appreciation of natural settings through direct interaction as well as a positive sense of community. This can be a starting point to help alleviate feelings of hopelessness to climate change.



    Read more:
    Teachers need bolder action from our school boards to educate in and for a climate emergency

    Addressing potential harms, amplifying benefits

    Despite the benefits of participating in outdoor sports, there is a need to acknowledge that participation can have some negative impact on the environment.

    For example, interaction with nature through sport can impact natural habitats and has the potential to alter behavioural patterns of animals. Furthermore, there is a risk of erosion of natural spaces, as well as the slim potential for the movement of invasive species.

    This being said, it’s critical to consider what we can gain from supporting youth to participate in outdoor sport and education when such activities are planned with attentiveness and care.

    Brett Tomlinson 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. How outdoor sports can support youth as they navigate climate change – https://theconversation.com/how-outdoor-sports-can-support-youth-as-they-navigate-climate-change-256643

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Jason Anavitarte Appointed to High School Athletics Overview Committee

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (May 21, 2025) — Sen. Jason Anavitarte (R–Dallas) has been appointed by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones to serve on the High School Athletics Overview Committee, a joint legislative body tasked with examining the operations and oversight of high school athletics in Georgia.

    Originally established during the 2013–2014 biennium, the High School Athletics Overview Committee was created to promote transparency, accountability, and excellence in athletic programs across Georgia’s secondary schools. Sen. Anavitarte joins a bipartisan group of appointees whose mission is to ensure student-athletes are supported by fair policies and quality programs.

    “It’s an honor to be appointed to this important committee,” said Sen. Anavitarte. “High school sports play a critical role in developing leadership, discipline, and teamwork in our young people. As a former local school board member and father of daughters who play high school sports, I understand how deeply these programs shape our students’ futures. I look forward to working with my colleagues to strengthen athletic opportunities and uphold high standards across all school districts.”

    The committee, which includes members from both the House and Senate, is charged with monitoring athletic associations, reviewing policies impacting eligibility and recruitment and ensuring the equitable treatment of all student-athletes.

    Senator Billy Hickman (R–Statesboro), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education and Youth, will also serve as committee co-chair. Additional Senate appointees include Senators Emanuel Jones (D–Decatur), Randy Robertson (R–Cataula), Sonya Halpern (D–Atlanta), and Chuck Payne (R–Dalton).

    # # # #

    Sen. Jason Anavitarte serves as Chairman of the Senate Majority Caucus. He represents the 31st Senate District, which includes Polk County and a portion of Paulding County. He may be reached via email at Jason.Anavitarte@senate.ga.gov.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Whitehouse Pay Tribute to the Late RI Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WATCH: RI’s U.S. Senators remember the life and legacy of Donny Ruggerio

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse took to the floor of the U.S. Senate last night to pay tribute to the life and legacy of the late Dominick J. Ruggerio, the legendary former Rhode Island Senate President who passed away last month at the age of 76.

    A distinguished public servant and a champion for working people and the State of Rhode Island, Donny Ruggerio was the longest-serving legislator in the state when he passed away.  An influential community leader for decades, he served as a state legislator for nearly 44 years, representing District 4, which includes parts of North Providence and Providence.

    A transcript of the floor statements follows:

    Remembering Dominick J. Ruggerio

    Mr. REED: Thank you, Mr. President.  Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to Rhode Island’s Senate President Dominick Ruggerio of North Providence, RI, who passed away on April 21, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. As the longest serving member of the Rhode Island State Senate, Donny was affectionately known as the “Dean” of the Senate.

    I first met Donny as a young man when we both attended La Salle Academy in Providence, Rhode Island. We played high school football together, and indeed he was a remarkable gentleman then, both on and off the field.

    One of the things we discovered is that–Donny was about 6 feet 2 inches. He was a wide receiver. He would be running down the field, looking at the goal line with nothing in front of him, catch the ball, and then he would trip over me. I was a defensive halfback. So we got to know each other pretty well.

    He was one of the nicest gentlemen you could ever meet. He was especially kind and reached out to the younger players on the team, you know, encouraging us and also acting as sort of a custodian in making sure we got a chance and we weren’t mistreated. Throughout his entire life, Donny carried that spirit to raise others up and provide opportunities for all.

    Then I later had the privilege of serving with him in the Rhode Island State Senate from 1985 to 1990. Once again, he paved the way for me with his advice and assistance. Indeed, his quiet commitment to the people of Rhode Island had always been an inspiration to me and, frankly, to anyone who ever met him.

    Donny was a strong advocate for organized labor and joined the Laborers’ International Union of North America as a field representative and organizer, eventually becoming administrator of the New England Laborers’ Labor-Management Cooperation Trust.

    Donny started his public service long before we linked up again in the State Senate. He began working for the late Lieutenant Governor Thomas DiLuglio and then the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority. His career continued in public service in the 1980s, when he was elected as Representative of House District 5 in Providence, Rhode Island. Four years later, he succeeded his father-in-law, Majority Leader Rocco Quattrocchi, to Rhode Island Senate District No. 4, beginning his 40-year tenure in the Rhode Island State Senate.

    In that role in the Senate, Donny served as Vice Chairman of the Senate Labor Committee, Senate majority Whip, Deputy Majority Leader, and Majority Leader. In 2017, he was honored by his colleagues with his election to the Office of Senate President. The hallmark of Donny’s leadership style was to have an open-door policy which encouraged colleagues and constituents and elected officials to become engaged. He devoted his life to improving our community, to strengthening public health and public safety, and to creating new opportunities for all Rhode Islanders to thrive. He made significant strides toward improving the lives of working Rhode Islanders, and he is credited with spearheading efforts to preserve pensions and raise the minimum wage.

    In the face of recent, incredible, and ultimately insurmountable health challenges, Donny valiantly sought reelection last November in his beloved community and was returned by his Senate colleagues to his post of Senate President after he won reelection. He led the Senate with tenacity and unwavering dedication.

    Throughout his decades of public service to his constituents in North Providence and Providence and to the entire State of Rhode Island, he was strongly committed to fulfilling his responsibilities, obligations, and tasks with a sense of accountability, decency, and honor. He led his life with purpose and served the people of Rhode Island extremely well.

    Donny leaves behind a devoted family, and I express my heartfelt condolences to the Ruggerio family: his children Charles Ruggerio and his wife Jillian and Amanda Fallon and her husband William; his grandchildren Ava Ruggerio, Mia Ruggerio, Natalie Fallon, and Jameson Fallon; his sister Lisa Aceto and brother-in-law James Aceto; and his nieces and nephews.

    I will miss Donny’s friendship, his unwavering advocacy for our State and the people who make it a special place. Rhode Island is much better today because of Senate President Ruggerio’s leadership and dedication. He inspired us all and will continue to do so.

    I yield the floor to my colleague from Rhode Island, Senator Whitehouse.

    The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Rhode Island.

    Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, I join my senior Senator today to honor our friend Dominick Ruggerio, who was both president and the dean of the Rhode Island Senate.

    President Ruggerio, who passed away last month, was affectionately known as “Donny.” He leaves behind his children Amanda and Charles and four beloved grandchildren.

    Donny was a graduate of two great Rhode Island institutions–La Salle Academy and Providence College. At La Salle, Senator Reed was his schoolmate and teammate on the football team.

    After finishing college, Donny served as a policy aide for former Lieutenant Governor Tom DiLuglio, who was a Rhode Island classic in his own right. Donny went on to spend many years with Laborers’ Local Union 271, serving in multiple leadership roles.

    Donny’s career in public service continued when he was elected to the Rhode Island House of Representatives, in 1981, where he stayed for a few years until making the jump to the Rhode Island Senate, in 1984, where then-State Senator Jack Reed was again his teammate in the State Senate.

    The Senate was Donny’s home. For over four decades, he was the champion for the residents of District 4, which includes parts of North Providence and Providence. After holding several leadership positions in the Senate, he was elected by his peers to serve as Rhode Island’s Senate President in 2017. His legacy at the statehouse will be defined by his decades of forceful advocacy for working people and his practical, highly effective style of legislating.

    He never forgot his background as a laborer and never stopped working to create opportunities for working men and women. To that end, he fought for a higher minimum wage and for specific projects that would create union, family-supporting jobs. He also led the charge to eliminate lead pipes, making our tap water safer to drink for Rhode Islanders.

    Among his many accomplishments was his work to address the State’s opioid crisis. He created a fund to support statewide opioid treatment, recovery, prevention, and education programs and shaped a law to ensure that filling a prescription for lifesaving anti-overdose medication would not create a barrier for Rhode Islanders getting life insurance.

    I am grateful, in particular, for Donny’s leadership on climate. He sponsored legislation that put Rhode Island on a path to 100 percent renewable energy by 2033. When that legislation was signed into law, it was the most aggressive statewide energy standard anywhere in the country.

    Donny was beloved by his lifelong North Providence community, and he was always a pleasure to work with. In a profession that is not always gentlemanly, he was always a gentleman. He took pride in the senate being a place where people had, as he would say, always been able to disagree without being disagreeable.

    So I thank Senate President Ruggerio for his dedicated and successful service to our State. I offer my condolences to his family. We will miss him.

    I yield the floor.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Betting Apps in Texas – BetWhale Picked As the Top TX Sportsbook Mobile App

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    In Texas, sports aren’t just entertainment—they’re a way of life. Texans wear their team loyalties like badges of honor, proudly supporting everything from Friday night high school football under stadium lights to major league events packed with screaming fans. 

    JOIN THE BEST BETTING APP IN TEXAS: BETWHALE

    Although Texas has historically maintained strict regulations on gambling, passionate sports fans have turned to online betting apps to add even more excitement to the games they love. Betting apps in Texas have opened a thrilling new dimension for sports enthusiasts eager to test their predictions and expertise while potentially earning some extra cash.

    What Makes BetWhale the Best Betting App in Texas

    When evaluating betting apps in Texas, BetWhale clearly stands out. Several features contribute to its unmatched popularity among Texans:

    Generous Bonuses

    BetWhale offers a highly competitive welcome bonus, rewarding new users with a 125% bonus up to $1,250 on their first deposit. Regular promotions and loyalty programs further enhance the user experience, providing consistent value to bettors.

    Comprehensive Sports Coverage

    The app provides extensive coverage of major sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and collegiate sports. Additionally, BetWhale includes niche markets like MMA, esports, international soccer leagues, and even entertainment and political betting, catering to a diverse betting audience.

    Seamless User Experience

    BetWhale’s intuitive platform ensures easy navigation across all devices. Quick-loading pages, clearly displayed odds, and streamlined bet placements create a hassle-free experience for both new and experienced bettors.

    Live Betting and Streaming

    One of BetWhale’s standout features is its live betting platform. Real-time odds adjustments, comprehensive live betting markets, and streaming of selected sports events significantly heighten the excitement and engagement of betting in real-time.

    Security and Reliability

    The app employs advanced encryption technology and secure payment gateways, ensuring user data and transactions are safe. Quick, reliable transactions paired with responsive customer support further solidify its appeal.

    TAKE THE 125% BONUS AT BETWHALE

    Why Texans Love to Bet on Sports

    Texans don’t just casually follow sports; they live and breathe them. Their deep cultural and community ties to teams—from high school through professional leagues—make sports betting a natural extension of their sports fandom. Betting apps in Texas capitalize on this passion by offering a wide variety of betting options tailored to local interests, ensuring Texans can engage fully with the excitement of each sporting event.

    This passion translates into significant betting engagement throughout the year, peaking around major events, championships, and rivalry games. The sheer variety of sports and teams ensures that there is always action available on Texas betting apps, providing continuous excitement and opportunities to win.

    How to Join Texas Betting Apps

    Joining betting apps in Texas, such as BetWhale, is simple and hassle-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth registration and betting process:

    1. Choose a Reputable Betting App

    Your first step should always involve selecting a secure and trusted betting app that accepts Texas residents. BetWhale is highly recommended due to its robust security, diverse betting markets, user-friendly interface, and reliable customer service.

    2. Complete the Registration Form

    Once you’ve chosen the right app, click the “Join” or “Register” button prominently featured on the homepage. A registration form will appear, requiring you to fill in essential personal details accurately. It’s essential to double-check your information for accuracy to avoid potential verification issues later.

    3. Account Verification Process

    After registering your account, betting apps like BetWhale will require verification to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to protect your account from unauthorized access. 

    Typically, this involves providing a clear image or scan of your government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID and supplying a recent utility bill, bank statement, or official document showing your current residential address clearly and accurately.

    4. Deposit Funds into Your Betting Account

    Once your account is verified, the next step is depositing funds to place bets. Betting apps in Texas, including BetWhale, typically offer various convenient and secure payment methods such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and prepaid cards. 

    Select your preferred payment method, enter the amount you wish to deposit, and follow the instructions provided. Deposits are usually processed instantly, allowing you to start betting immediately.

    5. Placing Bets on Your Favorite Sports

    With funds securely in your account, you’re now ready to start placing bets. Navigate through the intuitive user interface provided by BetWhale or your chosen app to explore various sports and markets available.

    Most Popular Sports Texans Bet On

    Texans have a deeply ingrained passion for sports, and this passion translates directly into enthusiastic betting activity. Betting apps in Texas see robust action, especially around sports that resonate deeply with local pride. Here’s an expanded breakdown of the most popular sports Texans love betting on:

    Football: King of Texas Sports

    In Texas, football isn’t just a sport—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Whether it’s the thrilling atmosphere of Friday Night Lights at local high school stadiums or the grandeur of Sunday afternoons with NFL action, Texans are deeply invested in football. The betting activity surrounding football peaks dramatically during the season.

    NFL Football

    Dallas Cowboys: Known affectionately as “America’s Team,” the Cowboys boast one of the largest fanbases in the United States. Texans bet extensively on Cowboys games, especially rivalry matchups against NFC East opponents such as the Philadelphia Eagles, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders.

    Houston Texans: Despite their comparatively younger history, the Texans have quickly developed a dedicated following, with bettors consistently wagering on their games, particularly intra-division clashes in the AFC South against rivals like the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans.

    College Football

    Texas Longhorns (University of Texas at Austin): With an iconic burnt orange and white color scheme and the famous “Hook ’em Horns” chant, the Longhorns command statewide loyalty. High-profile games against rivals such as Oklahoma in the Red River Showdown or matchups against Texas Tech and Baylor see intense betting activity.

    Texas A&M Aggies: Aggie pride runs deep in College Station. Betting on Aggies games, especially against SEC powerhouses like Alabama and LSU, captures significant attention throughout the season.

    Football consistently remains the top choice among betting apps in Texas, with considerable excitement and betting volume accompanying major events such as the NFL playoffs, College Football Playoff, and bowl games.

    Basketball: Texas’ Second Love

    Basketball, both professional and collegiate, also attracts extensive betting attention across Texas. Enthusiasm peaks during playoff seasons and March Madness, drawing large numbers of sports bettors to the apps.

    NBA Basketball

    Houston Rockets: With a history of championship success in the ’90s, Rockets games remain popular betting events, especially during playoff contention years.

    Dallas Mavericks: Led historically by stars such as Dirk Nowitzki and now Luka Dončić, the Mavericks have a robust following that fuels betting activity throughout the season, spiking significantly during playoff runs.

    San Antonio Spurs: Known for their consistent excellence and championship pedigree under legendary coach Gregg Popovich, the Spurs have maintained a loyal betting fanbase that actively engages during critical playoff matchups.

    College Basketball

    Texans don’t limit their basketball enthusiasm to the professional ranks. March Madness, the NCAA basketball tournament, sees heightened interest, especially when local teams participate:

    Baylor Bears: Recent successes, including their 2021 national championship win, have elevated Baylor’s profile and significantly increased betting engagement during tournament seasons.

    Texas Tech Red Raiders: A recent powerhouse in college basketball, their strong showings in tournaments have translated directly into heightened betting interest across Texas betting apps.

    Baseball: Texas’ Summer Tradition

    Baseball remains a cherished tradition throughout Texas, particularly during the warm months, and Texans enthusiastically wager on their beloved MLB teams.

    Houston Astros: The Astros’ recent World Series victories and consistent playoff appearances have propelled them into a national spotlight. Their postseason games, especially matchups against rivals such as the New York Yankees, consistently draw high betting volumes.

    Texas Rangers: Playing out of Arlington, the Rangers maintain a passionate fan base. During strong competitive seasons or playoffs, Rangers games generate considerable betting interest statewide.

    Major League Baseball betting peaks dramatically in Texas during postseason play, as the excitement surrounding the playoffs and World Series leads to increased betting activity.

    Factors to Consider When Choosing Texas Betting Apps

    Selecting the right betting app in Texas involves more than just picking the first platform that appears attractive. It’s essential to examine specific aspects that can significantly impact your betting experience. Here’s a detailed exploration of key factors you should consider:

    Licensing and Security

    The cornerstone of a reliable betting app is its adherence to strict licensing and robust security protocols. Choosing a betting app that operates under credible licensing authorities ensures you’re dealing with a trustworthy provider that complies with international gambling standards.

    Betting Markets and Odds

    Another critical factor when choosing betting apps in Texas is the breadth and depth of available betting markets, along with the competitiveness of odds provided.

    Ideal apps provide comprehensive coverage across a wide variety of sports including major leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB), collegiate sports, international soccer, horse racing, and niche markets like esports and MMA. Extensive market coverage allows you to explore different betting opportunities and diversify your wagering.

    Betting odds directly impact your potential winnings. Choosing apps that consistently offer attractive, competitive odds can significantly increase your potential returns. It’s beneficial to compare odds across various platforms to determine which app frequently provides the best value, particularly in popular markets like football or basketball.

    User-Friendly Interface

    A well-designed, user-friendly interface can markedly improve your betting experience, making it easier and more enjoyable to engage with sports betting regularly.

    Apps that feature intuitive navigation allow users to quickly locate their favorite sports, markets, and betting options without confusion. Clear, organized menus and fast-loading pages are key aspects of superior app design.

    Payment Options

    The availability and reliability of multiple payment methods significantly influence the convenience and practicality of any betting app in Texas. A good betting app should provide a wide range of secure payment methods. 

    Commonly used options include:

    • Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are standard for quick and straightforward deposits.
    • E-Wallets: Payment systems like PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and ecoPayz offer speedy, secure, and discreet transactions.
    • Prepaid Cards: Options such as Paysafecard allow deposits without the necessity of linking directly to a personal bank account or credit card.
    • Bank Transfers: Direct bank transfers offer a secure option for larger transactions, albeit with slightly longer processing times compared to other methods.

    Customer Service

    High-quality customer support can dramatically influence your betting experience, especially when resolving technical issues or answering account-related questions promptly.

    Efficient, responsive customer service is essential for addressing queries or issues swiftly. Top-tier betting apps in Texas usually offer customer support that is quick to respond, typically within minutes via live chat and within a few hours via email.

    A reputable betting app should provide multiple customer support channels, including live chat, email, phone support, and FAQ pages.

    Place Bets at the Top Texas Betting Apps

    When choosing betting apps in Texas, considering these factors in detail ensures you select a reliable, user-friendly, and enjoyable betting platform. Evaluating licensing and security, betting markets and odds, app usability, payment methods, and customer support quality will collectively guide you toward an app that enhances your sports betting experience.

    Making the right choice not only offers security and convenience but also greatly enhances the enjoyment and potential profitability of sports betting activities in Texas.

    Editorial Note

    This article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos mentioned. 

    Gambling Caution

    Online gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) can be contacted at 1-800-522-4700 or visited online at www.ncpgambling.org.

    21+ only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader’s own discretion and risk.

    Affiliate Transparency

    This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you.

    Syndication and Liability Disclaimer

    Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the material.

    BetWhale
    https://betwhale.ag
    support@betwhale.ag
    1150 Gemini St, Houston, TX 77058

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Horse Racing Betting Sites in Australia – Donbet Picked as the Top AU Racebook

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Horse racing is more than just a pastime in Australia—it’s practically a national obsession. From the Melbourne Cup to the raw excitement of local meets, Australians love the thrill of the track. 

    Betting on horse racing has become an integral part of this beloved sport, with numerous horse racing betting sites Australia bettors can join vying for attention from punters. But with so many options, how do you choose the best?

    JOIN THE BEST HORSE RACEBOOK IN AU: DONBET

    Why Donbet Is the Best Horse Racing Betting Site in Australia

    When you’re placing bets online, reliability and ease of use are paramount. Donbet not only meets these criteria but exceeds them. Donbet’s platform is crafted specifically with Aussie punters in mind, combining user-friendly design, excellent odds, comprehensive race coverage, and robust security features.

    One of Donbet’s standout features is its exceptional user interface. Easy navigation ensures bettors can quickly find odds and place wagers without unnecessary complications. Additionally, Donbet consistently provides competitive odds on all major and minor races, ensuring maximum value for every wager.

    The platform also offers extensive coverage of Australian and international races. Whether you’re betting on prestigious races like the Melbourne Cup or smaller local meets, Donbet ensures you never miss a beat.

    What to Consider When Choosing Horse Racing Sportbooks in Australia

    User Experience and Interface

    A seamless betting experience is crucial. Choose platforms like Donbet, known for their intuitive navigation, quick loading times, and responsive customer support.

    Betting Markets and Odds

    The best horse racing betting sites Australia has ever seen should offer a wide variety of betting markets, from straightforward win/place/show bets to more exotic wagers. Competitive odds significantly enhance potential returns.

    Security and Licensing

    Always prioritize betting sites that are licensed and regulated by Australian gaming authorities. Secure platforms utilize advanced encryption to protect your personal and financial details.

    Promotions and Bonuses

    Look for sites offering generous sign-up bonuses, free bets, cashback offers, and loyalty programs. Donbet excels by regularly updating promotions tailored to horse racing enthusiasts.

    Payment Methods and Speed of Withdrawals

    Efficient payment processing is vital. Ensure your chosen betting site supports popular Aussie-friendly payment methods like credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets.

    Mobile Compatibility

    With betting increasingly moving online, top sites must offer mobile-optimized platforms or dedicated betting apps to allow seamless betting on-the-go.

    How to Join Horse Racing Sportsbooks in Australia

    Joining horse racing betting sites like Donbet in Australia is straightforward and quick. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps to help you easily get started:

    Step 1: Visit the Website

    Navigate to Donbet’s official site using your desktop or mobile browser. You’ll easily spot the “Join” or “Register” button, usually prominently displayed at the top right corner of the homepage.

    Step 2: Complete the Registration Form

    Click the button and enter your personal details accurately. These typically include your full name, date of birth, residential address, email, and contact phone number. It’s crucial to provide accurate information to ensure smooth verification and secure account management.

    Step 3: Verify Your Identity

    Australian betting regulations mandate identity verification for security purposes. You’ll be prompted to upload documents like your passport, driver’s license, or national ID card. Occasionally, additional proof of address might be required, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.

    Step 4: Make Your First Deposit

    Once your account is verified, deposit funds using your preferred method. Donbet supports various popular payment options, including credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets. Deposits are typically processed swiftly, allowing immediate betting access.

    Step 5: Place Your Bets

    With your account funded, explore Donbet’s extensive race listings. You can choose from numerous betting markets, including win/place/show, quinellas, trifectas, and more exotic options. Select your races, choose your bets, confirm your wagers, and you’re all set!

    TAKE THE 600 AUD BONUS

    Most Popular Racetracks You Can Bet On In Australia

    Australia boasts some of the most prestigious and exhilarating racetracks worldwide, each with its distinctive charm and betting opportunities:

    • Flemington Racecourse, Victoria: Located in Melbourne, Flemington is internationally renowned, especially for hosting the Melbourne Cup—Australia’s most famous horse race. The Melbourne Cup Carnival attracts thousands of spectators and bettors every November, making it a highlight of the global racing calendar.
    • Randwick Racecourse, New South Wales: Situated in Sydney, Randwick is the home of The Championships, a celebrated event featuring races such as the Queen Elizabeth Stakes and the Doncaster Mile. Its modern facilities and historic charm make it a favourite amongst punters.
    • Caulfield Racecourse, Victoria: Known for the prestigious Caulfield Cup, this Melbourne-based venue provides a critical testing ground for horses aiming for Melbourne Cup glory. Its engaging track layout ensures dynamic racing, offering bettors thrilling and strategic betting opportunities.
    • Moonee Valley Racecourse, Victoria: Located in Melbourne, Moonee Valley is famed for hosting the Cox Plate, known as Australia’s weight-for-age championship. Its compact and tight-turn course creates intense, exciting races ideal for experienced punters looking for challenging odds.
    • Eagle Farm Racecourse, Queensland: Brisbane’s leading racetrack, Eagle Farm, regularly hosts high-profile events like the Stradbroke Handicap and Queensland Derby. With a long straight track, it rewards strategic betting and offers great opportunities for punters looking to capitalize on form and distance specialists.
    • Ascot Racecourse, Western Australia: Ascot, located in Perth, combines lively atmosphere and competitive racing. It hosts major events like the Perth Cup and the Railway Stakes, attracting crowds and bettors keen on the vibrant social scene and competitive odds.

    What Makes Donbet Ideal for Aussie Bettors

    Donbet’s superiority comes down to several unique features tailored explicitly for Australian punters:

    • Local Expertise: Donbet is staffed with industry experts who understand the nuances of Australian horse racing.
    • Comprehensive Coverage: Whether it’s major metropolitan races or regional meets, Donbet offers extensive markets to suit every preference.
    • Enhanced Odds and Promotions: Regularly updated special offers and boosted odds provide more value to bettors, making Donbet particularly attractive for seasoned and new punters alike.
    • Reliable Customer Support: Accessible 24/7 customer service via live chat, email, and phone ensures you always have assistance when needed.
    • Robust Security Protocols: Licensed by reputable gaming authorities and employing cutting-edge encryption technologies, Donbet ensures your betting experience is secure.

    5 Essential Tips for Betting on Horse Racing

    1. Research Thoroughly

    Extensive research is crucial to successful betting. Study each horse’s recent form, historical performance on specific tracks, jockey and trainer stats, and the horse’s preferred distance. Look at past race videos and consider expert opinions to build a detailed understanding of potential outcomes.

    2. Understand and Identify Betting Value

    Understanding betting odds is essential. Recognize how bookmakers set odds and spot value bets—horses that have higher odds than their realistic winning probability. Developing a knack for identifying these bets can significantly enhance your long-term profitability.

    3. Practice Bankroll Management

    Responsible bankroll management protects your finances and improves your betting strategy. Set clear betting limits and stick to them. Allocate specific amounts per bet and avoid impulsive decisions like chasing losses. Disciplined betting will lead to more consistent and enjoyable betting experiences.

    4. Diversify Your Betting Strategy

    Don’t rely only on straightforward win bets. Explore various betting markets such as place bets, each-way bets, quinellas, trifectas, and exactas. Diversification helps balance risk and reward, potentially increasing overall returns and keeping betting engaging.

    5. Monitor Track and Weather Conditions

    Conditions greatly influence race outcomes. Horses can perform differently depending on weather (dry, wet, muddy tracks). Check accurate weather forecasts and track reports on race day. Understanding how these factors affect each horse can provide crucial betting insights and improve your decision-making.

    Final Thoughts on Horse Racing Betting Sites in Australia

    Horse racing is woven into Australia’s cultural fabric, and betting enhances the excitement of each event. Choosing the right betting site makes all the difference in your horse racing betting sites Australia experience. Donbet rises above the competition, perfectly aligning with what Australian bettors value most—reliability, extensive market coverage, superior odds, security, and outstanding customer support.

    Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just starting, Donbet and horse racing betting sites in Australia offer an exhilarating, user-friendly, and safe betting experience. Enjoy the thrills and excitement of Australian horse racing with confidence and ease at Donbet—Australia’s premier destination for horse racing betting.

    Editorial Note

    This article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos mentioned. 

    Gambling Caution

    Online gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. In Australia, you can dial 1800 858 858.

    18+ only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader’s own discretion and risk.

    Affiliate Transparency

    This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you.

    Syndication and Liability Disclaimer

    Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the material.

    DonBet
    https://donbet.com
    support@donbet.com
    1150 Gemini St, Houston, TX 77058

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville Op-Ed: Trump and Coach Saban have the right game plan to save college sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    “Regardless of which path Trump chooses to address the current state of college sports, I’m confident that his administration — which has already proven to be both effective and unafraid to shake up the status quo — can make meaningful reforms to make sure college sports remain intact.”

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) penned an op-ed in Fox about the current state of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) and college sports amidst the everchanging NIL landscape. In the piece, Sen. Tuberville addresses the growing problems college athletes are facing with the pay-for-play environment making it nearly impossible for Olympic sports and female athletics to survive. The current “patchwork” of laws has created an uneven playing field that President Trump and Congress are well-positioned to address in the near future. Sen. Tuberville currently serves as the Chairman of the HELP Subcommittee on Education and the American Family. 

    Read excerpts from Sen. Tuberville’s op-ed below or the full piece here. 

    “As a former college football coach for 40 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of college sports in shaping young lives. From the locker room to the classroom, athletics instill discipline, teamwork and resilience — values that extend far beyond the field. But ever since the Supreme Court ruled that college athletes can be compensated for the use of their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL), college sports have been in a tailspin.  

    While I’m all for players making money, we need to create national standards to protect the integrity of college sports. Because there are no national rules for NIL contracts, every state has passed its own laws. This patchwork of laws has created an uneven playing field and given some universities advantages over their competitors.

    We now have pay-to-play as bidding wars for recruits are starting in middle and high school. This is not to mention the transfer portal, which has become a revolving door with student-athletes jumping from school to school in pursuit of more money.  

    […]

    Regardless of which path Trump chooses to address the current state of college sports, I’m confident that his administration — which has already proven to be both effective and unafraid to shake up the status quo — can make meaningful reforms to make sure college sports remain intact. 

    Meanwhile, I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to hopefully draft legislation that could pass both chambers. The challenges facing college sports today are formidable, but not insurmountable. With President Trump’s leadership and a unified approach, we can navigate this new era while preserving the integrity and spirit of collegiate athletics.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon to mark state visit by Palauan President Whipps

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    May 20, 2025  

    No. 167  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon on May 20 to mark a state visit by President Surangel Whipps, Jr. of the Republic of Palau. During the luncheon, Minister Lin conveyed a warm welcome on behalf of the government of Taiwan and thanked Palau for its staunch support for Taiwan’s international participation. He said he expected Taiwan and Palau to continue their close cooperation and together promote sustainable development across a range of areas in both nations.

     

    In his remarks, Minister Lin explained that since taking office, he had launched a strategy of integrated diplomacy to serve as Taiwan’s primary focus for foreign affairs, adding that its three pillars of values-based diplomacy, alliance diplomacy, and economic and trade diplomacy were advancing the promotion of the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project in Palau. He also noted that, in addition to personally leading an industrial delegation to Palau in January, several business delegations had visited Palau on information-gathering missions, and that in March President Whipps had appointed Taiwanese business leader Stan Shih to serve as a senior economic advisor to Palau. Minister Lin said that these activities had laid a successful foundation for using public-private partnerships as a cooperative model through which to promote the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project.

     

    In his remarks, President Whipps thanked the government of Taiwan and Minister Lin for their gracious reception. Observing that he had already made several trips to Taiwan, President Whipps said that visiting once again felt just like experiencing the warmth of home. Likening the 26-year ties between Taiwan and Palau to a marriage, he said that the nations’ sincere friendship was based on such shared values as freedom and democracy, a common Austronesian culture, and mutual support and prosperity.

     

    President Whipps also reiterated his heartfelt gratitude for Taiwan’s assistance toward national development in Palau, adding that Taiwan’s status as one of the world’s leading producers of semiconductors and other technologies was a reflection of its successful education system and outstanding industrial development. Remarking that President Lai Ching-te’s visit to Palau in December 2024 had established a robust foundation for a new era of Taiwan-Palau collaboration, he said he hoped the two nations would continue to use public-private partnerships to engage in close cooperation on sustainable tourism, green energy, smart medicine and healthcare, education and training, and food security, together creating a vision of economic prosperity for both countries.

     

    Among others attendees at today’s luncheon were Cheng Shih-chung, Director-General of the Ministry of Education’s Sports Administration; Professor Wang Ying-chou, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Fu Jen Catholic University; Liao Song-yie, Chairman of COTA Commercial Bank; and Liu Qing-ling, Chairperson of Chuan Cheng Hat Co., Ltd. Amid a warm and cordial environment, guests and the members of the Palauan delegation engaged in in-depth exchanges regarding various aspects of Taiwan-Palau cooperation. (E)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sidetrade introduces first-ever AI Cash Collection Agent, autonomous and interactive

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

    Aimie’s Cash Collection Agent is ready for deployment across Europe and North America:

    • Autonomous outbound calling (first contact calls, follow-up calls, voicemail messages) with personalized dialogues suited to every situation;
    • Outcome qualification with automatic case updates;
    • Escalation when a material risk is detected.

    Unlike static bots, Aimie continuously learns from live outcomes, adjusts outreach strategies, and refines prioritization using predictive signals from Sidetrade’s Data Lake.

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

    Aimie empowers Sidetrade customers with distinctive capabilities:

    • Rapidly learning a company’s culture, products, and terminology, adapting communication in a way that feels native to their brand.
    • Engaging in interactive, qualified conversations with thousands of buyers at scale, acting as a fully-fledged game-changer for managing massive SMB account portfolios, at low cost.
    • Speaking up to 29 languages: allowing for seamless cash collection in local languages and contexts.
    • Making 1,000 outbound calls daily, operating 24/5.
    • Accelerating cash flow by scaling the most effective channel in collections: outbound calling.

    Aimie takes on the high-volume, low-value tasks that drain finance teams, automating repetitive work with consistency, wherever the geography. The results? Reduced administrative burden on accounts receivable, so talent can refocus on strategic impact. Speaking with early adopters, Harvey commented: “They are not worried about a robot taking their job… because most of them already feel like they are doing the robot’s job. Moreover, they are aware that if we fail to design an AI co-worker, tomorrow’s finance will feel less human as they will be stuck talking to accounts payable robots instead of solving real strategic problems.”

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

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

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

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

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

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Emanuel Jones Appointed to Joint High School Athletics Overview Committee

    Source: US State of Georgia

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

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

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

    # # # #

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin hosts welcome luncheon to mark state visit by Palauan President Whipps

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    May 20, 2025  
    No. 167  

    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung hosted a luncheon on May 20 to mark a state visit by President Surangel Whipps, Jr. of the Republic of Palau. During the luncheon, Minister Lin conveyed a warm welcome on behalf of the government of Taiwan and thanked Palau for its staunch support for Taiwan’s international participation. He said he expected Taiwan and Palau to continue their close cooperation and together promote sustainable development across a range of areas in both nations.
     
    In his remarks, Minister Lin explained that since taking office, he had launched a strategy of integrated diplomacy to serve as Taiwan’s primary focus for foreign affairs, adding that its three pillars of values-based diplomacy, alliance diplomacy, and economic and trade diplomacy were advancing the promotion of the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project in Palau. He also noted that, in addition to personally leading an industrial delegation to Palau in January, several business delegations had visited Palau on information-gathering missions, and that in March President Whipps had appointed Taiwanese business leader Stan Shih to serve as a senior economic advisor to Palau. Minister Lin said that these activities had laid a successful foundation for using public-private partnerships as a cooperative model through which to promote the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project.
     
    In his remarks, President Whipps thanked the government of Taiwan and Minister Lin for their gracious reception. Observing that he had already made several trips to Taiwan, President Whipps said that visiting once again felt just like experiencing the warmth of home. Likening the 26-year ties between Taiwan and Palau to a marriage, he said that the nations’ sincere friendship was based on such shared values as freedom and democracy, a common Austronesian culture, and mutual support and prosperity.
     
    President Whipps also reiterated his heartfelt gratitude for Taiwan’s assistance toward national development in Palau, adding that Taiwan’s status as one of the world’s leading producers of semiconductors and other technologies was a reflection of its successful education system and outstanding industrial development. Remarking that President Lai Ching-te’s visit to Palau in December 2024 had established a robust foundation for a new era of Taiwan-Palau collaboration, he said he hoped the two nations would continue to use public-private partnerships to engage in close cooperation on sustainable tourism, green energy, smart medicine and healthcare, education and training, and food security, together creating a vision of economic prosperity for both countries.
     
    Among others attendees at today’s luncheon were Cheng Shih-chung, Director-General of the Ministry of Education’s Sports Administration; Professor Wang Ying-chou, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Fu Jen Catholic University; Liao Song-yie, Chairman of COTA Commercial Bank; and Liu Qing-ling, Chairperson of Chuan Cheng Hat Co., Ltd. Amid a warm and cordial environment, guests and the members of the Palauan delegation engaged in in-depth exchanges regarding various aspects of Taiwan-Palau cooperation. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kicking on with Dundee’s Living Wage City Ambitions

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    The ‘Making Dundee a Living Wage City’ campaign has entered its 6th year and a senior councillor has visited a local employer to meet with staff who have benefitted from accreditation.

    Kanzen for Life is an award-winning social enterprise charity who support over 1,200 people weekly through physical exercise, education and wellbeing. They are well known in the city for excelling in Karate but also offer a wide range of classes and programmes for all ages and backgrounds, delivering an impressive range of community activities each week.

    They have been accredited as a Living Wage employer since 2022 and have recently joined the Dundee Living Wage Action Group as a partner member following on from being a vocal, passionate supporter of the Living Wage movement.

    Oliver Bruce, a team member at Kanzen for Life, met with Cllr Steven Rome to discuss how the uplift in pay and working for an accredited employer has benefitted him. 

    Oliver said: “Paying the Living Wage at Kanzen for Life shows that we genuinely value our team. For me, it’s not just about fair pay – it’s about respect, dignity, and creating a positive environment where people can thrive, both in work and life.”

    Oliver has also written a blog about why being living wage accredited is important to him as an employee and to Kanzen for Life as his employer.

    Roy O’Kane, Charity Chief Officer at Kanzen for Life, said: “Paying the Living Wage is about fairness, respecting the dignity of hard work, and showing our team they’re valued. When we treat people right, they stay, they grow, and they bring their best to everything we do.”

    Councillor Steven Rome, Convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure said: “I was pleased to take up the opportunity to visit Kanzen for Life and speak with Oliver and Roy about their role in the local community and thank them for the positive impact they have had in Dundee.

    “They have enhanced the reputation of the city by supporting major events as well as working to improve the health and wellbeing of citizens of all ages. It was also clear to me that they are really proud of being Living Wage accredited and that it goes hand in hand with their ethos as an organisation.”

    This year the action group will be finalising the new Living Wage Action Plan, leading the implementation of the new Living Wage branding, attending key events, meeting with accredited employers and running the Living Wage Week 2025 programme.

    Cllr Rome added: “We look forward to seeing their future plans come to fruition and are pleased that they have joined the group and know they will make many valuable contributions.

    “I highly recommend anyone interested in becoming accredited to read Oliver’s eloquently written blog as it clearly highlights the benefits of paying the Living Wage. The action group is ready and waiting to hear from you.”

    More information about the ‘Making A Living Wage Living City’ campaign as well as contact details for the action group can be found on the council’s website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunderland gears up for active fun with family events at Ford and Downhill Football Hubs this May Half-Term

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Residents across Sunderland are being invited to join a packed schedule of family fun at the Ford and Downhill Football Hubs this May half term. This is part of the city’s commitment to promoting active lifestyles for all ages and abilities.

    On Wednesday 28 May, head over to Ford Football Hub and drop in for a day packed with fun activities that are perfect for all ages and abilities. From exciting family games to gentle movement sessions, there’s something for everyone.

    Try your hand at basketball with Lambton Raptors, enjoy some friendly non-contact rugby with Vigor Rugby, or jump into classic group games with ParkPlay – a big hit with kids and grown-ups alike. There’s even Walking Football for those who prefer a gentler pace, and light, music-filled sessions like Clubbercise that are all about having fun.

    Families can also hop on the Melissa Bus – an interactive mobile space where you can explore health and wellbeing in a hands-on, engaging way.
    Kids will love the smoothie bike, where they can pedal their way to a fruity treat, while parents can browse stalls from NHS Oral Health, Everyone Active, and other local groups offering friendly tips and advice.

    The fun continues on Friday 30 May at Downhill Football Hub, where the day features even more inclusive activities. Fancy a stretch and a moment of calm? Join the Stretch & Relax session – great for loosening up and taking a breather together. The Family Fit 4 Fun session, run by the Active Sunderland Healthy Lifestyle Team, is all about playful movement and bonding as a family – no experience needed!

    Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member of Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: “These events are all about bringing families together to enjoy activity together – moments of movement, fun, and connection. Whether you’re playing games, trying something new, or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

    To find out more details about Active Sunderland family fun days, visit www.mysunderland.co.uk/familyfun

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Infrastructure investment aimed at propelling SA’s future

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Infrastructure investment remains a key component in driving economic growth and government has maintained its R1 trillion allocation for infrastructure investment over the medium term to support this growth.

    This according to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, who delivered the Budget Speech in Parliament on Wednesday.

    “[Quality] infrastructure investment expands the productive capacity of the economy and responds to the diverse needs of the citizens. Infrastructure is also a rich source of jobs in construction, engineering, and related industries across a range of skill levels.

    “It is for these reasons that infrastructure is the fourth pillar of the growth strategy, and this budget demonstrates our resolve to change the composition of spending from consumption to investment. Allocations towards capital payments remain the fastest-growing area of spending by economic classification. Public infrastructure spending over three years will exceed the R1 trillion mark,” Godongwana said.

    Spending will focus on “maintaining and repairing existing infrastructure, building new infrastructure, and acquiring equipment and machinery” primarily in transport and logistics, energy and water and sanitation.

    “Of the R402 billion for transport and logistics, R93.1 billion is for the South African National Roads Agency to keep the 24 000-kilometer national road network in active maintenance and rehabilitation. R53.1 billion is for the maintenance and refurbishment of provincial roads.

    “R66.3 billion is allocated to PRASA, out of which R18.2 billion is for the rolling stock fleet renewal programme and R12.3 billion is provisionally allocated for the renewal of the signalling system. The spending will sustain progress in rebuilding the infrastructure to provide affordable commuter rail services. This will enable PRASA to increase passenger trips from 60 million in 2024/25 to 186 million by the end of the MTEF [Medium Term Expenditure Framework] period.

    “The energy sector will invest R219.2 billion on strengthening the electricity supply network, from generation to transmission and distribution. The water and sanitation sector will spend R156.3 billion on expanding our water resource and service infrastructure, including dams, bulk infrastructure to service mines, factories and farms,” Godongwana explained.

    Reforms for private sector participation

    The Minister announced that new regulations for public-private partnerships (PPPs), which were gazetted earlier this year, are expected to take effect next month.

    “These will reduce the procedural complexity of undertaking PPPs, increasing the deal flow and allowing government to leverage its limited resources to fast-track infrastructure provision. The National Treasury has developed enabling guidelines and frameworks to support the new regulations.

    “Specifically, the unsolicited proposals framework will create clear rules for managing proposals from the private sector. And the framework for fiscal commitments and contingent liabilities will strengthen fiscal risk governance. These guidelines and frameworks will be published in the next few weeks,” he said.

    Furthermore, the process of issuing the first infrastructure bonds in 2025/26 remains in place.

    “We are also exploring alternative financing instruments to allow pension funds, commercial banks, development banks and international financial institutions to participate in financing our infrastructure plans.

    “These reforms are how we plan to leverage infrastructure investment to ease supply side constraints to the economy and improve access to social services the people get,” Godongwana said.

    Employment boost

    Meanwhile, in the 2025 Budget Overview, National Treasury said additional funding of some R8.8 billion has been allocated to public employment programmes (PEPs).

    “Although the number of people employed was 16.8 million in the first quarter of 2025, South Africa’s unemployment rate remained very high at 32.9%.

    “Public employment programmes are crucial to address persistently high unemployment,” National Treasury noted.

    Key beneficiaries for the additional funding include:

    • The Department of Basic Education: R5.8 billion for the basic education schools employment initiative.
    • The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture: R350 000 000 for the creative industry stimulus.
    • The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition: R1.3 billion for the Social Employment Fund.

    “In addition, National Treasury and the Presidency, working with other state institutions, have begun a comprehensive review of active labour market programmes, PEPs and the social support system to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

    “With these efforts, government hopes to make significant strides in reducing unemployment,” the overview read. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: MPTS 2025 celebrates largest edition ever with record visitor numbers, reveals MBI, a GlobalData company

    Source: GlobalData

    The UK’s most powerful hub for the creative industries united for two days of engaged networking, passionate debate and exceptional insights into AI, the creator economy, production craft and more – helping attendees stay ahead-of-the-curve for the year ahead.

    London, United Kingdom, 21 May 2025 – After two exceptional days of conversation, collaboration and community, the biggest and buzziest MPTS yet welcomed a record 13,000 attendees from 50 countries, uniting the UK’s media and entertainment industry together in the heart of London, like never before. The exhibition is organized by Media Business Insight (MBI) Ltd, a GlobalData company.

    Hosted at London’s Olympia on 14-15 May, the red-hot editorially driven program delivered 100+ free-to-attend sessions across eight theatres, showcasing the insight and passion of more than 350 expert speakers and guest keynotes. The bustling show floor was packed with more than 300 exhibitors and sponsors, showcasing imagination, determination and standout talent of the UK’s creative and technical communities – at a time of both global challenge and immense opportunity.

    Setting the agenda for MPTS, a State of the Nation Production keynote outlined a media and entertainment landscape in which storytellers had to embrace screens, formats and creators of all kinds.

    Kate Beal, CEO, Woodcut Media, asserted: “TV doesn’t exist anymore in the way we knew it.”

    Derren Lawford, CEO, Dare Pictures, said: “We are in the middle of a decade of profound transition, and we are past the tipping point. TV is part of a wider, connected series of industries around the creation and distribution and funding of content.”

    Headliners at MPTS include:

    • Producer and presenter Ross Kemp, who took us on an exhilarating tour of investigative documentaries on the front lines of conflict, drug cartels and organised crime gangs. “They will know in a second if you are not telling the truth,” he said. “I specialize in telling the truth, it is as simple as that.”
    • Georgie Holt, whose company Flight Story produces the world’s second biggest podcast ‘Diary of a CEO’, declared: “We are in the era of the Founder Creator — creators who are now in charge of media content and able to monetise spectacularly outside of traditional gatekeepers.”
    • NFL professional turned American Football broadcaster Jason Bell explained how sports coverage was evolving into the F1 Drive To Survive model, in which athlete personalities and back stories were the keys to growing audiences.
    • Blockbuster editor Eddie Hamilton gave a masterclass about the precision involved in making Top Gun: Maverick and five Mission: Impossible movies with Tom Cruise. He said: “Every nuance is refined hundreds of times. Sometimes we watch a 10-minute scene 40 times in a day, checking to see where your eye is moving in the frame.”

    Diverse representation is a vital sign of the industry’s health and MPTS is proud to set the benchmark to secure equal representation and attendance from the next generation, not only across the program, but also something clearly witnessed across the show floor amongst exhibitors and attendees.

    MPTS also prioritizes the crucial importance of sustainability and, in continuing association with BAFTA albert brought this conversation to the fore with experts including Peter Okell, Sky Studios Elstree; Luke Seraphin, Sky Studios and Claire O’Neill, A Greener Future speaking in the Sustainability Series.

    Sam Street, Marketing Officer, BAFTA Albert commented: “MPTS is a really key moment in our calendar. It is always so great to connect with suppliers, companies, studios and creatives who share our common passion for sustainability within screen industries. It has also been really valuable to curate our sustainability series of panels across this year’s show, we’ve had some really insightful discussions and emphasised the importance of environmental focus throughout the screen industries.”

    We did not need a machine to predict the high demand for news and information about AI. The brand-new ticketed AI Training program and the expanded AI Media Zone drew exceptional attendance, with exhibitors such as Dot Group, Moments Lab and Software. Conversations in these packed-out sessions revolved around the impact of AI from ideation to VFX, featuring real-world insights and discussions on bridging the gap between theory and practice from speakers including Pete Archer, BBC; Jon Roberts, ITN and Damien Viel, Banijay Entertainment.

    With a record number of exhibitors already rebooking for 2026, MPTS continues to prove its value as the UK’s number one event for media and production professionals, where brands, creatives and decision-makers come together to connect, collaborate and grow.

    Jane Shepard, Senior Channel Marketing Manager, Sandisk, said: “MPTS 2025 was a spectacular showcase of innovation, bringing together the brightest minds and cutting-edge technology in the industry. An unforgettable experience for all attendees.”

    Tom Rundle, Application Engineer, Yamaha Music, said: “It has been very busy for us. We have seen a huge mix of customers from the broadcast sector here, but also customers from the other industries which we serve, whether that’s live or theatre who have deliberately come to the show to seek us out to speak to us. Will we be back next year? Yes, absolutely, this is the first year for us, so it was always a bit of a toe in the water, but it’s been vastly more successful than we thought it was going to be.”

    Peter Alderson, Business Manager, Nikon, said: “This is our second year at MPTS, we’ve gone a little bit bigger on our stands, almost doubling it, and I think it’s definitely been worthwhile doing. We’ve partnered with RED, who we recently purchased, and MRMC so it’s making a lovely statement about where we are in the market, and I think we’re in the right place to make that statement here at MPTS.”

    Jennifer Hudson, Marketing Executive, Videndum, said: “This show is really important in our calendar – we attend nearly every year and find so much value in it. We get to meet with so many different professionals within the industry, and this year has been really, really positive for us. We’ve walked away with quite a few leads and made new relationships. It’s a fantastic show, and we would thoroughly recommend anyone thinking about coming and having a stand here to definitely do it – you won’t regret it.”

    Will Pitt, Head of Sales Solutions, Techex, said: “My impression of the show is that it’s been incredibly busy and very positive. Techex particularly specialise in solving some of the headaches that a lot of the broadcast industry is grappling with at the moment, namely, how they transition into an IP-led architecture from a legacy architecture and what that journey looks like. As such, our standards have been packed pretty much throughout the show to come and look at products, but also to come and talk about ideas and lean into what that journey looks like specifically for them. So not a generic journey, but specific to their drivers and their wants and needs in the short and medium term. We particularly like MPTS because it’s London based and many of the engineers that we speak to and collaborate with are based here and therefore it’s an easy journey for them to take half a day, a day out to come and investigate what we have to offer, but also to have those conversations. And so for organisations like WBD or Sky, the BBC, ITV, etc. They can come here quite easily and engage with us, spend some time talking in real life and not over teams or Zoom.”

    Charlotte Wheeler, Event Director, MPTS said: “Without doubt, 2025 was the most stimulating, ahead-of-the-curve MPTS yet. At a time when we are seeing the industry under real pressure from budget cuts to talent shortages and perpetual change, the conversations and connections on the show floor were positive and demonstrated infectious community spirit. The level of attendance and the quality of attendees from across all sectors of the industry was incredible – not just stakeholders in technology but representatives from production and commissioning, the creator economy, those new to the industry and freelancers were all brought together by MPTS under one roof.

    “A huge amount of work goes into making sure that there is equal representation across our extensive conference programme. I am proud that MPTS is one of – if not the – most diverse shows both in terms of attendees and panellists.

    “Thank you to everyone for exhibiting, sponsoring, speaking, attending and engaging with the show to make MPTS such a thrilling success. We are already planning for 2026, which marks MPTS’ 10th edition, so look forward to a landmark celebration!”

    Save the date for MPTS 2026 when we return to Olympia Grand Hall, London on 13 – 14 May 2026.

    The conversation does not stop when the doors close. MPTS is more than just two days a year – it is a connected, year-round community for the broadcast and media industry. From on-demand content to exclusive events, there’s still so much to explore. Stay connected with us: https://www.mediaproductionshow.com/register-interest

    To enquire about exhibiting at our landmark 10th edition, please go to: https://www.mediaproductionshow.com/stand-enquiry

    MBI is the publisher of market-leading titles including Broadcast, Broadcast Sport, Broadcast Tech, KFTV, The Knowledge and Screen International.

     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: IP Fabric Advances Security Posture Assurance with Firewall Discovery and Simulation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IP Fabric, the Automated Infrastructure Assurance Platform, today announced advanced firewall management features that close critical security and compliance gaps. The latest release includes firewall filtering simulation, transparent firewall discovery and visualization, enhanced compliance checks and granular access controls. These capabilities give enterprises full visibility into how traffic is encrypted, filtered and enforced — helping teams detect misconfigurations, ensure that every firewall is discovered and modeled, and create triggers to automate responses to risk in partnership with the firewall management systems already in use.

    Up to 20% of a network — including the critical firewalls that block malicious traffic and access — are improperly configured in enterprise companies. IT leaders carry a fiduciary responsibility to ensure infrastructure is secure, compliant and cost-effective, starting with a complete understanding of network assets and behavior. Security assessors and regulatory auditors know this, which is why firewall configurations are integral to controls outlined in global frameworks like NIST, CIS, ISO 27001 and SOC 2. IP Fabric’s latest release shows exactly how all firewalls, segmentation and encrypted traffic behave in the real world to reduce risk created by gaps in defense, strengthen protection and speed audit preparation.

    “Infrastructure defense shouldn’t live in silos, but too often our tools and teams do,” said Pavel Bykov, CEO and co-founder of IP Fabric. “We’re giving IT and security teams a shared, end-to-end understanding of how traffic flows, including how it’s encrypted, filtered and enforced across transparent firewalls and IPSec tunnels. When you can visualize devices, end-to-end paths, misconfigurations and gaps in your defense in context, you can take informed action to strengthen your security posture, prove continuous compliance and avoid unbudgeted costs.”

    Key security and compliance enhancements in IP Fabric 7.2

    1. Modern firewall filtering simulation: See how traffic is allowed or blocked by URLs, threat feeds and domain names.

    2. Transparent firewall discovery and visualization: Visualize Layer 2 firewalls and encrypted tunnels to improve monitoring and detect gaps in defense. Now supporting Palo Alto Networks, FortiGate and Firepower firewalls.

    3. Enhanced compliance and intent checks: Identify all devices in the traffic path, map CVEs to vulnerable assets and run tailored checks to spot misconfigurations faster in support of global security frameworks such as NIST, CIS, ISO 27001 and SOC 2.

    4. Granular user access controls for security extensions: Restrict who can deploy or edit automation scripts to prevent unauthorized changes and support compliance.

    5. Next-generation firewall management: Ensure security posture consistently among firewalls both on-prem and in the public cloud, regardless of vendor. Trigger changes based on up-to-date insights into compliance and network behavior.

    By delivering unparalleled visibility and control into security policies, firewall enforcement and compliance posture, IP Fabric’s latest release empowers enterprises to close security gaps before attackers exploit them.

    For a complete list of features included in IP Fabric 7.2 visit the company blog.

    About IP Fabric
    IP Fabric is the industry’s leading automated infrastructure assurance platform, offering a continuously validated view of cloud, network and security infrastructure to improve stability, security and spend. Within minutes, the platform creates a unified view of devices, state, configurations and interdependencies, normalizing multi-vendor data and revealing operational truth through automated intent checks. By uncovering risks and providing actionable insights, IP Fabric empowers enterprises to accelerate IT and business transformation while reducing costs. Trusted by industry leaders like Red Hat, Major League Baseball and Air France, IP Fabric delivers the foundation for a secure and modern infrastructure.

    Learn more at ipfabric.io and follow the company on LinkedIn.

    Media Contact
    Liesse Jayalath
    ipfabric@lookleftmarketing.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/90b60f9f-ceea-4df0-8039-81e631394f01

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Windows are the No. 1 human threat to birds – an ecologist shares some simple steps to reduce collisions

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jason Hoeksema, Professor of Ecology, University of Mississippi

    Birds are drawn to the mirror effect of windows. That can turn deadly when they think they see trees. CCahill/iStock/Getty Images Plus

    When wood thrushes arrive in northern Mississippi on their spring migration and begin to serenade my neighborhood with their ethereal, harmonized song, it’s one of the great joys of the season. It’s also a minor miracle. These small creatures have just flown more than 1,850 miles (3,000 kilometers), all the way from Central America.

    Other birds undertake even longer journeys — the Swainson’s thrush, for example, nests as far north as the boreal forests of Alaska and spends the nonbreeding season in northern South America, traveling up to 5,600 miles (9,000 kilometers) each way.

    These stunning feats of travel are awe-inspiring, making it that much more tragic when they are cut short by a deadly collision with a glass window.

    A wood thrush singing. Shared by the American Bird Conservancy.

    This happens with alarming regularity. Two recent scientific studies estimate that more than 1 billion birds – and as many as 5.19 billion – die from collisions with sheet glass each year in the United States alone, sometimes immediately but often from their injuries.

    In fact, window collisions are now considered the top human cause of bird deaths. Due to window collisions and other causes, bird populations across North America have declined more than 29% from their 1970 levels, likely with major consequences for the world’s ecosystems.

    These collisions occur on every type of building, from homes to skyscrapers. At the University of Mississippi campus, where I teach and conduct research as an ecologist, my colleagues and I have been testing some creative solutions.

    Why glass is so often deadly for birds

    Most frequently, glass acts as a mirror, reflecting clear sky or habitat. There is no reason for a bird to slow down when there appears to be a welcoming tree or shrub ahead.

    These head-on collisions frequently result in brain injuries, to which birds often succumb immediately.

    In other cases, birds are stunned by the collision and eventually fly off, but many of those individuals also eventually perish from brain swelling.

    Other injuries, to wings or legs, for example, can leave birds unable to fly and vulnerable to cats or other predators. If you find an injured bird, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator.

    Which windows are riskiest

    Some windows are much worse than others, depending on their proximity to bushes and other bird habitats, what is reflected in them, and how interior lighting exacerbates or diminishes the mirror effect.

    On our campus, some buildings with a great deal of glass surface area kill surprisingly few birds, while other small sets of windows are disproportionately deadly.

    A stunned Swainson’s thrush sits on the ground in front of a window on campus. The bird, which likely hit the window, eventually recovered and flew away.
    Jason Hoeksema/University of Mississippi

    One particular elevated walkway with glass on both sides between the chemistry and pharmacy buildings is a notoriously dangerous spot. The glass kills migratory birds each spring and fall as they try to pass between the two buildings on their way to The Grove, the university’s central-campus park area with large old oak trees.

    During the pandemic in 2020, student Emma Counce did the heart-heavy work of performing a survey of 11 campus buildings almost daily during spring migration. She found 72 bird fatalities in seven weeks. Five years later, my ornithology students completed a new survey and found 62 mortalities over the course of five weeks in 2025, demonstrating that we still have a lot of work to do to make our campus safe for migratory birds.

    Thrushes, perhaps due to their propensity for whizzing through tight spaces in the shady forest understory, have been disproportionately represented among the victims. Others include colorful songbirds – northern parulas, black-and-white warblers, prothonotary warblers, Kentucky warblers, buntings, vireos and tanagers.

    How to make windows less dangerous

    The good thing is that everyone can do something to lower the risk.

    Films, stickers or strings can be added on the exterior of windows, creating dots or lines, 2 to 4 inches apart, that break up reflections to give the appearance of a barrier.

    Exterior screens and blinds work great too. Just adding a few predator silhouette stickers is not effective, by the way – the treatment needs to span the whole window.

    Putting film with dots on windows, like this one at the University of Mississippi, can help birds spot the glass and stop in time. Without the dots, the reflection can look like more trees are ahead instead of glass and a hallway.
    Jason Hoeksema/University of Mississippi

    When applied properly, window treatments can make a huge difference. An inspiring example is McCormick Place in Chicago, the country’s largest convention center, which notoriously killed nearly 1,000 birds in a single night in 2023. After workers applied dot film to an area of the building’s windows equivalent to two football fields, bird mortality at the lakeside building has been reduced by 95%.

    The Bird Collision Prevention Alliance provides information on options for retrofitting home or office windows to make them more bird friendly.

    Options for new windows are also becoming more common. For example, the new Center for Science & Technology Innovation on my campus, which features many windows, mostly used bird-friendly glass with subtle polka dots built into it. This spring, we found that it killed only four birds, despite a very high surface area of glass.

    How you can help

    When trying to make a difference on your home turf, I suggest starting small. Make note of which specific windows have killed birds in the past, and treat them first.

    Use it as an opportunity to learn what approach might work best for you and your building. Either order a product or make something yourself and get it installed.

    How to make your windows safer for birds. Shared by Audubon New York and American Bird Conservancy.

    Then do another, and tell a friend. At the office, talk to people, find others who care and build a team to make gradual change.

    With some creative solutions, anyone can help reduce at least this major risk.

    Jason Hoeksema is affiliated with the University of Mississippi, Delta Wind Birds, and the Mississippi Ornithological Society.

    – ref. Windows are the No. 1 human threat to birds – an ecologist shares some simple steps to reduce collisions – https://theconversation.com/windows-are-the-no-1-human-threat-to-birds-an-ecologist-shares-some-simple-steps-to-reduce-collisions-255838

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Windows are the No. 1 human threat to birds – an ecologist shares some simple steps to reduce collisions

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jason Hoeksema, Professor of Ecology, University of Mississippi

    Birds are drawn to the mirror effect of windows. That can turn deadly when they think they see trees. CCahill/iStock/Getty Images Plus

    When wood thrushes arrive in northern Mississippi on their spring migration and begin to serenade my neighborhood with their ethereal, harmonized song, it’s one of the great joys of the season. It’s also a minor miracle. These small creatures have just flown more than 1,850 miles (3,000 kilometers), all the way from Central America.

    Other birds undertake even longer journeys — the Swainson’s thrush, for example, nests as far north as the boreal forests of Alaska and spends the nonbreeding season in northern South America, traveling up to 5,600 miles (9,000 kilometers) each way.

    These stunning feats of travel are awe-inspiring, making it that much more tragic when they are cut short by a deadly collision with a glass window.

    A wood thrush singing. Shared by the American Bird Conservancy.

    This happens with alarming regularity. Two recent scientific studies estimate that more than 1 billion birds – and as many as 5.19 billion – die from collisions with sheet glass each year in the United States alone, sometimes immediately but often from their injuries.

    In fact, window collisions are now considered the top human cause of bird deaths. Due to window collisions and other causes, bird populations across North America have declined more than 29% from their 1970 levels, likely with major consequences for the world’s ecosystems.

    These collisions occur on every type of building, from homes to skyscrapers. At the University of Mississippi campus, where I teach and conduct research as an ecologist, my colleagues and I have been testing some creative solutions.

    Why glass is so often deadly for birds

    Most frequently, glass acts as a mirror, reflecting clear sky or habitat. There is no reason for a bird to slow down when there appears to be a welcoming tree or shrub ahead.

    These head-on collisions frequently result in brain injuries, to which birds often succumb immediately.

    In other cases, birds are stunned by the collision and eventually fly off, but many of those individuals also eventually perish from brain swelling.

    Other injuries, to wings or legs, for example, can leave birds unable to fly and vulnerable to cats or other predators. If you find an injured bird, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator.

    Which windows are riskiest

    Some windows are much worse than others, depending on their proximity to bushes and other bird habitats, what is reflected in them, and how interior lighting exacerbates or diminishes the mirror effect.

    On our campus, some buildings with a great deal of glass surface area kill surprisingly few birds, while other small sets of windows are disproportionately deadly.

    A stunned Swainson’s thrush sits on the ground in front of a window on campus. The bird, which likely hit the window, eventually recovered and flew away.
    Jason Hoeksema/University of Mississippi

    One particular elevated walkway with glass on both sides between the chemistry and pharmacy buildings is a notoriously dangerous spot. The glass kills migratory birds each spring and fall as they try to pass between the two buildings on their way to The Grove, the university’s central-campus park area with large old oak trees.

    During the pandemic in 2020, student Emma Counce did the heart-heavy work of performing a survey of 11 campus buildings almost daily during spring migration. She found 72 bird fatalities in seven weeks. Five years later, my ornithology students completed a new survey and found 62 mortalities over the course of five weeks in 2025, demonstrating that we still have a lot of work to do to make our campus safe for migratory birds.

    Thrushes, perhaps due to their propensity for whizzing through tight spaces in the shady forest understory, have been disproportionately represented among the victims. Others include colorful songbirds – northern parulas, black-and-white warblers, prothonotary warblers, Kentucky warblers, buntings, vireos and tanagers.

    How to make windows less dangerous

    The good thing is that everyone can do something to lower the risk.

    Films, stickers or strings can be added on the exterior of windows, creating dots or lines, 2 to 4 inches apart, that break up reflections to give the appearance of a barrier.

    Exterior screens and blinds work great too. Just adding a few predator silhouette stickers is not effective, by the way – the treatment needs to span the whole window.

    Putting film with dots on windows, like this one at the University of Mississippi, can help birds spot the glass and stop in time. Without the dots, the reflection can look like more trees are ahead instead of glass and a hallway.
    Jason Hoeksema/University of Mississippi

    When applied properly, window treatments can make a huge difference. An inspiring example is McCormick Place in Chicago, the country’s largest convention center, which notoriously killed nearly 1,000 birds in a single night in 2023. After workers applied dot film to an area of the building’s windows equivalent to two football fields, bird mortality at the lakeside building has been reduced by 95%.

    The Bird Collision Prevention Alliance provides information on options for retrofitting home or office windows to make them more bird friendly.

    Options for new windows are also becoming more common. For example, the new Center for Science & Technology Innovation on my campus, which features many windows, mostly used bird-friendly glass with subtle polka dots built into it. This spring, we found that it killed only four birds, despite a very high surface area of glass.

    How you can help

    When trying to make a difference on your home turf, I suggest starting small. Make note of which specific windows have killed birds in the past, and treat them first.

    Use it as an opportunity to learn what approach might work best for you and your building. Either order a product or make something yourself and get it installed.

    How to make your windows safer for birds. Shared by Audubon New York and American Bird Conservancy.

    Then do another, and tell a friend. At the office, talk to people, find others who care and build a team to make gradual change.

    With some creative solutions, anyone can help reduce at least this major risk.

    Jason Hoeksema is affiliated with the University of Mississippi, Delta Wind Birds, and the Mississippi Ornithological Society.

    – ref. Windows are the No. 1 human threat to birds – an ecologist shares some simple steps to reduce collisions – https://theconversation.com/windows-are-the-no-1-human-threat-to-birds-an-ecologist-shares-some-simple-steps-to-reduce-collisions-255838

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Denis Law Legacy Trail to officially open

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    The Printfield 10 – Denis Law Legacy Trail will be officially unveiled on Saturday (24 May) in Denis’ childhood community of Printfield.

    Set to be launched by members of the Law family, representatives from both the Printfield project and the Denis Law Legacy Trust and Aberdeen Lord Provost, Dr David Cameron, the ten point trail is a walking route through the Printfield community, that celebrates Denis Law’s life, career, and impact on Aberdeen.

    The project was first initiated by the Printfield community and developed in collaboration with Denis Law Legacy Trust, Robert Gordon University’s Gray’s School of Art, Denis’ family and Aberdeen City Council. 

    The trail was designed and delivered by Fine Day Studio, in collaboration with New Practice. The murals have been produced by Blank Walls – a street art company renowned for delivering world-class public art projects.

    A motion on the creation of the walking trail was brought to Full Council by Councillor Neil Copland in March 2020.

    Councillor Copland said: “I’m thrilled to see the Denis Law Legacy Trail completed in the heart of Denis’ childhood community of Printfield. The trail will allow people to walk in the footsteps of a sporting legend and experience a world-class public artwork in the heart of Aberdeen.

    “These artworks will attract both local people and tourists to the Printfield area, further cementing Aberdeen’s reputation as a growing hub for public art and cultural heritage.  It’s a very fitting tribute for one of Aberdeen’s greatest sons.”

    The trail will be officially opened on Saturday at 3.15pm, at number 10 on the corner of Printfield Walk and Printfield Terrace.

    Between 2pm and 4.15pm, there will be workshops for families in the Printfield play area, games and activities by The Denis Law Legacy Trust and workshops by Fine Day Studio and the Robert Gordon University Mobile Art School.

    Alex Harvey and Jerome Davenport, Co-Founders of Blank Walls said: “This has been an incredible project to be part of and It’s a great honour to create such an iconic legacy piece for a legend of Aberdeen and a legend of football. We hope the mural becomes a welcome addition to the already impressive street art in Aberdeen and serves as an inspiration to the local community.”

    Colin Leonard, Founder of Fine Day Studio said: “We’re thrilled to see the first phase of the Denis Law Legacy Trail come to life. Denis wasn’t just a footballing icon—he was also a fearless, selfless teammate who never lost sight of his roots in Printfield and Aberdeen.

    “Every stop on the trail offers a chance to celebrate his story and spark pride in the place he called home. It’s been about creating something joyful and meaningful that belongs to the whole community.”

    Di Law, Denis’ daughter said: “We are absolutely delighted and immensely proud to support this unbelievable project that will leave a positive and long-lasting legacy for our father and the community in Printfield.”

    David Suttie, Trustee of The Denis Law Legacy Trust said: “This trail is a wonderful example of the Trust and Aberdeen City Council coming together to support a community driven project into fruition. This project has come to life spectacularly and will be a great focal point for the city for a long time to come.”

    Mark Williams, Chief Operating Officer of The Denis Law Legacy Trust said: “We have been delighted to support the local Printfield community to deliver an incredible legacy for Denis in and around the very streets where he was born. Built to inform and inspire all who visit this, we hope it will continue to do so for many years to come.”

    A representative from the Printfield Youth Group said: “I think the Trail is really cool, I think the designs are so bright and makes you feel happy.  It makes the area look so much better and I think it will bring more people into the community and it is something to be proud of.”

    The Denis Law Legacy Mural has been funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Aberdeen City Council’s Common Good Fund.

    Image courtesy of Innes Gregory.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China-Kazakhstan friendly chess match held in Tacheng

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    URUMQI, May 21 (Xinhua) — A friendly chess match between China and Kazakhstan was held recently in Tacheng City, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on the China-Kazakhstan border.

    The event was organized by the Tacheng County Department of Culture, Sports, Radio, Television and Tourism and was attended by amateur chess players from Kazakhstan and players from different ethnic groups in Tacheng.

    The match is an individual rapid chess tournament for adults, played according to the Swiss system using computer programming, consisting of five rounds.

    The current match is not only a recognition of the achievements in the development of chess culture in Tacheng County, but also an important opportunity to popularize intellectual sports. It is not only an exchange in the field of chess, but also a vivid manifestation of friendship between China and Kazakhstan, said the organizer, expressing hope that the tournament will contribute to the growth of the popularity of this sport in Tacheng and promote deep integration of sports and culture between the two sides. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Interest in terminal space sought

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    ​The Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau today invited the market to submit expressions of interest (EOI) for better utilising the space of the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal (KTCT).

    As one of the strategies in the Action Plan on Development of Cruise Tourism, the bureau aims to elevate the function of the KTCT as a cruise terminal for all.

    Apart from the cruise operation facilities, the KTCT also has an ancillary commercial area of about 5,600 sq m, and public space located on the rooftop and second floor.

    The bureau invites interested vendors and organisations to submit feasible proposals for the use of the ancillary commercial areas and public space, including use for conventional retail or other purposes, with a view to fully utilising the space.

    The bureau stressed that it has been committed to promoting the KTCT for hosting more non-cruise and commercial events during the low season and on days when fewer cruises berthing thereat to better utilise the space at the KTCT.

    What’s more, with the official commissioning of the Kai Tak Sports Park on March 1 this year, the park has become a new hub for hosting major sports and entertainment events.

    The pedestrian walkway connecting the park and the KTCT has recently been opened, and the Home & Youth Affairs Bureau has completed the tender exercise for the Youth Post hostel and spaces for cultural and arts exchanges for youths next to the KTCT.

    The organisation to operate the youth development facility has been selected, and is expected to commence operation within this year.

    With the gradual population intake of the residential development projects at the former runway area of Kai Tak, the transport connectivity of the KTCT will continue to be enhanced in accordance with the plan.

    Seizing the opportunities brought by the developments, the bureau hopes to bring more visitors to the KTCT by the new activities and seek business opportunities through collaboration among the Government, the business sector and the community.

    Interested commercial entities, non-profit-making organisations, organisations related to the cultural, creative and sports industries as well as young entrepreneurs are welcome to submit proposals.

    The bureau added that in considering the suggestions collected, it will focus on how the activities can create greater convenience and a better experience for cruise visitors, create synergies between the Kai Tak Sports Park and the Youth Post hostel, and benefit the residential community of Kai Tak.

    Furthermore, it pointed out that it will determine the future use and management arrangements of the space based on the suggestions.

    The invitation documents for the EOI are available on the Tourism Commission website. Interested parties must submit their EOI by July 18.

    The bureau will also hold a briefing session on the EOI invitation on June 3.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau invites market to submit expressions of interest for better utilising Kai Tak Cruise Terminal space

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau invites market to submit expressions of interest for better utilising Kai Tak Cruise Terminal space 
    A spokesman for the CSTB said that, as one of the strategies in the Action Plan on Development of Cruise Tourism, the CSTB aims to elevate the function of the KTCT as a cruise terminal for all. Apart from the cruise operation facilities, the KTCT also has an ancillary commercial area of about 5 600 square metres, and public space located on the rooftop and the second floor. The CSTB invites interested vendors and organisations to submit feasible proposals for the use of the ancillary commercial areas and public space, including use for conventional retail or other purposes, with a view to fully utilising the space.   
     
    The CSTB has been committed to promoting the KTCT for hosting more non-cruise and commercial events during the low season and on days when fewer cruises berthing thereat to better utilise the space at the KTCT. As well, with the official commissioning of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) on March 1 this year, the KTSP has become a new hub for hosting major sports and entertainment events. The pedestrian walkway connecting the KTSP and the KTCT has recently been opened, and the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau has completed the tender exercise for the Youth Post hostel and spaces for cultural and arts exchanges for youths next to the KTCT. The organisation to operate the said youth development facility has been selected, and is expected to commence operation within this year. With the gradual population intake of the residential development projects at the former runway area of Kai Tak, the transport connectivity of the KTCT will continue to be enhanced in accordance with the plan. Seizing the opportunities brought by the abovementioned developments, the CSTB hopes to bring more visitors to the KTCT by the new activities and seek business opportunities through collaboration among the Government, the business sector and the community.
     
    The CSTB welcomes interested commercial entities, non-profit-making organisations, organisations related to the cultural, creative and sports industries as well as young entrepreneurs to submit proposals.
     
    The spokesman added that in considering the suggestions collected, the CSTB will focus on how the activities can create greater convenience and a better experience for cruise visitors, create synergies between the KTSP and the Youth Post hostel, and benefit the residential community of Kai Tak. The CSTB will determine the future use and management arrangements of the the relevant space based on the suggestions.  
     
    The invitation documents for the EOI have been uploaded onto the website of the Tourism Commission (www.tourism.gov.hk/en/papers-reports.php?type=expression_of_interestIssued at HKT 17:58

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –