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  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Titus, Van Drew Introduce Legislation to Expand Accessible Transportation Options for Individuals with Disabilities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01) and Congressman Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02) reintroduced their Disability Access to Transportation Act (DATA). This bipartisan legislation establishes a one-stop pilot program to help paratransit riders avoid excessive wait times between multiple trips, streamlines the process for submitting accessibility complaints, and assists local communities with identifying gaps in transportation accessibility.

    “True community living is not possible without the ability to easily move from one location to another,” said Congresswoman Titus. “I’m proud to build upon the Americans with Disabilities Act so we can eliminate lingering barriers to adequate and accessible transportation.”

    “This bill is about making paratransit work better for the people who rely on it,” said Congressman Van Drew. “Right now, the system is too rigid and does not reflect how people actually live their lives. These individuals already deal with enough challenges, and this bill is a commonsense fix that can really make their day a little easier. I am proud to join Congresswoman Titus to push for a smarter, more flexible system that actually works for the people it is meant to serve.”

    The Disability Access to Transportation Act includes:

    • Findings that highlight the ongoing need to improve access to and modernize transportation systems for those with disabilities;
    • The creation of a new one-stop paratransit pilot program authorized at $75 million annually through FY29, which will allow for a brief stop on a multi-legged paratransit trip to prevent long wait times between having to book individual trip segments. This will allow people with disabilities to perform activities like stopping at a bank or pharmacy or dropping children off at daycare without needing to book two separate trips that could each take up to 90 minutes. The pilot program also prioritizes projects that use real-time tracking and on-demand scheduling technologies;
    • Requires the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to finalize minimum standards for pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way, and requires the Secretary of Transportation to undertake a rulemaking to implement those standards;
    • Streamlines the accessibility complaint reporting process at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA); and
    • The creation of an accessibility data pilot program to improve data collection and identify gaps in services to aid in transportation planning.

    The bill has been endorsed by the United Spinal Association; Access Ready Inc.; American Council of the Blind; Family Voices; Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund; Paralyzed Veterans of America; and Cure SMA.

    “Paratransit is clunky, outmoded, and outdated. In an era of on-demand ride hailing, it’s clear that reforms are needed to take advantage of technological innovation,” said Steve Lieberman, Senior Director of Advocacy & Policy for United Spinal Association. “The Disability Access to Transportation Act would provide an opportunity for people with disabilities to be able to drop off their dry cleaning on their way to work, or pick up a prescription on the way home. We hope that all members of Congress support this sensible, bipartisan legislation.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ideology and Politics – Food quality and safety will suffer if meat inspection service is privatised as Govt proposes – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The Government wants to privatise its high-quality meat inspection service ignoring the impact it will have on food quality and safety in announcements being made to meat inspectors.
    The Ministry for Primary Industries is proposing to allow meat processing companies to carry out more of their own meat inspection work with reduced oversight from AsureQuality, the Government’s meat inspection service. AsureQuality employs some 650 meat inspectors who carry out meat inspection on 27 million animals at 65 meat processing facilities every year.
    Hundreds of highly qualified and experienced AsureQuality meat inspectors could face the axe, with many forced to transfer to the private sector with lower wages and poorer conditions.
    “This is all about privatising a trusted and valuable service which ensures New Zealand consumers can buy safe, high-quality meat with confidence,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “The work of meat inspectors ensures that disease and defects in products are identified and that meat is fit for human consumption.
    “Independent meat inspectors are more rigorous because they have no vested interest in the end product and will not cut corners to increase company profits. Our overseas markets and consumers here at home will miss out if we lose the independence of our meat inspection services.
    “This is just more of the same deregulation agenda we are seeing across health and other parts of the public service.
    “History tells us who wins from deregulation, business. This proposal is all about boosting the profits of meat companies while dismantling a proven, efficient and independent government owned service that keeps New Zealanders safe from diseased and contaminated meat.
    “Meat inspectors also play a critical role in underpinning New Zealand’s global reputation for excellence in all we export.
    “Why put all that at risk?
    “The Government’s priorities are again clear – it scrapped pay equity, making underpaid women pay for tax cuts for business in the Budget and it’s doing the same here, forcing meat inspectors to take a cut in wages to boost the bottom line of meat companies.
    “This government has no shame in its reckless pursuit of ideology over the consequences for New Zealanders as we again fail to learn the lessons from the past.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: On Third Anniversary of Dobbs Decision, Attorney General Bonta Co-leads Letter Reminding Hospitals of Their Obligation to Provide Emergency Abortion Care

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today co-led a coalition of 22 attorneys general in sending a letter to the American Hospital Association reminding hospitals of their ongoing obligation to comply with the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). Every hospital in the United States that operates an emergency department and participates in Medicare is subject to EMTALA. Under the law, emergency departments are required to provide all patients who have an emergency medical condition with the treatment required to stabilize their condition, including abortion care. On May 29, 2025, the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rescinded guidance that it issued in 2022 “to remind hospitals of their existing obligation to comply with EMTALA”. CMS’s rescission of this guidance does not change federal law or the obligations EMTALA imposes. Put simply, all hospitals must continue to follow EMTALA, including with respect to the provision of emergency abortion care.

    “When a medical emergency happens, patients must be assured that they can access life-saving care when they go to the hospital – that includes emergency abortion care,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Despite the Trump Administration’s attempt to sow confusion and fear among providers, EMTALA remains the law of the land and its obligations are clear: Hospitals must continue to provide emergency abortion care to prevent serious harm to patients’ health. Furthermore, states like California and many others have analogous state law protections, which we take very seriously. At the California Department of Justice, we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that every hospital continues to follow the law, and we stand ready to work together with our sister states to ensure that every pregnant patient across the country receives the necessary and lifesaving healthcare that federal and state law require.”

    Since 1986, EMTALA has mandated that hospitals provide critical and necessary healthcare in emergency medical situations. Under EMTALA, all Medicare-participating hospitals with an emergency department must provide pregnant patients access to abortion care to prevent serious harm to the patient’s health, serious impairment to bodily function, or serious dysfunction of an organ or body part. EMTALA requires these hospitals to provide access to abortion care if it is the treatment necessary to stabilize pregnant patients with an emergency medical condition. Emergency medical conditions can include, but are not limited to, ectopic pregnancy, traumatic placental abruption, pre-eclampsia, hemorrhaging, amniotic fluid embolism, and hypertension. Critically, the requirements of EMTALA apply regardless of whether a hospital is in a state that purports to limit or ban abortion care.

    For decades, the federal government has properly interpreted the requirements of EMTALA to protect access to abortion care under the statute. Across federal administrations of both parties, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has enforced EMTALA against hospitals who fail to provide abortion care when necessary to provide stabilizing care for a patient experiencing an emergency medical condition. Nothing about CMS’s rescission of its 2022 guidance changes the statutory text of EMTALA, which requires abortion care in specified circumstances. Nor does the rescission of the guidance supersede numerous judicial opinions interpreting EMTALA to require the provision of emergency abortion care. The Trump Administration itself has acknowledged as much in a letter sent to healthcare providers on June 13, shortly after the rescission of CMS’s 2022 guidance. In the letter, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., made clear that “the law has not changed.” And while that letter needlessly attempted to sow confusion by focusing on protections for a pregnant patient’s “unborn child,” nothing about the rescission of the guidance changes the fact that EMTALA’s requirement to provide stabilizing care is based on the medical condition of the pregnant patient, not the fetus. Hospitals in all states therefore must continue to comply with EMTALA and provide access to abortion care when it is the medical treatment necessary to stabilize a pregnant patient, regardless of state laws purporting to prohibit or limit access to abortion care.

    Continued compliance with EMTALA’s requirements is critical in light of the severe harms that result from denying stabilizing abortion care to pregnant patients in emergency medical situations. Denying stabilizing abortion care can cause irreparable harms, including hysterectomy, fertility loss, kidney failure, brain injury, and limb amputation, forcing patients to live with significant disabilities and chronic medical conditions. Delaying such stabilizing care, meanwhile, increases the risk that lifesaving interventions might not work, risking the lives and health of pregnant patients. For example, a recent maternal morbidity study after the enactment of Texas’ six-week abortion ban found the rate of serious maternal morbidity was 57% when using observation-only care, nearly double the rate that resulted when following the standard protocol of terminating the pregnancy to preserve the pregnant patient’s life or health.

    The real-world consequences of denying or delaying stabilizing abortion care for pregnant patients with an emergency medical condition are catastrophic. After Texas’s six-week abortion ban went into effect, sepsis rates rose 50% statewide and increased by 63% in hospitals that waited to provide abortions or other interventions to miscarrying patients. In Texas, a young mother experiencing a miscarriage died of an infection after being forced to delay abortion care for 40 hours until doctors, fearful of prosecution under Texas’s abortion ban, could no longer detect fetal cardiac activity. And HHS found as recently as May 2025 that a hospital violated EMTALA when a pregnant woman nearly died after being denied abortion care for her ectopic pregnancy, resulting in permanent damage to her reproductive organs. The devastating consequences of denying medically necessary abortion care to pregnant patients are a stark reminder of the importance of EMTALA’s requirements—and the importance of ensuring continued compliance with those requirements. The law is clear: Hospitals subject to EMTALA have an obligation to provide timely abortion care when necessary to stabilize a patient experiencing an emergency medical condition. 

    In sending the letter, Attorney General Bonta is joined by the Attorneys General of New Jersey, New York, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. 

    A copy of the letter is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Deborah’s Story of Cancer, Faith, Determination and Survival

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    In December 2022, Deborah noticed a strange pain in her lower left mouth. Known for being meticulous about her dental hygiene, she immediately went to her dentist, who prescribed antibiotics and diagnosed her with periodontal disease. Trusting the process, she underwent deep scaling and a bone graft. But the pain never truly left, and her jaw continued clicking.

    While navigating her own health concerns, Deborah was also focused on her husband’s recent melanoma diagnosis and care at UConn Health with Drs. Hao Feng and Hillary Newsome. Still, something didn’t feel right with her own condition. On a return visit to the dentist, with gums now bleeding and showing white patches, a biopsy was finally ordered.

    That biopsy changed everything.

    Referred by Newsome to Dr. Danielle Scarola, a board-certified otolaryngologist who was then practicing at UConn Health. Deborah received her diagnosis: squamous cell carcinoma in the left oral cavity. From that point on, everything moved at lightning speed.

    She met with her surgical team the very next day, and just a couple weeks later underwent a nearly 10-hour surgery. “It was one of the worst experiences of my life,” she said. “I had a catheter, a feeding tube, swelling, a graft in my mouth, the pain was excruciating.” She stayed in the hospital for six days.

    Despite the pain and shock, Deborah recalls every doctor and nurse as “amazing.” She leaned on her strong faith, believing there was a reason this had happened. “I didn’t follow the typical protocol,” she said. “The cancer caught me off guard. My mistake was not pushing for a biopsy earlier, but I never thought it could be cancer.”

    Pathology revealed tiny cancer cells in her jawbone. Even though her lymph nodes were clear, her care team at UConn Health didn’t take any chances.

    She met with Dr. Robert Dowsett, Dr. Upendra Hedge and the multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancer team in the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center who walked her and her family through an elaborate education about this cancer and its management along with the importance of post-operative treatment to further reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.  This intensive treatment plan: 33 radiation sessions, weekly chemotherapy and check-ups was ably supported by twice-weekly fluid and electrolyte replacement, and care from speech therapists, a dietician, an oncology APRN, a palliative/supportive care APRN, and a social worker.

    One nurse looked at her and asked, “Are you ready for this?”

    Her answer: “I’m not ready, but I’ll do whatever I need to do.”

    “I was so overwhelmed,” Deborah said. “I went home, laid in bed, and prayed.”

    She began treatment on October 25, 2023, surrounded by a circle of love and support. Her husband, children, daughters-in-law, sisters, nieces, friends, and neighbors were always by her side. In the infusion room, she was surprised by the sound of laughter. “I remember thinking, ‘How can they laugh? They’re being treated for cancer.’ But once I started, I understood. Laughter became a relief. It became medicine.”

    During treatment, Deborah began journaling. She never referred to her cancer by name—only “IT.” Her writing became an outlet for anger and frustration. One of the hardest parts was being immune-compromised and unable to spend time with her grandchildren.

    The tumor is now gone.

    Today, Deborah is walking outside again, going to the gym, and adjusting to eating on one side of her mouth. She remains grateful to the entire UConn Health team. “Every time I had a question, they were there. I can’t express enough how appreciative I am. They saved my life.”

    She still undergoes regular scans and feels anxious each time. “It’s always on my mind,” she admits. Her care team affectionately called her a “rockstar.”

    “In my eyes,” she said, “I’ll only be a rockstar if I never have to go through this journey again.”

    Deborah believes that sharing her journey can offer hope and guidance to others facing cancer, and while she feels called to help in this way, she has chosen to remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Australia: Bioplastic breakthrough: sustainable cooling film could slash building energy use by 20%

    Source:

    25 June 2025

    An illustration of the bioplastic metafilm developed by UniSA and Zhengzhou University researchers,  proposed as a next-generation material for sustainable cooling

    An international team of scientists has developed a biodegradable material that could slash global energy consumption without using any electricity, according to a new study published today.

    The bioplastic metafilm – that can be applied to buildings, equipment and other surfaces – passively cools temperatures by as much as 9.2°C during peak sunlight and reflects almost 99% of the sun’s rays.

    Developed by researchers from Zhengzhou University in China and the University of South Australia (UniSA), the new film is a sustainable and long-lasting material that could reduce building energy consumption by up to 20% a year in some of the world’s hottest cities.

    The material is described in the latest issue of Cell Reports Physical Science.

    UniSA PhD candidate Yangzhe Hou says the cooling metafilm represents a breakthrough in sustainable materials engineering that could help combat rising global temperatures and hotter cities.

    “Our metafilm offers an environmentally friendly alternative to air-conditioning, which contributes significantly to carbon emissions,” says Hou, who is also from Zhengzhou University.

    “The material reflects nearly all solar radiation but also allows internal building heat to escape directly into outer space. This enables the building to stay cooler than the surrounding air, even under direct sunlight.”

    Notably, the film continues to perform even after prolonged exposure to acidic conditions and ultraviolet light – two major barriers that have historically hindered similar biodegradable materials.

    Constructed from polylactic acid (PLA) – a common plant-derived bioplastic – the metafilm is fabricated using a low-temperature separation technique that reflects 98.7% of sunlight and minimises heat gain.

    “Unlike conventional cooling technologies, this metafilm requires no electricity or mechanical systems,” says co-author Dr Xianhu Liu from Zhengzhou University.

    “Most existing passive radiative cooling systems rely on petrochemical-based polymers or ceramics that raise environmental concerns. By using biodegradable PLA, we are presenting a green alternative that offers high solar reflectance, strong thermal emission, sustainability, and durability.”

    In real-world applications, the metafilm showed an average temperature drop of 4.9°C during the day and 5.1°C at night. Field tests conducted in both China and Australia confirmed its stability and efficiency under harsh environmental conditions. Even after 120 hours in strong acid and the equivalent of eight months’ outdoor UV exposure, the metafilm retained cooling power of up to 6.5°C.

    Perhaps most significantly, the simulations revealed that the metafilm could cut annual energy consumption by up to 20.3% in cities such as Lhasa, China, by reducing dependence on air conditioning.

    “This isn’t just a lab-scale success” says co-author Professor Jun Ma from the University of South Australia.

    “Our film is scalable, durable and completely degradable,” he says.

    “This research aims to contribute to sustainable development by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and exploring feasible pathways to improve human comfort while minimising environmental impact.”

    The discovery addresses a major challenge in the field: how to reconcile high-performance cooling with eco-friendly degradation.

    The researchers are now exploring large-scale manufacturing opportunities and potential applications in buildings, transport, agriculture, electronics, and the biomedical field including cooling wound dressings.

    ‘A structural bioplastic metafilm for durable passive radiative cooling’ is published in Cell Reports Physical Science and is authored by Yangzhe Hou, Yamin Pan, Xianhu Liu, Jun Ma, Chuntai Liu and Changyu Shen. DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrp.2025.102664

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Contacts for interview:

    Researchers:

    Yangzhe Hou E: yangzhe.hou@unisa.edu.au;

    Prof Jun Ma E: jun.ma@unisa.edu.au

    Prof Xianhu Liu E: Xianhu.Liu@zzu.edu.cn

    Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Westhaven Announces Voting Results From 2025 Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V:WHN) is pleased to announce the voting results from the Company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held on June 24, 2025.

    The shareholders approved all motions put forth at the Meeting including the re-appointment of Smythe LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as the Company’s independent auditors, and the Company’s 2025 Equity Incentive Plan. The shareholders re-elected Hannah McDonald, Paul McRae, Victor Tanaka, Eira Thomas and Gareth Thomas to the Company’s Board of Directors.

    A total of 57,565,137 common shares were voted, representing the votes attached to 30.57% of all outstanding common shares.

    The votes cast were as follows:

     Resolution  For %  Withheld/Against %
     Number of Directors  99.55  0.45
     Eira Thomas  99.60  0.40
     Gareth Thomas  99.28  0.72
     Victor Tanaka  99.47  0.53
     Paul McRae  98.59  1.41
     Hannah McDonald  99.49  0.51
     Appointment of Auditors  99.65  0.35
     Equity Incentive Plan  99.13  0.87
     Other Business  97.98  2.02


    On behalf of the Board of Directors

    WESTHAVEN GOLD CORP.

    “Ken Armstrong”

    Ken Armstrong, President and CEO, is responsible for this news release and can be reached at 604-681-5558.

    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.

    About Westhaven Gold Corp.

    Westhaven is a gold-focused exploration and development company targeting low sulphidation, high-grade, epithermal style gold mineralization within the Spences Bridge Gold Belt in southern British Columbia. Westhaven controls ~61,512 hectares (~615 square kilometres) within four gold properties spread along this underexplored belt. The Shovelnose Gold project is the most advance property, with a recently updated 2025 Preliminary Economic Assessment that validates the Project’s potential as a robust, low cost and high margin 11-year underground gold mining opportunity with average annual life-of-mine gold production of 56,000 ounces and having a Cdn$454 million after-tax NPV6% and 43.2% IRR (base case parameters of US$2,400 per ounce gold, US$28 per ounce silver and CDN/US$ exchange rate of $0.72). Initial capital costs are projected to be Cdn$184 million with a payback period of 2.1 years. Please see Westhaven’s news release dated March 3, 2025 for details of the updated PEA. Shovelnose is situated off a major highway, near power, rail, large producing mines, pipelines and within commuting distance from the city of Merritt, which result in lower cost exploration and development.

    Qualified Person: The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Fischl, P.Geo, who is a Qualified Person for the Company under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

    Westhaven trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol WHN. For further information, please call 604-681-5558 or visit Westhaven’s website at www.westhavengold.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and Westhaven does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Forward-looking statements in this news release may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the results of the Preliminary Economic Assessment, the Mineral Resource Estimate future planned activities, future mineral production and future growth potential for the Company and its projects, the interpretation of preliminary results from exploration undertaken to date at Shovelnose using various exploration techniques and analysis; statements with respect to potential styles of epithermal mineralization at the Shovelnose Project; and the possibility that the Company’s Shovelnose project may host multiple gold bearing epithermal systems. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of gold and other precious metals; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Company’s ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. Although management of Westhaven Gold Corp. have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation: the Company’s dependence on one group of mineral projects; precious metals price volatility; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company’s management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Company’s inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company’s interactions with surrounding communities; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; and the factors identified under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s management discussion and analysis. Mineral exploration involves a high degree of risk and few properties, which are explored, are ultimately developed into producing mines. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Westhaven Announces Voting Results From 2025 Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V:WHN) is pleased to announce the voting results from the Company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held on June 24, 2025.

    The shareholders approved all motions put forth at the Meeting including the re-appointment of Smythe LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as the Company’s independent auditors, and the Company’s 2025 Equity Incentive Plan. The shareholders re-elected Hannah McDonald, Paul McRae, Victor Tanaka, Eira Thomas and Gareth Thomas to the Company’s Board of Directors.

    A total of 57,565,137 common shares were voted, representing the votes attached to 30.57% of all outstanding common shares.

    The votes cast were as follows:

     Resolution  For %  Withheld/Against %
     Number of Directors  99.55  0.45
     Eira Thomas  99.60  0.40
     Gareth Thomas  99.28  0.72
     Victor Tanaka  99.47  0.53
     Paul McRae  98.59  1.41
     Hannah McDonald  99.49  0.51
     Appointment of Auditors  99.65  0.35
     Equity Incentive Plan  99.13  0.87
     Other Business  97.98  2.02


    On behalf of the Board of Directors

    WESTHAVEN GOLD CORP.

    “Ken Armstrong”

    Ken Armstrong, President and CEO, is responsible for this news release and can be reached at 604-681-5558.

    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.

    About Westhaven Gold Corp.

    Westhaven is a gold-focused exploration and development company targeting low sulphidation, high-grade, epithermal style gold mineralization within the Spences Bridge Gold Belt in southern British Columbia. Westhaven controls ~61,512 hectares (~615 square kilometres) within four gold properties spread along this underexplored belt. The Shovelnose Gold project is the most advance property, with a recently updated 2025 Preliminary Economic Assessment that validates the Project’s potential as a robust, low cost and high margin 11-year underground gold mining opportunity with average annual life-of-mine gold production of 56,000 ounces and having a Cdn$454 million after-tax NPV6% and 43.2% IRR (base case parameters of US$2,400 per ounce gold, US$28 per ounce silver and CDN/US$ exchange rate of $0.72). Initial capital costs are projected to be Cdn$184 million with a payback period of 2.1 years. Please see Westhaven’s news release dated March 3, 2025 for details of the updated PEA. Shovelnose is situated off a major highway, near power, rail, large producing mines, pipelines and within commuting distance from the city of Merritt, which result in lower cost exploration and development.

    Qualified Person: The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Fischl, P.Geo, who is a Qualified Person for the Company under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

    Westhaven trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol WHN. For further information, please call 604-681-5558 or visit Westhaven’s website at www.westhavengold.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and Westhaven does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Forward-looking statements in this news release may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the results of the Preliminary Economic Assessment, the Mineral Resource Estimate future planned activities, future mineral production and future growth potential for the Company and its projects, the interpretation of preliminary results from exploration undertaken to date at Shovelnose using various exploration techniques and analysis; statements with respect to potential styles of epithermal mineralization at the Shovelnose Project; and the possibility that the Company’s Shovelnose project may host multiple gold bearing epithermal systems. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of gold and other precious metals; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Company’s ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. Although management of Westhaven Gold Corp. have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation: the Company’s dependence on one group of mineral projects; precious metals price volatility; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company’s management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Company’s inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company’s interactions with surrounding communities; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; and the factors identified under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s management discussion and analysis. Mineral exploration involves a high degree of risk and few properties, which are explored, are ultimately developed into producing mines. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited Announces the Pricing of $220,000,000 Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Vancouver, BC, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited (the “Company”) announced today the pricing of its initial public offering of 22,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on The Nasdaq Global Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) and begin trading on June 25, 2025, under the ticker symbol “OBAWU.” Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one-half of one redeemable warrant, each whole warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one Class A ordinary share at a price of $11.50 per share, subject to certain adjustments. No fractional warrants will be issued upon separation of the units and only whole warrants will trade. An amount equal to $10.00 per unit will be deposited into a trust account upon the closing of the offering. Once the securities constituting the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and warrants are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “OBA” and “OBAWW,” respectively. The offering is expected to close on June 26, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,300,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.

    The Company is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business or industry or at any stage of its corporate evolution. The Company’s primary focus, however, will be to search globally for a target with operations or prospects focusing on global consumer and technology sectors with disruptive growth potential through the use of technology that can benefit from operations in Asia, excluding the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong and Macau.

    The Company’s management team is led by Jonathan Lin, its Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors (the “Board”), and Gary Chan, its Chief Financial Officer. The Board also includes Norma Chu, Enrique Gonzalez, Gan Wee Leong, and Jack Cho.

    Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.

    The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the prospectus may be obtained from Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., Attention: Capital Markets, 110 East 59th Street, New York, New York 10022, or by email at prospectus@cantor.com,or by accessing the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

    A registration statement relating to the securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and became effective on June 24, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the expected closing of the proposed initial public offering and search for an initial business combination. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all.

    Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement and prospectus for the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Investor Contacts

    Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited
    Jonathan Lin
    jonathan.lin@l2capm.com
    (778)-653-3584

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited Announces the Pricing of $220,000,000 Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Vancouver, BC, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited (the “Company”) announced today the pricing of its initial public offering of 22,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on The Nasdaq Global Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) and begin trading on June 25, 2025, under the ticker symbol “OBAWU.” Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one-half of one redeemable warrant, each whole warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one Class A ordinary share at a price of $11.50 per share, subject to certain adjustments. No fractional warrants will be issued upon separation of the units and only whole warrants will trade. An amount equal to $10.00 per unit will be deposited into a trust account upon the closing of the offering. Once the securities constituting the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and warrants are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “OBA” and “OBAWW,” respectively. The offering is expected to close on June 26, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,300,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.

    The Company is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business or industry or at any stage of its corporate evolution. The Company’s primary focus, however, will be to search globally for a target with operations or prospects focusing on global consumer and technology sectors with disruptive growth potential through the use of technology that can benefit from operations in Asia, excluding the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong and Macau.

    The Company’s management team is led by Jonathan Lin, its Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors (the “Board”), and Gary Chan, its Chief Financial Officer. The Board also includes Norma Chu, Enrique Gonzalez, Gan Wee Leong, and Jack Cho.

    Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.

    The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the prospectus may be obtained from Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., Attention: Capital Markets, 110 East 59th Street, New York, New York 10022, or by email at prospectus@cantor.com,or by accessing the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

    A registration statement relating to the securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and became effective on June 24, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the expected closing of the proposed initial public offering and search for an initial business combination. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all.

    Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement and prospectus for the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Investor Contacts

    Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited
    Jonathan Lin
    jonathan.lin@l2capm.com
    (778)-653-3584

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Leads California GOP Delegation in Urging Governor Newsom to Suspend the Gas Tax Increase

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)

    WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) led the entire California Republican delegation in urging Governor Gavin Newsom to suspend the state’s upcoming gas tax increase on July 1, 2025. According to AAA, the national average price for a gallon of gas as of today is $3.22, but in California, the average price is $4.65 per gallon.

    “California already has the highest gas prices in the nation, and instead of providing some relief, Governor Newsom continues to make it worse,” said Congressman Valadao. “Central Valley families can’t afford to pay an extra 66 cents per gallon every time they fill up—and they shouldn’t have to. It’s time for Governor Newsom and the Democratic supermajority in Sacramento to finally suspend the gas tax, stop these harmful price hikes, and ease the burden on working families instead of adding to it.”

    For the last three years, Congressman Valadao has led efforts to suspend the annual July 1st gas tax increase to provide much-needed relief to California families. The lawmakers also urged a pause to the implementation of a California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Low Carbon Fuel Standards (LCFS) update, which is expected to increase gas prices by an additional 65 cents per gallon.

    Congressman Valadao was joined in the letter by Reps. Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Kevin Kiley (CA-03), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Young Kim (CA-40), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Vince Fong (CA-20), and Ken Calvert (CA-41).

    “At a time when Californians are already paying $1.44 more per gallon than the national average, the last thing they need is another gas tax hike and a costly new mandate from unelected CARB officials,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “The state is adding another 1.6 cents to the gas excise tax. CARB’s rule changes could drive prices up by as much as 65 cents more per gallon. We’ve warned the Governor repeatedly that this approach is destructive to California’s economy. He continues to ignore this reality. Refusing to change course will only worsen California’s future prospects.”

    “Californians are already paying the highest gas prices in the nation, and they’re set to increase dramatically,” said Rep. Kiley. “It won’t be long until we are paying an absurd $8 per gallon. The higher fuel cost and demand to import fuel will raise prices for virtually everything else people need to buy. Gavin Newsom and the Democratic legislature need to put policies in place immediately to prevent people from feeling even more financial stress than they already are.”

    “California is already home to the highest gas prices of any state in the nation – the Low Carbon Fuel Standard and gas tax only add more pain at the pump for hardworking families,” said Congresswoman Kim. “I will continue to urge Governor Newsom to suspend the burdensome gas tax and provide relief for Californians.”

    “Once again, unelected regulators at CARB are pushing policies that ignore the economic realities facing California’s working families and small businesses,” said Rep. Obernolte. “Our state already has the highest gas prices in the nation, and these new burdens will only make the situation worse. Californians—and my constituents—deserve relief, not more costly mandates.”

    “With Californians already getting crushed by some of the highest gas prices in the nation, Sacramento Democrats have forced yet another gas tax hike on hardworking Californians,” said Rep. Fong. “Families and businesses are struggling under the weight of rising costs, and now state legislators are asking them to pay even more to clean up their budget mess. Californians deserve real relief. Instead of piling on more taxes, we should prioritize infrastructure investment, use existing funds responsibly, and support in-state energy production to lower prices at the pump.”

    “Californians already pay the highest gas prices in the country due to the radical policies enacted by California Democrats,” said Rep. Calvert. “The last thing California families need is yet another tax increase raising the price of gasoline even higher.”

    Read the full letter here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Leads California GOP Delegation in Urging Governor Newsom to Suspend the Gas Tax Increase

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)

    WASHINGTON – This week, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) led the entire California Republican delegation in urging Governor Gavin Newsom to suspend the state’s upcoming gas tax increase on July 1, 2025. According to AAA, the national average price for a gallon of gas as of today is $3.22, but in California, the average price is $4.65 per gallon.

    “California already has the highest gas prices in the nation, and instead of providing some relief, Governor Newsom continues to make it worse,” said Congressman Valadao. “Central Valley families can’t afford to pay an extra 66 cents per gallon every time they fill up—and they shouldn’t have to. It’s time for Governor Newsom and the Democratic supermajority in Sacramento to finally suspend the gas tax, stop these harmful price hikes, and ease the burden on working families instead of adding to it.”

    For the last three years, Congressman Valadao has led efforts to suspend the annual July 1st gas tax increase to provide much-needed relief to California families. The lawmakers also urged a pause to the implementation of a California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Low Carbon Fuel Standards (LCFS) update, which is expected to increase gas prices by an additional 65 cents per gallon.

    Congressman Valadao was joined in the letter by Reps. Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Kevin Kiley (CA-03), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Young Kim (CA-40), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Vince Fong (CA-20), and Ken Calvert (CA-41).

    “At a time when Californians are already paying $1.44 more per gallon than the national average, the last thing they need is another gas tax hike and a costly new mandate from unelected CARB officials,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “The state is adding another 1.6 cents to the gas excise tax. CARB’s rule changes could drive prices up by as much as 65 cents more per gallon. We’ve warned the Governor repeatedly that this approach is destructive to California’s economy. He continues to ignore this reality. Refusing to change course will only worsen California’s future prospects.”

    “Californians are already paying the highest gas prices in the nation, and they’re set to increase dramatically,” said Rep. Kiley. “It won’t be long until we are paying an absurd $8 per gallon. The higher fuel cost and demand to import fuel will raise prices for virtually everything else people need to buy. Gavin Newsom and the Democratic legislature need to put policies in place immediately to prevent people from feeling even more financial stress than they already are.”

    “California is already home to the highest gas prices of any state in the nation – the Low Carbon Fuel Standard and gas tax only add more pain at the pump for hardworking families,” said Congresswoman Kim. “I will continue to urge Governor Newsom to suspend the burdensome gas tax and provide relief for Californians.”

    “Once again, unelected regulators at CARB are pushing policies that ignore the economic realities facing California’s working families and small businesses,” said Rep. Obernolte. “Our state already has the highest gas prices in the nation, and these new burdens will only make the situation worse. Californians—and my constituents—deserve relief, not more costly mandates.”

    “With Californians already getting crushed by some of the highest gas prices in the nation, Sacramento Democrats have forced yet another gas tax hike on hardworking Californians,” said Rep. Fong. “Families and businesses are struggling under the weight of rising costs, and now state legislators are asking them to pay even more to clean up their budget mess. Californians deserve real relief. Instead of piling on more taxes, we should prioritize infrastructure investment, use existing funds responsibly, and support in-state energy production to lower prices at the pump.”

    “Californians already pay the highest gas prices in the country due to the radical policies enacted by California Democrats,” said Rep. Calvert. “The last thing California families need is yet another tax increase raising the price of gasoline even higher.”

    Read the full letter here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Looking back on Tuesday 24 June, the start of the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague

    Source: Government of the Netherlands

    News item | 24-06-2025 | 23:00

    The 2025 NATO Summit officially opened today in The Hague. Heads of government, ministers, experts and defence industry representatives as well as young people, academics and opinion leaders came together at various locations to discuss security, cooperation and innovation. Below is an overview of the day’s main events.

    Enlarge image
    Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    NATO Public Forum – live on YouTube

    The two-day NATO Public Forum began today and is being broadcast live online for everyone to watch. Participants from the Netherlands and around the world, including heads of government, ministers, young people, academics and opinion leaders discussed the themes of this year’s Summit and developments in the world that affect our security.
    On Wednesday 25 June the Forum will again be broadcast live on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ YouTube channel under NATO Public Forum Live. More information about the programme is available at www.natopublicforum.org.

    Meeting between defence ministers and industry

    The NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum also took place today. Ministers, experts and business leaders from NATO countries came together to discuss how the defence industry can quickly be scaled up and strengthened. The goal is a stronger, sustainable and future-proof defence industry.

    Meeting between NATO, EU and Ukraine

    NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and the EU and Ukraine met for talks in The Hague.

    President Zelenskyy visits House of Representatives and Prime Minister

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the House of Representatives, where he addressed members of parliament. In the morning, he had a special meeting with Prime Minister Dick Schoof at the Catshuis. This visit was not part of the official summit programme.

    Royal dinner at Huis ten Bosch Palace

    On Tuesday evening, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima hosted heads of state and government from NATO countries for an informal dinner. Leaders from Australia, New Zealand and Ukraine were also present, as was South Korea’s national security director and the presidents of the European Commission and the European Council.

    Enlarge image
    Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Working dinners for ministers of NATO countries

    Foreign ministers met for a working dinner of the NATO-Ukraine Council. At the same time, defence ministers convened for a working dinner of the North Atlantic Council. Both meetings took place at World Forum in The Hague and were preceded by a joint reception.

    The 2025 NATO Summit will continue on Wednesday 25 June at the World Forum in The Hague.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: REP. HILL INTRODUCES RISE ACT TO SPUR FASTER ECONOMIC GROWTH AND JOBS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) introduced the Revitalizing Investment, Savings, and Entrepreneurship (RISE) Act, which he co-leads with Rep. Steube (R-FL). The RISE Act will unlock capital, boost investment, and stimulate economic growth and innovation for all Americans by limiting the capital gains tax rate to 15%.

    Rep. Hill said, “To build a stronger, more prosperous future, we need policies that unlock capital, reward risk-taking, and drive real growth for all Americans. That is exactly what the RISE Act delivers. My bill restores the proven, bipartisan capital gains tax rate that encourages long-term investment in Main Street businesses and drives innovation across our country. With greater access to capital, startups can turn ideas into reality, small businesses will expand and hire, and hardworking Americans will have more opportunity and higher wages.”

    Rep. Steube said, “American businesses rely on investment to grow and thrive. Yet, our current tax code burdens entrepreneurs and startups by taxing federal long-term capital gains at nearly 24%, creating a costly barrier to investment. Investing in America should never be a high-risk, expensive gamble. True long-term prosperity and economic security start when Washington unlocks more capital for U.S. industries. Our bill will cap the federal long-term capital gains tax rate at 15%, empowering investors to fuel economic growth and create good-paying American jobs.”

    Background:
    The RISE Act would limit the capital gains tax rate to 15% for all Americans. This is the top rate that was in effect from 2003 to 2012 and has historically enjoyed bipartisan support. Currently, federal capital gains taxes reach nearly 24% when including the 3.8% Medicare surtax—nearly five percentage points above the OECD average. Combined with state taxes as high as 14%, America’s total rates significantly discourage the business investment needed for economic growth.

    High capital gains tax rates increase the cost of capital and reduce overall investment in the economy. When businesses receive more funding to grow, productivity and innovation increase—boosting wages, raising living standards, and keeping prices low for consumers.

    The RISE Act builds on bipartisan precedent: President Obama preserved the 15% top rate in 2010 with overwhelming Democratic support, President Bush lowered the top rate to 15% in 2003 and extended the rate in 2006, and President Clinton signed legislation in 1997 to reduce capital gains taxes with significant Democratic backing.

    The RISE Act is endorsed by the National Taxpayers Union, National Venture Capital Association, and Americans for Tax Reform.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Import Alerts for Certain Olympus Medical Devices Manufactured in Japan – Letter to Health Care Providers

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    June 24, 2025
    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is alerting health care providers about import alerts for certain medical devices manufactured in Japan by Olympus Medical Systems Corporation (Olympus) and its subsidiaries. Despite extensive and ongoing efforts to address compliance issues, FDA continues to have concerns related to outstanding Quality System regulation violations by Olympus. Therefore, the FDA has issued import alerts to prevent future shipments of certain devices from entering the United States, including specific models of:  

    Ureterorenoscopes, which are used to perform various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures within the urinary tract
    Bronchoscopes, which are used to perform various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the respiratory tract  
    Laparoscopes, which are used to perform various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the abdomen and pelvis  
    Automated endoscope reprocessors, which are used to reprocess various endoscopes

    Recommendations
    The FDA recommends that health care providers:

    Be aware of the FDA import alerts for certain medical devices manufactured in Japan by Olympus Medical Systems Corporation (Olympus) and its subsidiaries, under which the devices will be refused entry into the U.S.:

    Import Alert 89-04 for failure to meet quality system regulation requirements at Aizu, an Olympus manufacturing site in Japan

    Refer to the table below for model numbers and Unique Device Identifiers (UDI) for the devices included in the import alerts.

    Be aware that the import alert does not apply to related products (such as replacement parts, connectors, or single use consumables) used with the devices subject to import alert.  

    If you are currently using devices subject to the import alert, you may continue using these devices if you are not experiencing any problems with the devices.

    Follow the labeling and reprocessing instructions to properly clean and reprocess the devices, including accessory components.
    Do not use damaged devices or those that have failed a leak test, as they could be a potential source of contamination.
    Develop schedules for routine inspection and periodic maintenance in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

    Discuss the benefits and risks associated with procedures involving these devices with your patients. The FDA does not recommend that procedures be canceled or delayed without discussion of the benefits and risks between the health care provider and patient.
    Complete prompt reporting of adverse events to help us identify and better understand the risks associated with these devices.

    Background
    The FDA has issued warning letters and import alerts where the FDA has determined that certain facilities were not in compliance with current good manufacturing practice (CGMP) requirements and various reporting requirements, including for recalls that the FDA identified as the most serious type of recall.
    FDA Actions
    The FDA has taken several actions related to quality system requirements and compliance concerns with Olympus.  
    The FDA is continuing to engage with Olympus to accelerate corrective actions related to ongoing violations and minimize risk to patients, and may take further action as appropriate. FDA takes seriously its role in assuring patients that medical devices are safe and effective.
    The FDA will continue to keep health care providers and the public informed if new or additional information becomes available.
    Unique Device Identifier
    The FDA established the unique device identification system (UDI) to adequately identify medical devices sold in the United States from manufacturing through distribution to patient use.

    List of Olympus Devices Subject to Import Alert

    Device Name
    Version or Model
    Device Identifier (DI) Number

    Bronchofiberscope
    BF-PE2
    04953170062988; 04953170339974

    Bronchofiberscope
    BF-TE2
    04953170063008

    Bronchovideoscope
    BF-1T150
    04953170288968

    Bronchovideoscope
    BF-1TQ170
    04953170342943

    Bronchovideoscope
    BF-P150
    04953170288876; 04953170308178

    Bronchovideoscope
    BF-Q170
    04953170342912

    Endoeye Flex 3D Deflectable Videoscope
    LTF-190-10-3D
    04953170434938

    Endoeye Flex Deflectable Videoscope
    LTF-S190-5
    04953170310355

    Endoscope Reprocessor
    OER-PRO
    04953170258589

    Endoscope Reprocessor
    OER-MINI
    04953170331619

    Endoscope Reprocessor
    OER-Elite
    04953170404047

    Endoscope Reprocessor
    OER-AW
    Not Available

    Evis Exera Bronchofibervideoscope
    BF-MP160F
    04953170289064

    Evis Exera Bronchofibervideoscope
    BF-XP160F
    04953170340116

    Evis Exera Bronchovideoscope
    BF-3C160
    04953170340031

    Evis Exera Bronchovideoscope
    BF-XT160
    04953170340147

    Evis Exera II Bronchovideoscope
    BF-1T180
    04953170339325

    Evis Exera II Bronchovideoscope
    BF-1TQ180
    04953170339349

    Evis Exera II Bronchovideoscope
    BF-P180
    04953170339288

    Evis Exera II Bronchovideoscope
    BF-Q180
    04953170339301

    Evis Exera II Bronchovideoscope
    BF-Q180-AC
    04953170340086

    Evis Exera III Bronchofibervideoscope
    BF-MP190F
    04953170395581

    Evis Exera III Bronchovideoscope
    BF-P190
    04953170434983

    Evis Exera III Bronchovideoscope
    BF-XP190
    04953170342134

    Evis Exera Pleuravideoscope
    LTF-160
    04953170340284

    HD Endoeye Laparo-Thoraco Videoscope
    LTF-VH
    04953170287015

    Laparoscope
    LTF-V3
    Not Available

    Laparoscope
    LTF-VP
    Not Available

    Laparoscope
    LTF-VP-S
    Not Available

    OES Bronchofiberscope Olympus BF Type N20
    BF-N20
    04953170442667

    OES Bronchofiberscope
    BF-1T60
    04953170339264

    OES Bronchofiberscope
    BF-3C40
    04953170339219

    OES Bronchofiberscope
    BF-MP60
    04953170308277

    OES Bronchofiberscope
    BF-P60
    04953170339196

    OES Bronchofiberscope
    BF-XP60
    04953170339240

    OES Uretero-Reno Fiberscope
    URF-P5
    04953170340307

    Rhino-Laryngo Fiberscope
    ENF-P4
    04953170059032

    Rhino-Laryngo Videoscope
    ENF-V4
    04953170411380

    Rhino-Laryngo Videoscope
    ENF-VH2
    04953170411427

    Rhino-Laryngo Videoscope
    ENF-V3
    04953170411366

    Rhino-Laryngo Videoscope
    ENF-VH
    04953170411403

    Rhino-Laryngo Videoscope
    ENF-VQ
    04953170411441

    Rhino-Laryngo Videoscope
    ENF-VT2
    04953170411472

    Rhino-Laryngofiberscope
    ENF-XP
    04953170059018

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    Tracheal Intubation Fiberscope
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    Tracheal Intubation Fiberscope
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    Tracheal Intubation Fiberscope
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    Uretero-reno fiberscope
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    Uretero-Reno Fiberscope
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    Uretero-Reno Videoscope
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    Uretero-Reno Videoscope
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    Not Available

    Reporting Problems to the FDA
    The FDA encourages health care providers to report any adverse events or suspected adverse events experienced with medical devices manufactured by Olympus:

    By promptly reporting adverse events, you can help the FDA identify and better understand the risks associated with medical devices.
    Contact Information
    If you have questions about this letter, contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education (DICE).
    Additional Resources

    Content current as of:
    06/24/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Navigating Utility-Scale Energy Procurement Just Got Easier

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    A New NREL Tool Can Help Public and Private Energy Buyers Make Informed, Cost-Effective Decisions


    For commercial, industrial, academic, and public-sector organizations, navigating large-scale electricity procurement has never been more complex—or more critical.

    Developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the Procurement Analysis Tool (PAT) can help energy buyers cut through the complexity with data-driven insights tailored to their needs.

    PAT is a web-based platform that supports early-stage planning and screening for off-site electricity procurement. The free tool empowers users to explore and compare utility-scale energy options across the United States. With its guided interface, users don’t need to be energy experts to get started.

    With NREL’s new Procurement Analysis Tool, energy buyers can explore customized, utility-scale electricity options. Graphic by NREL

    “Our goal with PAT is to make it easy for organizations to understand their options—whether they’re new to the process or have years of experience,” said NREL analyst Jeff Cook, who co-led the development of the tool. “Its easy-to-use interface walks users through a series of questions and identifies actionable, cost-informed energy procurement strategies that reflect their operational needs and priorities.”

    PAT’s key features include:

    • Scenario planning: Run simulations across multiple sites to compare energy solutions.
    • Procurement options: Explore procurement options based on preferred load-serving entities.
    • Technology insights: Access data on energy technologies and resource regions. PAT currently includes renewable energy technologies but has the ability to accommodate any energy technology in the future.
    • Personalized results: Fine-tune your energy procurement options with filter questions to match your specific goals.
    • Downloadable resources: Export resources with technology details for your next steps.

    A Planning Edge for Energy Buyers Across the Market

    Large-scale electricity procurement can be daunting. For many organizations—especially local governments, public institutions, and commercial buyers—without in-house expertise or technical support, it can be difficult to understand which options are available regionally, what technologies make sense locally, and how different procurement strategies compare.

    “While a variety of mature tools are available for analyzing on-site energy options, there are very few tools available to evaluate off-site procurement options,” said NREL analyst Sushmita Jena, who co-led the development of the tool. “We built PAT not only to fill this gap but also to be as user-friendly as possible—ensuring it’s easy to understand and navigate.”

    Through a secure, self-service interface, users enter basic information about their facilities and energy use, along with a few key preferences. In return, the tool delivers customized recommendations based on real-world market data and user-specific priorities.

    Following its beta release in 2022, the NREL team improved PAT’s features based on broad stakeholder input, and the tool is already used by 180+ early adopters across counties, cities, and corporations. Its flexible design supports a wide range of potential users, including:

    • Commercial and industrial buyers
    • Federal, state, and local governments
    • Colleges, universities, and campuses 
    • Electric service providers
    • Regulators and public utility commissions.

    Technical Foundation, Practical Results

    PAT integrates several of NREL’s best-in-class datasets and modeling platforms, including the Annual Technology Baseline, Renewable Energy Supply Curves, Cambium, and the System Advisor Model. These tools provide the backbone for PAT’s regional cost estimates, resource assessments, and performance modeling.

    With this technical foundation, PAT enables users to explore practical questions such as:

    • What energy procurement options are available in my region?

      PAT shows options like power purchase agreements (PPAs) or utility programs available in a user’s location based on utility service areas and market structure.

    • How do energy procurement options align with my objectives?

      The tool matches energy options to user priorities such as cost, targets, and technology preferences.

    • How do different procurement strategies compare in cost and impact?

      The tool compares costs across technologies and procurement models to support informed decisions.

    Try PAT Today—and Attend an Upcoming Webinar To Learn More

    PAT is ready to help organizations take their first step toward informed electricity procurement. Visit the PAT website and create a free account to get started.

    Register now

    A free NREL webinar at 10 a.m. MT on July 22, 2025, will provide an overview of PAT’s features, walk through common use cases, and offer live Q&A with the development team.

    Learn more about NREL’s energy analysis research, and sign up for NREL’s energy analysis newsletter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Kurtz Fargo, Colorado’s Largest Locally Owned Firm, Expands in Durango

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DURANGO, Colo., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kurtz Fargo LLP, Colorado’s largest locally owned and Colorado-focused accounting firm, today announces the grand opening of its new office location in Durango. This further expansion outside of Boulder headquarters is part of their long-term strategic growth plan to continue establishing leadership across the state and nationwide.

    The modern, 2,476 square foot office is centrally located at 1140 Main Ave, Suite A, Durango, CO 81301. Its convenient downtown location integrates Kurtz Fargo in the community and ensures easy access for clients. A dedicated team of 10 seasoned professionals will staff the location, offering a comprehensive suite of accounting and advisory services tailored to support both local businesses and individuals. The Durango Chamber of Commerce officially welcomed Kurtz Fargo with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 5, 2025, celebrating the firm’s arrival in the local business community.

    Durango was chosen for this strategic expansion to better serve Kurtz Fargo’s expanding client base throughout the region and reinforce its robust presence across Colorado.

    “Durango’s dynamic economy, particularly its thriving small business sector, strong entrepreneurial spirit and supportive local environment, make it an ideal choice for our continued growth,” said Matt Fargo, CPA, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Kurtz Fargo. “We want to be a meaningful partner in local economic development, bringing our industry-leading accounting and advisory services closer to businesses and individuals in Durango and surrounding areas.”

    Local business leaders have voiced strong enthusiasm for Kurtz Fargo’s expanded presence in Southwest Colorado including Durango-based Agile Space Industries, an in-space propulsion solution provide. “Having Kurtz Fargo establish an office here is fantastic news for our community and for us as their client as they have been a great partner for Agile,” said Kris Schaa, Chief Financial Officer of Agile Space Industries. “Over the past three years they helped improve our financial reporting through their audit services. This has been a key component in our ability to scale. They are a great resource for our local business community.”

    Kurtz Fargo aims to offer a full range of services from its new Durango location, including tax planning and preparation, audit and assurance, and business consulting, tailored to meet the unique needs of the local market. The firm looks forward to becoming an integral part of the Durango community, contributing to its economic vitality and building lasting relationships.

    About Kurtz Fargo LLP:

    Founded in 2010 and based in Boulder, CO, Kurtz Fargo LLP is a certified public accounting firm offering professional assurance, tax, and advisory services. They specialize in serving emerging growth, small, and mid-sized businesses, combining agility with expertise to deliver customized financial strategies that drive results. The firm prides itself on building lasting partnerships and providing guidance to help businesses thrive. Kurtz Fargo was recognized as one of the Best Firms to Work For in 2024 by Accounting Today, and proudly celebrates its 15th anniversary in August 2025, marking a decade and a half of dedicated service and growth. Learn more at www.kurtzfargo.com and connect with Kurtz Fargo on LinkedIn.

    Contact:

    Rachel Weber

    Principal

    Comm Oddities

    rachel@commodditiesinc.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7545eaa-4ce8-4d28-9d0b-206f270a8bc3

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Video games can help trans players feel seen and safe. It all starts with design

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phoebe Toups Dugas, Associate Professor of Human-Centred Computing, Monash University

    Shano Liang

    There is a comfort in finding and being yourself. Video games offer opportunities for this comfort. They allow people to exist in safe spaces, to develop community, and to explore the self – as well as the potential self.

    Our recently published study explores how video games can elicit feelings of gender euphoria for transgender people. This could be a result of a player developing a connection with a character they feel represented by. Or, they may simply appreciate the experience of a world in which they exist as their actual gender.

    Far from just providing an escape, our research shows video games can play a major role in fostering inclusion for trans people, and in promoting the joy of being trans.

    Why gender euphoria matters

    Much of the discourse around transgender and gender diverse identities is damage-centred. People have come to understand transness through a medicalised lens that emphasises gender dysphoria.

    Gender “dysphoria” refers to a person’s feelings of disconnection and dissatisfaction with their experience of gender, whether it’s their body, how others treat them, or how they present themselves to the world. For further reading, we recommend The Gender Dysphoria Bible (an online community resource), or Susan Stryker’s book Transgender History.

    Gender “euphoria” refers to feelings of excitement, completeness and affirmation that come when someone truly experiences their gender identity. For cisgender people, gender euphoria is often unremarkable. But for transgender people, discovering this feeling – especially in a hostile world – can be profound and lifesaving.

    In Cyberpunk 2077, Claire’s car interior displays the trans pride flag, signalling to the player that her identity is not a secret, nor a source of shame.
    Michelle Cormier/Monash University, CC BY-SA

    While gender “euphoria” is an old term used by the trans community to understand the potential for happiness, researchers have only recently begun studying it.

    As a group of longtime gamers and trans people, we knew of many games that offered this experience to us. And as researchers and game designers, we had the tools to tease apart these games to understand what makes them meaningful.

    Our study contributes language and a framework for analysing gender euphoria in video games. We hope it will help with developing games that are more inclusive and meaningful for trans players.

    A reflexive thematic analysis

    We used a qualitative research method called reflexive thematic analysis, which involves drawing from one’s own experiences as a source of data that frames the analysis.

    We developed a list of games that were known for trans themes, and/or authored by trans designers, and/or which we had personally found comfort in playing. The list included both indie and mainstream games, such as Cyberpunk 2077, Anna Anthropy’s dys4ia, Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Celeste.

    While analysing the games, we looked at the art, narratives, choices offered to players, and how characters were represented.

    We also identified various “themes” relating to trans experiences which were common among the games. We organised these themes into the categories of design, dynamics and experiences, building on prior design theory.

    A three-pronged framework

    Design elements are what the game maker creates, such as the main story, or how you can manipulate a character. Certain games can be designed in a way that normalises transgender people, such as by offering a range of gender expressions for players, or by allowing trans identity disclosure during play.

    In the game Celeste, the trans pride flag behind Madeline’s computer, and the pill bottle beside her bed, are intentional design choices that help the player understand Madeline’s identity.
    Michelle Cormier/Monash University, CC BY-SA

    The dynamics of a game refer to how it unfolds as a result of the design and players’ decisions. Dynamics, for instance, might address how players come to discover a trans character, or how they might encounter pain and healing through the story.

    And experiences are the emotions players feel as a result of playing, such as the excitement of finishing a level, or sadness over the loss of a beloved character. For trans players, gender euphoric experiences centre on the self and how it relates to the broader world.

    Although it has some issues with trans representation, the game Cyberpunk 2077 is a good example for understanding how we sorted our themes into these three categories.

    The character Claire Russel is designed as a woman street racer, whose trans identity is not made explicit. The player’s interactions with Claire create certain dynamics, after which her character confides she is transgender. This offers the player the experience of having comfortable interactions with a transgender character, and of understanding how the character relates to the larger game world.

    During an emotionally charged scene, Claire speaks candidly to the player about her past.
    Michelle Cormier/Monash University, CC BY-SA

    Unexpectedly, we found expressions of pain (including gender dysphoria) were an important aspect of some of the trans-inclusive games we analysed.

    The games created gender euphoric experiences for players by acknowledging the painful parts of the transgender experience, and then providing opportunities to resolve or live through them.

    Moving towards trans-inclusivity

    Of course, there is more to do. While our reflexive analysis centred trans-femme experiences, there is a range of gender identities out there. More work is needed to see what other designs, dynamics and experiences should be on offer for trans players.

    Gender euphoria is a salve to the unnecessary pain the world brings to trans people. It is therefore a worthy design goal – not just in video games, but in all kinds of interactive systems.

    If we want trans joy in the world, we will have to design for it.

    Phoebe Toups Dugas is affiliated with Monash University and is undertaking volunteer work with Transgender Victoria.

    Michelle Cormier is affiliated with Monash University and is managing a community project for Transgender Victoria as a volunteer.

    – ref. Video games can help trans players feel seen and safe. It all starts with design – https://theconversation.com/video-games-can-help-trans-players-feel-seen-and-safe-it-all-starts-with-design-257901

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: The ancients also had to deal with a cost-of-living crisis. Here’s how they managed

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Konstantine Panegyres, Lecturer in Classics and Ancient History, The University of Western Australia

    Louis Le Brun, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

    Talk to anyone today, and they will probably have something to say about how expensive life has become. While the rate of inflation has slowed, prices for many goods and services are still much higher than pre-pandemic.

    Cost-of-living crises are not new. They have occurred at various times and places throughout the millennia.

    If we look at cost-of-living pressures in ancient Greek and Roman times and how people back then dealt with them, we can learn something about how to face our own issues.

    ‘The price of land has gone up’

    The cost of living was a conversation topic in antiquity, especially the price of land and food.

    The Roman writer Pliny the Younger (circa 61–113 CE) in one of his letters remarked to his friend about the rising cost of real estate:

    Have you heard that the price of land has gone up, particularly in the neighbourhood of Rome? The reason for the sudden increase in price has given rise to a good deal of discussion.

    The ancient Greek scholar Athenaeus, who lived in Naukratis, in Egypt, around 200 CE, wrote a long book called The Learned Banqueters, depicting a dinner party.

    The characters at this dinner party often complain about the price of food and goods. For example, one character complains about the price of fish:

    I don’t think I’ve ever seen fish more expensive. Poseidon, if you got 10% of what’s spent on them every day, you’d be far away the richest god there is!

    People often said that fish was exorbitantly expensive and thought fish sellers were trying to rip them off.

    In fact, the poet Antiphanes (circa 408–330 BCE) complained “there’s no group more abominable” than fish sellers and money lenders.

    How to lower costs?

    Ancient people were well aware that a cost-of-living crisis can cause political disturbances.

    As the Roman poet Lucan (39–65 CE) wrote:

    the causes of hatred and mainsprings of political popularity are determined by the price of food.

    So, how did ancient leaders deal with this sort of problem?

    One solution was for the ruler to cover the cost of inflation.

    For example, the Athenian statesman Demosthenes (384–322 BCE) mentions a problem with the price of grain that was solved by boosting imports:

    When grain earlier advanced in price and reached sixteen drachmae per medimnus, we imported more than ten thousand medimni of wheat, and measured it out at the normal price of five drachmae a medimnus.

    Alexander Severus helped trim the cost of meat.
    Creative commons, CC BY

    Another solution was to put extreme regulations on the market.

    For example, the Roman emperor Alexander Severus (ruled 222–235 CE) was once faced by a group of angry citizens.

    They demanded a reduction in the price of beef and pork, which had become unaffordable.

    Alexander Severus “did not proclaim a general reduction in prices”, says the anonymous biographer who recounts this anecdote. Instead, the emperor

    ordered that no one should slaughter a sow or a suckling pig, a cow, or a calf. In two years or even in little more than one year, there was such an abundance of pork and beef that while a pound previously cost eight minutili, the price of both these meats was reduced to two and even one per pound.

    The city is so expensive

    The Greek writer Plutarch of Chaeronea (46–119 CE) records a story about the famous philosopher Socrates (circa 470–399 BCE), who lived in Athens.

    One day, according to Plutarch, a friend of Socrates complained to him about “how expensive the city was”:

    Chian wine costs a mina, a purple robe three minae, a half-pint of honey five drachmas!

    In response, Socrates took his friend by the hand and told him to search for bargains or for cheaper items, saying:

    A sleeveless vest for ten drachmas! The city is cheap!

    Socrates’ point was that even in expensive times it’s still possible to find bargains to save money. You just have to look harder for them and lower your standard of living. It can be difficult to do that, but it’s necessary.

    Socrates also gave out employment advice for people who were struggling.

    According to Socrates’ friend, the historian Xenophon of Athens (430–350 BCE), when a poor veteran came to Socrates complaining about lack of money and asking how to cope with expenses, Socrates told him to

    take up some kind of work at once that will assure you a living when you get old.

    Socrates thought making sure you still have money when you
    are old is more important than fully enjoying your current job. You will likely have to put up with things you don’t like to achieve security.

    From ancient to modern

    Most ancient people would probably have said that during a cost-of-living crisis it’s best to be patient, live simply, and wait for better times to come.

    As Pliny the Younger (circa 61–113 CE) once wrote in one of his letters, “my income is small or precarious, but its deficiencies can be made up by simple living”.

    If politicians cannot solve the problems, then it is up to us to cope with them as best as we can.

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

    – ref. The ancients also had to deal with a cost-of-living crisis. Here’s how they managed – https://theconversation.com/the-ancients-also-had-to-deal-with-a-cost-of-living-crisis-heres-how-they-managed-257896

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI NGOs: IAEA Launches Management System Advisory Service to Support the Introduction of Nuclear Power, Conducts First Mission to Saudi Arabia

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    An IAEA team of experts visited the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to conduct the first IAEA Management Systems Advisory Service (IMSAS) mission. (Photo: DNEC).

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conducted its first-ever management systems advisory service in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from 19 to 22 May 2025.

    The IAEA Management Systems Advisory Service (IMSAS) was established to support newcomer countries in developing robust and effective nuclear infrastructure, in response to findings from the Agency’s Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) missions that highlighted inconsistencies in the implementation of management systems among countries embarking on new nuclear power programmes.

    As part of the IAEA’s broader commitment to support countries in introducing nuclear power in their energy mix, IMSAS helps nuclear organizations develop and maintain management systems appropriate to the current phase of the nuclear power programme. A management system is a set of interrelated or interacting elements — including organizational structure, responsibilities, resources, and processes — established to achieve organizational objectives in an efficient and effective manner.

    Saudi Arabia is embarking on a nuclear power programme as part of its strategy to transition towards a diversified energy sector and building national capabilities in advanced energy technologies, all as part of its Vision 2030. In support of this plan, Saudi Arabia is following the IAEA’s Milestones Approach and actively cooperates with the IAEA through a coordinated Integrated Workplan to support its nuclear infrastructure development.

    In November 2024, Duwayhin Nuclear Energy Company (DNEC), which is designated as the owner/operator for the first nuclear power plant, requested the IAEA to conduct the IMSAS mission to review whether the current management system in DNEC is appropriate and adequate to support its current and planned activities.

    During its review, the IMSAS team – comprised of four external experts from Hungary, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, as well as three IAEA staff members – reviewed documentation and conducted technical discussions with the DNEC in Riyadh.

    “The IMSAS team found that DNEC has a well-developed management system that effectively supports the organization in carrying out its current and future activities. We commend DNEC on the efforts undertaken to date to develop its management system, which will help support the safe and effective implementation Saudi Arabia’s nuclear power programme,” said Liliya Dulinets, Section Head of the IAEA Nuclear Infrastructure Development Section.

    In its draft final report, issued at the closing session, the mission team identified four good practices by DNEC. These included the development of its management system using a structured, project-based approach that ensures effective planning and coordination; the clear documentation of governance and management frameworks, which provides staff with a solid understanding of roles and responsibilities; and the transition to a fully electronic management system to enhance accessibility and usability.

    Two recommendations and four suggestions were also noted. These included opportunities for improvement related to enhancing the consistency of the management system documentation, formalizing the approach to process development, and elevating the level of ownership of the management system within the organization.

    “Our objective in requesting the mission was to have the IAEA conduct a cold-eye review of how we manage our day-to-day operations, particularly our management system,” said Khalid Al Gazlan, DNEC CEO. “The results of the mission were excellent, and the recommendations and suggestions provided will greatly support our continuous improvement efforts. We remain committed to cooperating with the IAEA through the Integrated Work Plan across all phases of our project, to ensure the establishment of a competent Owner-Operator; we thank the IAEA and the IMSAS team for this constructive and productive mission. This mission was a testament that the Kingdom is moving confidently towards building a sustainable civil nuclear program, supported by national competencies and strong international partnership.”

    The final mission report will be provided to DNEC within three months.

    About IMSAS

    IMSAS was established to support the review of management systems in countries embarking on new nuclear power programmes. It provides a structured approach for the self-assessment of the management systems of the regulatory body and owner/operator organization, as well as an independent review conducted by IAEA and international experts.

    IMSAS missions help organizations develop and maintain effective management systems consistent with the current phase of the nuclear power programme. It assists these organizations in aligning their management systems with IAEA standards and international good practices to support the implementation of current and planned activities. Additionally, IMSAS enables the identification of strengths and weaknesses through a combination of self-assessment and independent review, providing recommendations for improvement and highlighting good practices.

    The IAEA offers its Member States a wide array of review services. For the introduction of nuclear power, the Agency’s peer review service include, for example, the Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) and the Stakeholder Engagement Advisory Service for Nuclear Power Programmes (SEAS).

    MIL OSI NGO –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Daines, colleagues to Trump admin: New trade deals can benefit American farmers, energy producers and manufacturers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today joined Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Rep. Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) and 53 other lawmakers in sending a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick recognizing the Trump administration’s efforts to secure deals with foreign countries that level the playing field for American farmers, energy producers and manufacturers.

    The letter specifically highlights the momentum for engaging in trade negotiations that President Donald Trump’s 90-day pause on implementation of certain tariffs presents and notes the potential for agreements that lower trade barriers on American goods.

    “We write to you to express our strong support for ongoing trade negotiations to level the playing field for American producers and manufacturers. President Trump’s decision to pause the implementation of certain reciprocal tariffs creates momentum to secure meaningful and enforceable agreements for U.S. agricultural producers, energy producers, and manufacturers,” the lawmakers began.

    “International trade is fundamental to the continued success and vitality of U.S. industry, particularly agriculture. Many of the commodities grown in the U.S. are dependent on access to export markets, including grains, oilseeds, specialty crops, and livestock products,” they added.

    “Certain barriers may require long-term negotiations. However, we are confident in your ability to utilize this 90-day pause to come to agreements that can benefit all American industries while providing opportunity for continued dialogue,” the members of Congress continued.

    “We applaud the President for seeking to renew American leadership in global trade and secure meaningful market access for American industries. We look forward to working together on a trade policy agenda that strengthens American industry, agriculture, and rural communities,” they concluded. 

    Sens. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.) and 43 members of the House of Representatives also joined the letter.

    The full letter is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Making the UK the best place to do business: Modern Industrial Strategy set to deepen global collaboration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Making the UK the best place to do business: Modern Industrial Strategy set to deepen global collaboration

    • English
    • Español de América Latina

    Modern Industrial Strategy will make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business, delivering on the Plan for Change.

    UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy

    • Strategy developed in partnership with business, marking a new era of collaboration between government and high growth industries.
    • New Industrial Strategy to unlock billions in investment and support 1.1 million new well-paid jobs over the next decade. *New Global Talent Taskforce and £54m fund will attract world-class researchers, top talent and their teams to the UK.
    • Electricity costs for thousands of businesses to be slashed by up to 25%.

    The plan focuses on 8 high growth sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services and Life Sciences, where there is potential for faster growth.

    The modern Industrial Strategy unveiled today, Monday 23 June, sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business.

    It includes targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes:

    • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in growth sectors and foundational industries in their supply chain, bringing costs more closely in line with other major economies in Europe.

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. The includes an additional £4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors, crowding in billions more in private capital. By investing largely through venture funds, the BBB will back the UK’s most high-growth potential companies.

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce. The Taskforce and a £54m Global Talent Fund will support top talent to relocate to the UK.

    • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on our Industrial Strategy Partnership with Japan and recent deals with the US, India, and the EU.

    • Reducing planning timelines and cutting costs for developers, by hiring more planners, streamlining pre-application requirements and combining environmental obligations, removing burdens on businesses as well as accelerating house building. 

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.

    • Supporting the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more.

    • Upskilling the nation with an extra £1.2 billion each year for skills by 2028-29, and delivering more opportunities to learn and earn in our high-growth sectors including new short courses in relevant skills funded by the Growth and Skills Levy and skills packages targeted at defence digital and engineering.

    • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services. Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs. 

    Five sector plans have been published in tandem:

    Advanced Manufacturing

    Backing the Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.

    Clean Energy Industries

    Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion.

    Creative Industries

    Maximizing the value of the UK’s Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.

    Digital and Technologies

    Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme, £187 million for training one million young people in tech skills and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as cyber security in Northern Ireland, semiconductors in Wales and quantum technologies in Scotland. 

    Professional and Business Services

    Ensuring the UK’s Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long-term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the plan for change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Regarding the launch of the New Industrial Strategy, British Ambassador to Chile, Louise de Sousa, said:

    The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy is our ten-year plan to strengthen infrastructure, reduce costs for businesses and simplify regulation.

    With a highly skilled workforce and unrivalled global business connectivity, the UK provides an ideal location to scale, invest and grow business, by accessing the G7’s lowest corporation tax and a generous R&D tax.

    This being and internation strategy from the start, the plan will provide local businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators the stability and ease needed to make long-term investment decisions, which, in turn will help strengthening the already strong economic ties between UK and Chile.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on the UK Government’s Plan for Change.

    Further information

    If you want to know more about this matter, please contact the Communications Office.

    For more information about the activities of the British Embassy in Santiago, follow us on:

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    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: China calls on SCO member states to deepen cooperation in law enforcement and security

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong on Tuesday called on member countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to deepen practical cooperation in law enforcement and security and promote the building of a closer SCO community with a shared future.

    Wang Xiaohong made the relevant statements at the 20th meeting of the secretaries of the security councils of the SCO member states, where he delivered a keynote speech. The minister noted that China is ready to make a new, even greater contribution to security and stability in the region and around the world together with all member countries.

    Wang Xiaohong recalled that the Global Security Initiative put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping advocates a new type of security path that involves dialogue instead of confrontation, partnership instead of alliances, and win-win instead of zero-sum. China stands ready to actively implement this initiative together with all member states, fully promoting the “Shanghai spirit,” the minister emphasized.

    During the meeting, Wang Xiaohong put forward a five-point proposal, calling on SCO member states to, first, adhere to genuine multilateralism and propose solutions to global problems; second, stand together in both calm and dangerous times, and avoid interference from extra-regional forces; third, focus on common concerns and strengthen regional counter-terrorism capabilities; fourth, improve cooperation mechanisms and strengthen a common platform to combat new types of transnational crime; fifth, deepen exchanges and mutual learning, generating experience for building a human security community. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mongolia and Uzbekistan signed a package of documents on cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ULAN BATOR, June 24 (Xinhua) — Mongolia and Uzbekistan have signed a package of documents on further development of bilateral relations and cooperation, the press service of the President of Mongolia said on Tuesday.

    Documents, including a joint declaration on the establishment of comprehensive partnership relations between Mongolia and the Republic of Uzbekistan and a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the field of mineral resources, were signed in Ulaanbaatar.

    President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, accompanied by a high-ranking delegation, arrived in the capital of Mongolia on Tuesday afternoon for a two-day state visit at the invitation of Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh.

    This is the first state visit of the President of Uzbekistan to Mongolia since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1992. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Death toll in Iran from Israeli strikes exceeds 600 – Health Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 24 (Xinhua) — The death toll from Israeli strikes on Iranian territory over the past 12 days has reached 606, with 5,332 injured, Iranian Health Minister Mohammad Reza Zafarghandi said on Tuesday.

    He said the past 24 hours had seen “the most horrific attacks and acts of aggression” by Israel since the airstrikes began on June 13, killing 104 people and wounding 1,342.

    The Israeli Health Ministry has reported 28 deaths and 3,238 wounded on the Israeli side since the start of the conflict.

    On Monday evening, US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire between the two sides would go into effect on June 24 at around 04:00 GMT.

    Although Iran and Israel agreed to a ceasefire, within hours of it beginning both sides reported truce violations, vowing to strike back at each other. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran ready to resolve issues at negotiating table — president

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 24 (Xinhua) — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Tuesday that his country is ready to resolve issues within the international framework and at the negotiating table.

    According to a statement published on the website of the presidential office, M. Pezeshkian reported this during a telephone conversation with the President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

    According to M. Pezeshkian, Iran expects the UAE to convey to the US that the Islamic Republic is only seeking its legitimate rights and is in no way seeking to develop nuclear weapons.

    The President stressed that the Iranian side is capable of responding to Israeli attacks, while expressing hope that the ceasefire between Iran and Israel will be maintained.

    He also expressed his country’s readiness to deepen relations with the UAE and stressed the importance of regional stability.

    “We consider the people of the UAE and other countries in the region to be our brothers and respect the territorial integrity of all states. We believe that we will be able to develop the region exclusively through stability and peace, and, of course, in the absence of foreign interference,” M. Pezeshkian said.

    The UAE President, in turn, stated that self-defense is a natural right of all states, emphasizing that Iran, the UAE and other countries in the region will always remain neighbors to each other. “We must understand how we can guarantee a better future for our peoples through bilateral relations,” Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan noted.

    He expressed the UAE’s support for Iran in the face of current challenges. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Innovation-Driven Growth Gains Momentum: Report

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — The results of innovation-driven development are becoming more evident every day, and the strategy of driving development through innovation is gaining momentum, a State Council report said Tuesday.

    Beijing, Shanghai and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area have made remarkable progress in becoming international hubs for scientific and technological innovation, according to a report submitted by the State Council to the current session of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.

    In 2024, the integrated circuit industry saw rapid growth, with production increasing by 22.2 percent and its export value exceeding 1.1 trillion yuan (about 153 billion US dollars), reaching a historical high.

    The report states that new batches of high-tech domestically produced equipment have been put into operation, including high-power tractors with continuously variable transmission and large-capacity liquefied natural gas tankers.

    The report shows that China’s scientific, technological and industrial innovation are deeply integrated, and the country’s construction of a modernized industrial system is progressing at an accelerated pace.

    China has also made progress in promoting green and low-carbon development, with energy consumption per unit of GDP falling by more than 3 percent in 2024. The report emphasizes that China has created a good foundation and favorable conditions for cultivating productive forces of new quality. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Right Time, Right Skills

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Washington, DC – May 23rd was a busy day for Deputy U.S. Marshals Christopher Barton and Seth Howlett, assigned to the Eastern District of Texas – Beaumont Division. After successfully clearing three felony warrants in the morning, they came upon an accident on the Purple Heart Memorial Bridge near Jefferson County, Texas, and noticed traffic had just begun to slow.

    As they were driving by, the deputies noticed there was a man lying on the side of the highway with no law enforcement or medical services on the scene. The deputies immediately activated their emergency lights and pulled over to assess the situation.

    A motorcycle and SUV had been involved in an accident.  After exiting their vehicle and arriving at the motorcycle, the deputies noticed the motorcycle rider was unresponsive and had visible serious injuries, to include severe bleeding from his leg.

    “My main goal was to activate my emergency lights and get people away from that area to prevent additional accidents,” Barton said. “And then when we rolled up, clearly he had a compound fracture, so we were able to help.”

    “Initially, it appeared that there wasn’t much we could do for him; it was pretty bad. You could just tell from looking at him,” Howlett said.

    The deputies jumped into action, accessing their modified individual first aid kit and swiftly applying a tourniquet to the upper portion of the rider’s leg that was afflicted with the compound fracture – effectively stopping the bleeding.

    As the rider regained consciousness, he was immediately reassured by deputies Barton and Howlett that he was in good hands.

    Due to the gridlocked traffic on the bridge because of the accident, the responding emergency medical team was delayed. 

    “There just wasn’t anybody out on the scene. So, we were just trying hold the line until more support arrived,” Barton said. “Thankfully, we were able to help. He’s very, very lucky to be alive.”

    While Deputy Howlett stayed with the rider, offering continued encouragement, Deputy Barton ran to the ambulance and relayed the critical situation to the EMTs, who rushed a backboard to the injured rider.

    Deputies later learned the individual was airlifted from the scene to a level one trauma center and underwent multiple surgeries for two broken legs, two broken arms, a broken collar bone, broken ribs, a broken nose, and a broken pelvis. 

    “I’m not going to say the tourniquet saved his life, but I am sure he needed every drop of blood to help get himself healed,” Barton said. “I’m just happy for him and his family that he’s still around.”

    For Barton, years of work with the Bureau of Prisons combined with the USMS training allowed him to act quickly.

    “I worked for the Federal Bureau of Prisons for 21 years, responded to a lot of stabbings and serious assaults,” Barton said. “So, there’s been times where I’ve had to apply direct pressure to open wounds that are profusely bleeding, conduct CPR chest compressions and things of that nature.”

    Both men have responded to accidents or people in distress before, for Howlett, he said his muscle memory from training at the USMS Academy kicked in. 

    “What they say at the Academy all the time is, ‘You don’t rise to the occasion, you fall back to the level of training that you have,’” Howlett said. “We should always set the bar of our training to the highest point possible, so that whenever we get into the stressful situation, it becomes instinctual.”

    Howlett joined USMS last year and says there is a responsibility that comes with being a public servant.

    “We are public servants at the end of the day, whether we’re law enforcement officers, although we don’t wear necessarily a uniform or drive a marked police vehicle, we are public servants, and we have a duty to the public to help, to serve, and to protect, and so I take that very seriously,” Howlett said.

    For Barton, this dedication to serve is attributed to the fact that everyone is human.

    “I would also encourage people not to lose sight of their humanity.  Everyone is somebody’s family member, right?” Barton said “We’re all human first. I don’t care who you are, what your pay grade is, we are all human.”

    This incident is an example of one of many law enforcement professionals and Deputy U.S. Marshals quietly respond to, day in and day out, serving their communities.

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp, Inc. to Expand Southwest Presence and Enter Texas by Acquisition of Guaranty Bancshares, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KALISPELL, Mont. and MOUNT PLEASANT, Texas, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (“Glacier” or the “Company”) (NYSE: GBCI) and Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. (“Guaranty”) (NYSE: GNTY), the bank holding company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A., a leading community bank headquartered in Mount Pleasant, Texas, today jointly announced the signing of a definitive agreement, pursuant to which Glacier will acquire Guaranty in an all-stock transaction. The acquisition marks Glacier’s 27th bank acquisition since 2000 and its 13th announced transaction in the past 10 years. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty had total assets of $3.2 billion, total gross loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    The boards of Glacier and Guaranty unanimously approved the transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, Guaranty shareholder approval, and other customary conditions of closing. The definitive agreement provides that upon closing of the transaction, Guaranty shareholders are to receive 1.0000 share of Glacier stock for each Guaranty share (subject to adjustment under certain circumstances). Based on the closing price of $41.58 for Glacier shares on June 23, 2025, the transaction would result in aggregate consideration of $476.2 million (inclusive of the value to Guaranty stock options) and value of $41.58 per Guaranty share. Upon closing of the transaction, which is anticipated to take place in the fourth quarter of 2025, Guaranty Bank & Trust will operate as a new banking division under the name “Guaranty Bank & Trust, Division of Glacier Bank,” representing Glacier’s 18th separate bank division.

    “We are thrilled to add Guaranty Bank & Trust to the Glacier family of banks as a new banking Division,” said Randy Chesler, Glacier’s President and CEO. “This is a compelling opportunity to further expand our presence in the Southwest. Guaranty fits strategically and culturally within the unique Glacier business model and will allow us to enter a complementary state with an exceptional demographic profile, strong growth prospects, and a business-friendly operating environment. The Texas economy is estimated to be worth $2.7 trillion, and if Texas were an independent country, its economy would be the 8th largest in the world.” Chesler also noted that “This acquisition continues our long history of consistently adding high quality community banks to our proven banking model and we are very enthusiastic about the future opportunities this partnership will provide.”

    “Guaranty Bank & Trust has a 100+ year history of doing business in the State of Texas, and we are pleased to find a partner that emphasizes the relationship banking model that has been core to our success over many decades and through many business cycles,” said Ty Abston, Guaranty’s Chairman and CEO. “The opportunity to join Glacier Bancorp, which is a family of community banks that collectively share our banking philosophy, culture and character, was a perfect opportunity to position Guaranty Bank & Trust for the future. We will continue to grow and invest in our communities and our customers will be dealing with the same familiar faces, led by the same management team, in each of our markets. This partnership gives Guaranty added strength, with the support of a larger balance sheet and the resources to invest in the latest technologies and products to serve our existing and future customers. We are excited to join the Glacier family of banks and look forward to the opportunities and benefits this combination will bring to our clients, employees, communities and shareholders.”

    Glacier management will review additional information regarding the transaction on a conference call beginning at 7:00 a.m. Mountain Time on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.

    Investors who would like to join the call may now register by following this link to obtain dial-in instructions: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIdfefa202793d4cf9b9b8d5068cef9318

    To participate via the webcast, log on to: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/n3vugmow

    If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be archived on our website, www.glacierbancorp.com.

    A slide presentation to accompany management’s commentary may be accessed from Glacier’s June 24, 2025, Form 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) or at https://www.glacierbancorp.com/news-market-information/annual-reports-presentations.

    Glacier was advised in the transaction by Stephens Inc. as financial advisor and Miller Nash LLP as legal counsel. Guaranty was advised by Keefe Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company as financial advisor and Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP as legal counsel.

    About Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its bank divisions: Altabank (American Fork, UT), Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).
    Visit Glacier’s website at www.glacierbancorp.com.

    About Guaranty Bancshares

    Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. is the parent company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A. and has 33 banking locations across 26 Texas communities located within the East Texas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and Central Texas regions of the state. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. had total assets of $3.2 billion, total loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    Visit Guaranty’s website at www.gnty.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “estimate,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “will,” and similar references to future periods. Such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the expected closing of the transaction and its timing and the potential benefits of the business combination transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts regarding either company or the proposed combination of the companies. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected, including but not limited to the following: risks that the proposed merger transaction will not close when expected or at all because required regulatory, shareholder or other approvals or conditions to closing are delayed or not received or satisfied on a timely basis or at all; risks that the benefits from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected, including as a result of changes in general economic and market conditions, interest and exchange rates, monetary policy, laws and regulations and their enforcement, and the degree of competition in the geographic and business areas in which Glacier and Guaranty operate; uncertainties regarding the ability of Glacier Bank and Guaranty Bank & Trust to promptly and effectively integrate their businesses, including into Glacier Bank’s existing division structure; changes in business and operational strategies that may occur between signing and closing; uncertainties regarding the reaction to the proposed transaction of the companies’ respective customers, employees, and contractual counterparties; and risks relating to the diversion of management time on merger-related issues. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. Glacier undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update the forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this report. For more information, see the risk factors described in Glacier’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the SEC.

    Important Information and Where You Can Find It

    This communication relates to the proposed merger transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval.

    In connection with the proposed merger transaction, Glacier expects to file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) that will include a Preliminary Proxy Statement of Guaranty and a Preliminary Prospectus of Glacier, as well as other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Guaranty will mail a Definitive Proxy Statement/Prospectus to its shareholders. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus or Registration Statement or for any other document that Glacier or Guaranty may file with the SEC and send to Guaranty’s shareholders in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Shareholders of Guaranty are urged to read carefully the Registration Statement and accompanying Proxy Statement/Prospectus regarding the proposed merger transaction when it becomes available and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information.

    Free copies of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement, as well as other filings containing information about Glacier, Guaranty, and the proposed transaction, may be obtained at the SEC’s Internet site (http://www.sec.gov). You will also be able to obtain these documents, free of charge, from Glacier at www.glacierbancorp.com under the tab “SEC Filings” and in the “Investors” section of GNTY’s website, www.gnty.com, under the heading “Financial Information – SEC Filings” or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Glacier at: Glacier Bancorp, Inc., 49 Commons Loop, Kalispell, Montana 59901, ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (406) 751-7706 or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Guaranty at: Guaranty Bancshares, Inc., 16475 Dallas Parkway, Suite 600, Addison, Texas 75001 ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (888) 572,9881.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    GBCI and GNTY and certain of their directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of GNTY in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of GBCI is set forth in the proxy statement for GBCI’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 12, 2025. Information about the directors and executive officers of GNTY is set forth in the proxy statement for Guaranty’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 31, 2025. Additional information regarding the interests of those participants and other persons who may be deemed participants may be obtained by reading the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement and other relevant documents regarding the proposed merger transaction filed with the SEC when they become available. Copies of these documents may be obtained free of charge from the sources described above.

    CONTACT: Randall M. Chesler
    (406) 751-4722

    Ron J. Copher
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp, Inc. to Expand Southwest Presence and Enter Texas by Acquisition of Guaranty Bancshares, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KALISPELL, Mont. and MOUNT PLEASANT, Texas, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (“Glacier” or the “Company”) (NYSE: GBCI) and Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. (“Guaranty”) (NYSE: GNTY), the bank holding company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A., a leading community bank headquartered in Mount Pleasant, Texas, today jointly announced the signing of a definitive agreement, pursuant to which Glacier will acquire Guaranty in an all-stock transaction. The acquisition marks Glacier’s 27th bank acquisition since 2000 and its 13th announced transaction in the past 10 years. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty had total assets of $3.2 billion, total gross loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    The boards of Glacier and Guaranty unanimously approved the transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, Guaranty shareholder approval, and other customary conditions of closing. The definitive agreement provides that upon closing of the transaction, Guaranty shareholders are to receive 1.0000 share of Glacier stock for each Guaranty share (subject to adjustment under certain circumstances). Based on the closing price of $41.58 for Glacier shares on June 23, 2025, the transaction would result in aggregate consideration of $476.2 million (inclusive of the value to Guaranty stock options) and value of $41.58 per Guaranty share. Upon closing of the transaction, which is anticipated to take place in the fourth quarter of 2025, Guaranty Bank & Trust will operate as a new banking division under the name “Guaranty Bank & Trust, Division of Glacier Bank,” representing Glacier’s 18th separate bank division.

    “We are thrilled to add Guaranty Bank & Trust to the Glacier family of banks as a new banking Division,” said Randy Chesler, Glacier’s President and CEO. “This is a compelling opportunity to further expand our presence in the Southwest. Guaranty fits strategically and culturally within the unique Glacier business model and will allow us to enter a complementary state with an exceptional demographic profile, strong growth prospects, and a business-friendly operating environment. The Texas economy is estimated to be worth $2.7 trillion, and if Texas were an independent country, its economy would be the 8th largest in the world.” Chesler also noted that “This acquisition continues our long history of consistently adding high quality community banks to our proven banking model and we are very enthusiastic about the future opportunities this partnership will provide.”

    “Guaranty Bank & Trust has a 100+ year history of doing business in the State of Texas, and we are pleased to find a partner that emphasizes the relationship banking model that has been core to our success over many decades and through many business cycles,” said Ty Abston, Guaranty’s Chairman and CEO. “The opportunity to join Glacier Bancorp, which is a family of community banks that collectively share our banking philosophy, culture and character, was a perfect opportunity to position Guaranty Bank & Trust for the future. We will continue to grow and invest in our communities and our customers will be dealing with the same familiar faces, led by the same management team, in each of our markets. This partnership gives Guaranty added strength, with the support of a larger balance sheet and the resources to invest in the latest technologies and products to serve our existing and future customers. We are excited to join the Glacier family of banks and look forward to the opportunities and benefits this combination will bring to our clients, employees, communities and shareholders.”

    Glacier management will review additional information regarding the transaction on a conference call beginning at 7:00 a.m. Mountain Time on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.

    Investors who would like to join the call may now register by following this link to obtain dial-in instructions: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIdfefa202793d4cf9b9b8d5068cef9318

    To participate via the webcast, log on to: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/n3vugmow

    If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be archived on our website, www.glacierbancorp.com.

    A slide presentation to accompany management’s commentary may be accessed from Glacier’s June 24, 2025, Form 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) or at https://www.glacierbancorp.com/news-market-information/annual-reports-presentations.

    Glacier was advised in the transaction by Stephens Inc. as financial advisor and Miller Nash LLP as legal counsel. Guaranty was advised by Keefe Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company as financial advisor and Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP as legal counsel.

    About Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its bank divisions: Altabank (American Fork, UT), Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).
    Visit Glacier’s website at www.glacierbancorp.com.

    About Guaranty Bancshares

    Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. is the parent company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A. and has 33 banking locations across 26 Texas communities located within the East Texas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and Central Texas regions of the state. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. had total assets of $3.2 billion, total loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    Visit Guaranty’s website at www.gnty.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “estimate,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “will,” and similar references to future periods. Such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the expected closing of the transaction and its timing and the potential benefits of the business combination transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts regarding either company or the proposed combination of the companies. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected, including but not limited to the following: risks that the proposed merger transaction will not close when expected or at all because required regulatory, shareholder or other approvals or conditions to closing are delayed or not received or satisfied on a timely basis or at all; risks that the benefits from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected, including as a result of changes in general economic and market conditions, interest and exchange rates, monetary policy, laws and regulations and their enforcement, and the degree of competition in the geographic and business areas in which Glacier and Guaranty operate; uncertainties regarding the ability of Glacier Bank and Guaranty Bank & Trust to promptly and effectively integrate their businesses, including into Glacier Bank’s existing division structure; changes in business and operational strategies that may occur between signing and closing; uncertainties regarding the reaction to the proposed transaction of the companies’ respective customers, employees, and contractual counterparties; and risks relating to the diversion of management time on merger-related issues. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. Glacier undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update the forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this report. For more information, see the risk factors described in Glacier’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the SEC.

    Important Information and Where You Can Find It

    This communication relates to the proposed merger transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval.

    In connection with the proposed merger transaction, Glacier expects to file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) that will include a Preliminary Proxy Statement of Guaranty and a Preliminary Prospectus of Glacier, as well as other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Guaranty will mail a Definitive Proxy Statement/Prospectus to its shareholders. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus or Registration Statement or for any other document that Glacier or Guaranty may file with the SEC and send to Guaranty’s shareholders in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Shareholders of Guaranty are urged to read carefully the Registration Statement and accompanying Proxy Statement/Prospectus regarding the proposed merger transaction when it becomes available and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information.

    Free copies of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement, as well as other filings containing information about Glacier, Guaranty, and the proposed transaction, may be obtained at the SEC’s Internet site (http://www.sec.gov). You will also be able to obtain these documents, free of charge, from Glacier at www.glacierbancorp.com under the tab “SEC Filings” and in the “Investors” section of GNTY’s website, www.gnty.com, under the heading “Financial Information – SEC Filings” or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Glacier at: Glacier Bancorp, Inc., 49 Commons Loop, Kalispell, Montana 59901, ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (406) 751-7706 or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Guaranty at: Guaranty Bancshares, Inc., 16475 Dallas Parkway, Suite 600, Addison, Texas 75001 ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (888) 572,9881.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    GBCI and GNTY and certain of their directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of GNTY in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of GBCI is set forth in the proxy statement for GBCI’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 12, 2025. Information about the directors and executive officers of GNTY is set forth in the proxy statement for Guaranty’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 31, 2025. Additional information regarding the interests of those participants and other persons who may be deemed participants may be obtained by reading the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement and other relevant documents regarding the proposed merger transaction filed with the SEC when they become available. Copies of these documents may be obtained free of charge from the sources described above.

    CONTACT: Randall M. Chesler
    (406) 751-4722

    Ron J. Copher
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network –

    June 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Carlisle Man Indicted for Arson

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that John Petonyak, age 46, of Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was charged on June 18, 2025, by a federal grand jury with two counts of arson.  

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on August 11, 2021, Petonyak maliciously set fire to materials associated with two buildings in Carlisle:  The Gingerbread Man, located on S. Court House Avenue; and the Faye’s Kitchen, located on S. Hanover Street.   

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Carlisle Police Department; and the Pennsylvania State Police.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Ford is prosecuting the case.

    Petonyak faces a maximum penalty of 40 years imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.  A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

    Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

    June 25, 2025
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