Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Automated Vehicles Act 2024 implementation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Written statement to Parliament

    Automated Vehicles Act 2024 implementation

    An update on the work being done to implement the Automated Vehicles (AV) Act 2024.

    I wish to provide the House with an update on steps the government is taking to implement the Automated Vehicles (AV) Act 2024 and kickstart economic growth, a top priority in the government’s Plan for Change.

    The AV Act delivers one of the most comprehensive legal frameworks of its kind anywhere in the world, with safety at its core, which will give potential operators, tech developers and manufacturers the confidence to invest in the UK. It sets out clear legal responsibilities so businesses know where they stand, establishes a safety framework and creates the necessary regulatory powers.

    The AV Act implementation programme has been designed to maximise innovation, enabling investors and operators to develop and deploy the creative mobility solutions that can drive growth. This comes as part of a government-wide programme of work using artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver the Plan for Change, with AVs being a clear example of how AI will bring tangible benefits to the public.

    Automated passenger services

    Today (10 June 2025) I can announce that the government will accelerate the introduction of automated passenger services (APS) regulations, subject to the outcome of a consultation later this summer. This will provide businesses with the regulatory confidence to invest in testing and deploying these innovative services on our streets, reinforcing the UK’s position among the world leaders in tech deployment. It will help facilitate commercial pilots of services with paying passengers and no safety driver to be deployed from spring 2026.

    The APS permitting regime was created to address complexities of applying current taxi, private hire vehicle, and public service vehicle legislation to passenger services that would operate without a driver.

    Protecting marketing terms for AVs

    Today, I launched a consultation, and an accompanying draft statutory instrument (SI) on protecting marketing terms for AVs; the consultation will run for 12 weeks. The AV Act sets out an authorisation process to determine whether a vehicle can safely drive itself without being controlled or monitored by a human. We want to support the innovators and businesses which are building genuinely groundbreaking tech by protecting certain terms so they can only be used to describe authorised self-driving vehicles, boosting investor confidence, consumer trust and driver certainty.

    This consultation aims to identify the words, expressions, symbols or marks that should only be used to describe authorised AVs. The government expects to bring forward secondary legislation following careful consideration of consultation responses. Our aim is for these regulations to come into effect in early 2026; they will be subject to the negative procedure.

    Statement of safety principles for AVs

    Today, I have published a call for evidence on the statement of safety principles which will consider the safety outcomes that should be sought by self-driving vehicles; the call for evidence will also run for 12 weeks. Public confidence in the safety of these vehicles will be essential to take advantage of the huge economic opportunities they will present.

    The Department for Transport’s monitoring and annual reporting will consider performance against these principles. The AV Act specifies that the safety principles must be framed with a view to securing that authorised AVs achieve a safety level equal to or higher than careful and competent human drivers and that road safety in Great Britain will improve due to the presence of these vehicles.

    I intend to publish a further consultation on the statutory principles in the coming months that will be informed by stakeholder feedback from this call for evidence. The final statutory guidance will be laid in parliament and will be subject to parliamentary approval.

    Transport AI action plan

    The announcements made today are a cornerstone of the Department’s new Transport AI action plan. This publication is a 23-point plan which sets out how the government is using AI to improve transport for everyone in the UK. The plan builds upon the Transport data strategy and the AI opportunities action plan to align the transport sector with the broader AI agenda, drive economic growth and deliver on the Plan for Change.

    A copy of these publications and associated annexes will be placed in the libraries of both Houses and published on GOV.UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Save Loch Lomond: Minister recalls Flamingo Land appeal 

    Source: Scottish Greens

    The evidence of the damage Flamingo Land would do to Loch Lomond is overwhelming.

    The Scottish Greens are celebrating a huge win as Flamingo Land’s appeal to build a mega-resort on the banks of Loch Lomond has been recalled by Scottish Ministers.

    The National Park’s board unanimously rejected the development in September after receiving objections from expert groups including environment watchdog SEPA as well as a record 155,000 individuals. Flamingo Land appealed this decision with the Scottish Government, whose officials overturned the Park board’s decision and granted it permission to go ahead two weeks ago.

    When challenged by Scottish Green MSPs Ross Greer and Patrick Harvie both the Planning Minister and First Minister refused to use their powers to recall the application and make the final decision themselves.

    Following further pressure, including 50,000 individuals emailing the Planning Minister directly, the Scottish Government announced tonight that Ministers would recall the application.

    The destructive development could see 127 woodland lodges, two hotels, over 370 parking spaces, a water park, monorail and much more on a sensitive site by the loch shore at Balloch. The campaign against Flamingo Land over the last decade has been spear-headed by Mr Greer. It became the most objected to planning application in Scottish history, with over 155,000 individual objections, as well as those from groups including the Woodland Trust and National Trust for Scotland.

    Mr Greer said:

    “This is the right move by Ministers and a huge victory for the fifty thousand people who joined the Scottish Greens’ campaign for the decision to be recalled. I am glad that Ivan McKee has decided to do the right thing and use his power to intervene to protect Loch Lomond from destruction.

    “The evidence of the damage it would do to one of Scotland’s most iconic locations is overwhelming. Once Ministers consider the flood risk, loss of ancient woodland, hundreds of additional cars which would be brought onto notoriously congested roads and the litany of other devastating impacts it would have, I am sure they will reject the mega-resort application and finally end this decade-long saga.

    “People across Scotland expect their Government to protect our natural heritage. Given previous mistakes, including the approval of Donald Trump’s golf course despite local objections and serious environmental concerns, this is an opportunity for Ministers to show that they have learned and will now put people and planet ahead of greedy developers.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI: Life Sciences Investor Forum Agenda Announced for June 11th-12th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Virtual Investor Conferences, the leading proprietary investor conference series announced the agenda for the Life Sciences Investor Forum June 11th & 12th. This event is co-hosted by Zacks Small Cap Research.

    Individual investors, institutional investors, advisors, and analysts are invited to attend.

    REGISTER HERE

    It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. There is no cost to log-in, attend live presentations, or schedule 1×1 meetings with management.

    “The life sciences sector is driving breakthrough innovation, and we’re proud to give these pioneering companies a direct line to investors,” said Jason Paltrowitz, Executive Vice President of Corporate Services at OTC Markets Group. “This Virtual Investor Conference, co-hosted by Zacks Small Cap Research, offers an essential platform for companies to share their vision, showcase scientific progress, and connect with a wider investment community actively seeking the next wave of healthcare and biotech leaders.”

    June 11th


    June 12
    th

    To facilitate investor relations scheduling and to view a complete calendar of Virtual Investor Conferences, please visit www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®

    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    Media Contact: 
    OTC Markets Group Inc. +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    Virtual Investor Conferences Contact:
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Columbus police officer sentenced to 3 years in prison for altering records

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A former Columbus police officer was sentenced in federal court here today to 36 months in prison for destroying or altering records related to a criminal investigation.

    Nicholas P. Duty, 36, of Commercial Point, Ohio, pleaded guilty in January to two counts of the crime.

    According to court documents, on two occasions, Duty destroyed, altered or falsified records by purposefully deactivating or removing his police body worn camera. Duty’s actions were intended to impede, obstruct or influence a federal investigation.

    In February 2024, Columbus police officers were working street-level prostitution crimes in the area of Sullivant Avenue on the west side of Columbus when a witness expressed concerns about Duty’s on-duty activities with sex workers. Duty was positively identified during the administration of a blind photo array.

    Further investigation revealed that, on Oct. 31, 2023, and March 22, 2024, Duty deactivated or removed his body worn camera during interactions with two women, including during a sexual encounter.

    During the incidents, Duty was on duty, wearing a police uniform, in a marked police vehicle and assigned a body worn camera. He knew he was required to comply with Columbus Division of Police policies for wearing the division-issued camera.

    On Halloween 2023, the first woman had called Columbus police and asked for assistance, stating her boyfriend was attempting to kill himself. Duty transported the woman following the call and disabled his body worn and in-car cameras when he was alone with her. Duty made sexual advances toward the woman while his cameras were deactivated, and they exchanged phone numbers.  Duty continued to reach out to her, including in April 2024, a few days before his arrest.

    On March 22, 2024, body worn camera footage shows Duty speaking with the second woman near the Sunoco station at Sullivant and Clarendon avenues. The woman confirmed that Duty had money with him and asked if he wanted to go to their “normal spot.” Duty drove away in his police vehicle, relocated to a different alley, and met up with the woman. Duty removed his body worn camera and blocked it from recording video. The camera, however, still recorded audio from the incident. The audio recording reveals Duty asking the woman several times to have sex. She declines but performs oral sex on Duty. The two discuss meeting up later for sex and Duty paid the woman $20 for the sex act. During this time, he was marked “out,” indicating that he was actively working on a police call.

    Further review of Duty’s digital devices revealed numerous conversations in which Duty would seek out sex from various women, including victims of crime, whom he met while working on duty as a Columbus Police Officer. He would also send messages to sex workers while working and then meet up with them in his police cruiser, engage in sex acts with them, and then pay them for the sex acts.

    Duty was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2024. He had been employed with the Columbus Division of Police since June 2018.

    Acting United States Attorney Kelly A. Norris, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) Acting Special Agent in Charge Thomas A. Greco,  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphy, and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Elena Iatarola announced the sentence imposed today by Chief U.S. District Judge Sarah D. Morrison.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Czerniejewski and Kevin W. Kelley are representing the United States in this case, which was investigated by the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission’s Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: CEO of Health Care Software Company Convicted of $1 Billion Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    MIAMI – A federal jury convicted the CEO of Power Mobility Doctor Rx, LLC (DMERx) for his role in operating a platform that generated false doctors’ orders to defraud Medicare and other federal health care benefit programs of more than $1 billion.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Gary Cox, 79, of Maricopa County, Arizona, and his co-conspirators targeted hundreds of thousands of Medicare beneficiaries who provided their personally identifiable information and agreed to accept medically unnecessary orthotic braces, pain creams, and other items through misleading mailers, television advertisements, and calls from offshore call centers. Cox and his co-conspirators owned, controlled, and operated DMERx, an internet-based platform that generated false and fraudulent doctors’ orders for these items. As part of the scheme, Cox connected pharmacies, durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers, and marketers with telemedicine companies that would accept illegal kickbacks and bribes in exchange for signed doctors’ orders transmitted using the DMERx platform. Cox and his co-conspirators received payments for coordinating these illegal kickback transactions and referring the completed doctors’ orders to the DME suppliers, pharmacies, and telemarketers that paid kickbacks and bribes for the orders.

    The fraudulent doctors’ orders generated by DMERx falsely represented that a doctor had examined and treated the Medicare beneficiaries when in fact purported telemedicine companies paid doctors to sign the orders without regard to medical necessity, based only on a brief telephone call with the beneficiary or no interaction with the beneficiary at all. The DME suppliers and pharmacies that paid illegal kickbacks in exchange for these doctors’ orders billed Medicare and other insurers more than $1 billion. Medicare and the insurers paid more than $360 million based on these claims. According to evidence presented at trial, Cox and his co-conspirators concealed the scheme through sham contracts and by eliminating from doctors’ orders what one co-conspirator described as “dangerous words” that might cause Medicare to audit the scheme’s DME suppliers.

    “Medicare fraud undermines the integrity of our nation’s most critical healthcare programs, which are relied upon by millions of patients, doctors and honest healthcare professionals.” said U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida. “Fraud of this kind wastes taxpayer dollars and increases the cost of healthcare for all Americans. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will relentlessly pursue those who steal from taxpayers and exploit our healthcare system for their own personal gain”

    “The defendant orchestrated a scheme to defraud government health care benefit programs on a massive scale, creating fraudulent doctors’ orders used to bill insurers over $1 billion,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Americans are all too familiar with junk mail and spam calls that target seniors to steal their personal information and promote waste, fraud, and abuse in our economy. The Criminal Division will continue to aggressively prosecute health care fraud schemes to hold criminals accountable, protect the vulnerable, and recover financial losses.”

    “Fraud schemes perpetrated against veterans are abhorrent and will be thoroughly investigated,” said Special Agent in Charge David Spilker of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Southeast Field Office. “The VA OIG, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to combat these schemes to ensure the integrity of VA’s healthcare programs for veterans and their families.”   

    “The defendant deliberately exploited the federal health care system by prioritizing personal enrichment over the medical needs of vulnerable patients,” stated Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “By fraudulently billing the government for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment, the defendant not only violated the law but also assaulted the public’s trust placed in health care providers. There is zero tolerance for those who abuse federal health care programs, and HHS-OIG remains steadfast in its commitment to ensure that individuals who engage in such egregious fraud are held fully accountable.”

    “Medicare fraud and other health care related frauds are, unfortunately, nothing new,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Mark McCormick of the FBI Miami Field Office. “As such, the FBI and our partners devote considerable resources to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those committing this fraud. The victims are U.S. taxpayers – you and me.  Our message to those who commit health care fraud and steal from U.S. taxpayers is clear: you will be caught, and you will face justice.”

    Cox was convicted of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, three counts of health care fraud, conspiracy to pay and receive health care kickbacks, and conspiracy to defraud the United States and make false statements in connection with health care matters. Cox faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud conviction, 10 years for each health care fraud conviction, five years for the conspiracy to pay and receive health care kickbacks conviction, and five years for the conspiracy to defraud the United States and make false statements in connection with health care matters conviction. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    HHS-OIG, FBI, VA-OIG, and DCIS investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Darren C. Halverson and Jennifer E. Burns of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. Fraud Section Trial Attorneys Andrea Savdie and Shane Butland assisted in the prosecution. Trial Attorney Evan N. Schlom with the Fraud Section’s Special Matters Unit provided valuable assistance.

    The charges contained in an information are merely accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 23-cr-20271.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Cleveland Focuses on Missing Northern Ohio Children During Outreach Event

    Source: US FBI

    Members of the community are invited to learn about child safety

    FBI Cleveland, together with the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, the Cleveland Division of Police, Bellefaire JCB, and the Canopy Child Advocacy Center, will staff a community table to spread awareness of missing children in our area and share child safety information with the community.

    Who: FBI Cleveland, Law Enforcement and Community Partners

    What: National Missing Children’s Day

    When: Wednesday, June 18, 2025

    Where: Westown Square (10820 Lorain Avenue)

    Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm.

    While National Missing Children’s Day was May 25, the FBI wants to help the public understand that every day, children either go missing or remain missing, and someone either knows something about a disappearance or knows of someone who has information to bring that child home. It is important to know that the FBI will look at all tips and leads, and people who submit information can do so anonymously.

    “When the FBI receives a call that a child has gone missing, we know the clock is ticking. Our mission is to identify, locate, and recover the child victim,” said FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen. “That is why our business and law enforcement partnerships are a vital component to the work we do and, our partnership with the community is crucial for helping us locate missing children.”

    During the event, the FBI and its partners will provide important safety information for parents, guardians, and caregivers to keep children safe and share posters of many of the still-missing children from across Northern Ohio. Many don’t realize that a child can be “missing” when the child has run away, is lost, or otherwise abducted—not only by a stranger but also by a family member, for example, a non-custodial parent or, in some cases, a family member who poses an extreme risk to the child, such as a registered sex offender.

    How the FBI is involved

    The FBI was given jurisdiction under the “Lindbergh Law” in 1932 to immediately investigate any reported mysterious disappearance or kidnapping involving a child of “tender age”—usually 12 or younger. However, the FBI goes one step further:

    • When any child is missing under the age of 18, the FBI can become involved as an assisting agency to the local police department.
    • There does not have to be a ransom demand.
    • The child does NOT have to cross the state lines or be missing for 24 hours.

    Research indicates the quicker the reporting of the mysterious disappearance or abduction, the more likely the successful outcome in returning the child unharmed.

    To report a missing child

    • National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
    • FBI: 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ecuadorian National Sentenced for Illegally Entering the U.S. After a Prior Removal

    Source: US FBI

    PORTLAND, Maine: An Ecuadorian national was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for illegally entering the U.S. after a prior removal.

    U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr., sentenced William Ariel Tamay Guaman, 23, to time served (approximately seven months in prison). Tamay Guaman pleaded guilty on April 3, 2025.

    According to court records, on February 4, 2025, agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and the FBI conducted surveillance at a South Portland residence. After observing Tamay Guaman get into a van, agents followed him and conducted a traffic stop. An ERO agent familiar with Tamay Guaman approached the driver and asked for their name. Tamay Guaman provided a false name and was directed to step out of the vehicle. After briefly fleeing on foot and resisting arrest, Tamay Guaman was taken into custody. He had previously been removed from the U.S. in September 2023.

    ICE-ERO investigated the case with assistance from the FBI.

    Operation Take Back America: This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    ###

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ezell, Carbajal Bipartisan Bill to Bolster American Shipping Fleet Passes House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)

    Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) and Ranking Member Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) announced their bipartisan American Cargo for American Ships Act passed the House of Representatives. The legislation will strengthen U.S. cargo preference laws to stop the ongoing decline of U.S. flagged ships engaged in international trade. The legislation now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration. 

    “This is a major victory for American workers, our national security, and our economy,” Ezell said. “The American Cargo for American Ships Act strengthens our maritime capabilities and ensures we’re not dependent on foreign vessels to move U.S. goods, especially during times of crisis. A strong U.S.-flagged fleet means a more secure and self-reliant America. I’m proud to see this bill, which keeps American cargo on American ships, restores fairness to our system, and gives our mariners a fighting chance against heavily subsidized foreign competitors, pass the House. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to act swiftly and send it to the President’s desk.”

    “American cargo transported on American ships strengthens our economy, creates jobs, and protects our supply chains from external threats,” Carbajal said. “My bipartisan bill will strengthen the U.S. shipping fleet by ensuring that taxpayer-funded cargo is moved on U.S.-flagged ships. I’ll continue working across the aisle to get this bill across the finish line and signed into law.”

    The American Cargo for American Ships Act would increase cargo preference for all U.S. Department of Transportation cargoes to 100 percent. The Cargo Preference Act of 1954 requires that 50 percent of Civilian Agencies cargo and Agricultural Cargo be carried on U.S.-flagged vessels – it is the maritime industry’s “Buy America” law. MARAD is the lead federal agency that manages Cargo Preference activities and compliance.

    In 2022, the Maritime Administration (MARAD) testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and highlighted the decline of U.S. flagged ships. Per MARAD, there were 106 ships in the foreign trade flying the U.S. flag in 2012. Four years later, there were just 77 vessels. Today, from that low point, we have grown back to 87 foreign trading ships under the U.S. flag.

    The American Cargo for American Ships Act is supported by: American Maritime Congress, American Maritime Officers, American Maritime Officers Service, American Roll-on Roll-off, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots, Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development, Sailors Union of the Pacific, Seafarers International Union, Transportation Institute, U.S. Ocean, Waterman Logistics, Hapag Lloyd USA, American President Lines LLC.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Announces Over $3.8 Million FRA Grant for Finger Lakes Railway Corp.

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced that the Finger Lakes Railway Corp. has been awarded $3,869,945 by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) for Watkins Glen Rural track rehabilitation, specifically to be used for consolidated rail infrastructure and safety improvements. 

     

    This grant was previously announced under the Biden administration but had not received funding yet. This announcement means the project will now receive funds under the Trump administration and Secretary Duffy. 

     

    “I am thrilled to announce that the Finger Lakes Railway Corp. has been awarded over $3.8 million for critical track rehabilitation in Watkins Glen,” said Congressman Langworthy. “These funds, provided through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program, will modernize rural rail infrastructure, enhance safety, and boost economic activity across the region. This is a major victory for the Southern Tier’s transportation network and a testament to what strong leadership can deliver for rural communities.”

     

    “These grants are part of the 3,200 awarded but unobligated backlog left behind from the prior administration. Under Secretary Duffy’s leadership and commitment to get America building again, DOT has reviewed these agreements to ensure compliance with the President’s Executive Orders and will be working with the project sponsors to get these agreements signed. As DOT works through the backlog, I’ll share additional information as I get it,” said Secretary Duffy’s Office.

     

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Announces Over $5.8 Million FTA Grant for Seneca Nation of Indians

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced that the Seneca Nation Department of Transportation has been awarded $5,883,200 by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for the Allegany Territory Bus Facility.

     

    This grant was previously announced under the Biden administration but had not received funding yet. This announcement means the project will now receive funds under the Trump administration and Secretary Duffy. 

     

    “This critical investment will improve transit infrastructure and expand access to reliable transportation,” said Congressman Langworthy. “I am pleased that under President Trump and Secretary Duffy, this funding is finally being delivered. This is a win for the Seneca Nation, a win for local workers, and a win for rural connectivity across our region.” 

     

    “These grants are part of the 3,200 awarded but unobligated backlog left behind from the prior administration. Under Secretary Duffy’s leadership and commitment to get America building again, DOT has reviewed these agreements to ensure compliance with the President’s Executive Orders and will be working with the project sponsors to get these agreements signed. As DOT works through the backlog, I’ll share additional information as I get it,” said Secretary Duffy’s Office.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Jake Ellzey Commends State and Local Leaders Amid Train Derailment in Waxahachie

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jake Ellzey (Texas, 6)

    Waxahachie, TX – On Monday evening, 16 cars from a Union Pacific freight train derailed near the downtown area. Fourteen cars overturned—many carrying ethanol. Local officials confirmed there were no leaks or immediate threats to public safety. Cleanup operations are ongoing, with surrounding roads closed from Peters Street to Gibson Street as crews work to remove the railcars and repair any damage.

    “I’m grateful to the first responders, local law enforcement, and city officials who acted quickly and professionally following last night’s derailment,” said Congressman Ellzey. “Thanks to their efforts, no injuries have been reported, and hazardous materials have been contained.”

    Ellzey continued, “I’ve been in contact with local leaders and will continue to monitor the situation closely. My office stands ready to assist with any federal support needed as the cleanup moves forward.

    In moments like these, our community’s strength and preparedness truly shine. I want to especially commend Waxahachie Police Chief Joe Wiser, City Manager Michael Scott, TxDOT’s Michael Anthony, Emergency Management Coordinator Thomas Griffith, and Fire Chief Ricky Boyd. Their leadership and coordination with Union Pacific helped minimize damage and, most importantly, ensured the safety of the people of Waxahachie.”

    “Our local leaders stepped up to the plate,” said Waxahachie Police Chief Joe Wiser. “From the moment we got the call, every agency worked hand in hand to assess the scene, secure the area, and keep the public informed. I’m proud of the coordination between our police, fire, city officials, and state partners. It’s a testament to the planning and relationships we’ve built over the years — and most importantly, it kept our community safe.”

    Congressman Ellzey encourages residents to follow guidance from city officials and avoid the area while work continues.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Goldman, Bonamici Introduce Legislation to Safeguard Summer EBT Benefits for Children

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    MEALS Act Would Reimburse Stolen Summer EBT Benefits 

    At Least $40 Million in Food Assistance Benefits Have Been Stolen from New Yorkers in Recent Years, 20% of Nationwide Claims 

     

     New York Currently Forbidden from Refunding Stolen Summer EBT Benefits Using Federal Funds 

     

    Nearly 2 Million New York Children Depend on Summer EBT Benefits for Nutritious Meals During Summer Months 

     

    Read the MEALS Act Here 

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced the Mitigating Electronic Access Losses for Students (MEALS Act), which would ensure working families who rely on Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) benefits to make ends meet can be reimbursed if their benefits are stolen via EBT card skimming and fraud.  

    “It is unconscionable that any child should go hungry in the wealthiest nation on earth,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. ”As lawmakers, we have a moral and legislative duty to ensure that every child has access to nutritious food year-round, especially during the summer months, when free or reduced-price school meals are unavailable. The Summer EBT program is a proven tool for combating food insecurity, yet far too often, these essential benefits are stolen through no fault of the families who rely on them. This is unacceptable. We must create a clear and efficient process to replace skimmed Summer EBT benefits quickly and in their entirety so that no child suffers due to theft or bureaucratic failure.” 

    Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici said, “Students should not have to go hungry if their families fall prey to scammers who install illegal skimming devices at the places where they buy groceries. The MEALS Act is commonsense legislation that will prevent the theft of S-EBT benefits and restore those that are stolen. This legislation will help keep hungry kids fed when school is out during the summer.” 

    The Summer EBT program provides eligible families with funds to purchase groceries when school is out of session. For many children, summer can be a particularly challenging time because they lose access to school meals, which are often a critical source of daily nutrition. Through Summer EBT, eligible families can receive $120 per child, which can be used at participating grocery stores to buy nutritious food, helping bridge the gap during these months. Over 2 million children are eligible for Summer EBT benefits in New York State. These benefits are often stolen via skimming, cloning, or similar fraud.  

    Congressman Goldman previously urged USDA to investigate the Summer EBT theft in NY-10, highlighting seventeen instances of Summer EBT theft in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park community alone, totaling over $1600 worth of stolen benefits. He also requested the federal reimbursement for victims of Summer EBT fraud, however, USDA ultimately issued guidance prohibiting states from replacing stolen Summer EBT benefits using federal funds. 

    Last summer, Rep. Goldman joined Governor Hochul in announcing the rollout of the Summer EBT program in New York and continues to champion food assistance relief for New Yorkers. As Congressman Goldman pushes to reauthorize federal reimbursement of SNAP refunds, this bill would provide critical relief for families during the hungry summer months. 

    Specifically, the MEALS Act would: 

    1. Require the Secretary of Agriculture to 

      1. Issue guidance to State agencies and covered Indian Tribal organizations (ITOs) in detecting and preventing theft of summer EBT benefits, and issue a rule for participating State agencies and ITOs to take appropriate security measures and implement procedures for the replacement of summer EBT benefits; 

      2. Coordinate with the Office of Family Assistance at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Attorney General to determine how summer EBT benefits are being stolen and establish measures to prevent summer EBT benefits from being stolen and establish standard reporting methods; 

      3. Submit a report to Congress that includes the prevalence of summer EBT theft and measures establishes by the Secretary and AG; 

      4. Replace stolen summer EBT benefits, and State agencies and covered ITOs to submit claims for replacement benefits that include a signed statement by the affected household, data reports on benefit theft, and planned use of benefit theft prevention measures; 

    2. Require GAO to submit a report to Congress that examines the risks related to summer EBT benefit payment system security and policy recommendations to improving the summer EBT payment system. 

    Protecting food assistance benefits, including SNAP, from skimming and theft has been a focal point of Congressman Goldman’s time in office. 

    In March, Congressman Goldman hosted a press conference to demand a comprehensive change to state and federal law to address the urgent issue of stolen EBT benefits.
    In the Fall of 2024, Congressman Goldman led an effort to extend critical protections to victims of food stamp theft that are set to expire at the end of September without further action. The lawmakers sent a letter to Congressional leadership urging them to include a provision in a forthcoming stop-gap funding bill that would allow victims to continue to be reimbursed from federal funds. 
    In Summer of 2023, Congressman Goldman introduced the ‘SNAP Theft Protection Act,’ which aimed to update SNAP to allow states to use existing SNAP funding to refund stolen benefits to victims of SNAP-related scams.  

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Speaker Johnson: The One Big Beautiful Bill Delivers Much Needed Reinforcements to ICE, Law Enforcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON — This morning, at the weekly House Republican Leadership press conference, Speaker Johnson condemned the ongoing LA riots and Governor Gavin Newsom’s failed leadership, advocated for swift passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill to provide resources to besieged federal law enforcement officers, and discussed the House’s multi-pronged approach to reducing the deficit.  

    Watch the Speaker’s full remarks here

    On the LA riots:

    While the rioters have been burning police cars and looting storefronts and physically assaulting law enforcement officers, it’s important to remember how we got to this point, to this level of chaos, because this didn’t happen overnight. Four quick points to make us all remember. You know, we’re in a busy news cycle and people sometimes forget the facts, but the Biden Administration welcomed maybe as many as 20 million illegal aliens across that border and into our country in a four-year period. Sanctuary states like California rolled out the welcome mat. They embraced it. They offered aliens protection from federal law, think of it, they’re on the wrong side of the law. And they provided them with healthcare and housing and taxpayer-funded benefits. It’s truly almost unbelievable what these Democrat leaders of these cities and states have done.

    President Trump delivered on an ironclad mandate from the American people, and just as we said, throughout the entire Biden administration disaster, the law always allowed the president to stop it. And President Trump did it. With bold visionary leadership, he stopped the invasion of our country and he engaged in the largest mass deportation effort in U.S. history. We’re in the midst of that right now. Rioters, acting on the words of politicians like AOC and Hakeem Jeffries, are trying to stop this effort by burning store fronts and endangering the lives of patriotic law enforcement officers. The contrast cannot be more clear.

    On the failed leadership of Democrat leaders like Gavin Newsom:

    Time and time again, innocent hardworking Americans have been harmed by the failed leadership of Democrat governors like Gavin Newsom. President Trump was absolutely right to send in the National Guard and to clean up for the governor’s failures. You know, Gavin Newsom has been in this effort for the last several months to try to reinvent himself, to rebrand himself. It’s pretty difficult to do when your state is a safe haven to violent criminal illegal aliens and you’re the one at the helm. You can’t hide this stuff. The President of the United States has a responsibility to maintain law and order, particularly when the lives and livelihoods of federal law enforcement officers are threatened. What we’re doing there with the federal forces is we are protecting federal buildings and property and personnel, and the President is showing strong leadership in doing so.

    On passing the One Big Beautiful Bill to deliver resources to ICE and border patrol:

    Because, you know, it’s those men and women, the federal law enforcement officers who deserve our support right now. And the One Big Beautiful Bill as Leader Scalise noted, delivers much-needed reinforcements. In this bill, we have funding to hire a minimum of 10,000 new ICE agents. We’re going to provide a $10,000 bonus to Border Patrol and ICE agents on the front lines. We’re going to include $45 billion to expand ICE detention capacity and $14.4 billion for air and ground transport to carry out at least one million deportations every single year. We’ll have to do that for quite some time because they let so many people in. We’re starting with the dangerous illegal aliens and that is exactly who the rioters and the politicians in California are trying to protect, and it’s incredible.

    While Republicans are supporting the men and women of ICE through the One Big Beautiful Bill. Democrats are fighting for those illegal aliens and against law enforcement agents. They’re defending the violent anti-ice protesters in LA. They visited a violent MS-13 gang member and human trafficker in El Salvador. They charged an ICE facility and clashed with ICE officers – that was members of the House of Representatives doing that. They’re advocating for people to dox ICE agents and making them targets for threats from radicals. And they’re calling for the elimination of ICE.

    On reducing the deficit:

    This rescission package is a critical step, and it’s one of many. There will be several of these that will come from the White House, will work together with the administration to cut out all the fraud, waste, and abuse. We’re fighting a multi-front war against the deficit. Don’t get lost in this, okay? This is a multi-step process. I’ve tried to explain on all the interviews I’ve done over the last couple of weeks. The One Big Beautiful Bill is going to reduce spending by over $1.6 trillion, as has been noted this morning. The rescissions package will rescind $9.4 billion in wasteful spending, the first of many of those. The annual appropriations process will allow Republicans to further codify DOGE cuts and spend less money and be careful stewards of each dime. And the revenues found from the President’s tariff agenda will also reduce the deficit by $2.8 trillion over 10 years.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: We Didn’t Need New Laws to Stop Illegal Immigration, We Just Needed a New President

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON  The dangerous, destructive border crisis was the defining issue of the Biden Administration. For four years, President Biden purposefully allowed millions of illegal aliens to flood into American communities, placing Americans in grave peril. Illegal aliens with no right to be here, committed acts of unspeakable violence against our citizens, put massive strain on our national and local resources, and overworked our brave law enforcement officers. Those days are over.

    “President Trump has kept his word to the American people and secured the border. In fewer than five months, the number of border encounters, known gotaways, drug smuggling, and migrant crossings are at record lows. The Trump Administration has made clear that we didn’t need a new set of laws to secure the border; all we needed was a new President,” Speaker Johnson said.

    Click here to watch

    “But the safety and security of the American people can only be maintained if the Administration gets the additional resources it needs. Through the One Big Beautiful Bill, Republicans in Congress will deliver the largest investment in border security in a generation and provide federal law enforcement with the resources necessary to permanently fortify our borders against foreign invaders and detain and deport the millions of illegals the Biden Administration allowed into our country.” Speaker Johnson continued.

    ALL WE NEEDED WAS A NEW PREDSIDENT

    President Biden created and presided over the worst border crisis this country has ever experienced. Over 10 million aliens were encountered at our borders. The average number of monthly border encounters was nearly 160,000. Hundreds from the terrorist watch list were encountered at our southern border, and an untold number of known gotaways escaped into our country. By 2024, there were over 660,000 noncitizens with criminal histories in our country.

    President Trump changed all of that in just a matter of weeks. In March of 2025, the average number of monthly encounters was just under 7,200 – the lowest monthly number of border encounters in recorded HISTORY. This represents a 95.5% reduction in monthly encounters. Since President Trump took office:

    • Daily border encounters are down by 93%
    • Encounters with “gotaways” are down by 95%
    • Migrant crossings are down by 99.99%

    It’s not just border security the Trump Administration is delivering on; it’s interior enforcement too. Just last week, the Trump Administration conducted the largest raid ever in Massachusetts, resulting in the arrests of nearly 1,500 illegals, and the One Big Beautiful Bill will enable ICE to detain and deport at least 1 million illegal aliens annually.

    THE ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT HELPS THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION CONTINUE DELIVERING ON ITS PROMISES

    The One Big Beautiful Bill Act includes the most significant investment in border security and deportations in history. It funds the completion of the border wall and makes significant investments in ICE and CBP.

    • Makes the largest investment in border security and interior enforcement, providing over $150 billion to secure the border and deport illegal aliens
    • Includes $45 billion to expand ICE detention capacity
    • Provides $46 billion to finish 701 miles of primary wall, 900 miles of river barriers, 629 miles of secondary barriers, and 141 miles of vehicle and pedestrian barriers.
    • Provides $12 billion in funding to hire 10,000 new ICE personnel, 5,000 new customs officers,  3,000 new Border Patrol agents, and 1,000 criminal investigators, among others
    • Includes $1.2 billion to hire 200 immigration judges and to expand immigration courtroom space
    • Includes $12 billion to reimburse states who expended resources securing the border where the Biden Administration failed

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Applauds House Freshmen for Supporting Fair Trade Policies

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM Union International President Brian Bryant recently expressed his appreciation to a coalition of House Freshmen for signing a letter supporting fair trade practices, including a renegotiation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and the reauthorization of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program.

    “On behalf of the 600,000 active and retired members of this very diverse union, I want to thank these House Freshmen who understand the importance of fair trade policy,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “U.S. trade policy has led many news headlines in recent months, and this letter underscores the importance of renegotiating the USMCA to protect domestic manufacturing in areas like aerospace, reauthorizing the U.S. Labor Department’s TAA program, and enacting strategic tariffs that punish bad actors and protect U.S. jobs.”

    Rep. Josh Riley (NY-19) and Rep. Lateefah Simon (CA-12) led 18 of their colleagues in a letter to President Trump and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer calling for a trade policy that strengthens America’s middle class, rebuilds the U.S. industrial base, and safeguards family farms and small businesses.

    “For too long, bad trade deals have been written in Wall Street boardrooms and rubber-stamped in political backrooms—while towns from Endicott to Ellenville got sold out,” said Rep. Josh Riley. “I came to Congress to give blue-collar towns a real voice in trade talks. I’ll work with anyone from any party who wants to rethink trade in a way that supports American farmers, builds American factories for American workers, and strengthens national security.”

    “I’m proud to represent the Port of Oakland, the largest refrigerated cargo export port in the United States,” said Rep. Lateefah Simon. “Tariffs are not inherently bad, but President Trump’s chaotic, self-imposed tariff war has been a disaster for the U.S. economy. That’s why I am leading my freshman colleagues to call on the president to fix U.S. trade policy to support workers, small businesses, and the environment.”

    The members outlined four key areas of proposed collaboration:

    1. Improving the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA):

    • Include stronger labor and environmental standards.
    • Close China’s USMCA backdoor into U.S. markets.
    • Fix digital trade provisions.

    2. Investing in American Manufacturing:

    3. Reauthorizing Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA):

    • Support and improve TAA for communities impacted by past trade policies.

    4. Pairing Strategic Tariffs with Pro-Worker Laws:

    • Implement tariffs with anti-price gouging and pro-labor reforms.

    Read the full text of the letter here

    The IAM continues advocating for trade agreements prioritizing U.S. labor standards, environmental protections, and domestic production.

    The post IAM Union Applauds House Freshmen for Supporting Fair Trade Policies appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: SIRT Investigating in Custody Death at Kamsack RCMP Detachment

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 10, 2025

    On Thursday, June 5, 2025, at approximately 8:00 p.m., the Saskatchewan Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) received a notification from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) regarding a possible in-custody death at the Kamsack RCMP Detachment. 

    SIRT’s Civilian Executive Director accepted the notification as within SIRT’s mandate and directed an investigation by SIRT.

    On June 3, an individual approached a member of the Kamsack RCMP Detachment during a sitting of the Saskatchewan Provincial Court at Kamsack and advised that a family member had outstanding arrest warrants that he wished to deal with. At approximately 12:22 p.m., the man, a 61-year-old, was taken into custody by a member of the RCMP without incident or use of force. The man was transported to the Kamsack RCMP detachment where he was searched and provided with an opportunity to speak with a lawyer. At approximately 12:43 p.m., the man was placed into one of the detachments cells.

    The next day the man appeared in court via CCTV and was held in custody until his next court appearance, which was scheduled for June 6. The man remained in custody at the detachment, but on June 5 at approximately 7:02 p.m., the man was determined to be unresponsive within his cell, and was checked by RCMP members, who subsequently contacted EMS. At approximately 8:37 p.m., EMS arrived at the RCMP detachment, and the man was pronounced deceased. 

    Following the notification, a SIRT team consisting of five SIRT investigators was deployed to Kamsack to begin their investigation. A community liaison will also be appointed pursuant to S.91.12 (1) (a) of The Police Act, 1990. SIRT’s investigation will examine the conduct of police during this incident, including the circumstances surrounding the man’s arrest and the cause of his death. No further information will be released at this time. A final report will be issued to the public within 90 days of the investigation ending.

    SIRT’s mandate is to investigate alleged cases of serious injury, death, sexual assault or interpersonal violence arising from the actions or omissions of on and off-duty police officers, or while an individual is in police custody.

    For updates on SIRT investigations, follow SIRT on X, formerly known as Twitter.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Property owner fined $60,000 for destroying vital fish habitat on Vancouver Island, B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada News

    June 10, 2025

    Courtenay, BC – Protecting fish and fish habit is vital to help sustain and support Canada’s precious marine species. Under Canada’s Fisheries Act, measures must be taken to avoid causing the death of fish and any harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat when conducting any work or activities in or near water.

    On January 23, 2025, in Courtenay Provincial Court, area resident David Tingley was found guilty of failing to correct work that he had done illegally on his property, that affected fish and fish habitat on the Trent River. Mr. Tingley was fined $60,000, which was directed to the Environmental Damages Fund for the conservation and protection of salmon and salmon habitat in the Vancouver Island region.

    The case stems from work carried out without Fisheries Act authorization over successive years on one of Mr. Tingley’s properties, which is bisected by the Trent River, an important fish bearing watercourse. 

    DFO protects and conserves marine resources, and enforces the Fisheries Act. As part of DFO’s work to disrupt and prevent illegal activity, the Department asks the public for information on activities of this nature or any contravention of the Fisheries Act and regulations. Anyone with information can call DFO Pacific Region’s toll-free violation reporting line at 1-800-465-4336, or email the details to DFO.ORR-ONS.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Artificial Intelligence Models Improve Efficiency of Battery Diagnostics

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL-Developed Neural Networks Uncover New Insights Into Battery Health


    NREL’s battery researchers are turning to cutting-edge artificial intelligence models to optimize battery performance for a new generation of energy storage. Photo by Werner Slocum, NREL

    Resilient energy systems depend on reliable batteries. The lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries powering our world must endure the steady strain of time, charge cycles, and environmental conditions that gradually wear them out through degradation.

    Understanding the health of a battery can help manufacturers, researchers, and consumers alike optimize its lifetime performance. Yet diagnosing a battery’s state of health is no easy feat, as each cell is a complex system of chemical reactions and physical changes that standard evaluation models struggle to capture with speed and precision.

    National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) researchers have developed and demonstrated a groundbreaking physics-informed neural network (PINN) model that can predict battery health nearly 1,000 times faster than traditional models.

    “Li-ion battery lifetime and aging dynamics vary significantly with chemistry, operating conditions, cycling demands, electrode design, and operational history, which makes optimal handling, design, and maintenance difficult,” said Kandler Smith, who leads electrochemical modeling and data science research at NREL. “It’s especially difficult to understand the physical degradation mechanisms of a battery during use without opening it up. We need reliable methods to check in on batteries’ internal state in a nondestructive way.”

    NREL’s PINN replaces the traditional, resource-intensive battery physics model with a powerful artificial intelligence approach that mimics the interconnected neurons of our brains to analyze nonlinear, complex datasets. This deep learning process can enhance battery health diagnostics by quantifying physical degradation mechanisms and pave the way for more efficient, scalable approaches to manage battery aging.

    Traditional Models and Limitations

    NREL researchers have created a vast array of battery lifespan models to diagnose battery health, predict battery degradation, and optimize battery designs. For years, the team has been on the cutting edge of physics-based machine learning techniques to optimize predictive modeling for advanced battery research.

    Two such models, the Single-Particle Model (SPM) and the Pseudo-2D Model (P2D), are widely used and accepted approaches to providing a window into how a battery’s internal health parameters—such as electrode inventory and kinetics, Li-ion inventory, and Li transport paths—evolve over time. However, directly using these models is an intensive process that requires massive amounts of computations and limits their ability to offer rapid diagnostics.

    “Instead of a physics model, we proposed a PINN surrogate model to separate out a battery’s internal properties from its output voltage,” said NREL Computational Science Researcher Malik Hassanaly, who collaborated closely with the battery research team. “This approach drastically reduces the computational time and resources required, allowing researchers to quickly diagnose battery degradation and provide real-time feedback on battery health.”

    The NREL-developed PINN surrogate combines the predictive power of artificial intelligence with the rigor of physics-based modeling. The resulting two-part study published in the Journal of Energy Storage demonstrates how researchers trained and tested the PINN surrogate using conventional SPM and P2D models. This multifaceted approach allowed NREL researchers to train the PINN surrogate on a wide range of internal battery properties. The resulting open-source model offers critical insights into changes that occur during battery aging, helping quickly estimate how long a battery might last in a different setting.

    What makes this development especially revolutionary in battery research is the integration of physics-informed principles into neural networks. Traditional neural networks are data-driven models that excel at pattern recognition but often lack the ability to enforce physical laws, which are crucial for accurately simulating battery behavior. PINNs, however, are designed to understand and follow these physical laws by embedding them directly into the model’s training procedure, enabling it to predict battery parameters with a level of scientific rigor previously achievable only by complex, time-intensive models. With the PINN surrogate, techniques typically constrained by high resource requirements can now be applied on a broad scale, bringing real-time insights into battery health within reach.

    Applications and Next Steps

    The success of NREL’s PINN surrogate offers wide-ranging implications. For battery diagnostics, the PINN surrogate can provide rapid state-of-health predictions, allowing for faster decision-making across battery applications. By drastically lowering the computational barriers to battery diagnostics, the PINN surrogate model paves the way for widespread, scalable, and efficient energy storage management—helping ensure energy is available when and where it is needed.

    “This approach unlocks new capabilities in battery diagnostics, paving the way for onboard diagnostics of batteries in use,” Smith said. “This means that batteries of the future may include systems to extend their useful life by identifying degradation signals and adapting fast-charge limits with age.”

    Currently, researchers are working to transition the PINN surrogate from controlled simulations to real-work data validation, using batteries cycled within NREL’s laboratories. By bridging this gap, researchers hope to deploy PINN-based diagnostics across a wide range of battery systems, enhancing battery performance monitoring and extending lifespans. Future research will focus on refining the PINN model to handle highly dimensional problems, allowing it to predict a broader array of internal battery parameters with increased precision. This means creating models that can both respond to diverse current loads and scale effectively to future battery designs and usage patterns.

    Learn more about NREL’s energy storage and transportation and mobility research. And sign up for NREL’s quarterly transportation and mobility research newsletter to stay current on the latest news.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Gears Up for 2025 Transportation Conference in Las Vegas, Focusing on the Future of Labor

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM Union is set to hold its 2025 Transportation Conference at Caesars Palace Hotel in Las Vegas from June 23-25. The IAM Union delegates who will attend the conference work primarily in the airline and railroad industries. The conference will highlight the IAM’s powerful presence in these sectors.

    Conference Details:

    • Location: Caesars Palace Hotel, 3570 Las Vegas Blvd., S. Las Vegas, NV 89109
    • Conference Dates: Monday, June 23 – Wednesday, June 25, 2025

    Under the banner of “Building a Better Tomorrow,” this year’s conference emphasizes the IAM’s dedication to bolstering transportation jobs, protecting workers’ rights, and developing the next generation of labor leaders. Attendees will attend general sessions and targeted committee meetings addressing key industry issues.

    A major highlight is the launch of the Young Workers Committee, which aims to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas into the IAM’s strategies.

    “This conference is more than an event, it’s a catalyst for change within the transportation sector,” said IAM Union Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “By uniting our members, from airline workers to railroad workers, and welcoming new voices, we’re not just adapting to the future—we’re shaping it.”

    Committee discussions will lead to formal reports presented at the conference. The IAM Transportation Conference is a premier gathering for international and national leaders and members within the transportation sector.

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

    The post IAM Union Gears Up for 2025 Transportation Conference in Las Vegas, Focusing on the Future of Labor appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: $42M to Improve Travel Along Interstate 88

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that work is underway on a pair of projects that will rehabilitate key stretches of Interstate 88 in Schoharie and Otsego counties, enhancing safety and resiliency along a major artery that connects the Capital Region with the Catskills and the Southern Tier. Taken together, the two projects represent a nearly $42 million investment that will resurface approximately 40 lane miles of pavement and make other improvements to the highway that will ease travel through this important corridor. The highway stretches from just outside of Albany to the Binghamton area and is often used to reach some of New York’s most popular tourist destinations, including the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown and Howe Caverns in Cobleskill.

    “Investing in roads and bridges helps to ensure the well-being and long-term prosperity of our local communities and of our entire state,” Governor Hochul said. “These projects along Interstate 88 will provide improved mobility for thousands of motorists who travel this vital highway every day and enhance the resiliency of one of our most important arteries for the flow of people and commerce in New York.”

    Work recently started on a $15.7 million project that will rehabilitate a 5.5-mile stretch of the highway in both directions from the Schoharie/Otsego County line to Exit 20 in Richmondville, Schoharie County, overlaying the existing concrete surface with a two-inch fiber reinforced top course of asphalt to provide smoother travel. Existing road joints will also be repaired.

    The eastbound lanes will be resurfaced this year and motorists should expect single lane closures for the entire length of the construction zone. In 2026, work will switch over to the westbound lanes. Completion is expected by the end of the 2026 construction season.

    The resurfacing project complements work that got underway last year on another project that is resurfacing a 4.3-mile stretch of I-88 between Exits 18 and 19 in the towns of Worcester and Maryland, Otsego County. The $26 million, two-year project also includes the repair of 10 culverts and the installation of new guide rail. Additionally, the bridges that carry I-88 over South Hill Road will undergo bearing and pedestal replacements.

    Currently, crews are working on the westbound side of this stretch of the highway. One lane of traffic in each direction is separated by concrete barrier on the eastbound side of the highway. Construction is expected to wrap up later this year.

    Once these two projects are complete, there will only be one stretch of the highway remaining with concrete from the original construction of I-88, which began in 1968. A project for that area between Exits 16 and 17 is in the design phase.

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Governor Hochul’s commitment to renewing our critical infrastructure and connecting communities is unwavering and this investment in Interstate 88 is another demonstration of that. These improvements will provide smoother travel, as well as enhanced safety and resiliency of our infrastructure along this vital highway, facilitating continued economic growth and the long-term prosperity for our local communities.”

    Senator Charles Schumer said, “Thanks to millions from my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, we are paving the way for key improvements to Interstate 88 to create a more prosperous and safer future for motorists and visitors from the Capital Region to the Southern Tier. This project will repair key stretches of the I-88 between the Binghamton area and Capital Region, improving traffic flow along this vital corridor while creating good-paying jobs. I’m grateful that Governor Hochul is putting these federal dollars to good use to improve safety and connectivity for Upstate New Yorkers.”

    Representative Josh Riley said, “I-88 connects our farms, our small businesses, and our families to the rest of the state—and to each other. Fixing it means safer roads, stronger local economies, and a better quality of life for the folks who live and work here. I’m proud to help deliver federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and grateful to see it being put to work where it counts.”

    About the Department of Transportation

    It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment, and supports the economic well-being of New York State.

    Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers!

    For more information, find us on Facebook, follow us on X or Instagram, or visit our website. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Bernie Police Lieutenant Eddie Mays

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JUNE 10, 2025

     — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe ordered the U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Stoddard County, all police stations, sheriffs’ offices, and Missouri State Highway Patrol general and troop headquarters across Missouri on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from sunrise to sunset, to honor Bernie Police Department Lieutenant Eddie Mays.

    “Lieutenant Eddie Mays devoted his life to serving others, first in the U.S. Air Force and then as a deputy sheriff and police officer,” Governor Kehoe said. “We owe a tremendous debt to the dedicated heroes like Eddie, who take the oath of office and carry out its ideals each day they put on their uniform and badge to answer the call no matter the danger or risk to themselves. Lieutenant Mays fulfilled his oath to serve and protect, and Missouri will be forever grateful.”

    On June 5, Lieutenant Mays, 58, was on duty with the Bernie Police Department when he responded to a domestic violence call and, after handcuffing a resisting  suspect, suffered a medical emergency and could not be resuscitated.

    Mays served in the Air Force from 1988 to 1993. He attended Southeast Missouri State University Law Enforcement Training Academy, was issued a Missouri Peace Officer License on November 22, 1998, and immediately began serving the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy sheriff, where he served until January 1, 2005. He also served with the Bloomfield Police Department. He joined the Bernie Police Department in January 2013 and was promoted to sergeant in July 2013 and to lieutenant in December 2023.  

    The flags will be held at half-staff on the day of Lieutenant Mays’ memorial service. To view the Governor’s proclamation, click here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Cato T. Laurencin Represents U.S. at U.S.-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine Symposium

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    More than 100 scientists, engineers, and medical professionals from 16 African countries and the United States discussed advances across a broad range of multi-disciplinary topics, including Biotechnology, New Solutions for Decarbonization, Advances in Space Research, Smart and Connected Cities, and Precision Agriculture. UConn’s Dr. Cato T. Laurencin has served as a distinguished member of the Oversight Committee for the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine since its inception.

    Sponsored by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the U.S.-Africa program brings together outstanding young scientists, engineers, and medical professionals from the U.S. and the member countries of the African Union to discuss exciting advances and opportunities in their fields. The goal of the meetings is to enhance the scientific exchange and dialogue among young researchers in African countries and the U.S., including the African science diaspora, and through this interaction, facilitate research collaboration within and beyond the region.

    Laurencin, an internationally recognized scientist, engineer, and surgeon, is actively involved in Africa through his work with the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) and other African scientific organizations. He has been a fellow of the AAS since 2012. Laurencin also participated in the first U.S.-Africa Frontiers of Science, Engineering, and Medicine symposium, contributing to discussions on research collaboration and scientific exchange between African countries. He also spoke at the 2024 Galien Forum in Dakar, Senegal, on the role of women in STEM in addressing environmental crises in Africa.

    Laurencin is a fellow of the Senegalese Academy of Arts and Sciences, and a fellow of the Benin National Academy of Science and Arts. He received the 2019 UNESCO-Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences at the African Union Heads of State Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Laurencin received the 2019 UNESCO-Equatorial Guinea International Prize for Research in the Life Sciences, becoming the first American to earn this prestigious award. The ceremony took place during the Africa Union Heads of States Summit located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

    At UConn Laurencin is the University Professor and Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Endowed Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at UConn School of Medicine, professor of Chemical Engineering, professor of Materials Science and Engineering, and professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Connecticut. He is the chief executive officer of The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering, a cross-university institute created and named for him at the University of Connecticut. A shoulder and knee surgeon, he is a pioneer of the field of Regenerative Engineering. In receiving the Spingarn Medal, the NAACP named him the world’s foremost engineer-physician-scientist. He is the first surgeon elected to the National Academy of Medicine, the National Academy of Engineering, the National Academy of Sciences and National Academy of Inventors.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Mountain America Celebrates Grand Opening of North Ogden Branch

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Opening marks continued growth in Northern Utah, enhancing the community’s access to personalized financial resources

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available in this link.

    OGDEN, Utah, June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mountain America Credit Union is celebrating the grand opening of its newest branch in North Ogden, Utah. The new location, located at 323 E 2600 N, North Ogden, UT, hosted a community event on Friday, June 7, from 12–2 p.m.

    The public was invited to enjoy an afternoon of fun and festivities, featuring free World’s Best Corndogs, Hokulia Shave Ice, face painting, cotton candy, and balloon art (while supplies last). Families were encouraged to attend for food, entertainment, and exciting giveaways. Attendees who opened a new account, credit card, or loan* got the chance to step into the money machine for an opportunity to grab some cash. Guests also entered to win a Bakcou electric scooter (terms and conditions apply).

    “The opening of our new North Ogden Branch is part of our ongoing effort to better serve our members and expand access to financial tools and resources throughout the Wasatch Front,” said Sterling Nielsen, president and CEO of Mountain America. “We’re excited to welcome both new and longtime members and provide the individual, high-quality service they expect from Mountain America. With this new branch, members can define and achieve their financial dreams right in their own neighborhood.”

    Branch Manager Jordon Stevens expressed her team’s enthusiasm for the new location. “We are excited to officially open our doors in North Ogden and become part of such a vibrant community,” she said. “This new branch allows us to connect more closely with our members, offering convenient access and a full suite of financial services to help them define and achieve their financial dreams.”

    The North Ogden Branch features a modern, open-concept design that creates a warm, engaging environment for members. Products and services available include traditional savings and checking accounts; auto, RV, and personal loans; insurance and investment services; and real estate and business-lending solutions. Regular branch hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    To learn more about Mountain America’s community involvement, visit www.macu.com/newsroom.

    *Membership required based on eligibility. Loans are on approved credit.

    About Mountain America Credit Union
    With more than 1 million members and $20 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 100 branches across multiple states, and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain America—guiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: TopLine Financial Credit Union Receives Twin Cities Best of Business 2025 Reader’s Choice Award

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MAPLE GROVE, Minn., June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TopLine Financial Credit Union, a Twin Cities-based member-owned financial services cooperative, has been named the Best Credit Union in Minnesota by Twin Cities Business 2025 Best of Business Reader’s Choice Poll.

    Twin Cities Business conducts an annual survey of their readers asking “Which companies exemplify true excellence in their respective industries and would they confidently refer to a family member, friend or colleague?” and published results in its June/July issue and online.

    The communities the credit union services have recognized TopLine as one of the most appreciated and trustworthy financial institutions in Minnesota. Several qualities that make TopLine stand out include the credit union’s dedication to our mission of “Connected, We All Do Better” by providing affordable and competitive financial services, commitment of our employees to help consumers achieve their financial goals, positively making a local and global impact through community outreach activities via their TopLine Credit Union Foundation, and helping consumers with homeownership and investments.

    “We are honored to receive the distinction in the Financial Services Credit Unions category of the Twin Cities Business ‘Best of Business’ poll,” said Mick Olson, President and CEO of TopLine Financial Credit Union. “This recognition reflects the unwavering commitment, care, and compassion of our TopLine family of employees in supporting our members and communities and helping them achieve their financial dreams. We extend heartfelt gratitude to our members and communities for their trust and support, and congratulate all the esteemed organizations recognized this year.”

    Twin Cities Business is Minnesota’s leading provider of business news, insight, and analysis through daily online new stories, e-newsletters, a monthly print magazine and live events. Along with their readers, they get to know the personalities of our region’s most influential leaders, exploring the “how” behind their success, strategies, and solutions. They discuss today’s most pressing issues, examine trends and outlooks, and provide the context, perspective, and information leaders have come to depend on.

    TopLine Financial Credit Union, a Twin Cities-based credit union, is Minnesota’s 9th largest credit union, with assets of over $1.1 billion and serves over 70,000 members. Established in 1935, the not-for-profit financial cooperative offers a complete line of financial services from its ten branch locations — in Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Circle Pines, Coon Rapids, Forest Lake, Maple Grove, Plymouth, St. Francis and in St. Paul’s Como Park — as well as by phone and online at www.TopLinecu.com. Membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, attends school or volunteers in Anoka, Benton, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Washington and Wright counties in Minnesota and their immediate family members, as well as employees and retirees of Anoka Hennepin School District #11, Anoka Technical College, Federal Premium Ammunition, Hoffman Enclosures, Inc., GRACO, Inc., and their subsidiaries. Visit us on our Facebook or Instagram. To learn more about the credit union’s foundation, visit www.TopLinecu.com/Foundation.

    CONTACT:
    Vicki Roscoe Erickson
    Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer
    TopLine Financial Credit Union
    verickson@toplinecu.com | 763.391.0872

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d09893b7-9a2a-44cc-805d-7f79b959eeb3

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Navicore Solutions Supports Americans Amid Shifting Financial Habits and Growing Uncertainty

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MANALAPAN, N.J., June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In today’s uncertain economic climate, a growing number of Americans are making serious efforts to take control of their finances. A recent national survey shows that over three-quarters of U.S. adults have adjusted their spending habits in response to financial instability. From building emergency savings to avoiding credit card interest, individuals are clearly seeking ways to better manage their money.

    While these behavioral changes are promising, navigating personal finances, especially during difficult times, can be overwhelming. Navicore Solutions plays a critical role in providing unbiased, quality personal financial counseling and debt management solutions for consumers looking to improve their financial position. This renewed focus on increasing financial stability stems from consumers’ growing concern about their overall financial well-being, according to the survey.

    “We’re seeing more people reach out for help with budgeting, debt repayment, and credit education,” says Mike Leon, Senior Director of Counseling at Navicore Solutions. “Financial stress doesn’t have to be faced alone, working with a certified credit counselor can provide clarity, structure, and peace of mind.”

    Navicore Solutions provides services designed to help people regain control of their financial lives. These include:

    • Budget Counseling: Clients work one-on-one with a certified counselor to develop a personalized budget that helps them manage income, control expenses, and plan for both short- and long-term financial goals.
    • Debt Management Plans (DMPs): A structured repayment strategy that may lower interest rates, reduce monthly payments, and stop collection calls.
    • Housing Counseling: HUD Certified counselors explain options to individuals and families who are looking to purchase a home, or concerned about their ability to make rent or mortgage payment for their current home.
    • Financial Education: Tools and resources that improve long-term financial habits, from saving and investing to understanding student loans and housing costs.

    These services are especially helpful for those who feel uncertain or overwhelmed about where to begin.

    About Navicore Solutions

    Founded in 1991, Navicore Solutions is a national leader in the field of nonprofit financial counseling with a mission to strengthen the well-being of individuals and families through education, guidance, advocacy, and support.

    Navicore counselors provide a wide range of services including credit counseling to consumers in need; education programs through workshops, courses and written material; debt management plan to provide relief for applicable consumers; student loan counseling for those struggling with student loan debt; and housing counseling services in the areas of rental, pre-purchase, default and reverse mortgage. The agency is an advocate of financial education helping communities achieve and maintain financial stability.

    Contact:
    Lori Stratford
    Digital Marketing Manager
    Navicore Solutions
    lstratford@navicoresolution

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From Student to Pro: A Knight’s Move

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    © Maxim Kovalevich

    The HSE hosted the student festival “Career Gambit”, organized byHse Chess Club, which became an unconventional platform for dialogue between students and employers. The opponents not only excitedly built game strategies, but also talked about careers and real employment opportunities. It turned out that playing chess is not just an intellectual competition, but also an opportunity to get to know each other better, discuss professional interests and look at future cooperation from a new angle.

    The festival brought together more than 100 people, most of whom took part in the tournament, where 16 teams from employer companies and the same number of student teams competed.

    Over the course of seven rounds, there were intense battles for the main trophy, which went to the Wildberries team.

    The festival gave an opportunity not only for experienced chess players to compete, but also for those who had never sat down at the board to join the world of chess. For them, Pavel Zaitsev, senior coach of the HSE Chess Club, former member of the HSE and RSUH teams, postgraduate student of the Institute of Philosophy of the Russian Academy of Sciences, held a master class and told many interesting facts about the game and the basic rules.

    Those who did not participate in the tournament but wanted to try their hand at chess had the opportunity to compete in a simultaneous game with Nikita Buts, FIDE chess master, executive director at Sber, Founder

    All festival participants noted that it was an interesting experience that brought together like-minded people from different fields for a common interesting activity and provided students with another opportunity to plan their career trajectory.

    “As an amateur, I am pleased that chess is gaining a presence in the HSE intellectual landscape,” said Vice-Rector Salambek Dombaev, a member of the HSE team. “This time, the guys managed to assemble a very interesting lineup of students, HSE employees, and colleagues from the industry. The tournament was a success. Personally, I lost all the games, but I received a boost and motivation to continue improving my skills in the game. I am sure that I am not alone in my desire. I would like to express my gratitude to our student chess association for the excellent organization of the event and the atmosphere. At the Career Gambit festival, I talked to HSE students and was impressed by their level. It was not just a tournament, but a mix of games and career talks. The students caught insights from professionals and learned about internships and opportunities in companies.”

    “We are always looking for new formats of interaction between employers and students to ensure effective communication,” shared Olga Gaevskaya, Head of Career Development and Alumni Relations Office. — It is not always possible to find out the answers to the questions that concern students at official meetings. Therefore, when the HSE Chess Club suggested holding a chess tournament between companies and HSE students, we thought — this is what we need!”

    The tournament involved 16 HSE partners. These are top-level specialists in their subject areas, and despite the heated competition at the chessboard, the students were able to meet their future potential employers and also play games as if they were solving work problems with their colleagues.

    Pavel Salman, Team Lead Computer Vision in the Wildberries PVZ quality control team, captain of the winning team, said that it was valuable for him to sit down at the board after a long break and meet interesting people. “The organization of the event is perfect, it was a pleasure to play,” he says. “I didn’t expect to see so many teams, it turned out to be really large-scale. I wish you to continue growing further, to develop the chess community (it’s really cool!) We will be happy to take part in future tournaments. For our Wildberries team, this is only the second inter-corporate chess competition, and we are glad that we managed to achieve such success in the conditions of competition with such strong teams! From the first rounds, we managed to pull ahead a little in points, but then it became difficult to hold on. Before the last round, about seven pursuers almost caught up with us. I think this is an obvious indicator that many worthy and equal teams gathered, and, perhaps, we were just a little lucky in the end.”

    Alexey Demyanenko, Director of Products and Tariffs at PJSC Rostelecom, talked to HSE students at the festival and was impressed by their level. “It wasn’t just a tournament, but a mix of games and career talks. Students caught insights from professionals and learned about internships and opportunities in companies. At Rostelecom, we have a large internship program, but unfortunately, many students don’t know about it yet, which means we need to better inform them about our opportunities. The Rostelecom team took second place, and for us it was a great experience and a chance to practice gaming skills and at the same time share information about a career at Rostelecom. Chess is not only about strategy, but also about pumping up the future! And we pumped up a lot at the chess festival at HSE,” he said.

    Alexey Novikov, a representative of T2, was glad to learn that HSE has such a large-scale chess club. “I would like to note the high level of play, and after the tournament there was an opportunity to talk to students about the possibilities of working in the company,” he noted. “It would be great if this format becomes traditional. I wish further development to the chess movement at HSE.”

    Aleksandr Chelekhovsky, a teacher and member of the HSE team, enjoys participating in atmospheric tournaments in the atrium. “I don’t really like online games, but I always try to get to our tournaments,” he says. “I met a lot of student and colleague friends who often go to such tournaments. It’s great that many teams from different companies gathered. It seems to me that HSE is making big steps towards expanding and popularizing chess. I am ready to support these steps and continue to participate in the activities of the chess club.”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: DIAGNOS Welcomes Founder of National Vision Associates, Ed Weiner, to its Advisory Board for the United States

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BROSSARD, Quebec, June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diagnos Inc. (“DIAGNOS” or the “Corporation”) (TSX Venture: ADK, OTCQB: DGNOF, FWB: 4D4A), a pioneer in early detection of critical health issues using advanced technology based on Artificial Intelligence (AI), is thrilled to announce that Mr. Ed Weiner has joined the Corporation’s Advisory Board.

    Mr. Weiner will team up with Dr. Tomas J. Philipson, former vice chairman and acting chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, to provide valuable insights to DIAGNOS about the US optical market. Mr. Weiner is a seasoned entrepreneur and has been a leader in the optical industry for decades. He was the first to introduce Ralph Lauren Eyewear. He also partnered with Walmart to open 400 optical locations within Walmart’s chain of stores. Mr. Weiner was also chairman and founder of National Vision Associates, one of the largest optical retailers in the USA.

    “We are honored to welcome Ed to our Advisory Board,” said André Larente, President and CEO of DIAGNOS. “In our opinion, his deep knowledge of the US optical market will contribute to bring DIAGNOS as one of the main AI driven healthcare solutions among opticians and optometrists across the US.”

    Mr. Larente added, “DIAGNOS has built an AI platform to analyze retina images, these images are taken by thousands of optometrists worldwide. According to recent VisionWatch data, the US saw approximately 111 million routine eye exams and 60 million medical eye exams in 2020. DIAGNOS, along with its partners can address this growing market”. DIAGNOS recently opened its US office in south Florida to support its US prospects and clients.

    About DIAGNOS
    DIAGNOS is a publicly traded Canadian corporation dedicated to early detection of critical eye-related health problems. By leveraging Artificial Intelligence, DIAGNOS aims to provide more information to healthcare clinicians to enhance diagnostic accuracy, streamline workflows, and improve patient outcomes on a global scale.

    Additional information is available at www.diagnos.com and www.sedarplus.com.

    This news release contains forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these statements. DIAGNOS disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NHS red tape blitz delivers game-changing new cancer treatment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    NHS red tape blitz delivers game-changing new cancer treatment

    Patients to benefit from new era in cancer treatment, as Government slashes red tape to unleash life-saving innovation

    NHS patients will be the first in Europe to benefit from a ground-breaking, non-invasive liver cancer treatment, as the Government’s Plan for Change slashes burdensome red tape and drives innovation, establishing Britain’s role as a medical technology powerhouse.

    Using ultrasound technology, the device – developed by US-based company HistoSonics – destroys tumours without surgery, scalpels, radiation, with minimal damage to surrounding organs.

    Patients stand to benefit from faster recovery times, potentially greater survival rates, fewer potentially dangerous complications, and less hospital stays – helping to cut waits for others – all marking a new era in cancer treatment.

    Ongoing research is exploring its potential to transform treatment for other hard-to-reach tumours – including kidney and pancreatic cancers – bringing hope to even more NHS patients in the future.

    Treatment is delivered via a single short session – potentially taking no longer than 30 minutes – with limited or no pain, a quick recovery, and can be performed as a day case.

    As the Government busts the bureaucracy holding back public services and stifling innovation, Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting granted authorisation for controlled early access to the device via an unmet clinical need authorisation. Available through the UK’s Innovative Devices Access Pathway programme, a government-funded scheme to get cutting-edge health innovations to the market much quicker, NHS patients can benefit from technology years earlier than planned.

     Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    Bureaucracy has become a handbrake on ambition, stopping innovation in its tracks and holding our health service back.

    But through our Plan for Change, we are slashing red tape, so game-changing new treatments reach the NHS front line quicker – transforming healthcare.  

    Regulation is vital to protect patients. However, as the pace of innovation ramps up, our processes must be more agile to help speed the shift from analogue to digital.

    Our common sense approach to regulation will streamline approval processes so countless more patients are liberated from life-limiting conditions.

    The technology, called histotripsy, is being debuted at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, part of Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (CUH) with the first NHS patients being treated using the game-changing device this summer. The technology was procured and installed thanks to a generous donation to the University of Cambridge from the Li Ka Shing Foundation, which has been a longstanding supporter of cancer research at the University.

    Professor Deborah Prentice, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, said:

    Through his longstanding support of cancer research at Cambridge, Sir Ka-shing Li continues to make a significant impact on outcomes for cancer patients.

    Cutting-edge technology such as this histotripsy machine allows Cambridge to remain at the forefront of understanding and treating cancer, a position we aim to strengthen further with Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital.

    The Government’s Plan for Change  is focused on securing the UK’s position as a global tech powerhouse – including in healthcare – which fosters innovation to transform the lives of working people and deliver a decade of national renewal.

    The move delivers on the Government’s commitment to tackle bureaucracy blocking investment and regulatory complexity that has previously stifled growth.

    Roland Sinker, Chief Executive of Cambridge University Hospitals said:

    Histotripsy is an exciting new technology that will make a huge difference to patients.

    By offering this non-invasive, more targeted treatment we can care for more people as outpatients and free up time for surgeons to treat more complex cases.

    The faster recovery times mean patients will be able to return to their normal lives more quickly, which will also reduce pressure on hospital beds, helping us ensure that patients are able to receive the right treatment at the right time.

    We are delighted to be receiving this new state of the art machine.

    Fiona Carey, Co-chair of the Patient Advisory Group for Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital and kidney cancer patient with advanced disease, said:

    This is seriously good news. A new, non-invasive option to treat these cancers is very welcome indeed.

    For patients for whom ordinary surgery is no longer an option, this could make all the difference.

    James Pound, Interim Executive Director, Innovation and Compliance at MHRA, said:

    This is a strong example of smart, agile regulation in action. Working closely with partners through the Innovative Devices Access Pathway, we’ve shown we can get promising technologies to patients faster – without compromising safety.

    It’s a major step forward for patients with liver cancer and shows how the UK can be a frontrunner in supporting responsible innovation that meets real clinical need.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Greens call for additional train services for TRNSMT

    Source: Scottish Greens

    People going out to enjoy major events around our city deserve a train service that will get them home safely.

    Scotrail should organise additional late night train services to ensure festival goers get home safely from TRNSMT at Glasgow Green next month, say the Scottish Greens.

    The call comes from the party’s co-leader, spokesperson for culture, and MSP for Glasgow Patrick Harvie, who says that having more train services running would ensure people have the option to get home safely from the festival.

    Tens of thousands of revellers are expected to attend the 3-day music event at Glasgow Green in July, with the likes of 50 Cent, Fontaines D.C., Biffy Clyro and Glasgow DJ’s Big Miz and Hayley Zalazzi on the lineup.

    Mr Harvie said:

    “At previous events with such large crowds, the East End of the city becomes totally blocked off for transport and pedestrians, with many waiting hours for taxis or risking walking home in the dark.

    “People going out to enjoy festivals, gigs and other events around our city deserve to get home safely and having a reliable late night train service can offer that. I strongly urge them to do so.

    “If Scotrail were to run additional train services over that weekend, and later into the night, it would provide a safe, cheaper and climate friendly option to get home from TRNSMT for thousands of people.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Increase in awareness of pavement parking restrictions

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    A decrease in penalty charge notices (PCNs) issued, and an increase in awareness, is thought to have resulted in a reduction in illegal pavement parking, the Net Zero, Environment, and Transport committee heard today.

    The overall number of monthly penalty charge notices for pavement parking has reduced from around 350 in July and August 2024, to 141 in March 2025, and 111 in April 2025.

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “Pavements are for pedestrians, including people using wheelchairs and buggies. The pavement parking ban was introduced to make pavements safer and more usable.

    “It is good to see the reduction in the number of fines issued since the introduction of the ban. This shows many of the small minority of drivers who used to park on pavements are no longer doing so.”

    Committee Vice Convener Councillor Miranda Radley added: “Pavement parking can cause obstructions forcing people with wheelchairs or prams onto the road, exposing them to the danger of oncoming traffic.”

    “An increase in awareness of the ban shows the level of support that the Aberdeen public has for keeping our road users safe.”

    The restrictions came after the Scottish Government introduced legislation to ban pavement parking in Scotland with implementation by local authorities. Aberdeen City Council carried out a city-wide assessment of roads and associated pavements using the criteria set by the Scottish Government. During this assessment, some pavements were identified for exemption from the prohibition, for example, to ensure safe access for emergency vehicles.

    A recent survey targeted at pedestrians and people with mobility aids, showed over half of respondents were either in favour of, or neutral to, the changes that have come into effect. Some concerns were raised about areas where space is limited, making parking more challenging, and that there could still be an increase in enforcement.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom