NewzIntel.com

Category: Agriculture

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaMalfa Reintroduces the Protecting Children from Experimentation Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—This week, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) reintroduced the Protecting Children from Experimentation Act, legislation that prohibits doctors from performing gender reassignment procedures on minors. The bill is designed to protect children from irreversible medical interventions that carry serious, lifelong consequences.

    “Vulnerable kids are being deceived into surgeries or life-altering drugs they shouldn’t even have to contemplate,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “Minors shouldn’t be making permanent decisions to alter their bodies, and adults, especially in the medical field, have no business coercing them into it. Let kids be kids. This isn’t compassionate care, it’s irreversible harm. When adults lead children down this path, that’s not medicine. It’s abuse, and they should be held accountable.”

    Under the bill, doctors who knowingly perform gender reassignment procedures on minors would face civil and criminal penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment. Additionally, the person who underwent the procedure as a minor would have the right to bring civil action against the provider. The legislation includes clear exceptions for children born with medically verifiable sex development disorders.

    The Protecting Children from Experimentation Act was previously introduced in both the 117th and 118th Congress and continues to build on growing concerns among parents, medical professionals, and lawmakers about the long-term harms of subjecting minors to unproven and irreversible procedures.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Ocean-friendly changes on Chinese island bring double benefits – ecological and economic

    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

    HANGZHOU, June 8 (Xinhua) — On a beach in Taizhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, 68-year-old Wang Zhongfu bends down to pick up discarded plastic bottles and torn fishing nets.

    Wang Zhongfu is one of thousands of participants in the Blue Circle marine plastic recycling program, which launched in 2020 and uses blockchain and the Internet of Things to track the full life cycle of marine plastic waste, from collection to remanufacturing and resale.

    The Blue Circle program, developed by the Zhejiang Provincial Bureau of Ecology and Environment and Zhejiang Lanjing Technology Co., Ltd., is the largest of its kind in the country.

    In 2023, the program won the United Nations /UN/ Champions of the Earth 2023 Award for Entrepreneurial Vision for its efforts to combat marine plastic pollution. According to the UN Environment Programme, the award is the UN’s highest environmental honour.

    “We are reducing the amount of plastic waste in the ocean and helping people earn extra income from collecting trash,” said Kong Chen, who runs the Blue Circle plastic waste collection station, known as Little Blue Home, located on Dachen Island, about 29 nautical miles off the coast of Taizhou. He noted that the station has removed more than 20 tons of marine waste in 2024.

    Blue Circle pays 0.20 yuan (almost 3 US cents) for each plastic bottle collected, a price several times higher than the market average, in an effort to supplement the incomes of many local residents.

    “This initiative motivates people to participate in environmental protection and increase their income. People who fish can consciously collect plastic waste while working in the sea,” said Kong Chen, noting that participants like Wang Zhongfu can earn about 1,000 yuan a month this way.

    People can trace the path of recycled plastic by scanning QR codes on products such as car parts, suitcases and phone cases made from certified ocean-bound plastic. Plastic waste is cleaned and processed into pellets for industrial use at Veolia Huafei Polymer Technology /Zhejiang/ Co., Ltd.’s plant in Anji County, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province.

    “Since 2022, we have recycled tens of millions of plastic bottles collected through the Blue Circle program,” said Fu Xianwei, the company’s chief operating officer. He added that certified marine plastic pellets can sell for more than 1.3 times the price of regular recycled plastic, and products made from these pellets have higher added value.

    “Once fishermen make a profit and businesses are motivated, marine plastic waste management enters a virtuous cycle,” said Ye Zongsen, an official with the Jiaojiang District branch of Taizhou City’s Ecology and Environment Bureau.

    The initiative has expanded to all coastal areas of Zhejiang, and to date, about 1,360 residents, 10,000 vessels and seven recycling companies have joined in. In Zhejiang alone, the program has collected 15,000 tons of marine waste, including more than 2,900 tons of plastic waste. It has also expanded to seven other provinces, including China’s southernmost island province of Hainan.

    Dachen Island in Jiaojiang District is a model of green development. Dozens of wind turbines on the island’s mountain ridge generate an average of 60 million kWh of electricity per year, five times the island’s consumption, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 45,000 tons.

    Excess electricity is sent to the mainland via undersea power cables, according to Jiang Weijian, director of the Dachen power station of State Grid Zhejiang Power Co.

    Green energy has led to many changes, including all-electric buses, electric oxygen and ice production in fisheries, and the gradual introduction of electric stoves in guest houses on the island.

    In addition, thanks to Dachen’s low-carbon solid waste treatment plant and sewage treatment plant, the proportion of high-quality water in coastal areas has reached 98%.

    As the island’s environment improves, tourism is booming. Last year, Dachen welcomed 200,000 tourists and earned 170 million yuan in revenue.

    “As the situation improves, our hotel business is booming,” said Dachen resident Kong Qinglei, who opened his business on the island in 2020. In 2024, his revenue exceeded 1 million yuan.

    The island also benefits from its marine resources. The island, famous for its pink salmon plantations, has 14 pink salmon farms, and its output reached 10,005 tons last year, worth more than 1.1 billion yuan. The fishing industry has created jobs for nearly 300 people.

    Local authorities are currently encouraging the development of the sea travel and souvenir industry. Some guest house owners are even combining their business with yellow croaker farming.

    The island is also a pioneer in trading “blue carbon” and forest carbon. “The funds were channeled into a common prosperity fund to protect the marine environment, as well as for the island’s marine farmers and residents,” said Yang Haifei, a spokesman for the island’s administration. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eating wild meat carries serious health risks – why it still happens along the Kenya-Tanzania border

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ekta Patel, Scientist, International Livestock Research Institute

    Pastoralist communities, their livestock and diverse wildlife species coexist within a biodiversity-rich landscape stretching along the Kenya–Tanzania border.

    However, at this wildlife-livestock interface, local communities face mounting challenges. Shifts in land use, prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall patterns and increasing land degradation are placing growing pressure on the landscape. In addition, conflict between people and wildlife is on the rise, and many households rely on wild animals for food.

    Communities in the region eat a wide range of wild animals, from rodents, elephant shrews and birds to small antelopes and larger ungulates like bushbuck. This meat (“bush meat” as it is also popularly known in Africa) provides a valuable source of animal protein and minerals, especially where alternative domestic protein sources are scarce.

    Although hunting and consuming wild animals is illegal in Kenya, this is not the case in Tanzania, where certain forms of hunting for wild animals are permitted. Yet in both countries, many people eat wild meat regularly, often without awareness of the risks. These risks include zoonotic disease transmission and potential impacts on wildlife populations.

    Wild meat is a known source of zoonotic infections and disease spillover to humans. In fact, as many as three-quarters of emerging infectious diseases originate from wildlife. Illnesses such as anthrax, mpox, Ebola, and HIV have all been linked to close interactions between humans and wild animals.

    Despite these risks, wild meat consumption remains widespread, with some households eating it daily or weekly. Preventing future disease outbreaks requires a clear understanding of these health risks, as well as the underlying social, cultural and economic reasons that drive people to rely on wild meat.

    We set out to understand why people were eating wild meat along the Kenya-Tanzania border and whether they understood the risks of zoonotic diseases. Cases of anthrax have already been reported in this area.

    Our study involved interviews in border communities during the COVID pandemic – the most famous case of zoonotic disease transmission in recent times. We wanted to know whether communities understood the pandemic’s link to wild meat and if this affected their consumption of it.

    What stood out was that people at the border settlements kept eating wild meat or even ate more of it. This shows that economic necessity, cultural preferences and limited alternatives remain key drivers even when the world is in crisis.

    Though this research was done during COVID-19, it gives us insights into how people react when things get tough, especially when it comes to food and health.

    What’s driving wild meat consumption

    We found that several factors drove wild meat consumption, despite growing awareness of the health risks.

    Poverty

    Economic factors, particularly household income and limited financial means, strongly influenced wild meat consumption, particularly in communities with limited alternative protein sources. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on local economies. Tourism, a key source of income for border communities, experienced sharp declines. As household revenues fell, reliance on wild meat as an affordable protein source increased.

    Economic stability plays a crucial role in shaping consumption behaviours: 81% of those surveyed at the border settlements indicated they would stop eating wild meat if cheaper alternatives were available.

    The type of animal

    Perceptions of disease risks varied depending on the species consumed.

    Approximately 79% of respondents believed that certain animals posed a higher risks of zoonotic disease transmission. Hyenas were perceived as the most dangerous, followed by primates and snakes. These findings suggest that while economic necessity influences wild meat consumption, risk perception also shapes dietary choices.

    Gender plays a role

    Men expressed more concern over conservation and health risks than women. Men were also more likely to advocate against selling wild meat. Women exhibited lower concern regarding zoonotic disease risks, including COVID-19. These insights highlight the need for gender-sensitive interventions to address wild meat consumption.

    Education levels

    Education levels also influenced risk perception. Respondents with formal education displayed a stronger awareness of zoonotic transmission pathways. They were also more receptive to conservation and public health messaging. This highlights the importance of education in promoting safer and more sustainable practices within communities.

    National policies

    Despite sharing ecosystems and wildlife populations, Kenya and Tanzania have adopted fundamentally different governance approaches to wild meat. This in turn shapes outcomes for conservation, biodiversity and public health.

    Kenya follows a centralised and protectionist model. Hunting and consumption of wild animals are prohibited under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act. This zero-tolerance policy is rooted in strong conservation principles aimed at protecting biodiversity.

    However, in practice, it has driven the activity underground, creating a thriving black market. This undermines conservation and enforcement efforts. It also increases the risk of zoonotic disease transmission due to unregulated handling and consumption of wild animals.

    Tanzania, by contrast, uses a decentralised, regulated slaughterhouse model. Licensed wild meat hunting and consumption is legal under regulation, particularly through game-controlled areas and permits introduced in 2020. This approach is meant to enable communities to benefit economically from wildlife and reduce incentives for illegal hunting.

    The existence of two divergent systems across a porous border creates challenges. These include illegal cross-border trade, conflicting conservation objectives, and uneven protection of biodiversity. There are also difficulties in implementing coordinated surveillance or public health interventions.

    The contrasting regulations in Kenya and Tanzania significantly influence wild meat consumption choices.

    In Kenya, where wild meat is strictly prohibited, consumption appears to be through informal and unregulated channels. This increases health risks and limits consumer awareness. In contrast, Tanzania’s regulated licensing system provides a legal pathway for access. This makes wild meat consumption more visible and, in some cases, perceived as safer. These differing policies shape how communities access, justify and engage with wild meat, often driving cross-border trade and complicating enforcement and risk communication efforts.

    What’s next?

    Addressing the risks associated with wild meat trade requires a multifaceted strategy that balances health, equity and sustainability.

    We suggest an intervention that prioritises economic stability and ensuring affordable alternative protein sources are accessible, especially in food-insecure settings.

    Public health education is also essential. An increasing awareness of zoonotic disease risks can help shift consumption behaviour.

    Because men and women perceived the dangers of wild meat consumption differently, gender-sensitive approaches should be integrated. It should also be noted that, although women are rarely the primary hunters, they are often prosecuted for possession or sale of wild meat. Gender disparities on how laws are applied must be addressed.

    Legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms must be strengthened to address cross-border wildlife trade, particularly in regions with differing policies like Kenya and Tanzania. They should also reduce the risks faced by individuals who may unknowingly engage in illegal practices due to a lack of clarity.

    We continue to work with national and regional stakeholders. This includes government bodies and technical partners who are actively engaging with us to co-develop One Health solutions. These solutions integrate public health, environmental sustainability and community well-being.

    Finally, community engagement and participation should be at the core of any intervention. This will ensure that policies are locally relevant, culturally sensitive and supported by those directly affected to reduce the risks of zoonotic disease spillover.

    – Eating wild meat carries serious health risks – why it still happens along the Kenya-Tanzania border
    – https://theconversation.com/eating-wild-meat-carries-serious-health-risks-why-it-still-happens-along-the-kenya-tanzania-border-252947

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Eating wild meat carries serious health risks – why it still happens along the Kenya-Tanzania border

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Ekta Patel, Scientist, International Livestock Research Institute

    Pastoralist communities, their livestock and diverse wildlife species coexist within a biodiversity-rich landscape stretching along the Kenya–Tanzania border.

    However, at this wildlife-livestock interface, local communities face mounting challenges. Shifts in land use, prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall patterns and increasing land degradation are placing growing pressure on the landscape. In addition, conflict between people and wildlife is on the rise, and many households rely on wild animals for food.

    Communities in the region eat a wide range of wild animals, from rodents, elephant shrews and birds to small antelopes and larger ungulates like bushbuck. This meat (“bush meat” as it is also popularly known in Africa) provides a valuable source of animal protein and minerals, especially where alternative domestic protein sources are scarce.

    Although hunting and consuming wild animals is illegal in Kenya, this is not the case in Tanzania, where certain forms of hunting for wild animals are permitted. Yet in both countries, many people eat wild meat regularly, often without awareness of the risks. These risks include zoonotic disease transmission and potential impacts on wildlife populations.

    Wild meat is a known source of zoonotic infections and disease spillover to humans. In fact, as many as three-quarters of emerging infectious diseases originate from wildlife. Illnesses such as anthrax, mpox, Ebola, and HIV have all been linked to close interactions between humans and wild animals.

    Despite these risks, wild meat consumption remains widespread, with some households eating it daily or weekly. Preventing future disease outbreaks requires a clear understanding of these health risks, as well as the underlying social, cultural and economic reasons that drive people to rely on wild meat.

    We set out to understand why people were eating wild meat along the Kenya-Tanzania border and whether they understood the risks of zoonotic diseases. Cases of anthrax have already been reported in this area.

    Our study involved interviews in border communities during the COVID pandemic – the most famous case of zoonotic disease transmission in recent times. We wanted to know whether communities understood the pandemic’s link to wild meat and if this affected their consumption of it.

    What stood out was that people at the border settlements kept eating wild meat or even ate more of it. This shows that economic necessity, cultural preferences and limited alternatives remain key drivers even when the world is in crisis.

    Though this research was done during COVID-19, it gives us insights into how people react when things get tough, especially when it comes to food and health.

    What’s driving wild meat consumption

    We found that several factors drove wild meat consumption, despite growing awareness of the health risks.

    Poverty

    Economic factors, particularly household income and limited financial means, strongly influenced wild meat consumption, particularly in communities with limited alternative protein sources. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on local economies. Tourism, a key source of income for border communities, experienced sharp declines. As household revenues fell, reliance on wild meat as an affordable protein source increased.

    Economic stability plays a crucial role in shaping consumption behaviours: 81% of those surveyed at the border settlements indicated they would stop eating wild meat if cheaper alternatives were available.

    The type of animal

    Perceptions of disease risks varied depending on the species consumed.

    Approximately 79% of respondents believed that certain animals posed a higher risks of zoonotic disease transmission. Hyenas were perceived as the most dangerous, followed by primates and snakes. These findings suggest that while economic necessity influences wild meat consumption, risk perception also shapes dietary choices.

    Gender plays a role

    Men expressed more concern over conservation and health risks than women. Men were also more likely to advocate against selling wild meat. Women exhibited lower concern regarding zoonotic disease risks, including COVID-19. These insights highlight the need for gender-sensitive interventions to address wild meat consumption.

    Education levels

    Education levels also influenced risk perception. Respondents with formal education displayed a stronger awareness of zoonotic transmission pathways. They were also more receptive to conservation and public health messaging. This highlights the importance of education in promoting safer and more sustainable practices within communities.

    National policies

    Despite sharing ecosystems and wildlife populations, Kenya and Tanzania have adopted fundamentally different governance approaches to wild meat. This in turn shapes outcomes for conservation, biodiversity and public health.

    Kenya follows a centralised and protectionist model. Hunting and consumption of wild animals are prohibited under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act. This zero-tolerance policy is rooted in strong conservation principles aimed at protecting biodiversity.

    However, in practice, it has driven the activity underground, creating a thriving black market. This undermines conservation and enforcement efforts. It also increases the risk of zoonotic disease transmission due to unregulated handling and consumption of wild animals.

    Tanzania, by contrast, uses a decentralised, regulated slaughterhouse model. Licensed wild meat hunting and consumption is legal under regulation, particularly through game-controlled areas and permits introduced in 2020. This approach is meant to enable communities to benefit economically from wildlife and reduce incentives for illegal hunting.

    The existence of two divergent systems across a porous border creates challenges. These include illegal cross-border trade, conflicting conservation objectives, and uneven protection of biodiversity. There are also difficulties in implementing coordinated surveillance or public health interventions.

    The contrasting regulations in Kenya and Tanzania significantly influence wild meat consumption choices.

    In Kenya, where wild meat is strictly prohibited, consumption appears to be through informal and unregulated channels. This increases health risks and limits consumer awareness. In contrast, Tanzania’s regulated licensing system provides a legal pathway for access. This makes wild meat consumption more visible and, in some cases, perceived as safer. These differing policies shape how communities access, justify and engage with wild meat, often driving cross-border trade and complicating enforcement and risk communication efforts.

    What’s next?

    Addressing the risks associated with wild meat trade requires a multifaceted strategy that balances health, equity and sustainability.

    We suggest an intervention that prioritises economic stability and ensuring affordable alternative protein sources are accessible, especially in food-insecure settings.

    Public health education is also essential. An increasing awareness of zoonotic disease risks can help shift consumption behaviour.

    Because men and women perceived the dangers of wild meat consumption differently, gender-sensitive approaches should be integrated. It should also be noted that, although women are rarely the primary hunters, they are often prosecuted for possession or sale of wild meat. Gender disparities on how laws are applied must be addressed.

    Legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms must be strengthened to address cross-border wildlife trade, particularly in regions with differing policies like Kenya and Tanzania. They should also reduce the risks faced by individuals who may unknowingly engage in illegal practices due to a lack of clarity.

    We continue to work with national and regional stakeholders. This includes government bodies and technical partners who are actively engaging with us to co-develop One Health solutions. These solutions integrate public health, environmental sustainability and community well-being.

    Finally, community engagement and participation should be at the core of any intervention. This will ensure that policies are locally relevant, culturally sensitive and supported by those directly affected to reduce the risks of zoonotic disease spillover.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Eating wild meat carries serious health risks – why it still happens along the Kenya-Tanzania border – https://theconversation.com/eating-wild-meat-carries-serious-health-risks-why-it-still-happens-along-the-kenya-tanzania-border-252947

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese island’s ocean-friendly changes deliver dual gains in ecology, economy

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

    HANGZHOU, June 8 — On a stretch of beach in Taizhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, Wang Zhongfu, 68, bends to pick up discarded plastic bottles and tattered fishing nets.

    Wang is one of thousands participating in Blue Circle, a marine plastic recycling program that, initiated in 2020, utilizes blockchain technology and the Internet of Things to track the full life cycle of marine plastic waste — from collection to remanufacturing and resale.

    Developed by Zhejiang Province’s Department of Ecology and Environment and Zhejiang Lanjing Technology Co., Ltd., Blue Circle is the country’s largest program of its kind.

    In 2023, it received the United Nations 2023 Champions of the Earth award in the category of Entrepreneurial Vision for its efforts to tackle marine plastic pollution. According to the UN Environment Programme, the award is the UN’s highest environmental honor.

    “We reduce plastic waste in the ocean and help people get additional income from waste collection,” said Kong Chen, who oversees a Blue Circle plastic waste station known as Little Blue Home, located on Dachen Island, some 29 nautical miles from Taizhou’s coast. He noted that the station transported over 20 tonnes of marine waste in 2024.

    Blue Circle pays 0.20 yuan (almost 3 U.S. cents) for every plastic bottle collected — a price several times higher than the market average. This is designed to supplement the incomes of many locals.

    “The initiative motivates people to join in on environmental protection and improve their incomes. People out fishing can consciously collect plastic waste while working on the sea,” Kong said, noting that participants like Wang can earn some 1,000 yuan this way each month.

    People can trace the journey of recycled plastic by scanning QR codes on goods, such as car parts, suitcases, and phone cases, made from certified plastic collected from the ocean. The plastic waste is cleaned and processed into granules for industrial use at Veolia Huafei Polymer Technology (Zhejiang) Co., Ltd. in Anji County, Zhejiang’s Huzhou City.

    “Since 2022, we have processed tens of millions of plastic bottles from Blue Circle,” said Fu Xianwei, the company’s operations director. Fu added that certified marine plastic granules can sell for over 1.3 times the price of regular recycled plastic, and products made from these granules have higher added value.

    “Once fishermen can profit and businesses are motivated, marine plastic waste management enters a virtuous cycle,” said Ye Zongsen, an official of the Jiaojiang district branch of the Taizhou Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau.

    The initiative has expanded across Zhejiang’s coastal areas, with approximately 1,360 residents, 10,000 vessels and seven recycling companies joining to date. In Zhejiang alone, the program has collected 15,000 tonnes of marine waste, including over 2,900 tonnes of plastic waste. It has also spread to seven other provinces, including China’s southernmost island province of Hainan.

    Dachen Island in Jiaojiang District is a model of marine-friendly development. Dozens of wind turbines atop the island’s ridge generate an average of 60 million kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, which is five times the amount the island consumes, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 45,000 tonnes.

    Surplus electricity is delivered to the mainland via undersea power cables, according to Jiang Weijian, director of the Dachen Power Supply Station of State Grid Zhejiang Power Co., Ltd.

    Green power has spurred many changes, including all-electric buses, electric oxygen and ice production in fisheries, and the gradual use of electric stoves in guesthouses on the island.

    Additionally, Dachen’s low-carbon solid waste treatment station and wastewater treatment plant have increased the top water quality proportion in nearshore areas to 98 percent.

    As its environment improves, the island is seeing a tourism boom. Last year, Dachen welcomed 200,000 tourists and raked in 170 million yuan in related revenue.

    “As the scenery improves, our B&B business is thriving,” said Dachen resident Kong Qinglei, who started his B&B business on the island in 2020. Its revenue exceeded 1 million yuan in 2024.

    The island is also capitalizing on its marine resources. Famous for its yellow croaker, the island has 14 yellow croaker farming companies and its production hit 10,005 tonnes last year — an amount worth over 1.1 billion yuan. The industry has created fishing jobs for nearly 300 people.

    Local authorities are now encouraging the development of maritime leisure travel and souvenir industries. Some guesthouse owners are even combining their businesses with yellow croaker farming.

    The island is also pioneering the blue carbon and forest carbon trade. “Funds have been directed to a common prosperity fund for marine protection, and to marine farmers and island residents,” said Yang Haifei, a township official on the island.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News Release – Nine Men at Waiawa Correctional Facility Earn Kapiʻolani Community College Culinary Arts Certificates

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    News Release – Nine Men at Waiawa Correctional Facility Earn Kapiʻolani Community College Culinary Arts Certificates

    Posted on Jun 7, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

    DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS AND REHABILITATION

    KA ʻOIHANA HOʻOMALU KALAIMA A HOʻOPONOPONO OLA

     

    TOMMY JOHNSON

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

     

    NINE MEN AT WAIAWA CORRECTIONAL FACILITY EARN

    KCC CULINARY ARTS CERTIFICATES

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    June 6, 2025

    HONOLULU — The Waiawa Correctional Facility (WCF) hosted a graduation ceremony and luncheon for nine inmates who received Kapiʻolani Community College (KCC) Culinary Arts certificates Friday, June 6, 2025.

    Honored guests that included Director Tommy Johnson of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, DCR Deputy Director Melanie Martin of the Administration Division, DCR Deputy Director Sanna Muñoz of the Rehabilitation Services and Programs Division, WCF Warden Sean Ornellas, DCR administrators, staff, Keiki O Ka ‘Āina Family Learning Centers, social service providers and the graduates’ family members and loved ones attended the event.

    The graduates completed the Culinary Arts Program, a six-month, college-level program where students learn the fundamentals of culinary arts, time management, teamwork and other practical skills from KCC Culinary Arts instructor Lee Shinsato.

    WCF Education Supervisor Kerry Iwashita said, “The purpose of the program is to provide knowledge, a pathway for a solid career in the restaurant industry.”

    Iwashita commended the graduates for their achievement, noting that most of the men want to continue their education. For those who opt to further their education, the 14 credits earned from the Culinary Arts Program will appear in their University of Hawaiʻi transcripts.

    During the ceremony, graduate Ronald Graham addressed attendees and thanked them for their support on behalf of his fellow graduates.

    “Sometimes it takes a jarring experience in life for somebody to take life more seriously. When you guys offer opportunities like culinary arts to people in incarceration, you supply us with the strength, hope and determination we need to stay out of prison and make something of ourselves,” Graham said.

    The Culinary Arts Program is also offered at the Women’s Community Correctional Center.

    Previous graduates have entered the culinary arts industry or established their own catering business.

    Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Director Tommy Johnson thanked the volunteer chefs who dedicated their time and talent teaching the students marketable skills.

    “This program truly reflects the mission of the department: to rehabilitate those in our custody and help transform their lives. Programs such as Culinary Arts can lead them to a smooth and successful reentry into the community upon release,” Director Johnson said.

    During the ceremony, KCC Culinary Arts Instructor Lee Shinsato applauded all the graduates for their hard work and dedication. “I’m really, really proud of you guys. You guys did a really good job,” Shinsato said.

    What matters most, Shinsato said, is what the graduates’ achievements mean to themselves. “It shouldn’t matter to you that I’m proud of you. I can see it in you guys’ eyes that you are proud of yourselves, and I think that’s a big, big deal. You should really be proud of yourselves for what you’ve accomplished,” he added.

    Showcasing their culinary arts skills, the graduates prepared the following savory dishes and sweet desserts for attendees at the luncheon:

    • Somen Taco Salad
    • Giardiniera Salad
    • BBQ Kalua Pork Quesadillas
    • Spam Raisu
    • Lo Mai Gai
    • Beef Moussaka
    • Stuffed Eggplant
    • Honey Walnut Chicken
    • Plum Glazed Chicken and Spinach/Mushroom Roulade
    • Cream Cheese Tiramisu
    • Watergate Salad
    • Blueberry Cream Cheese Scones
    • “Pineapple Sorbet” Plantation Berry Iced Tea

    Photos and videos of the graduation ceremony are available at the following link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1mX6iNorEnwZ2UGCJxfVTaYDZ34eKtJA9?usp=sharing.

    # # #

     

    Media contact:

    Rosemarie Bernardo

    Public Information Officer

    Hawaiʻi Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

    Office: 808-587-1358

    Cell: 808-683-5507

    Email: [email protected]

    Website: https://dcr.hawaii.gov

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Henry Maher, Lecturer in Politics, Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney

    A no-holds-barred and very public blow-up between the world’s richest man and the president of the United States has had social media agog in recent days, with each making serious accusations against the other.

    And while tech billionaire Elon Musk appears to have cooled the spat somewhat – deleting some of his more incendiary social media posts about Donald Trump – the president still appears to be in no mood to make up, warning Musk of “very serious consequences” if he backs Democrats at the mid-term elections in 2026.

    Tensions erupted over Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB). The OBBB proposes extensive tax cuts which could add roughly US$3 trillion (A$4.62 trillion) to the US national debt.

    After stepping down from his role as advisor to Trump, Musk criticised the OBBB as “disgusting abomination” that would “burden America [sic] citizens with crushing unsustainable debt”. Trump returned fire, suggesting “Elon was ‘wearing thin’, I asked him to leave […] and he just went CRAZY!”.

    In a dramatic escalation, Musk responded by calling for Trump’s impeachment. Musk also tweeted allegations that Trump was implicated in the Epstein files related to child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He has since deleted those tweets.

    Why has the much-hyped “bromance” between Musk and Trump suddenly ended? And what was the basis of their alliance in the first place?

    Musk in politics

    Like many billionaires, Musk had previously been hesitant to get involved in frontline politics. He says he voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020, but claimed in 2021 “I would prefer to stay out of politics”.

    In early 2024, Musk was still claiming to be politically non-aligned, suggesting he would not donate to either presidential campaign.

    This apparent neutrality ended following the attempted assassination of Trump at a July 2024 campaign rally, with Musk immediately endorsing Trump.

    In reality, Musk’s conversion to the MAGA movement long predated the assassination attempt. Musk’s hyperactive Twitter/X account shows a steady radicalisation.

    Across 2020-2024, Musk engaged with accounts sharing MAGA and far-right conspiracy theories. These include the antisemitic Great Replacement Theory, and the related South African white genocide conspiracy. Musk’s posts also show the obsession with opposing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies characteristic of the MAGA movement.

    After endorsing Trump, Musk spent US$288 million (A$444 million) supporting Trump’s election and appeared at campaign events around the country.

    Musk’s support for Trump was both ideological and pragmatic.

    From tax cuts to immigration restrictions to opposing DEI, there were clearly many ideological commonalities between Musk and Trump.

    There were also clear practical benefits for both men. Trump gained the financial backing of the world’s wealthiest man. Musk gained not only unparalleled access to the US president, but also a role leading the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

    DOGE: success and failure

    Early reporting on the second Trump presidency noted the omnipresence of Musk, who at one point moved into Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort to be close to the president.

    However, observers were sceptical about the potential effectiveness of DOGE, and Musk’s claim it would save the government US$2 trillion (A$3.02 trillion).

    In the early months of the Trump administration, Musk cut government programs and employees at a remarkable rate. The USAID program was particularly hard hit, as were the Department of Education and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

    As the spending cuts picked up pace, Musk began to attract more controversy. Critics questioned the apparent power wielded by the unelected billionaire. Musk’s ties to the far right were also in the spotlight after he appeared to perform two “Roman salutes”, which many observers believed to be a Nazi salute.

    Trump clips Musk’s wings

    Musk’s apparent rampage through government did not last long. As Trump’s executive appointees assumed control of their departments, Musk and DOGE experienced increasing resistance. After a series of fractious cabinet meetings, Trump reportedly reduced the power of DOGE in March.

    Political attention was also clearly affecting Musk’s businesses. The negative publicity has significantly damaged the Tesla brand, leading to declining sales around the world and repeated falls in Telsa’s share price.

    On May 1, Musk announced he would be leaving DOGE, claiming the department had saved the government US$180 billion (A$277 billion) in spending. This number is likely an exaggeration, but still falls well short of his original target.

    Musk has learned a harsh lesson in politics – that the complexities of government resist simple reform and cannot be easily rolled back in the way a CEO might slim down a company.

    For Trump, his manoeuvring of Musk appears to be another smart political move. As the public face of DOGE, Musk bore the negative wrap for early government cuts and chaos. Having used his money and reputation, Trump dispensed with Musk as he has with so many advisers and appointees before.

    The falling out

    Musk departed his role in a muted White House ceremony, where Trump thanked him for his service and presented him with a ceremonial “golden key” to the White House.

    However, behind the public show of civility, tension was brewing over Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill.

    Trump and Musk had originally claimed that the US$2 trillion (A$3.02 trillion) in DOGE savings could be used to fund a substantial tax cut. With the efficiency savings not eventuating, Musk worried the OBBB would significantly increase US public debt.

    Unable to convince Trump or other Republican legislators, Musk took to X, launching a “Kill the Bill” campaign that ultimately led to his incendiary showdown with Trump.

    For his part, Trump has belittled Musk, suggesting Musk only opposed the OBBB because it cut subsidies for electric vehicles.

    Though the subsidy cuts will affect Tesla, Musk has previously supported eliminating subsidies. Musk’s anger at the OBBB is more likely driven by the realisation he has been played by Trump.

    What now?

    Trump has used and discarded many other powerful figures in his chaotic political career. Musk has more power than most, and might be able to strike back at Trump.

    Yet, with his public reputation and brands already tarnished, Musk would be ill-advised to pick further fights with Trump and his adoring MAGA movement.

    Accordingly, Musk has indicated over the weekend he is open to a détente. Tesla investors will no doubt be relieved if Musk makes good on his pledge to step back from politics and return to his businesses.

    More concerning are the prospects for democracy. With wealth and power continuing to concentrate in a handful of billionaires, voters appear reduced to the role of viewers forced to watch the reality TV drama unfold.

    Though Trump appears to have won this round of billionaire battle royale, whatever happens next, democracy is the real loser.

    Henry Maher 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 blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast? – https://theconversation.com/the-blow-up-between-elon-musk-and-donald-trump-has-been-entertaining-but-how-did-things-go-so-bad-so-fast-258394

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney announces new parliamentary secretary team

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, announced a new parliamentary secretary team focused on building Canada strong.

    Canadians elected this new government with a mandate to define a new economic and security relationship with the United States, to build a stronger economy, to bring down costs, and to keep our communities safe. Parliamentary secretaries will support their respective cabinet ministers and secretaries of state to deliver on this mandate.

    The new parliamentary secretary team is appointed as follows:

    • Karim Bardeesy becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry
    • Jaime Battiste becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
    • Rachel Bendayan becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister
    • Kody Blois becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister
    • Sean Casey becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
    • Sophie Chatel becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
    • Madeleine Chenette becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Sport)
    • Maggie Chi becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health
    • Leslie Church becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretaries of State for Labour, for Seniors, and for Children and Youth, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Jobs and Families (Persons with Disabilities)
    • Caroline Desrochers becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure
    • Ali Ehsassi becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy (Canada-U.S. Trade)
    • Mona Fortier becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs
    • Peter Fragiskatos becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
    • Vince Gasparro becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Combatting Crime)
    • Wade Grant becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
    • Claude Guay becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    • Brendan Hanley becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs
    • Corey Hogan becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    • Anthony Housefather becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience
    • Mike Kelloway becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Internal Trade
    • Ernie Klassen becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries
    • Annie Koutrakis becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Jobs and Families
    • Kevin Lamoureux becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
    • Patricia Lattanzio becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada
    • Ginette Lavack becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services
    • Carlos Leitao becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry
    • Tim Louis becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy (Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy)
    • Jennifer McKelvie becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure
    • Marie-Gabrielle Ménard becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism)
    • David Myles becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Nature)
    • Yasir Naqvi becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Trade and Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (International Development)
    • Taleeb Noormohamed becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation
    • Rob Oliphant becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs
    • Tom Osborne becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board
    • Jacques Ramsay becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety
    • Pauline Rochefort becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Rural Development)
    • Sherry Romanado becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence
    • Jenna Sudds becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Defence Procurement)
    • Ryan Turnbull becomes Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and National Revenue and Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State (Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions)

    Prime Minister Carney also announced that Élisabeth Brière will serve as Deputy Chief Government Whip, and Arielle Kayabaga will serve as Deputy Leader of the Government in the House of Commons.

    Quote

    “Canada’s new parliamentary secretary team will deliver on the government’s mandate for change, working collaboratively with all parties in Parliament to build the strongest economy in the G7, advance a new security and economic partnership with the United States, and help Canadians get ahead.”

    Quick Fact

    • Parliamentary secretaries are chosen by the Prime Minister to assist ministers and secretaries of state.

    Associated Link

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • Seeds of change: India’s agricultural evolution under PM Modi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Agriculture has long been the soul of India’s economy and society. Over the past eleven years, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India’s agricultural landscape has been redefined by a holistic, inclusive, and tech-driven approach that is embodied in the principle of Beej Se Bazaar Tak, or Seed to Market. This transformation puts the farmer at the center of policy-making, with a focus on income security, smart farming, traditional wisdom, and global competitiveness.

    Rising investment in the agriculture sector

    Recognising the critical role of agriculture, the government substantially increased funding to the sector. The Budget Estimates for the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare rose from ₹27,663 crore in 2013–14 to ₹1,37,664 crore in 2024–25. This more than fivefold jump in allocation has enabled investments in infrastructure, innovation, and farmer welfare.

    Growth in foodgrain and climate-resilient crops

    India’s foodgrain production has grown significantly, from 265.05 million tonnes in 2014–15 to an estimated 347.44 million tonnes in 2024–25. This includes major staples like rice, wheat, pulses, and oilseeds. The focus has also shifted toward increasing production of climate-resilient and nutrition-rich crops, with support for coarse grains, pulses, and oilseeds witnessing sharp growth.

    Strengthening procurement and minimum support prices

    The government has significantly increased Minimum Support Prices and procurement. Between 2014 and 2025, procurement of 14 Kharif crops reached 7871 LMT, compared to 4679 LMT in the previous decade. The MSP for wheat rose from ₹1,400 in 2013–14 to ₹2,425 in 2024–25, and payments to farmers more than doubled. The MSP for paddy increased from ₹1,310 to ₹2,369 per quintal in the same period. Procurement and MSP support for pulses and oilseeds grew exponentially, empowering farmers in previously underserved regions.

    Financial empowerment through direct benefit and credit

    Financial empowerment of farmers has become a central theme. Under the PM-KISAN scheme, ₹3.7 lakh crore has been directly transferred to over 11 crore farmers, ensuring income support with full transparency via Direct Benefit Transfer. Kisan Credit Cards have been issued to 7.71 crore farmers, enabling credit access worth ₹10 lakh crore. The credit limit has been raised from ₹3 to ₹5 lakh.

    Insurance, irrigation and sustainable practices

    Risk management and sustainability are also key components of the new agricultural strategy. The PM Fasal Bima Yojana has enrolled over 63 crore farmers and paid ₹1.75 lakh crore in crop loss claims. The PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana has invested ₹93,000 crore in irrigation infrastructure, making farming more drought-resistant. The Soil Health Card Scheme has issued 1.75 crore cards and upgraded 8,272 testing labs, encouraging balanced fertiliser use.

    Laying the foundation for long-term prosperity

    With increased investment, income support, insurance, and irrigation, India’s agricultural foundation has been strengthened. These reforms are not just about enhancing output, but about empowering every farmer with dignity, stability, and opportunity.

  • From innovation to inclusion: Empowering rural India through agriculture

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s agricultural landscape has undergone a historic transformation over the past decade. As the sector becomes more resilient and productive, the focus under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has moved beyond traditional methods to a broader vision—market access, diversification, climate-smart farming, and inclusive rural empowerment.

    Infrastructure driving change

    At the heart of this transformation is robust infrastructure development. The ₹1 lakh crore Agriculture Infrastructure Fund is supporting over 42,000 projects across India, including modern warehouses and food processing units. These facilities are key to reducing post-harvest losses and increasing farmers’ profits.

    The PM Kisan Samriddhi Kendras, now numbering 1.8 lakh, serve as integrated agri-service centers, providing inputs, guidance, and market linkages. Simultaneously, the digital revolution in agriculture is taking root with the e-NAM platform connecting 1,473 mandis across 23 states and 4 union territories, enabling seamless trade worth ₹4 lakh crore. Mega Food Parks have surged from just two in 2014 to 41 in 2025, significantly boosting agro-processing and value addition.

    Innovation and entrepreneurship at the grassroots

    Innovation and women’s empowerment have emerged as defining features of this new era. The Namo Drone Didi initiative empowers 15,000 women-led self-help groups with drones, enhancing precision farming and creating new income streams. Meanwhile, the AgriSURE fund by NABARD, with a corpus of ₹750 crore, is backing high-potential agri-startups. Already, nearly 2,000 startups have scaled operations under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, integrating technology with grassroots farming.

    Diversifying income sources for farmers

    Diversification beyond conventional crops is reshaping rural livelihoods. India continues to be the world’s top milk producer, with indigenous milk production rising by 69 percent and providing sustenance to 8 crore individuals. The fisheries sector has nearly doubled in output, supported by renewed attention to inland and marine ecosystems. Food processing capacity expanded from 12 to 242 lakh metric tonnes, while exports have doubled to $9 billion. Beekeeping, another high-value activity, reached 1.42 lakh metric tonnes in honey production, with exports tripling. Under the “Sweet Revolution,” 167 women self-help groups are actively participating.

    Towards sustainability and organic farming

    Green energy and organic farming are driving the shift towards sustainability. The Ethanol Blending Programme has reached nearly 18 percent blending, ensuring better returns for sugarcane farmers and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The PM-KUSUM scheme is helping farmers adopt solar pumps and generate clean energy. Natural farming practices, promoted through Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana and the National Mission on Natural Farming, are gaining traction for being eco-friendly and cost-effective.

    Reviving traditional grains and future foods

    India has also emerged as a global leader in the millet renaissance. After the United Nations declared 2023 the International Year of Millets, India rebranded millets as “Shree Anna” and began promoting them as a health and climate-resilient food option. This revival has reintroduced traditional grains into modern diets and markets, both domestically and internationally.

    Strengthening the seed-to-market value chain

    The entire agricultural chain—from seed to market—is now more robust than ever. The SMSP Scheme has enabled over six lakh seed villages, ensuring the supply of 530 lakh quintals of quality seeds. Digital tools like the SATHI Portal have brought transparency and traceability to seed distribution systems, empowering farmers with information and access.

    Expanding reach through new schemes

    To consolidate these gains, new schemes have been introduced. The PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana targets productivity enhancement in 100 underperforming districts, impacting over 1.7 crore farmers. The One District One Product initiative encourages regional agri-specialties, promoting rural entrepreneurship. Additionally, the newly formed Makhana Board will strengthen the value chain and exports of this specialty crop from Bihar.

    India’s agricultural journey today reflects more than just rising yields—it embodies a social and economic shift. From modernisation and digitisation to women-led innovation and renewable energy, the sector is poised to lead the way for rural prosperity. As the farmer transitions from food provider to growth driver, a new chapter in India’s development story is being written—one that is inclusive, entrepreneurial, and future-ready.

  • MIL-OSI: Nimanode Launches $NMA Token Presale, Pioneering the First No-Code AI Agent Platform on XRP Ledger

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEEDS, United Kingdom, June 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nimanode, a pioneering protocol building AI-driven autonomous agents on the XRP Ledger (XRPL), has officially launched the presale of its native utility token, $NMA. As the first no-code AI agent builder on XRPL, Nimanode empowers users to deploy, customize, and manage intelligent blockchain agents without writing a single line of code.

    With over 45% of the 90 million $NMA tokens allocated to the presale already in motion, Nimanode is attracting early interest from both individual investors and large XRP holders who recognize the platform’s potential to transform automation within decentralized ecosystems.

    $NMA Token Presale

    Bringing Agentic Automation to the XRP Ledger

    Nimanode aims to reshape how work is executed on-chain by enabling autonomous agents—AI-driven programs capable of completing blockchain tasks on behalf of users. Core features of the protocol include:

    • Zero-Code Agent Builder – Build and deploy AI agents through an intuitive interface
    • Autonomous Agent Execution – Agents can act independently across blockchain workflows
    • Agent Marketplace – Access or monetize premium agent templates
    • Deep XRPL Integration – Leverages XRP Ledger’s performance and scalability

    “The $NMA token will serve as the backbone of the Nimanode ecosystem,” said a representative from the Nimanode team. “From deploying agents to earning through staking and participating in governance, $NMA enables a truly participatory AI economy on-chain.”

    Utility and Use Cases of $NMA

    The $NMA token offers multiple functions within the Nimanode platform:

    • Agent Deployment: Users must hold a minimum balance of $NMA to activate AI agents
    • Agent Customization: Developers can upgrade or build advanced agents using $NMA
    • Marketplace Access: Use $NMA to unlock premium agents or benefit from discounts
    • Staking Rewards: Earn passive income by staking $NMA into the protocol’s reward pool
    • Governance Participation: Vote on proposals and shape future platform upgrades

    Following the presale, $NMA is expected to list on decentralized exchanges at a 25% higher price, offering early participants an incentivized entry.

    How to Join the $NMA Presale

    Participants can acquire $NMA using XRP via the official Nimanode presale portal. Here’s how to participate:

    1. Purchase XRP via exchanges such as Binance, Coinbase, or Bybit
    2. Transfer XRP to a compatible wallet (e.g., Xaman Wallet)
    3. Visit https://nimanode.com and follow instructions on the presale page
    4. Send XRP to the designated address and receive $NMA via airdrop after the presale ends

    The Nimanode presale is now live and available to the public for a limited time.

    About Nimanode

    Nimanode is building the first AI protocol layer on the XRP Ledger, allowing artificial intelligence not only to support blockchain ecosystems—but to live natively within them. The platform’s agentic architecture aims to redefine DeFi, work automation, and intelligent interaction across decentralized applications.

    Media Contact

    Nimanode Communications
    Email: hello@nimanode.com
    Website: https://nimanode.com
    Twitter/X: https://x.com/nimanodeai
    Telegram: https://t.me/nimanodeAI
    Documentation: https://docs.nimanode.com

    Contact:
    Nick Lambert
    contact@nimanode.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Nimanode. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1408aa49-ae08-4114-aadb-c100d08dd35a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrating Our Agricultural Shows

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV agriculture spokesperson Councillor Allister Kyle:

    “The sunshine this year certainly helped make the Balmoral Show a roaring success, with crowds turning out in force to enjoy the biggest event in the farming calendar. Now, our attention rightly turns to the provincial shows that play such an important role in rural life across Northern Ireland.

    “Our party leader, Jim Allister KC MP, had the pleasure of attending the Ballymena Show last Saturday. He took the opportunity to meet with many within the farming community and discuss a range of pressing issues — from Minister Muir’s controversial NAP proposals, to Labour’s new inheritance tax plans, and looming concerns such as potential future cuts to TB compensation.

    “In the face of these challenges, our local agricultural shows offer something invaluable: a welcome release and an occasion for our farming families to come together in a relaxed and sociable setting.

    “This weekend marks the first of two agricultural shows within the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area. The Ballymoney Show has firmly established itself as one of the top provincial shows in the country. Thanks to the hard work and enthusiasm of the Young Farmers’ Clubs from Finvoy, Kilraughts and Moycraig, and the generosity of sponsors, the show committee has once again pulled together a fantastic, affordable family event running across Friday evening and Saturday.

    “From light-hearted competitions like the Lego building and children’s fancy dress, to the serious business of livestock judging, there is truly something for everyone at Ballymoney.

    “Provincial shows like this are much more than just agricultural events. They offer local businesses the chance to showcase their products, and perhaps most importantly, they provide a vital opportunity for rural communities to connect. For many farming families, these shows are the only time in the year to catch up with friends, neighbours, and fellow farmers — a lifeline in a profession that can often feel isolating.

    “We perhaps do not give enough recognition to the role these shows play in reducing rural isolation and strengthening community bonds. They deserve our full support.

    “Let’s hope the weather holds up once again, and that everyone enjoys a brilliant weekend at Ballymoney Show.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: AI vs. Manual Cultivation: Round 2 of China’s Smart Farming Competition

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    CHENGDU, June 7 (Xinhua) — Under the golden rays of the June sun, a “high-risk” agricultural experiment is unfolding in the emerald rice fields of the “Tianfu Breadbasket” key demonstration area in Chongzhou City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province.

    Three weeks into the second AI rice-growing competition, organizers are faced with a key question: Can AI surpass centuries of farming wisdom?

    The competition, which runs from May 15 to September 30, features six traditional farming teams and four AI-enabled teams on 1,000 mu (about 66.7 hectares) of high-quality rural fields. Each team cultivates 100 mu using elite rice varieties. This modern duel between tradition and technology offers insight into China’s advancement toward smart agriculture.

    The AI teams use an intelligent agent for rice cultivation decision-making developed by the Institute of Urban Agriculture of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) using a sky-earth-space data network. The system collects information on crop growth, farming operations, diseases, pests and weeds in real time, processes the data through a cloud-based AI agent, generates detailed reports and professional recommendations that are instantly sent to the smartphones of the AI participants.

    Based on these recommendations, AI participants carry out field work, and the monitoring system continuously collects operational data, forming a closed decision-making loop to ensure the accuracy and intelligence of the growing process.

    Gao Ying, a participant from Qingqiao Shared Land Cooperative in Chongzhou City, said that compared with traditional farming, AI farming can quickly master key knowledge and production skills. “In addition, the system provides effective recommendations in response to queries,” she added.

    Lessons from the first competition

    This is not Gao Ying’s first experience. Last year’s competition showed the reality of the situation: the AI system from ASNC, which guided the newcomer Gao Ying in the 100 mu section, helped her team to take seventh place among nine teams.

    “AI needs field practice,” said Wang Ran, a leading researcher at ASNC for urban agriculture strategy, whose team developed the system.

    “When we created the algorithm, we had fragmentary data. Now we have created a comprehensive data set covering the entire rice growing process: start and end dates, photos of crop growth, relevant weather and soil data,” said Wang Ran.

    “The power of AI is in processing 10,000 data points from each mu through our monitoring network, but converting them into practical actions requires deeper synergy between farmers and algorithms,” Wang explained. He noted that the AI-based decision-making rate reached 73 percent last year, but there were challenges with the timing of pest control.

    “This year, the goal is to achieve more than 80 percent decision making to ensure that AI recommendations are consistent with farmers’ actions,” he said.

    Harmony between humans and AI

    The organizers view the competition not as a confrontation, but as an integration of humans and AI.

    “AI is a help, not a replacement for humans. We aim to provide more accurate support to urban producers and decision makers through AI computing power,” Wang Ran said of the initial goal of applying AI in agriculture.

    “The key value of the system is to create a bridge between innovators and farmers’ needs, improving the quality of decision-making by farmers and providing data for government sector planning,” he stressed.

    Now, in the midst of summer harvesting and planting, Qingqiao Village in Chongzhou City, Chengdu Plain, is demonstrating the results of technological transformation of traditional agriculture: an intelligent rice planting system works in tandem with farmers, creating a highly efficient symbiosis of smart technology and human labor. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Honors Iowa’s Servicemembers, Witnesses Disaster Recovery, Touts Small Business Innovation, and More

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) recently traveled from Pottawattamie County to Scott County to meet with servicemembers, small business owners, farmers, and law enforcement officers on her River to River Tour – part of her ongoing commitment to hear from Iowans in every corner of the state.
    Click HERE to download photos from Ernst’s visits.
    As the first female combat veteran elected to the Senate who served in the Iowa National Guard, it was especially meaningful for Ernst to honor Iowa National Guard soldiers as they deploy to serve our country in the Middle East. She gave remarks at the send-off ceremonies for both the 1st Battalion, 168th Infantry Regiment in her hometown of Red Oak and 224th Brigade Engineer Battalion in Davenport. Learn more about the ceremony in Red Oak from KSOM, KMALand, The Red Oak Express, and KMTV. WQAD, KLJB,and the Quad-City Times detailed the event in Davenport.

    To mark one year since devastating storms and tornados swept through southwest Iowa, Ernst visited Adair County where she toured an active Habitat for Humanity home construction site in Greenfield.Raccoon Valley Radio, KCCI, and WHO 13 joined the tour as she talked with the future homeowner about rebuilding and community recovery efforts.

    In Scott County, KWQC covered Ernst’s visit to Davenport Guns & Shooting Club where she met with the store’s owner to discuss the importance of protecting lawful gun dealers from Biden’s ATF with herFIREARM Act. Ernst closed out the visit with some target practice on the shop’s range.

    As Chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Ernst elevates the voices of Iowa small businesses and presented five outstanding entrepreneurs across the state with her Small Business of the Week award. The Wilton-Durant Advocate News and the Muscatine Journal both joined as she honored Lynn and Brenda Ochiltree, owners of The Candy Kitchen, a historic soda fountain in downtown Wilton.

    As reported by Journal-Eureka, Ernst stopped by Boomerang Corporation in Jones County to learn more about how their team plans, designs, and oversees construction projects across eastern Iowa.

    In Jackson County, Ernst was thrilled to present Air Force veteran Dr. Don Schwenker and his family with a Small Business of the Week award for all their hard work providing care for veterans and the Maquoketa community at Timber City Chiropractic. The Maquoketa Sentinel-Press featured the visit. Daily Nonpareiland KMTV highlighted Ernst’s work to cut red tape and help rural entrepreneurs thrive during her visit to PowerTech in Council Bluffs.

    Iowa’s leadership in innovation for businesses both large and small was top of mind as Ernst gave remarks at an event hosted by Google in Cedar Rapids.

    Ernst also spotlighted entrepreneurship and the needs of small business owners at her roundtable in Iowa City. As featured on KGAN, she gathered folks with growing small businesses and University of Iowa leadership to discuss her INNOVATE Act followed by a tour of a University of Iowa research laboratory.

    Carroll Broadcasting and the Carroll Times Herald both featured Ernst’s roundtable with Iowa pork producers and cattlemen about her work to support Iowa farmers and producers, which includes fighting for a Farm Bill, pushing back against California’s Prop 12 overreach, and combatting foreign animal disease. Ernst also held a second roundtable in Dallas County to hear about the experiences and concerns of central Iowa law enforcement officers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor — News Release — Gov. Green Releases Intent-to-Veto List

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Office of the Governor — News Release — Gov. Green Releases Intent-to-Veto List

    Posted on Jun 6, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI 
    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI 
     
    JOSH GREEN, M.D. 
    GOVERNOR
    KE KIAʻĀINA 
     

    GOVERNOR GREEN RELEASES INTENT-TO-VETO LIST 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 6, 2025

    HONOLULU – Governor Josh Green, M.D., today informed legislative leaders and stakeholders of his intent to veto 19 bills passed during the 2025 regular session of the Hawai‘i State Legislature.

    Governor Green is not required to veto every bill indicated on the Intent-to-Veto list, but cannot veto a bill that is not included. The release of this list provides additional time to continue ongoing discussions with key stakeholders concerning implementation and impact. Due to the record-setting number of bills enrolled to the governor this legislative session, potential changes to the state’s federal funding and reduced revenue projections from the Council on Revenues, additional time to analyze bills will ensure each bill is given the nuanced, thoughtful consideration it deserves. Governor Green has until July 9 to issue final vetoes. All other bills will become law by July 9.

    “Let me be clear: of the 320 bills passed by the Legislature this session, 19 are on our Intent-to-Veto list,” said Governor Green. “Our team has completed a review of every measure and the overwhelming majority of legislation will become law. Each bill on today’s list is based on thorough legal and fiscal analysis, and as always, was guided by what will best serve the people of Hawai‘i, protect our resources and strengthen our future.”

    To date, Governor Green has signed 200 bills into law benefiting the people and ‘āina of Hawai‘i, with core themes including environmental stewardship, educational access and success, as well as public safety. These represent key focus areas so far; additional bills awaiting signature will build upon this foundation to address state priorities. The remaining 101 bills are on track to become law by July 9.

    Over 300 bills were reviewed by state departments and agencies, the Attorney General and the Governor in the last month. The Governor has until July 9 to issue final vetoes from today’s list.

    The following bills are being considered for vetoes, line-item vetoes, or reductions.

    Fiscal Bills:

    HB126: RELATING TO PROPERTY FORFEITURE

    Bill Description: Increases transparency and accountability surrounding property forfeiture. Clarifies which property is subject to forfeiture. Amends the authorized disposition of forfeited property and the proceeds thereof. Requires the Attorney General to adopt rules necessary to carry out the purpose of the Hawaiʻi Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act. Repeals language that requires the Hawaiʻi Omnibus Criminal Forfeiture Act to be construed liberally.

    Veto Rationale: Asset forfeiture serves as a powerful deterrent against and punishment for criminal activity. The one-year deadline to return seized property for which the owner has not been charged with a covered offense, significantly weakens the efficacy of this dual deterrent and punishment. Many covered offenses, including felonies, often involve complex investigations that extend beyond a year, rendering this bill’s one-year deadline for law enforcement to file charges unrealistic. Seized property can serve as critical evidence in investigations, and its return before an investigation’s completion would severely hamper the investigation as well as the administration of justice at large.

    HB300: RELATING TO THE STATE BUDGET

    Bill Description: Appropriates funds for the operating and capital improvement budget of the Executive Branch for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.

    Veto Rationale: Potential shifts in federal funding, coupled with recent projections from the Hawaiʻi Council on Revenues, require the state to reevaluate its budget to ensure essential services and priorities remain supported. Specific line-item reductions based on program feasibility, stability, and sustainability will help the state enter the fiscal year with a balanced budget and sound financial plan.

    HB302: RELATING TO CANNABIS
    Bill Description: Part I: Authorizes DOH to inspect qualifying patient medical records held by the physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or hospice provider who issued a written certification for the qualifying patient. Amends and adds definitions for purposes of the medical use of cannabis law. Clarifies the conditions of use for the medical use of cannabis. For purposes of issuing written certifications, authorizes the establishment of a provider-patient relationship via telehealth and limits the maximum amount of fees that can be assessed by providers. Authorizes the sale of hemp products and accessories for the medical use of cannabis at retail dispensing locations, except in waiting rooms. Clarifies transportation requirements for certain inter-dispensary sales of cannabis and manufactured cannabis products. Part II: Establishes criminal penalties for the unlicensed operation of a medical cannabis dispensary. Part III: Authorizes expenditures from the Medical Cannabis Registry and Regulation Special Fund to fund programs for the mitigation and abatement of nuisances related to illegal cannabis and hemp products and medical cannabis dispensaries and appropriates funds from the Special Fund to the AG’s Drug Nuisance Abatement Unit for these purposes, including establishing positions. Part IV: Beginning 1/1/2028, prohibits the cultivation of cannabis without a cannabis cultivator license issued by DOH.

    Veto Rationale: This administration remains committed to Hawai‘i’s existing medical cannabis program and supports efforts to expand access to medical cannabis for any medical condition. Although this bill’s authorization of medical cannabis certifications via telehealth expands access to medical cannabis, provisions authorizing the inspection of patients’ medical records without warrant constitute a grave violation of privacy. Given that the federal government classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, patients’ reasonable fears of repercussions based upon information gained from inspection of their personal medical records may deter patients from participating in the medical cannabis program.

    HB496: RELATING TO MĀMAKI TEA

    Bill Description: Prohibits the use of certain words and misleading Hawaiian imagery, place names, and motifs on the label of a consumer package that contains or includes tea or dried leaves from the plant Pipturus albidus, unless 100% of the tea or dried leaves were cultivated, harvested, and dried in the state. Appropriates funds for a Measurement Standards Inspector position.

    Veto Rationale: While the intent of this measure is to ensure consumer protection and reliable Made in Hawai‘i labeling, the bill imposes overly strict labeling requirements that could harm small businesses and māmaki producers who responsibly blend leaves from multiple sources. Prohibiting the labeling of products composed of less than 100% māmaki tea as “māmaki” ignores the economic contributions of and impacts to producers who mix or process māmaki with other herbs, undermining producers who support local māmaki farmers while meeting broader demand.

    HB796: RELATING TO TAX CREDITS

    Bill Description: Requires that income tax credits existing on 12/31/2025 or established or renewed after 12/31/2025 include a five-year sunset or an annual one-third reduction, beginning with the sixth year of the credit.

    Veto Rationale: This bill would have a significant long-term impact on income tax credits across a variety of industries, including film and television, research, and renewable energy. These tax credits are critical to supporting economic development and diversification, particularly within growing and emerging sectors. Categorically sunsetting income tax credits will not only disincentivize future investors from doing business in Hawai‘i, but will destabilize existing businesses that currently rely upon these tax credits.

    HB1369: RELATING TO TAXATION 

    Bill Description: Amends and repeals certain exemptions under the general excise tax and use tax laws.

    Veto Rationale: The amendments to the general excise tax and use tax contained in this bill would impact sugarcane producers, commercial fishing vessels and securities exchanges. Removing the specific tax exemptions afforded to these entities would provide little financial benefit to the state while harming, in particular, sugarcane producers.

    SB583: RELATING TO NAMING RIGHTS

    Bill Description: Allows the naming rights of the Stadium Facility and Convention Center Facility to be leased to any public or private entity. Requires any revenues derived from advertising or marketing in or on the Stadium Facility or Convention Center Facility to be deposited into the appropriate special fund of the facility. Authorizes the display of the name of any entity that leased the naming rights to a stadium operated by the Stadium Authority on the exterior of the stadium.

    Veto Rationale: Pursuant to section 14, article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution, each bill may only contain one subject, which must pertain to the bill’s title. The exemption of concessions in the stadium facility and Convention Center from typical concession procurement procedures may violate section 14, article III, of the Hawai‘i State Constitution since the exemption appears to fall outside the titular scope of the bill, naming rights.

    SB589: RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY

    Bill Description: Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish an installation goal for customer-sited distributed energy resources in the state. Requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish tariffs to achieve the installation goal and for grid services programs, microgrids and community-based renewable energy. Ensures that certain levels of compensation are provided for solar and energy storage exports from customer-sited distributed energy resources as part of grid service programs and requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish grid service compensation values. Clarifies when a person who constructs, maintains, or operates a new microgrid is not considered a public utility. Authorizes wheeling of renewable energy and requires the Public Utilities Commission to establish policies and procedures to implement wheeling and microgrid service tariffs.

    Veto Rationale: Maintaining Hawai‘i’s leadership in clean energy through established goals and initiatives remains a priority. The Public Utilities Commission has already opened or plans to open proceedings relating to microgrid services tariffs and customer-sited distributed energy resources and grid services. The mandates contained in this bill therefore risk duplication and delay of already existing efforts.

    Non-Fiscal Bills: 

    HB235: RELATING TO TRAFFIC SAFETY

    Bill Description: Requires the Department of Transportation, after the City and County of Honolulu educates the public and adjusts any systems, to expand the use of photo red light imaging detector systems and automated speed enforcement systems to locations on the North Shore of O‘ahu.

    Veto Rationale: The Department of Transportation has developed specific criteria for the selection of communities within which to implement traffic safety systems. This criteria incorporates data-driven crash, citation and traffic volume metrics, which ensure communities are chosen based on need and potential for greatest impact. Ignoring this criteria in favor of legislatively mandated location selection threatens the integrity of the photo red light imaging detector system and automated speed enforcement system programs.

    HB800: RELATING TO GOVERNMENT

    Bill Description: Provides for the transfer of certain parcels in the Liliha Civic Center area and Iwilei Fire Station area from various state agencies to the City and County of Honolulu. Provides for the transfer of the parcel of land upon which Ali‘i Tower is sited from the City and County of Honolulu to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Exempts the lands transferred to the Department of Land and Natural Resources from the definition of public lands for purposes of Chapter 171, HRS.

    Veto Rationale: The land transfers provided in the bill would negatively impact the City and County of Honolulu, which relies upon Ali‘i Tower’s land lease revenues and office spaces. Additionally, the state would face indeterminate additional costs, as Ali‘i Tower’s age likely necessitates capital improvements and ongoing maintenance. Although the intent of this bill is to reduce the state’s reliance on private commercial office space, no analysis exists identifying the amount of office space the acquisition of Aliʻi Tower would provide the state.

    HB958: RELATING TO TRANSPORTATION

    Bill Description: Establishes safe riding behaviors for electric bicycles. Prohibits the operation of high-speed electric devices in certain locations. Establishes labeling and signage requirements for electric bicycles. Prohibits the operation of a moped or electric motorcycle in certain locations. Amends the definition of “bicycle” for purposes of county vehicular taxes. Defines “electric bicycle” in place of “low-speed electric bicycle.” Defines “electric micro-mobility device” and requires the same regulations as electric foot scooters to apply to electric micro-mobility devices. Prohibits a person under the age of 16 from operating a class 3 electric bicycle. Authorizes a person under the age of 14 to operate class 2 electric bicycles under supervision. Prohibits a person from riding a class 3 electric bicycle on a sidewalk. Authorizes a person to ride a class 1 or class 2 electric bicycle on a sidewalk under certain circumstances. Prohibits a person from operating a bicycle or electric foot scooter under the age of 18 without a helmet. Repeals the requirement that moped drivers use bicycle lanes and substitutes the term “motor-driven cycle” with the term “motor scooter.”

    Veto Rationale: While mopeds and motorcycles are exempt from the prohibition established within this bill, on “high-speed electric devices” driving on public roadways, electric cars are not exempt. Such a prohibition would likely violate the Commerce Clause and Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution and conflict with the administration’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    HB1296: RELATING TO THE MAJOR DISASTER FUND

    Bill Description: Establishes timely notice and reporting requirements to the Legislature by the Governor regarding the transfer of appropriations to the Major Disaster Fund. Effective 7/1/2025. Sunsets 7/1/2026.

    Veto Rationale: The administration is committed to the transparent, efficient management of state funds. During times of emergency, flexibility and the quick release of funds is necessary to respond to rapidly changing situations. This bill disrupts the delicate balance between reporting requirements facilitating government transparency and fiscal flexibility undergirding efficient response and recovery efforts. Placing additional administrative oversight over funds expended for emergencies jeopardizes public safety.

    SB15: RELATING TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION 

    Bill Description: Amends the definition of “historic property” to require that the property is over 50 years old and meets the criteria for inclusion in the Hawaiʻi Register of Historic Places. Excludes proposed projects on existing residential property and proposed projects that are in nominally sensitive areas from the State’s Historic Preservation Program review, under certain circumstances.

    Veto Rationale: Exempting proposed projects on any existing residential property from historic preservation review fails to consider properties that have never undergone such a review and may contain historically significant artifacts or iwi kūpuna. This categorical exclusion increases the risk for desecration of iwi kūpuna and historical resources. Although Governor Green supports amending the historic preservation review process to facilitate housing production, a more nuanced approach to protecting iwi kūpuna is needed, such as that advanced in SB 1263.

    SB31: RELATING TO PROPERTY

    Bill Description: Authorizes a person who discovers a recorded discriminatory restrictive covenant to take certain actions, without liability, to invalidate the covenant. Defines discriminatory restrictive covenant.

    Veto Rationale: By enabling any person, including those without any interest in the specified real property, to record a statement that a real property’s title includes a discriminatory restrictive covenant, this bill provides a statutorily authorized mechanism for the circulation of disinformation. This disinformation has the potential to negatively affect the marketability of a property. Because the person who recorded the statement claiming a discriminatory restrictive covenant exists is waived of any liability, no recourse is available to those who suffer financial loss due to inaccurate claims concerning their property’s title.

    SB38: RELATING TO HOUSING

    Bill Description: Requires the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation to provide counties with an opportunity to comment on certain housing development projects. Prohibits the legislative body of a county from imposing stricter conditions than the Hawaiʻi Housing Finance and Development Corporation, stricter area median income requirements, or a reduction in fee waivers to housing development proposals that would increase the cost of the project.

    Veto Rationale: County councils have expressed concerns that this bill hampers their ability to work with developers to modify housing projects to reflect the specific needs of their communities. While the administration supports measures intended to facilitate the production of affordable housing, further dialogue with the counties on this measure’s implementation is required.

    SB66: RELATING TO HOUSING

    Bill Description: Establishes procedures and requirements for single-family and multifamily housing project applicants to apply for an expedited permit, including requirements for completeness of expedited permit applications, duties of licensed professionals and the counties during construction, and applications for owner-builder exemptions. Takes effect 7/1/2026. Sunsets 6/30/2031.

    Veto Rationale: By allowing any qualified professional to determine a project’s impact on historical resources, this bill permits a project proponent to evaluate and determine the impact of its own projects on historical resources. This is a conflict of interest that allows for self-serving determinations, undermines the authority and purpose of regulatory agencies’ independent evaluations, and increases risk to iwi kūpuna.

    SB104: RELATING TO CORRECTIONS

    Bill Description: Beginning 7/1/2026, restricts the use of restrictive housing in state-operated and state-contracted correctional facilities, with certain specified exceptions. Establishes a restrictive housing legislative working group to develop and recommend more comprehensive laws, policies and procedures regarding restrictive housing for members of vulnerable populations by 1/8/2027. Requires the Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission to review restrictive housing placements on an annual basis. Authorizes the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, by 12/1/2027, to implement policies and procedures recommended by the restrictive housing working group related to committed persons. Requires interim and final reports to the Legislature and Hawaiʻi Correctional System Oversight Commission.

    Veto Rationale: The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has policies in place governing the use of restrictive housing. These policies and procedures comply with National Institute of Corrections and American Correctional Association standards. Rather than improve the health and safety of those in the department’s care, the implementation of certain requirements proposed in this bill will jeopardize the safety, security and good governance of the department’s facility, negatively impacting inmates. In lieu of this measure and to address stakeholders’ concerns, the department is working with the Hawaiʻi Correctional Systems Oversight Commission to amend its policies and procedures.

    SB447: RELATING TO A DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PILOT PROGRAM

    Bill Description: Establishes a Hiring Pilot Program within the Department of Health, which includes an amended hiring procedure for delegated position classifications, certain flexibilities regarding minimum qualifications for positions having a salary range at or below SR-10, the ability to directly hire certain individuals into a civil service position if certain conditions are met, and the authority to make certain temporary appointments at the merited civil service pay scale without step limitation. Applies to recruitments initiated before 7/1/2028. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Sunsets 7/1/2028.

    Veto Rationale: The governor strongly supports efforts to streamline the state’s hiring process to address our workforce vacancies, especially those in our state’s public health sector. However, this bill conflicts with state civil service law, undermining the state’s merit-based civil service system. Disparities in hiring, classification and compensation throughout the state are expected to occur should this bill become law.

    SB1102: RELATING TO THE AIRCRAFT RESCUE FIRE FIGHTING UNIT

    Bill Description: Specifies the appointment processes and terms for the Fire Chief of the Hawaiʻi State Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting Unit of the Airports Division of the Department of Transportation.

    Veto Rationale: The appointment process proposed in the bill is inconsistent with the selection process for other department leadership positions. Further, due to the need to obtain legislative approval for the appointment of the Fire Chief, following the appointment process contained in this bill may delay the appointment of this critical leadership position, impacting airport operations, safety and readiness.

    # # #

    Media Contacts:  
    Erika Engle
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
    Office: 808-586-0120
    Email: [email protected] 

    Makana McClellan
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
    Cell: 808-265-0083
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The story of Swedish “house dad” Patrick Bachstatter and his “organic life” in Dali

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    The story of Patrik Bachstatter, 33, a Swede and one of the 379,000 foreigners permanently residing in Yunnan Province, is typical. He and his wife met in the Philippines. Since 2018, the family has lived in Shenyang, Sanya, Qingdao and other cities before finally finding their “home” in its full sense in Dali, Yunnan. “Although it’s not a big city, it has perfect infrastructure and a lifestyle close to nature,” the head of the family said. The clean air, mountainous surroundings and close-knit community in Dali have given him a strong sense of belonging, especially when considering his children’s education.

    Bachstatter on an organic farm in Yunnan Province (Source: video screenshot)

    Nowadays, Bachstatter mainly works in organic farming. He was attracted by the agricultural eco-community of Dali and began growing organic vegetables in villages in Midu and Eryuan counties, implementing sustainable technologies based on soil health and biodiversity. Although rural life has not turned out to be as idyllically carefree as he imagined, the connection with the land and the farmers has become most valuable to him: “The local farmers have not studied organic farming systematically, but they have a deep emotional connection with the land. I absorb a lot from their experience based on tradition.”

    Every week, Bachstatter takes his little daughter out into the fields to get to know different plants and to understand the value of healthy eating and environmental protection. “In an era of rapid technological development, it is especially important to develop independent thinking and creativity in children,” says the caring “stay-at-home dad.” He now plans to expand the scale of agriculture, research hydroponic technologies and agroecology, and dreams of creating a network of organic farms.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: MediPharm Labs’ Board Continues Value Destruction for Shareholders with Sale of Hope Facility

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Complete Incompetence at the Board Level Results in Fire Sale of Treasured MediPharm Asset, the Hope Facility, to a Competitor

    Hope Facility was One of Canada’s Best Cultivation Assets Before it was Acquired by MediPharm, Grossly Mismanaged, and Ultimately Shut Down in 2024

    MediPharm Labs’ Board is Pursuing its Worst Deal Yet: A Highly Dilutive NO CASH Sale of the Remaining Company

    Apollo has a Concrete and Achievable Plan to Drive MediPharm’s Share Price from Nearly $0.06 to Over $1.00, Restoring Value to its Loyal Shareholders

    SHAREHOLDERS ARE URGED TO VOTE THE GOLD CARD “FOR” APOLLO CAPITAL’S SIX DIRECTOR NOMINEES AND NOT VOTE MEDIPHARM’s GREEN CARD

    TORONTO, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo Technology Capital Corporation (“Apollo Capital”), one of MediPharm Labs’ (“MediPharm”) largest investors, warns MediPharm shareholders that the Company’s current leadership is continuing its pursuit of value destructive M&A, with the ultimate goal of a non-cash dilutive sale of the entire company. A sale of the Company which would trigger over $5M in change of control and other payments to current management.

    “It’s a travesty for shareholders to have what is believed to be a $12M asset sold for just $4.5M, likely netting shareholders less than $4M after fees and expenses. Worse still, the acquirer will wisely use the facility to produce cannabis for export that will directly compete with MediPharm in Europe,” says Regan McGee of Apollo Capital.

    “Yesterday’s fire sale announcement makes it crystal clear that MediPharm’s Board has no actual value creation strategy, just a desire to sell off MediPharm’s assets at shareholders’ expense to keep paying themselves at 500% above market norms. Is MediPharm pursuing growth facilities as a strategy or not? Is the Napanee facility the next fire sale we will see to a competitor?” questions Regan McGee of Apollo Capital.

    Apollo expects the scaling of MediPharm’s Napanee facility to cost shareholders significantly more than what the buyer of the Hope Facility will spend to achieve real profitability. Apollo expects the scaling of MediPharm’s Napanee facility to cost between $3 million and $5 million and take 12 to 18 months to generate revenue. Apollo notes MediPharm’s management team does not have cultivation experience, which could result in millions of investment dollars needed before it provides a return, if ever.

    The Hope Facility, formerly known as CannaFarms, was built by the highly respected Laflamme family to be one of the first licensed facilities in Canada. As exceptional visionaries, the Laflamme family built a world-class facility at immense personal cost to service patients in need, including military veterans. After nearly a decade of strong operational success as a positive driver for the community, MediPharm leadership not only failed to realize the value of its acquisition, but handed its assets to a competitor for well below market value.

    This sale is a tragic outcome for MediPharm shareholders. CEO David Pidduck has sold off MediPharm’s Hope.

    Apollo Capital asks:

    • Why did the Board fail to capitalize on the value of the operational and profitable Hope Facility, as MediPharm’s competitor plans to?
    • How will the MediPharm and its shareholders pay for ill-advised investments in cultivation?
    • How will MediPharm avoid insolvency, given CEO Pidduck’s current strategy?
    • Is the Board pursuing a highly dilutive sale of the Company that will destroy remaining shareholder value?
    • In the case of such a transaction, how many millions of dollars of the shareholders’ money will go directly to the compensation of management?

    Apollo Capital has invested significant capital into MediPharm and nominated highly qualified director candidates who can drive the urgent change needed and propel share price over $1.00. For more information, see our strategic five-pillar plan at www.curemedipharm.com.

    Apollo urges shareholders to save their investments and vote the GOLD CARD by June 13, 2025. Shareholders are urged to NOT sign or return the green proxy cards sent by the Company.

    Contacts

    For Shareholders:
    Carson Proxy
    North American Toll-Free Phone: 1-800-530-5189
    Local or Text Message: 416-751-2066 (collect calls accepted)
    E: info@carsonproxy.com

    For Media:
    media@curemedipharm.com

    This solicitation is being made by and on behalf of the Concerned Shareholder, who, as of the date of this Circular, beneficially owns or controls, directly and indirectly through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Nobul Technologies Inc., 12,491,500 common shares of the Company (“Common Shares”), representing approximately 3% of the total Common Shares issued and outstanding, and not by the management of the Company (“Management”).

    Legal Disclosures
    Information in Support of Public Broadcast Exemption under Canadian Law
    In connection with the annual general and special meeting (the “Annual Meeting”) of shareholders of MediPharm, Apollo Capital has filed an amended and restated dissident information circular dated May 15, 2025 (the “Circular”), as amended and supplemented by an addendum to the Circular subsequently filed by the Concerned Stakeholder dated June 4, 2025 (the “Addendum” and together with the Circular, the “Amended Circular”), each in compliance with applicable corporate and securities laws. The Concerned Stakeholder has provided in, or incorporated by reference into, this press release the disclosure required under section 9.2(4) of NI 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations (“NI 51-102”) and the corresponding exemption under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario), and has filed the Amended Circular, available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The Amended Circular contains disclosure prescribed by applicable corporate law and disclosure required under section 9.2(6) of NI 51-102 in respect of the Concerned Stakeholder’s director nominees, in accordance with corporate and securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations. The Amended Circular is hereby incorporated by reference into this press release and is available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The registered office of the Company is 151 John Street, Barrie, Ontario, Canada L4N 2L1.
    SHAREHOLDERS OF MEDIPHARM ARE URGED TO READ THE AMENDED CIRCULAR CAREFULLY BECAUSE IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders are able to obtain free copies of the Amended Circular and any amendments or supplements thereto and further proxy circulars at no charge under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, shareholders are also able to obtain free copies of the Amended Circular and other relevant documents by contacting the Concerned Stakeholder’s proxy solicitor, Carson Proxy Advisors Ltd. (“Carson Proxy”) at 1-800-530-5189, local (collect outside North America): 416-751-2066 or by email at info@carsonproxy.com.
    Proxies may be revoked in accordance with subsection 110(4) of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) by a registered shareholder of Company shares: (a) by completing and signing a valid proxy bearing a later date and returning it in accordance with the instructions contained in the accompanying form of proxy; (b) by depositing an instrument in writing executed by the shareholder or by the shareholder’s attorney authorized in writing; (c) by transmitting by telephonic or electronic means a revocation that is signed by electronic signature in accordance with applicable law, as the case may be: (i) at the registered office of the Company at any time up to and including the last business day preceding the day the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting is to be held, or (ii) with the chair of the Annual Meeting on the day of the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting; or (d) in any other manner permitted by law. In addition, proxies may be revoked by a non-registered holder of Company shares at any time by written notice to the intermediary in accordance with the instructions given to the non-registered holder by its intermediary. It should be noted that revocation of proxies or voting instructions by a non-registered holder can take several days or even longer to complete and, accordingly, any such revocation should be completed well in advance of the deadline prescribed in the form of proxy or voting instruction form to ensure it is given effect in respect of the Annual Meeting.
    The costs incurred in the preparation and mailing of any circular or proxy solicitation by the Concerned Stakeholder and any other participants named herein will be borne directly and indirectly by Apollo Capital. However, to the extent permitted under applicable law, Apollo Capital intends to seek reimbursement from the Company of all expenses incurred in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of its director nominees at the Annual Meeting.
    This press release and any solicitation made by the Concerned Stakeholder is, or will be, as applicable, made by such parties, and not by or on behalf of the management of the Company. Proxies may be solicited by proxy circular, mail, telephone, email or other electronic means, as well as by newspaper or other media advertising and in person by managers, directors, officers and employees of the Concerned Stakeholder who will not be specifically remunerated therefor. In addition, the Concerned Stakeholder may solicit proxies by way of public broadcast, including press release, speech or publication and any other manner permitted under applicable Canadian laws, and may engage the services of one or more agents and authorize other persons to assist it in soliciting proxies on their behalf.
    Apollo Capital has entered into an agreement with Carson Proxy for solicitation and advisory services in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Concerned Stakeholder for the Annual Meeting, for which Carson Proxy will receive a fee from Apollo Capital not to exceed $250,000, together with reimbursement for reasonable and out-of-pocket expenses. Apollo Capital has also engaged Gasthalter & Co. LP (“G&Co”) to act as communications consultant to provide the Concerned Stakeholder with certain communications, public relations and related services, for which G&Co will receive, from Apollo Capital, a minimum fee of US$75,000 in addition to a performance fee of US$250,000 in the event that the Concerned Stakeholder’s nominees make up a majority of the board of directors of MediPharm (the “Board”) following the Annual Meeting, plus excess fees, related costs and expenses. Anteris Advisors, LLC (“Anteris”) has also been retained by Apollo Capital to act as strategic consultant to provide the Concerned Stakeholder with certain activism strategy, material creation and strategic communications services, for which Anteris will receive, from Apollo Capital, a minimum fee of US$100,000 in addition to a success fee of US$100,000 in the event that one or more of the Concerned Stakeholder’s nominees are appointed or elected to the Board following the Annual Meeting or as a result of any settlement or arrangement, plus excess fees, related costs and expenses.
    No member of the Concerned Stakeholder nor any of their respective associates or affiliates has or has had any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the beginning of the Company’s last completed financial year or in any proposed transaction that has materially affected or will or would materially affect the Company or any of the Company’s affiliates. No member of the Concerned Stakeholder nor any of their respective associates or affiliates has any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted upon at the Annual Meeting, other than setting the number of directors and the election of directors to the Board.
    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward‐looking statements. All statements contained in this filing that are not clearly historical in nature or that necessarily depend on future events are forward‐looking, and the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “plan,” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward‐looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of the Concerned Stakeholder and currently available information. They are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. All forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof and the Concerned Stakeholder disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that subsequently occur, or of which the Concerned Stakeholder hereafter becomes aware, except as required by applicable law.

    Hashtags: #ShareholderActivism #CorporateGovernance #InvestorProtection #Investor Alert #Investor Fraud #FinancialRegulation #CorporateCrime #FinancialCrime #HomelandSecurity #DHS #OpioidCrisis #OpioidEpidemic #OpioidLitigation #OpioidVictims #BMO #DEA #ONDCP

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Solomon Islands – East Makira Constituency delivers livelihood assistance to empower rural communities

    Source: Solomon Islands Government

    The East Makira Constituency (EMC) office has successfully delivered the remaining Constituency Development Fund (CDF)-funded livelihood assistance and projects to recipients across EMC.

    This initiative underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to uplifting rural communities and fostering sustainable development, especially in EMC under the leadership of the Member of Parliament and Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, Honourable Franklyn Derek Wasi.

    From May 21st to 25th, 2025, EMC Constituency Development Officer (CDO) Mr. Timan Tauni facilitated the distribution of these vital projects to beneficiaries in their respective communities.

    The assistance is part of a larger $3.7 million livelihood support program delivered to communities and churches in East Makira Constituency earlier this year.

    Key highlights of the livelihood assistance include:

    Solar Energy for Vulnerable Groups:

    A total of 227 solar sets were distributed, with 114 sets allocated to Ward 12 and 113 sets to Ward 17.

    Priority was given to older adults, widows, and people living with disabilities, ensuring they have access to reliable lighting.

    “Solar lights are transformative for rural communities. They enhance safety, improve health, and enable economic activities after dark, all while being environmentally sustainable,” Mr. Tauni explained.

    Boosting Fisheries and Transportation:

    Four fishing boats equipped with outboard motor engines (OBMs) were provided to support local fisheries.

    A transportation project and a fuel depot project were also delivered to address logistical challenges in the region.

    Edward Kwasi, a fishery project recipient from Santa Catalina Island, shared, “This OBM will help my family expand our fishing business, meet school fees, and improve our livelihoods. Fishing is our way of life, and this support is a dream come true.”

    Fuel Depot for Reliable Energy Access:

    Mr. Chris Wago, a fuel depot recipient from Natorara Village (Ward 17), emphasised the project’s importance: “Fuel shortages have long hindered our fishermen. This depot will ensure a steady supply, support local businesses, and help families like mine thrive.”

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Cracks Down on EBT Fraud

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) joined Reps. Vince Fong (CA-20), David Valadao (CA-22), and Addison McDowell (NC-06) to introduce the Stopping Klepto-card and Identity Misuse Act (SKIM) Act, which would crack down on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) theft, fraud, and waste. This essential lifeline program, designed to support our nation’s most vulnerable, has been overtaken by bad actors who relentlessly exploit and drain its resources from those it is meant to serve. 

    The EBT system, which is administered by state agencies under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, delivers government assistance such as SNAP and TANF through a debit-style card. These cards have increasingly become ripe targets for fraud. According to the California Department of Social Services, over $439 million in EBT benefits have been stolen since 2021 – rising from under $100,000 a month to over $10 million – proving that current penalties do not deter criminals.  

    The SKIM Act aims to address this rampant fraud by directing the U.S. Attorney General to coordinate federal, state, and local efforts against access device fraud, increase prison sentences for those using fake cards or ID-making tools, and require comprehensive best practices to help identify and prevent future fraud. 

    “Scammers exploiting the EBT system are the worst kind of evil, not only wasting taxpayer dollars but stealing vital benefits meant to help our most vulnerable,” said Congresswoman Kim. “The SKIM Act toughens penalties and strengthens law enforcement coordination to crack down on these bad actors, save taxpayer dollars, and ensure public assistance goes to those who actually need it.” 

    “Criminals who steal from children, families, and the elderly must be held accountable, and we must protect taxpayers from those who commit public assistance fraud,” said Congressman Fong. “After more than $2 million in EBT benefits were recently stolen from my district’s most vulnerable residents, I was determined to take action to safeguard the people who rely on these critical benefits, and crack down on those who would rob them.” 

    “SNAP is a critical lifeline that helps low-income families put food on their tables,” said Congressman Valadao. “Unfortunately, criminals exploit weaknesses in the EBT system by using skimming devices at grocery stores and gas pumps to steal benefits from those who need them most. It’s unacceptable, and I’m proud to work with Congressman Fong to hold these criminals accountable.” 

    “If you’re skimming cards, you’re stealing, plain and simple,” said Congressman McDowell. “But if you’re skimming EBT, you’re not just taking money, you’re taking food out of a child’s mouth. This bill cracks down hard on criminals. We’re raising penalties and demanding real accountability from the DOJ. No more looking the other way. I’m proud to stand with Congressman Vince Fong on the SKIM Act.”  

    For more information, please read the full bill text here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Visits Hackmatack Wildlife Refugee To Celebrate Expansion

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    June 06, 2025

    RICHMOND – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today visited Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge—the first such Refuge in the Chicago metropolitan area—to celebrate a major milestone in regional conservation. Durbin has championed Hackmatack for more than a dozen years, including by helping secure federal funding for the Refuge.

    Durbin’s visit to Hackmatack highlights the recent acquisition of Tamarack Farms, the refuge’s largest acquisition, which connects to existing protected lands, and was made possible in part due to an earmark secured by Durbin in 2022.

    “In 2012, I visited Hackmatack to officially designate the site as a National Wildlife Refuge. I am thrilled to return today to celebrate this historic expansion,” said Durbin. “The dream of protecting Tamarack Farms has now become a reality, and I was honored to secure an earmark that helped cover some of this acquisition. Hackmatack’s more than 11,000 acres are home to rare natural communities, unusual glacial landforms, high quality waters, and abundant native plants. Thanks to the work done by Friends of Hackmatack, Openlands, the Conservation Fund, McHenry County Conservation District, and Illinois Audobon Society, Illinoisans and Wisconsinites can enjoy these precious natural resources. I’ll continue advocating for the protection of this refuge on the federal level.” 

    “Hackmatack is more than a refuge for wildlife, it’s a refuge for people. With 80 percent of Americans living in metropolitan areas, the need for accessible nature has never been greater. Thanks to Senator Durbin’s leadership, dedicated grassroots advocates, and strong partnerships, this refuge stands as a powerful example of what’s possible when we work together: healthier communities, stronger local economies, and a deeper regional identity rooted in nature,” said Michael Davidson, President and CEO at Openlands.

    “We were happy to have played a part in securing the 1,000 acres and are pleased to see that the plans put in place are moving forward to create habitat for threatened and endangered species of plants and wildlife, and to provide an opportunity in the future for the public to discover a new appreciation of nature here at the refuge,” said Jo Fessett, Executive Director at Illinois Audubon Society.

    “Tamarack Farms will enable the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to dramatically expand public land access for residents and visitors of the region,” said Emy Brawley, VP Midwest for The Conservation Fund. “Senator Durbin’s steadfast support of Hackmatack has been key in achieving this top conservation priority and realizing the many benefits that will flow from it.”

    To date, approximately 3,299 acres have been protected within the greater Hackmatack area, including 890 acres now owned and managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Refuge provides vital habitat for 109 wildlife species of concern and serves as a key link in the regional conservation landscape. Hackmatack is poised to enhance McHenry County’s identity as a nature destination, contributing to a growing tourism sector generating $344 million in visitor spending and over 2,000 jobs.

    Durbin worked with the Obama Administration’s then Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar to officially establish the area as a National Wildlife Refuge in 2012. In Fiscal Year 2022, Durbin secured a $500,000 earmark for additional land acquisition in Hackmatack—which was used for the acquisition and transfer some of the Tamarack Farms to the Fish and Wildlife Service.  

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis Introduces Legislation to Replenish Disaster Relief Fund As North Carolina Prepares For Hurricane Season

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – With hurricane season officially underway, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) has introduced legislation to replenish the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) to ensure FEMA has the financial resources it needs to respond to natural disasters in the months ahead.

    Tillis’ legislation would provide $25 billion for the DRF, which would fulfill President Trump’s historic DRF funding request for Congress. Since last year, North Carolina has received roughly $4.45 billion from the DRF to respond and recover from Helene. 

    “With Western North Carolina still recovering from Helene and an above-normal hurricane season expected this year, we have to ensure that FEMA has the constant flow of resources it needs to help states respond to natural disasters,” said Senator Tillis. “Congress shouldn’t wait until the last minute, and I’m proud to lead the effort to replenish the DRF and ensure that President Trump’s request is fulfilled so FEMA can focus on its critical mission of helping states and local communities respond to emergencies.” 

    Read the bill HERE.

    Background: 

    Senator Tillis has been pushing for federal assistance for Western North Carolina since the moment Helene made landfall. 

    On October 1, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and the urgent need to pass an appropriations package to support the millions of Americans affected by the storm.   

    On October 16, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan group of senators in urging the White House to rapidly submit a government funding request to Congress that will fully cover costs associated with clean-up and recovery following Hurricanes Helene and Milton so that affected communities could begin to heal. The Senators called for Congress to return to Washington from the October in-state work period to approve federal disaster relief legislation.

    On October 23, 2024, The Hill published an op-ed by Senator Tillis addressed to members of Congress to step up and be proactive with long-term disaster recovery assistance.  

    On October 29, 2024, Senator Tillis and his colleagues announced plans to introduce legislation that would replenish the Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program with families and small businesses across WNC unable to get loans approved until then. The Senators outlined their plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returned to session.

    On November 14, 2024, Senator Tillis attempted to pass legislation to replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program through a unanimous consent request on the Senate floor, but was blocked by another Senator.

    On November 15, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to request that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) immediately send a supplemental appropriation request to Congress to support the communities we represent, which were devastated after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The OMB sent the request to Congress a few days later.

    On November 18, 2024, Senator Tillis introduced the standalone RELIEF Act to provide Hurricane relief to small businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.   

    On November 20, 2024, Senator Tillis called on Congress to quickly pass Hurricane Helene relief during his testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee. 

    On November 21, 2024, Senator Tillis met with Governor Cooper, Governor-Elect Stein, members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation and the North Carolina General Assembly, and local leaders from Western North Carolina to discuss efforts to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. 

    On December 5, 2024, Senator Tillis joined Fox News’ Your World with Neil Cavuto where he discussed the urgent need for Congress to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.  

    On December 10, 2024, Senator Tillis hosted N.C. Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, N.C. House of Representatives Speaker-elect Destin Hall, State Senators Bill Rabon and Ralph Hise, and State Representative Dudley Greene to discuss efforts to provide immediate assistance to North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene’s devastation.  

    On December 18, 2024, Senator Tillis committed to filibustering any continuing resolution that did not include disaster aid for Western North Carolina. 

    On December 21, 2024, Senator Tillis voted to pass a bipartisan government funding bill that included more than $100 billion in disaster relief for states and communities hit by natural disasters, including North Carolina during Hurricane Helene. 

    On January 7, 2025 Senator Tillis announced $1.65 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds to help rebuild communities devastated by Hurricane Helene.  

    On January 24, 2025, Senator Tillis released a statement thanking President Trump for his visit to Western North Carolina to survey the devastation left behind by Helene. 

    On January 31, 2025, Senator Tillis introduced the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025, legislation that excludes from gross income, for income tax purposes, any qualified catastrophe mitigation payment made under a state-based catastrophe loss mitigation program. 

    On March 11, 2025, Senator Tillis reintroduced the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act, bipartisan legislation to simplify the application process for federal disaster recovery assistance.  

    On April 1, 2025, Senator Tillis sent a letter urging U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to work with Congress to quickly distribute the more than $23 billion Congress passed in December to assist farmers, ranchers and rural Americans in responding to devastating natural disasters in 2023 and 2024.

    On April 3, 2025, Senator Tillis (R-NC) introduced the FEMA Independence Act, bipartisan legislation to restore the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as an independent cabinet-level agency and improve efficiency in federal emergency response efforts.  

    On April 24, 2025, Senator Tillis introduced the Helene Recovery Small Business Act and the Loans in Our Neighborhoods (LIONs) Act of 2025, legislation that would provide much-needed relief to small businesses as they work to recover from the devastation of Helene.

    On June 4, 2025, Senator Tillis announced he helped secure approximately $1.45 billion in federal funding for disaster-impacted communities, including those in Western North Carolina affected by Helene.

    In addition to Senator Tillis’ legislative efforts the Senator has met with local leaders, residents, and elected officials across Western North Carolina including in: Asheville, Black Mountain, Boone, Burnsville, Canton, Clyde, Fairview, Flat Rock, Hendersonville, Hot Springs, Marshall, Morganton, Spruce Pine, Swannanoa, Waynesville and Wilkesboro.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Florida Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Milton

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida who sustained economic losses caused by Hurricane Milton occurring Oct. 9-10, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the primary counties of DeSoto, Hardee, Manatee, Sarasota, Seminole and Volusia as well as the adjacent counties of Brevard, Charlotte, Flagler, Glades, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Marion, Orange, Polk and Putnam.

    Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”  

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is Jan. 22, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Minnesota Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Excessive Rain and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Minnesota of the July 7 deadline to apply for low  interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by excessive rain and  flooding occurring on May 26–July 31, 2024.  

    The disaster declaration covers the Minnesota counties of Beltrami, Clearwater, Marshall, Pennington, Polk, and Red Lake.  

    Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”  

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.62% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 7, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Warm weather expected for Comrades 2025 ultramarathon

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The thousands of runners participating in the Comrades 2025 ultramarathon this weekend can expect predominantly mild to warm and windy conditions, with partly cloudy to cloudy skies.

    On Sunday, 8 June, the 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon will take place between Pietermaritzburg and Durban with as many as 22 677 runners.

    The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has cautioned runners about a cool change in the weather later in the day.

    “… A coastal low and cold front are expected to move northwards up the KwaZulu-Natal coast, introducing colder, more moist conditions to the coast and adjacent interior. 

    “Moreover, there will be a risk of showers or thunderstorms developing over the Drakensberg, spreading to the coast in the evening,” SAWS said on Friday.

    A particularly intense cut-off low system, associated with severe and extreme winter weather, is expected to affect South Africa in the coming days.

    The weather service indicated that this system will begin affecting the Western and Northern Cape early on Saturday morning, 7 June 2025.

    “By Monday, 9 June 2025 and Tuesday, 10 June 2025, this extensive and severe winter weather system will have shifted further east over South Africa, affecting the central and eastern provinces.

    “A significant and dramatic drop in daytime temperatures can be expected over all provinces, with the possible exception of Limpopo. Consequently, farmers of small stock are strongly advised to implement appropriate measures to prevent stock losses due to exposure to bitter cold and wind,” the SAWS said on Thursday.

    The weather service has warned of snowfall over almost every province, with the exception of Limpopo.

    Some of these snowfalls will be disruptive, affecting traffic flow over mountain passes, for example, the N3 highway at Van Reenen’s pass on Monday, 9 June 2025 and Tuesday, 10 June 2025.

    “Given the intensity of the COL system, there is a low probability that Gauteng and the highveld region of Mpumalanga may experience light snowfalls Monday night, 9 June 2025, extending into Tuesday, 10 June 2025. However, at this stage there is significant uncertainty amongst the various numeric weather prediction models in this regard.

    “Heavy rainfall leading to localised flooding and infrastructure damage will be experienced over parts of the Eastern Cape coast and adjacent interior on Sunday, shifting to southern KwaZulu-Natal on Monday,” SAWS said.

    As of Sunday, many provinces will experience bitterly cold daytime conditions, with maximum temperatures unlikely to exceed +10 C. These conditions will be exacerbated by strong, gusty winds.

    Strong, damaging surface winds can be expected over large parts of the interior provinces from Sunday, leading to an elevated risk of wildfires, especially over the central and eastern interior, ahead of the cold change. 

    These extreme conditions are expected to persist over some of the eastern provinces until Wednesday.

    “Strong to near-gale force coastal winds and very rough seas from Friday along the south-west coast, spreading to the south and east coasts during Saturday, and lasting until at least Tuesday along the east coast,” SAWS said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 5th, 2025 Heinrich Slams DOGE Attacks on USGS Scientists and Budget Cuts in Letter to Interior Department Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, Ranking Member on the Senate Committee of Energy and Natural Resources sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum expressing his grave concern surrounding the Trump Administration’s assault on the Department’s science agency, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The letter highlights President Trump’s proposed budget cuts on the USGS, and the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) reported planned terminations of hundreds of scientists and potential termination of USGS centers’ leases across the country as threats to our nation’s scientists, public safety responsibilities and operational continuity of the agency.
    In addition to Heinrich, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) signed the letter.
    The senators opened the letter, “We write to express concern over recent and proposed actions by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and broader administrative decisions that together threaten the integrity and continuity of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).” The senators continued, “Specifically, the potential termination of General Services Administration (GSA) leases supporting USGS centers across the country— alongside USGS’s proposed FY2026 budget cut of $564 million and the reported planned terminations of hundreds of scientists—represents a multi-front assault on the nation’s scientific infrastructure.”
    Emphasizing the critical role USGS plays in monitoring and analyzing the nation’s resources, the senators highlighted, “USGS’s work underpins the ability of federal, state, and local governments, Tribal nations, industry, and communities tomake informed decisions—particularly in areas such as disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, water resource management, andecosystem protection,” the senators wrote.
    Stressing the impacts of cuts to USGS, “These proposed budgetcuts could mean abandoning research and monitoring that helps farmers guard against wildlife diseases like avian flu, delaying when real-time water and hazard data is provided for disaster response, and ending collaborations that monitor invasive species, harmful algal blooms and wildfire risks,” the senators wrote.
    “The scientific integrity, public safety responsibilities, andoperational continuity of the USGS must not be compromised by administration actions taken without proper oversight or consultation,” stated the senators.
    The senators highlighted the threat that the potential termination of USGS leases pose, many of which house Water Science Centers, Climate Adaptation Science Centers, and Ecosystems Research Centers, “These facilities provide critical support to states, local communities, and Tribal Nations as they confront unprecedented drought, wildfires, habitat loss, and other climate-related disruptions”
    “While DOGE’s actions are framed as efficiency measures, the potential impact of terminating these leases – without transparent criteria or coordination – as well as slashing $564 million from the budget and crippling of the scientific workforce raises serious questions about continuity of operations. If implemented, these changes to USGS would directly impair the federal government’s ability to assess and respond to threats in real time,” stressed the senators.
    The senators concluded the letter by asking the Department of the Interior to respond to questions outlining the far-reaching implications of these actions by June 19, 2025.
    Read the full text of the letter here and below:
     Dear Secretary Burgum,
    We write to express concern over recent and proposed actions by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and broader administrative decisions that together threaten the integrity andcontinuity of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Specifically, the potential termination of General Services Administration (GSA) leases supporting USGS centers across the country— alongsideUSGS’s proposed FY2026 budget cut of $564 million and the reported planned terminations of hundreds of scientists—represents a multi-front assault on the nation’s scientific infrastructure.
    The USGS is a premier science agency with a critical role inmonitoring and analyzing the nation’s resources, including water, ecosystems, natural hazards, minerals, and energy. Its scientific expertise and robust data collection efforts support public safety, environmental stewardship, and national economic resilience. USGS’s work underpins the ability of federal, state, and local governments, Tribal nations, industry, and communities to make informed decisions—particularly in areas such as disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, water resource management, and ecosystem protection.
    The proposed budget cuts are not about “efficiency”— they represent a retreat from federal responsibility and a dismantling of the scientific infrastructure that communities, industries, andgovernments depend on every day. USGS supports work that directly protects public health, strengthens our economy, andinforms disaster preparedness and response. These proposed budget cuts could mean abandoning research and monitoring that helps farmers guard against wildlife diseases like avian flu, delaying when real-time water and hazard data is provided for disaster response, and ending collaborations that monitor invasive species, harmful algal blooms and wildfire risks. While these impacts are not yet certain, they represent serious risks for communities, Tribes, state and local governments, and natural resource managers who depend on USGS science to make informed, often life-saving decisions. As demonstrated throughout its nearly 150 years of existence, USGS science is not optional; it is essential.
    The potential termination of USGS leases, many of which house Water Science Centers, Climate Adaptation Science Centers, andEcosystems Research Centers, threatens regional scientific capacity at a time when local expertise and place-based science are most needed. These facilities provide critical support to states, local communities, and Tribal Nations as they confront unprecedented drought, wildfires, habitat loss, and other climate-related disruptions. Reliable Page 2 scientific information is essential toboth our national economy and the safety of communities across the country.
    While DOGE’s actions are framed as efficiency measures, the potential impact of terminating these leases – without transparent criteria or coordination – as well as slashing $564 million from the budget and crippling of the scientific workforce raises serious questions about continuity of operations. If implemented, these changes to USGS would directly impair the federal government’s ability to assess and respond to threats in real time.
    Given this uncertainty and the far-reaching implications of these actions, we request immediate clarity on the following by June 19, 2025:
    1. What is the current status of all USGS leases and what facilities are at risk of lease termination?
    2. What criteria were used to select these leases for potential termination, and how was USGS consulted in this process?
    3. What plans are in place to ensure uninterrupted mission support—particularly for key activities under the Water Resources, Natural Hazards, and Ecosystems Mission Areas— if these facilities are closed?
    4. Where will affected employees be relocated, and how will critical field and lab operations be maintained in the interim?
    5. How will USGS ensure that existing commitments to state andlocal governments, tribal partners, and other stakeholders are honored, particularly for time-sensitive water data and hazard alerts?
    6. What USGS staff positions are on the list for termination (please include title and location)? When will the terminations be implemented?
    7. Do any of the USGS employees on the list for termination have salaries funded by reimbursable contracts with external partners? If so, how many such employees are affected, and what is the amount of federal savings that would be generated from their termination?
    8. Given the planned reduction in force, how will existing staff fill the gaps in order to fulfill the USGS mission?
    9. What programs will be eliminated by the $564 million proposed budget cut?
    The scientific integrity, public safety responsibilities, andoperational continuity of the USGS must not be compromised by administrative actions taken without proper oversight or consultation. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your prompt response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: WTO Fish Fund launches Call for Proposals for implementing Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    Source: WTO

    Headline: WTO Fish Fund launches Call for Proposals for implementing Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

    Developing and LDC members that have ratified the Agreement are eligible to submit proposals for technical assistance and capacity-building activities to support their implementation of the Agreement. These fall into two categories: project preparation grants of up to USD 50,000 for activities such as studies and needs assessments to prepare for implementation of the Agreement, and project grants of up to USD 300,000 for specific projects to implement the Agreement.
    WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said: “A vital feature of this historic Agreement is that it provides funding for developing and least-developed country members  to receive technical assistance and capacity building support to implement the new disciplines and improve fisheries management. Delivering this support is essential to realizing the Agreement’s benefits for people, oceans, and the planet. This Call for Proposals represents a first but significant step towards turning the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies into lasting, transformative change for livelihoods and marine fisheries. I am deeply grateful to our current and future donors to the Fish Fund!”
    WTO members can access the application portal here. Proposals must be submitted by 9 September. However, if the Agreement enters into force before this date, the deadline will be extended by one month. The Steering Committee of the Fish Fund will review and evaluate all submissions.
    So far, 101 WTO members have formally accepted the Agreement. Funds may be disbursed once the WTO receives the 111 instruments of acceptance needed for the Agreement to enter into force.
    The contributions and pledges received by the Fund thus far amount to approximately CHF 14.5 million (just over USD 17.5 million), with commitments made by Australia, Canada, the European Union, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.
    The Fish Fund was established under Article 7 of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, which ministers adopted at the 12th Ministerial Conference in 2022. Housed at the WTO, the Fund operates in cooperation with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the World Bank.
    For more information, please visit the WTO Fish Fund website here and download the fact sheet titled “How to Access Funding — Opening the Call for Proposals” available here.
    The list of all WTO members that have submitted their instrument of acceptance is available here.
    More information on the WTO Fisheries Funding Mechanism is available here.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Discusses Importance of Protecting Women’s Sports, Boosting School Choice

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with several of President Trump’s nominees, including Penny Schwinn, nominee to be Deputy Secretary of Education at the Department of Education, Kimberly Richey, nominee to be Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the Department of Education, and Daniel Aronowitz, nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Employee Benefits Security Administration at the Department of Labor. They discussed the importance of protecting Title IX and promoting school choice.

    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or watch on YouTube or Rumble.

    ON PROMOTING SCHOOL CHOICE:

    TUBERVILLE: “Thanks for all of you [being] willing to serve. It’s a privilege to have you all here. Doctor Schwinn, I wonder if people can give the definition of ‘national emergency.’ That’s what we have in our education system. It’s pitiful. I’ve been in it 35 years and it’s getting worse. The last four years, we just brushed over the problems, didn’t try to correct any. I would hope that you would be really involved in this. Our kids can’t read and write, [the] majority of them. It’s a disaster. It’s a shame. It’s criminal, to be honest with you.

    [Holds up cellphone] would you please get that out of the classroom? Because kids can’t learn when they’re looking at a text. I’m sick of hearing about ‘we need those in the classroom.’ Let’s take our schools back. We’ve given it over to the people who actually don’t want to educate our kids.

    So, thanks for your background in educational agencies. If confirmed, I hope you would assist Secretary McMahon in executing at the more local level. Can you address that?”

    SCHWINN: “Absolutely, and thank you for that. I couldn’t agree more as the parent of a thirteen-year-old. So, absolutely, one of the things that we did in Tennessee that I think was the secret sauce and has been over a long period of time is that locals know what’s best for their communities and their students. Memphis, Tennessee and Lake County, Tennessee are three to four hours apart and could not be more different. My home state of California and my adopted home state of Tennessee could not be more different. We need to make sure that locals are empowered to make the best decisions for their students. And when the money is closest to the child, when the decisions are closest to the child, we can best serve the child. And I am completely aligned with Secretary McMahon to ensure that we can help our states and our local communities to make the best decisions for their students in their communities.”

    TUBERVILLE: “School choice should be an option. I’ve been in many inner-city schools. For some reason, a lot of my colleagues do not want to educate kids in inner cities. School choice should be mandatory in a lot of our inner cities because they can’t read and write. If you can’t read and write, you can’t take advantage of the greatest country ever.”

    ON PROTECTING TITLE IX:

    TUBERVILLE: “Ms. Richey, Title IX, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, is what I’ve been trying to get passed for years. It makes no sense to me what’s going on. I mean, we’ve got a huge problem. We can’t define the difference of men playing in women’s sports. It’s dangerous. We all know that. I mean, it’s something that we’d better get straight because little girls aren’t going to get into sports and we’re not going to have women’s sports 10, 15years from now. We’ve got entire high school teams that are made now of transgender boys that can’t figure out that they’re not supposed to be in that—that it’s for women. But what are your thoughts on that?”

    RICHEY: “Yes, sir. Thank you, Senator, for the question. I grew up playing basketball, and played into college. I could not have competed against biological men. It just was not something that I would have been able to do. One of the things I’m really proud of under the first term is that [the] OCR investigated and took to enforcement one of the very first cases initiated by the federal government, which actually determined that policies that allow students to participate based on sexual orientation or gender identity actually violated Title IX because they deprive women and girls of the opportunity to participate in athletics. I’m very proud of that. I’m very proud of the way that the Secretary and the President have prioritized this issue, and I’m certainly committed to vigorously enforcing it and continuing to pursue these cases.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. We’ve got the Olympics here in a couple of years—[in] a few years in LA. We’re going be a joke if we allow that to happen on the world stage. So, hopefully we come to our senses by that time and show little girls that, ‘yes, you do have an opportunity.’”

    ON THE FINANCIAL FREEDOM ACT:

    TUBERVILLE: “[The] Financial Freedom Act. I think you, Mr. Aronowitz, are familiar with that. The Biden administration pretty much prohibited being able to put your finances where you wanted to, at the end of the day. I’ve been trying to get that passed. Would you commit to supporting legislation that would provide Americans the freedom to invest their own money how they see fit?”

    ARONOWITZ: “Absolutely, Senator. I believe that fiduciaries should decide what’s in retirement plans, not government bureaucrats, not plaintiff lawyers, no one else. Fiduciaries know what’s best, and I am committed to that.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Mr. Chairman.”

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks About Importance of Protecting Alabama’s Family Farms

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke about the importance of protecting Alabama’s family farms during a Senate Special Committee on Aging hearing. During the hearing, Sen. Tuberville spoke with Zippy Duvall, President of the American Farm Bureau Federation, Jim Alderman, Owner of Alderman Farms, and Aaron Locker, Managing Director of Kincannon & Reed.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or watch on Youtube or Rumble.
    ON HIGH COSTS IMPACTING AMERICAN FARMERS: 
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for having and holding this hearing. In addition to being on the Aging Committee, gentlemen, I’m also on the Ag Committee. Let me tell you, the state of our agriculture economy, it’s in dire straits. We’re in trouble. We’ve lost 150,000 farms, [and] 25,000 farmers just in the last five years. Producers have lost over $40 billion dollars in net farm income since 2022 and the current agriculture trade deficit has grown to $49 billion dollars. Despite [this], in my state of Alabama, the producers [are] making bumper crops, they can’t even break even, much less make a profit due to the low commodity prices, high input costs, interest rates and inflation. We can’t keep this up. We can’t do it. The only way we’re going to help our farmers survive is to extend President Trump’s tax cuts, increase references prices, and hammer the heck out of foreign countries on tariffs. It is way out of control, way out of balance. We cannot continue this direction.”
    ON FARM LABOR:
    TUBERVILLE: “It’s concerning that one-third of our farmers are over the age of 65. And this creates a significant workforce problem for our ag industry as young people are not entering farming. Mr. Duvall and Mr. Alderman, this labor problem increases the need for reforms in H-2A programs. Can you two speak of the struggles of keeping up with H-2A’s Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) that is over $16 dollars an hour in my state of Alabama—that is double the minimum wage. Can y’all address that, please?”
    ALDERMAN: “Yes, sir. I can.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.”
    ALDERMAN: “It costs me between $22 to $24 dollars an hour from my H-2A labor. Okay? Minimum wage in Florida, I think, is $12.50. I’m from Florida. And with the rates going up higher—next year they’re going up and they’re talking about going up another dollar—we still have to pay for their housing. We’d like some relief at least we could get the housing back from the people, the H-2A workers who we are bringing in. We spend, you know, hundreds of thousands of dollars every year just for housing for the labor. Plus, we have to bring them in here, pay for their visas, pay for their ride here, their ride back. They’re great labor. They’re good. Without them, we couldn’t harvest our crops. But we can’t compete with the cheap prices of tomatoes coming from Mexico against us. They undercut the price—it’s so cheap. […] The tariffs that we’re talking about is not enough to make any difference. 20%, 17%, that’s not enough to help it. They need a floor of at least what our minimum growing cost is and then put a tariff above that. But try to protect the Florida farmers, the few that are left, not only just in Florida, because at first, it was just Mexico was coming after Florida tomato farmers right after NAFTA. Well, 20 years later, they’re growing pepper and squash and corn and beans and every vegetable we grow all the way up the East Coast, all the way to Jersey and past. They’re going to be competing with all of them, Mexico with all those products. And their labor is, I don’t know, what are they paying $10 dollars a day and we’re paying $25 dollars an hour? There’s got to be some help with the balance of trade. We don’t want the government to give us anything, but get us on a level playing field with Mexico and Canada.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Mr. Duvall, you want to add to that?”
    DUVALL: “Yes, sir. First thing we need to do is for Congress to freeze the AEWR wage rate so that farmers don’t have to take another increase and give us time to work on this H-2A program so that we can make it a workable program for our employees and for the farmer there. If the way we’re going now with the wage rate going up, we’re gonna price ourselves out of farming. We’re not gonna be able to pay the wage rate and stay in the farming and provide those jobs. And it’s gotta be done, it’s gotta be done quickly. And then we gotta work on creating an H-2A program or a program that speaks to all of agriculture. All of agriculture is suffering for the lack of labor, and we need to have year-round workers that’s not capped. We need to be able to control it, but we need to be able to fill those jobs, whether a small, medium, or large-sized farm, and we need to have those year-round workers in those areas like dairy and other places where the work never stops. And then, of course, the regulations that go along with those programs are just so burdensome. You heard him talk about the requirement of having housing—the liabilities that come along with that and the difficulty it is for our farmers to continue to abide by all these regulations because every regulation costs a lot of money to a farmer. And if we’re gonna continue to be able to compete with the world, we gotta be able to make sure that we have a workable program, bring reliable labor here so that we can get the job done. […] How can a young farmer come back to the farm and bring his expertise that he learned in college [and] expand that farm without having the labor force to do it with? That’s one of the biggest limiting factors we have. And that AEWR rate is set by a survey done by USDA that was created over 60 years ago to count employees, not to set a wage rate. The formula is totally […] unworkable, and we need to redo that formula and set a fair wage rate that encourages farmers to hire people and be able to still stay in business and to treat their employees right.”
    ON IMPORTANCE OF REPEALING THE DEATH TAX:
    TUBERVILLE: “I got one question, Mr. Locker, we’ll start with you. All of you can answer if you want—your thoughts on this. As long as I’ve been up here, I’ve been advocating to permanently repeal the federal estate tax, which is often called the ‘death tax.’ I know it means a lot to farmers. So, Mr. Locker, we’ll start with you—your thoughts?”
    LOCKER: “Well, Senator, I think, obviously, you look at modern agriculture today, I mean, it is a massive investment. Even small farms, I mean, if you add up all the assets. And, so, anytime that you want to pass that along to the next generation, it comes at a significant cost and in many cases is cost prohibitive. And so, yeah, doing away with the death tax. And I think we get, you know, bottled in with, you know, other businesses and it couldn’t be farther from the truth in terms of comparable that, you know, when you’re passing along a farm business, it comes with, like I said, a lot of costs, a lot of assets, it takes a lot to run a farm today. And so doing away with the estate, the death tax is the right thing to do. To be able to continue to pass it down to the next generation—otherwise it becomes cost prohibitive.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Duvall, you got it.”
    DUVALL: “It’s absolutely one of the necessary things that we need to do. [A farmer] works all his life. I’ve spent my whole life buying back my farm—my daddy had to sell part of it off—my whole life. And if we don’t fix that problem, if we don’t get rid of the inheritance tax, other generations will have to sell a farm and that farm will go out of production, and we will not enjoy the production from those farms. And it has to be done. You know, it’s just like people say, ‘Well, you got a lot of land, you got a lot of wealth.’ You have to have land to farm. It’s just like having a tractor. It’s just like having a car to go to work in every day, even if you’re not farming. It’s something you have to have to do that job. But, show me a farmer that has a retirement plan. It’s tied up in his land. It’s tied up in his land. And when he retires, he’s either got to sell his land or sell it to his children. And then if you pile inheritance tax on top of that, they have to sell part of the farm to be able to continue it. And it is one of the biggest devastating things that can happen to a family farm when you have a death and have to go through that difficult time.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Alderman?”
    ALDERMAN: “I agree with you wholeheartedly. It’s double taxation. It shouldn’t be there. You’ve already paid the taxes once. Why are you going to just put somebody out of business or make them sell their business or the farm? It shouldn’t be there. I agree with you.” […]
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Urges the U.S. Senate to Protect the Health and Well-Being of North Carolinians and Oppose Cuts to SNAP and Medicaid

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Urges the U.S. Senate to Protect the Health and Well-Being of North Carolinians and Oppose Cuts to SNAP and Medicaid

    Governor Stein Urges the U.S. Senate to Protect the Health and Well-Being of North Carolinians and Oppose Cuts to SNAP and Medicaid
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Governor Josh Stein today sent a letter to U.S. Senators Tillis and Budd laying out the consequences of the U.S. House reconciliation bill for North Carolina families, including cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). That bill, along with impending expiration of health care marketplace subsidies, could cause nearly half a million North Carolinians to lose their health care. 

    Recent modeling estimates show that 255,000 North Carolinians are at risk of losing coverage under the Medicaid provisions alone in the House bill and a Kaiser Family Foundation study projected that the combination of Medicaid and Marketplace changes in the House Bill would increase the number of uninsured North Carolinians to an estimated 470,000 if Marketplace subsidies expire at the end of 2025. 

    “Medicaid and SNAP improve the health and well-being of hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians, support our economy, and provide critical support to local governments, hospitals, farmers, and grocers,” said Governor Josh Stein. “North Carolina has taken bipartisan steps to strengthen our health system and protect working families. I urge the Senate to continue that progress by opposing these unprecedented cuts to SNAP and Medicaid that would leave North Carolinians, especially those in rural communities, without food assistance and health care.”  

    Estimates show that 255,000 North Carolinians would be at risk of losing health coverage under the House bill. The U.S. House bill also contains provisions that could jeopardize the enhanced federal matching funds (FMAP) for Medicaid expansion, which could immediately end health insurance coverage for the more than 650,000 North Carolinians who benefit from Medicaid expansion. 

    In March, Governor Stein sent a letter to Congress urging them to change course on proposed cuts to Medicaid. He has met with North Carolinians across the state, listening to their stories and hearing how cuts to Medicaid would impact beneficiaries, health care providers, and hospitals, especially those in rural communities. Medicaid is crucial to the state’s most vulnerable people, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, and potential cuts would put their well-being and the stability of the state’s health care system at risk.

    Proposals to shift up to 25 percent of SNAP food benefit costs to the states would force North Carolina to come up with $700 million annually to make up the difference or cut vital nutrition services. Rural counties in the state are already stretched thin, and these additional requirements and an administrative cost sharing increase from 50 percent to 75 percent would have a detrimental economic impact on local communities. SNAP adds $2.8 billion directly to North Carolina’s economy and supports local farmers, grocers, and the larger food distribution pipeline. The U.S. House Bill forces the state to make an unacceptable tradeoff between providing essential food support and health insurance coverage or diverting resources from public schools, law enforcement, and economic development. 

    Click here to read Governor Stein’s full letter to the U.S. Senate.  

    Click here to view county enrollment data for the SNAP program.  

    Jun 6, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Impact of Israeli colonial exploitation and extractivism on Palestinian agriculture – E-002150/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002150/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Ana Miranda Paz (Verts/ALE)

    The State of Israel is pursuing a colonial policy of extraction and plundering, including in relation to water. Israel is turning water into a tool that it can use to prey on Palestinian agriculture, through permits to build or destroy infrastructure, refusal of permits, confiscation of water resources (including rainwater), discriminatory price setting and water distribution prioritising Israelis and settlers ahead of Palestinians – including Israeli Palestinians. Israel controls the borders and the permits for exporting and importing products and inputs, as well as the entry of Palestinian products in occupied territories. This hampers trade and makes it more costly, while also reducing the market for Palestinian agricultural products.

    The defence of free competition, equal opportunities and non-discrimination for Palestinian farmers is contradicted by continued support for Israeli colonial agriculture under an apartheid regime, going against the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice of 19 July 2024.

    • 1.Does the Commission intend to suspend agricultural imports from Israel and the occupied territories in light of these discriminatory practices towards Palestinian products?
    • 2.What action will the Commission take in relation to Israeli agricultural products that arrive in the EU?

    Submitted: 28.5.2025

    Last updated: 6 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –