NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI Security: London — RCMP statement regarding media reports on the structural investigation into the Israel-Hamas conflict

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    In light of recent media coverage regarding the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s (RCMP) involvement in matters related to the Israel-Hamas armed conflict, we wish to clarify the nature and scope of our activities.

    In early 2024, the RCMP initiated a structural investigation in connection with this ongoing conflict. A structural investigation is a broad, intelligence-led intake process designed to collect, preserve, and assess information potentially relevant under Canada’s Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act. This includes gathering open-source material and voluntary submissions from individuals wishing to provide information. The primary objective is to proactively collect relevant information that may support future investigative steps, should jurisdictional and legal thresholds be met.

    It is important to emphasize that a structural investigation is not a criminal investigation. The RCMP employs a well-established structured protocol to efficiently triage and process incoming information related to global conflicts, this standardized initial procedure serves as a foundation for every case, after which specialized investigative techniques are applied to address the unique aspects of each investigation, including the Israel-Hamas structural investigation. Should a perpetrator of core international crimes—such as genocide, war crimes, or crimes against humanity—with the appropriate nexus to Canada be identified, the RCMP will initiate a separate criminal investigation. To date, the RCMP has not initiated any related criminal investigations.

    Although this work has been underway in a developmental capacity since early 2024, it has not been publicly announced as the RCMP continues to develop essential supporting operational tools. This includes a secure online portal available in French, English, Hebrew and Arabic, to facilitate the structured and secure any submissions of information by the public and potential witnesses. Unfortunately, technical challenges have resulted in delays to the rollout of this critical tool; once this online portal is ready for access, we will advise the public.

    The RCMP remains committed to its mandate under Canadian law, to assess credible allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity. We conduct this work with impartiality, relying on evidence-based assessments in alignment with the principles of the rule of law.

    Given the sensitivity of the matter, we urge the public to refrain from drawing premature conclusions about the RCMP’s role or intent. This initiative is solely focused on collecting relevant information and does not target any community or group.

    Further updates will be provided once the public reporting portal has been made available.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler Reintroduces Bill to Evaluate NATO-Style Alliance in the Indo-Pacific

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 6/4/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Indo-Pacific Treaty Organization Act, legislation that would establish a task force to evaluate the feasibility of a NATO-style collective security framework for the Indo-Pacific region.

    The task force would assess current security challenges posed by the Chinese Communist Party and the North Korean government, and explore whether a formal multilateral defense agreement among the United States and Indo-Pacific allies could serve as a credible deterrent to further aggression in the region.

    “As Chairman of the MENA Subcommittee, I see every day how our adversaries, notably China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, are coordinating to undermine global stability and democracy,” said Congressman Lawler. “This bill is about ensuring our allies in the Indo-Pacific have the support and structure they need to stand firm in the face of that aggression, and that we can too.”

    “There is certainly appetite in the Indo-Pacific, our allies want a deeper, more reliable security cooperation with the United States,” continued Lawler. “A NATO-style alliance in the region may be the best way to bolster deterrence and ensure long-lasting peace.”

    “We can’t afford to take a wait-and-see approach while the CCP threatens Taiwan, coerces its neighbors, and expands its military reach,” Lawler concluded. “This task force will help lay the groundwork for a strategic alliance rooted in democratic values, mutual defense, and long-term security in the Indo-Pacific.”

    The Indo-Pacific Treaty Organization Act is part of Congressman Lawler’s broader effort to strengthen U.S. alliances and reinforce American leadership on the global stage.

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts at AI+ Expo: Innovation and Adoption is the Key to AI Competition for America 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, participated in the Special Competitive Studies Project’s AI+ Expo in Washington, D.C. Speaking at a fireside chat titled “Winning the AI Race with the CCP,” Ricketts made the case for how America can be the global leader in artificial intelligence (AI). 

    “What we have to do is create an environment where American innovators are the ones who can continue to innovate,” said Ricketts. “We shouldn’t put up rules so that other countries don’t adopt what we’re doing… Either we’re right or they’re right. Either Communist China’s centralized system, where they’re directing state-owned enterprises, is right or ours is. I believe ours is and that’s why we have to unleash the power of free enterprise and get a critical mass of our friends onboard.”

    Ricketts also underscored the importance of AI for various industries important to Nebraska and the United States.

    ”AI has a huge potential for making us more efficient,” said Ricketts. ”In the first few months, businesses that introduce AI see a 14% increase in productivity. That means we stay ahead in productivity here in the United States. That means we’re able to set our own destiny with how we do things like pharmaceutical research, agricultural research, or defense technology research.” 

    Click here to watch the fireside chat.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Huffman Invites Federal Employees Pressured or Pushed Out Under Trump to Share Their Stories

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California

    May 30, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) launched a submission form on the Natural Resources Committee Democrats’ website for current and former federal employees to share how they’ve been impacted by the Trump administration’s political interference, retaliation, or pressure campaigns.

    Share Your Story

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: For Haitian migrants in the Dominican Republic, ‘reproduction is like a death sentence’

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Masaya Llavaneras Blanco, Assistant Professor of Development Studies, Huron University College, Western University

    On May 9, Lourdia Jean-Pierre, a 32-year-old Haitian migrant woman, died after giving birth in her rural home in El Ceibo, Dominican Republic. The cause of death was a postpartum hemorrhage, according to a news report in The Haitian Times.

    Despite needing medical attention, Jean-Pierre was reportedly afraid to go to the hospital. Why? She feared being deported.

    Jean-Pierre was not wrong to be afraid. Soon after her death, paramedics arrived with police officers to check on the newborn and detain her husband, Ronald Jean. Jean left the newborn with a relative as he waited to be deported.

    Between April 21 and the end of May this year, 900 lactating or pregnant women were deported from the Dominican to Haiti. They are part of the new, extreme tough-on-immigration policies in the Dominican Republic. In May alone, 22,778 Haitians were deported to Haiti.

    A new wave of mass deportations

    Last October, the Dominican government initiated a new wave of mass deportations as President Luis Abinader ordered a quota of 10,000 Haitians deported per week. On April 6, he announced new extraordinary measures to control immigration.

    The rollout of this policy began on April 21. Migration officials were assigned to work in hospitals and required migrants to show their documents before receiving medical care or face deportation.

    The new protocol does not specify pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, it effectively targets them in hospitals. Evidence of this is the fact that the policy was immediately implemented in the 33 hospitals “that report the largest number of pregnant migrant women — mainly those of Haitian origin.”

    The targeting of pregnant women is not new

    The targeting of pregnant migrants in the DR isn’t new. In September 2021, the Ministry of the Interior and Police announced a protocol to limit pregnant migrant women’s access to health care in the DR.

    Dozens of deportation raids were carried out in maternity wards in the capital and other large urban centres. According to immigration officials, attendance at pre-natal appointments fell by 80 per cent by the end of 2021.

    Deportation raids in maternity wards slowed down between 2022 and 2024, but women were still afraid to go for their check-up appointments. Pre-natal care is essential in preventing maternal deaths.

    According to a media report, the Dominican’s National Health System estimates that Haitian women accounted for 56 per cent of maternal deaths in the first half of 2022.

    No documents, no health care

    There are almost no ways for Haitians in the Dominican Republic to apply for or renew visas. And Dominican consulates in Haiti have been closed since September 2022.

    There is a long history of a lack of documentation among Dominicans of Haitian ancestry, exacerbated by the denationalization of up to 200,000 Dominicans of Haitian ancestry in 2013. That means Dominican-Haitians are also at risk of being deported when accessing health care.

    This happened to Mirryam Ferdinad who, according to community reports, went to a hospital for a programmed Caesarean section and was instead detained in Haina, the country’s largest migrant detention centre. Ferdinad was released one week on Saturday May 31st. Is it possible to add that update with this link? https://www.instagram.com/p/DKWAD44N_N7/?igsh=cXY5a21xY2pud2tp

    Deportations are expected to occur after people recover from their ailments. But human rights organizations report that deportations regularly take place in unsanitary and unsafe conditions, in trucks filled beyond capacity.

    Structural racism

    Elena Lorac, co-founder of Reconocido, an advocacy group of denationalized Dominicans of Haitian descent, said the situation is exacerbated by structural racism.

    Anti-Black racism and anti-Haitianism runs through the politics of the Dominican Republic, whereby Blackness is associated with undesirable cultural and physical traits, and linked to neighbouring Haiti.

    In contrast, DR’s nationalist groups, such as the Antigua Orden Dominicana, emphasize their colonial Spanish roots.

    Reproductive health rights under attack

    Haitian pregnant women are between a rock and a hard place. Hemorrhages and unsafe abortions are among the main causes of maternal mortality. Most of these cases are preventable if pregnant people have access to health services.

    Haiti has the highest maternal mortality in the Western hemisphere.

    Maternal mortality in the DR is lower. But its mistreatment of pregnant migrants, and its criminalization of abortion in all circumstances, pose significant risks for women.

    Haiti: A country in humanitarian crisis

    Deported migrants usually have no family or social networks in the locations they are deported at. And they have limited to no access to health services and social services.

    Dominican-Haitians also get deported because they have no legal documents despite having lived there their whole lives. They often have never been to Haiti, and barely speak Haitian Creole.

    In Haiti, about 40 per cent of primary health care was funded by the now almost completely defunded United States Agency for International development (USAID).

    Though there are some groups supporting deportees, global cuts to humanitarian agencies like the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and International Organization for Migration are affecting personnel on the ground. The humanitarian conditions in Haiti are increasingly challenging.

    Financial cuts worsen the extremely precarious living conditions. Nine per cent of the population is internally displaced. More than half the population is expected to experience acute food insecurity by June.

    Protesting violence

    On May 28, 13 organizations led a demonstration in front of the Dominican Republic Health Ministry. Peasant women, domestic workers, artists and feminists demanded an end to deportation raids in maternity wards and the removal of immigration officials from hospitals.

    Sirana Dolis, co-founder of Movement of Dominican-Haitian Women MUDHA, said of the situation:

    “Haitian women and women of Haitian descent are a people who love life, but under these circumstances, reproduction is like a death sentence.”

    Masaya Llavaneras Blanco receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

    – ref. For Haitian migrants in the Dominican Republic, ‘reproduction is like a death sentence’ – https://theconversation.com/for-haitian-migrants-in-the-dominican-republic-reproduction-is-like-a-death-sentence-257427

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Thanks Trump Administration for Arresting Chinese Nationals Who Smuggled Dangerous Fungus into the United States

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) released the following statement after FBI Director Kash Patel announced that the FBI had arrested two Chinese nationals who smuggled a dangerous pathogen into the United States to conduct research at the University of Michigan:

    “I want to thank President Trump and FBI Director Patel for arresting two Chinese nationals with ties to the Chinese Community Party who unlawfully smuggled a dangerous fungus into our country. This highly contagious pathogen is very destructive to agriculture and can even harm human health. From buying up our farmland to infiltrating our universities, this is a stark reminder that the CCP will do anything to undermine our national security and agricultural dominance. I remain committed to working with President Trump to protect our country from the CCP and its illegal activities.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Recognizes Deafblind Awareness Month

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 4, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan has officially proclaimed June 2025 as Deafblind Awareness Month in recognition of individuals in the Deafblind community and the organizations that support them. 

    “The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to recognize Deafblind Awareness Month, and we value the important work of Canadian National Institute for the Blind, Deafblind Community Services,” Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said. “We look forward to continuing to build strong, inclusive communities for persons with disabilities alongside our disability services community partners.” 

    Deafblind Awareness Month raises awareness about the unique experiences and contributions of individuals who are Deafblind. It also highlights the importance of accessible programs, services and supports that promote inclusion and independence. 

    Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) Deafblind Community Services (DBCS) provides specialized support and advocacy for individuals with combined vision and hearing loss. Across Canada, DBCS offers intervenor services, life-skills training and advocacy to help individuals overcome barriers, build independence and enhance their quality of life. 

    “We commend the Government of Saskatchewan for proclaiming June as Deafblind Awareness Month and for its ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion,” CNIB Deafblind Community Services Vice-President Sherry Grabowski said. “This recognition is an important step in amplifying the voices of the Deafblind community and raising awareness of the unique barriers they face. We look forward to working together to ensure every person with a dual sensory loss can thrive and participate fully in their communities.” 

    On December 3, 2024, the Government of Saskatchewan released its first Accessibility Plan, required by The Accessible Saskatchewan Act, to improve the accessibility of government services. Over the next three years, government will provide leadership on accessibility and inclusion in the province; work to improve knowledge and awareness to support a diverse and inclusive workforce; and enhance the accessibility of digital content, provincial parks and government buildings.  

    For more information about the Government of Saskatchewan’s accessibility initiatives, visit: accessiblesk.saskatchewan.ca. 

     To learn more about CNIB Deafblind Community Services, visit: deafblindservices.ca.  

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amneal Pharmaceutical LLC Issues a Nationwide Recall of Sulfamethoxazole / Trimethoprim Tablets, USP, 400 mg/80 mg Only, Due to Microbial Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    June 02, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    June 04, 2025
    Product Type:
    Medical Devices
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Microbial contamination

    Company Name:
    Amneal Pharmaceutical LLC
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Amneal

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim Tablets, USP, 400 mg/80 mg

    Company Announcement
    Amneal Pharmaceutical LLC, is recalling three lots of Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim Tablets, USP, 400 mg/80 mg to the consumer level as the tablets may exhibit black spots on the tablet surface due to microbial contamination. The observance of black spots was reported in a product quality complaint.
    Risk Statement: Oral products contaminated with Aspergillus may result in serious and life-threatening infections. The use of the defective product in patients with underlying immunosuppressive conditions increases the concern for serious infections. To date, Amneal Pharmaceuticals has received no reports of adverse events, illnesses or injuries related to this recall.
    The recalled product was distributed nationwide to wholesalers/distributors between the dates of 12/4/2024 to 5/15/2025 only.The product is indicated for the treatment of Urinary tract infections caused by susceptible strains of the following organisms: Escherichia Coli, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter species, Morganella morganii, Proteus mirabilis and Proteus vulgaris.  Acute otitis media in pediatric patients. Acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis due to susceptible strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Enteritis caused by susceptible strains of Shigella flexneri and traveler’s diarrhea in adults. 
    Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim Tablets, USP, 400 mg/80 mg is packaged in 100 tablet count and 500 tablet count bottles. This recall pertains only to the 400 mg/80 mg strength and only to the listed Lots below. The lot number can be found on the Amneal bottle label or consult your pharmacy if you received a pharmacy vial. No other Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim Tablets, USP, 400 mg/80 mg lots are impacted.

    Lot Number
    NDC Number
    Expiration date
    Date of First Distribution
    Bottle Pack Size

    AM241019
    65162-271-10
    06/2027
    12/4/2024
    100 count

    AM241019A
    65162-271-50
    06/2027
    12/4/2024
    500 count

    AM241020
    65162-271-10
    06/2027
    12/4/2024
    100 count

    Amneal is notifying its customers by UPS and is arranging for return of all recalled products. Wholesalers/distributors are being asked to notify their customers of the recall and provide instructions to contact Amneal for the return of the recalled products to Amneal. Retailers are being asked to notify their customers and instruct consumers to contact Amneal directly for assistance with return of any recalled product and reimbursement information.
    Individuals with questions regarding this recall can contact Amneal Pharmaceuticals by: 

     For Medical Inquiries or to report Adverse Events, or quality problems experienced with the use of this product, please contact Amneal Drug Safety by phone at 1-877-835-5472, Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, EST, or e-mail at DrugSafety@amneal.com. 
    Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.

    Complete and submit the report Online
    Regular Mail or Fax: Download form or call 1- 800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

    This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    06/04/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Announces Conviction of Meridian Man for Possession of Child Pornography

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Announces Conviction of Meridian Man for Possession of Child Pornography

    BOISE — Attorney General Raúl Labrador has announced that Brandon Taro, 54, was convicted of three counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child by Possessing Sexually Exploitative Material (Child Pornography). The Possession of Sexually Exploitative Material is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. “Idaho will use every tool at our disposal to protect children and hold predators accountable,” said Attorney General Labrador. “This conviction sends a clear message that those who exploit and endanger our children will face the full force of the law in Idaho.” In September of 2024, the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit received a CyberTip that an online account, later identified as belonging to Taro, was being used to view and exchange Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), also known as Child Pornography, with other online users. Investigator Lauren Lane was able to obtain account information from the electronic service provider (ESP) of the CyberTip, which identified Taro as the account’s owner through digital identifiers and photographs. After obtaining search warrants, officers searched Taro’s home and digital devices. Forensic examiners from the Office of the Attorney General were able to locate multiple files of CSAM and chat logs showing conversations fantasizing about having sexual contact with minor children. Many of these CSAM files depicted minor children, predominantly females, as young as approximately six years of age, and some of these files depicted children engaged in violent sex acts with adults.  Taro was sentenced on May 28, 2025, by Ada County District Judge Nancy Baskin. Judge Baskin imposed a sentence of 20 years with 2.5 years fixed and 17.5 years indeterminate. Taro will have to register as a sex offender pursuant to Idaho law. The case was investigated by Investigator Lauren Lane of the Office of the Attorney General who serves on the ICAC Task Force. Investigator Lane was assisted by the Boise Police Department, the Meridian Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General James Haws.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces Amazon Plans to Invest $10 Billion in North Carolina for AI Infrastructure

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces Amazon Plans to Invest $10 Billion in North Carolina for AI Infrastructure

    Governor Stein Announces Amazon Plans to Invest $10 Billion in North Carolina for AI Infrastructure
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein announced that Amazon is planning to invest $10 billion to launch a new high-tech cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation campus in Richmond County, creating at least 500 new high-paying, high-tech jobs. 

    “Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work and innovate, and I am pleased that North Carolina will stay at the forefront of all that’s ahead as we continue to attract top technology companies like Amazon,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Amazon’s investment is among the largest in state history and will bring hundreds of good-paying jobs and an economic boost to Richmond County.”

    Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world’s most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud computing solution, and its data centers enable customers of all sizes and across all industries, such as automotive, health care, manufacturing, financial services, public sector, and more, to transform their businesses. The new data centers will contain computer servers, data storage drives, networking equipment, and other forms of technology infrastructure used to power cloud computing capabilities and generative AI technologies. North Carolina’s business-friendly environment, abundance of infrastructure resources, availability of skilled labor, and growing technology sectors made it a natural hub for building world-class data center infrastructure.

    “Amazon’s $10 billion investment in North Carolina underscores our commitment to driving innovation and advancing the future of cloud computing and AI technologies,” said David Zapolsky, Amazon’s Chief Global Affairs and Legal Officer. “This investment will position North Carolina as a hub for cutting-edge technology, create hundreds of high-skilled jobs, and drive significant economic growth. We look forward to partnering with state and local leaders, local suppliers, and educational institutions to nurture the next generation of talent.”

    “I am excited for Amazon’s $10 billion investment in our community,” said Senator David Craven. “This project will bring hundreds of good-paying jobs and significant investment to our area for many years to come.”

    “Richmond County is delighted to welcome Amazon to our community,” said Representative Ben Moss. “The new jobs created by this facility will change hundreds of lives for the better. Rural communities like ours can lead the way in technology advancements, including artificial intelligence, which is an ever-increasing presence in the world.”

    “The Richmond County, NC Board of County Commissioners, is pleased to announce and welcome Amazon as our newest corporate partner,” said Richmond County Board of Commissioners Chairman Rick Watkins. “Their selection of the Energy Way Industrial Park represents the largest Cap-ex investment in the history of North Carolina and will serve as a catalyst to transform the local economy, provide high paying jobs for citizens, and improve the quality of life for all residents. We stand ready to work together with Amazon as they continue to build capacity and innovate their cloud computing platform. Working together, our possibilities are limitless!    

    Jun 4, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces State Advisory Council to Bring Order to Cannabis Market

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces State Advisory Council to Bring Order to Cannabis Market

    Governor Stein Announces State Advisory Council to Bring Order to Cannabis Market
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    (RALEIGH) Today Governor Josh Stein released the following statement on the need to protect young people by bringing order to the unregulated cannabis market:  

    “Today all across North Carolina, there are unregulated intoxicating THC products available for purchase: just walk into any vape shop. There is no legal minimum age to purchase these products! That means that kids are buying them. Without any enforceable labeling requirements, adults are using them recreationally without knowing what is in them or how much THC there is. Our state’s unregulated cannabis market is the wild west and is crying for order. Let’s get this right and create a safe, legal market for adults that protects kids.  

    “That is why I am announcing a State Advisory Council on Cannabis. I am charging this group with studying and recommending a comprehensive approach to regulate cannabis sales. They will study best practices and learn from other states to develop a system that protects youth, allows adult sales, ensures public safety, promotes public health, supports North Carolina agriculture, expunges past convictions of simple THC possession, and invests the revenues in resources for addiction, mental health, and drugged driving detection.  

    “I want to thank members of the General Assembly for their interest in addressing this gaping loophole in state law. Let’s work together on a thoughtful, comprehensive solution that allows sales to adults and that is grounded in public safety and health. We can work together and get this right.”

    Governor Stein signed the Executive Order creating the Council on Tuesday morning. The Council will include representatives from the Office of State Budget and Management, the State Highway Patrol, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the General Assembly, and the Departments of Health and Human Services, Public Safety, Revenue, Transportation, and Justice.  

    Hemp and marijuana are both types of cannabis. The difference used to be how much THC was in the plant. Today, due to the cannabis industry’s unchecked and creative product development and packaging, the terms “hemp” and “marijuana” have lost their traditional meanings and are essentially the same thing. They both contain intoxicating levels of THC. As a result, anyone, no matter their age, can legally buy cannabis products in vape shops with high concentrations of intoxicating THC here in North Carolina. The status quo of zero protection of our kids is absolutely unacceptable. That’s why the work of this Advisory Council to recommend a regulatory structure for cannabis sales is important and urgent.  

    In the meantime, at a minimum, the General Assembly should prohibit the sales of products that contain intoxicating THC to anyone under 21 by requiring photo ID age-verification and require packaging that lets adults know what is actually in cannabis products, including the amount of THC.  

    Members of the Council are:  

    Co-chairs

    • Lawrence H. Greenblatt, MD, State Health Director & Chief Medical Officer, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
    • Matt Scott, District Attorney, Prosecutorial District 20 (Robeson County)

    Members

    • David W. Alexander, Owner and President, Home Run Markets, LLC
    • Arthur E. Apolinario, MD, MPH, FAAFP, 2002-2023 Past President, North Carolina Medical Society; Family Physician, Clinton Medical Clinic
    • Joshua C. Batten, Assistant Director for Special Services, Alcohol Law Enforcement Division, North Carolina Department of Public Safety
    • Representative John R. Bell, North Carolina House of Representatives, District 10
    • Carrie L. Brown, MD, MPH, DFAPA, Chief Psychiatrist, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
    • Mark M. Ezzell, Director, North Carolina Governor’s Highway Safety Program, North Carolina Department of Transportation
    • Anca E. Grozav, Chief Deputy Director, North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management
    • Representative Zack A. Hawkins, North Carolina House of Representatives, District 31
    • Colonel Freddy L. Johnson, Jr., Commander, North Carolina State Highway Patrol
    • Michael Lamb, Police Chief, City of Asheville Police Department
    • Peter H. Ledford, Deputy Secretary for Policy, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality
    • Kimberly McDonald, MD, MPH, Chronic Disease and Injury Section Chief, Division of Public Health, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
    • Patrick Oglesby, Attorney and Founder, Center for New Revenue
    • Forrest G. Parker, CEO / General Manager, Qualla Enterprises LLC / Great Smoky Cannabis Company
    • Senator Bill P. Rabon, North Carolina Senate, District 8
    • Lillie L. Rhodes, Legislative Counsel, Administrative Office of the Courts
    • Gary H. Sikes, Owner, Bountiful Harvest Farm and Partner, Legacy Fiber Technologies
    • Senator Kandie D. Smith, North Carolina Senate, District 5
    • Keith Stone, Sheriff, Nash County  
    • Joy Strickland, Senior Deputy Attorney General, Criminal Bureau of the North Carolina Department of Justice
    • Deonte’ L. Thomas, Chief, Wake County Public Defender Office
    • Missy P. Welch, Director of Programming (Permits/Audit/Product Sections), Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission 
    Jun 4, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China hopes Japan will reconsider its historical crimes and firmly adhere to the path of peaceful development – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 4 (Xinhua) — China hopes Japan will deeply reflect on its historical crimes, earnestly learn from the past, and firmly adhere to the path of peaceful development, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Wednesday.

    The diplomat made the statement at a regular briefing for journalists, responding to a question about Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s recent statement that Japan must remember the painful experiences and lessons of history and not repeat the mistakes of the war period.

    “China attaches great importance to this position,” Lin Jian noted.

    The official spokesperson recalled that during the meeting of the leaders of China and Japan in November 2024 in Lima, Peru, Shigeru Ishiba assured that the Japanese side would adhere to the spirit of looking honestly at history and focusing on the future, firmly following the path of peaceful development.

    “In his speech, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba particularly emphasized the need to understand the historical past, learn lessons from history, and prevent the mistakes of the war period from being repeated. We attach great importance to this position,” Lin Jian added.

    Correctly understanding and treating history, expressing remorse and apology for the war of aggression through concrete actions are key prerequisites for Japan’s post-war reintegration into the international community, Lin Jian stressed, noting that these issues concern not only the political basis of Sino-Japanese relations, but also Japan’s ties with neighboring countries, as well as its international image.

    “We call on Japan to completely abandon any attempt to whitewash or conceal the history of its aggression, take a responsible stance toward history, its people and the future, firmly adhere to the path of peaceful development, and earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community through real actions,” Lin Jian concluded. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal, Raskin, Keating, Foushee, Balint Introduce Resolution Urging the Immediate Delivery of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Bill Keating (MA-09), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), and Becca Balint (VT-AL) are today introducing a resolution calling on the Trump Administration to use all diplomatic tools at its disposal to ensure humanitarian aid reaches civilians in Gaza and to bring about the release of the hostages.

    “Innocent civilian lives — children and babies — can be saved by ensuring that much-needed aid gets to Gazans,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “This humanitarian crisis is man-made and can be solved by allowing aid trucks to enter Gaza. Every diplomatic tool in our toolbox must be used to ensure that this happens.”

    “Each passing day brings new suffering to people in Gaza, who are experiencing a humanitarian catastrophe,” said Congressman Raskin. “Our Resolution recognizes that America must act now to save countless lives in the region. Just as the time is long overdue to bring all the remaining Israeli hostages home from their captivity at the hands of Hamas, it is time to assure the delivery of desperately needed food and humanitarian aid into Gaza to end the prolonged humanitarian crisis of Palestinians living there.”

    “The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is dire and devastating. The entire U.S. government must urgently use all diplomatic tools available to bring about the release of the hostages in Gaza, facilitate the delivery of food and humanitarian aid for Palestinians, and work towards an end to the conflict in Gaza which moves us closer to a two-state solution,” said Congressman Keating. “This important bicameral resolution sends a strong message that we believe the U.S. must immediately do more to end the suffering in Gaza.”

    “The entire Gaza Strip is facing acute levels of hunger after a nearly two-and-a-half-month blockage on humanitarian aid. Although this blockade was recently lifted, aid groups do not have the resources or food available to properly provide immediate support to the millions of people facing starvation,” said Congresswoman Foushee. “I’m proud to join my fellow colleagues in introducing this resolution that will help address the dire situation in Gaza, and I implore my colleagues to support this critical step towards ensuring an enduring ceasefire that will alleviate suffering, save lives, and return the hostages safely to their families.”

    “It is indisputable that death is imminent for hundreds of thousands in Gaza and the level of starvation for children is catastrophic. We cannot waste another minute, aid must get to Gaza now,” said Rep. Becca Balint. “We must use every tool at our disposal to pressure to alleviate this crisis. The United States may not remain complicit in the face of the unimaginable suffering and dire need for aid and supplies.”

    The entire population of Gaza, an estimated 2,200,000 people, is facing acute levels of hunger. Over two months ago, Israel began a blockade on aid into the Gaza Strip. While some food is now being allowed into Gaza, it is not being allowed to do so fast enough to save lives. Since the start of the conflict, at least 54,000 Palestinians have been killed and 120,000 have been injured.

    The resolution is cosponsored by Representatives Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Donald Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Julia Brownley (CA-26), André Carson (IN-08), Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Herbert Conaway Jr. (NJ-03), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10), John Garamendi (CA-08), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Al Green (TX-09), Jim Himes (CT-04), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Robin L. Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Rick Larsen (WA-02), John B. Larson (CT-01), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03), Sam Liccardo (CA-16), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Doris Matsui  (CA-07), Jennifer L. McClellan (VA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08), James P. McGovern (MA-04), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Gwen S. Moore (WI-04), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), Scott Peters (CA-50), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Linda Sanchez (CA-38), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Bennie G. Thompson  (MS-02), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Derek T. Tran (CA-45), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05).

    This resolution is endorsed by 18 Million Rising, 99 Coalition , A New Policy , Action Corps, ActionAid USA, American Friends of Combatants for Peace, American Friends Service Committee, Amnesty International USA, Arab American Institute (AAI), Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Center for Victims of Torture, Charity & Security Network, Church World Service, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), DAWN, Demand Progress, Doctors Against Genocide , Emgage Action, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ, Hindus for Human Rights, Historians for Peace and Democracy, Human Rights Watch, IfNotNow Movement, International Refugee Assistance Project, J Street, KinderUSA, MADRE, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, Middle East Democracy Center (MEDC), Migrant Roots Media, MoveOn, MPower Change Action Fund, Muslim Advocates, Muslims for Just Futures, Muslims United PAC, National Council of Churches, New Israel Fund, New Jewish Narrative, No Dem Left Behind, Nonviolent Peaceforce, Oxfam America, Partners for Progressive Israel, Pax Christi USA, Peace Action, Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, Reconstructing Judaism, Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, ReThinking Foreign Policy, RootsAction, Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, Sisters of Mercy of the America – Justice Team, T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights, The Borgen Project, United Methodists for Kairos Response (UMKR), UNRWA USA National Committee, Win Without War, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, US Section (WILPF US), CAIR Washington, Christian-Jewish Allies for a Just Peace for Israel/Palestine, Church Women United in New York State, Delawareans for Palestinian Human Rights , FOSNA Pittsburgh, Harrisburg Palestine Coalition, Historians for Peace and Democracy, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace, MARUF CT, Minnesota Peace Project, Nepa for Palestine, Northern California Friends of Sabeel (NorCal Sabeel)Sabeel), Oasis Legal Services, Peace Action WI, Peace, Justice, Sustainability NOW!, Progressive Democrats of America – Central New Mexico, Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom DC-Metro Action Group, UPTE Members for Palestine, Valley View Church.

    Senator Peter Welch (VT) is leading the resolution in the Senate with the support of nearly all Democrats.

    The full text of the resolution can be read here.

    Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Van Hollen Introduce Life-Saving Hepatitis C Legislation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced life-saving legislation to cure low-income and hard-to-reach Americans with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Cassidy and Van Hollen’s Cure Hepatitis C Act will establish a voluntary drug subscription model to connect HCV patients to treatment and stop the spread of the disease. Today’s treatment for HCV cures more than 95% of cases with almost no side effects.
    “We can virtually eliminate hepatitis C in a fiscally responsible way,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Curing hepatitis C makes Americans healthy again while also saving the federal government billions by eliminating the need for chronic care. It’s a win for patients, and it’s a win for the taxpayers.” 
    “Hepatitis C claims thousands of American lives every year – but we have a proven model that can make this preventable public health crisis a thing of the past. Our bipartisan legislation offers a solution towards ensuring communities most at risk have access to the highly effective treatments that are available – saving lives while also saving billions in taxpayer dollars that are currently spent on costly chronic care,” said Senator Van Hollen.
    The Cure Hepatitis C Act of 2025 is based on a successful pilot program in Louisiana, as well as in other countries. The five-year subscription model allows the federal government to procure HCV drugs through a competitive bidding process between the U.S. Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and manufacturers and distribute them to HCV patients. Participation is optional, and there are no terms requiring manufacturers to engage in the subscription model. The subscription model is not one-size-fits-all and can be tailored to different populations in need of treatment. State Medicaid programs can opt-in to participate, ensuring that individuals can receive treatment. In addition, individuals receiving care in the Indian Health Program and in federal correctional facilities will have access to HCV treatments through the subscription model. State correctional facilities may opt-in if they choose to do so.
    When hepatitis C goes untreated, it can lead to a lifetime of chronic health issues and ultimately be fatal. Chronic health issues are a driving cost for Medicaid and Medicare and increase the amount federal taxpayers spend. Senator Cassidy and Senator Van Hollen’s proposal to reduce the number of hepatitis C cases has been estimated to save $6.6 billion in taxpayer dollars.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: TAB Bank Prescribes $2 Million Asset-Based Line of Credit for a Medical Supply Chain Financing and Logistics Company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OGDEN, Utah, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TAB Bank has provided a $2 million revolving asset-based line of credit for a Canadian medical supply chain financing and logistics company. The company opened a $2 million Certificate of Deposit (CD) at TAB Bank to serve as collateral on the loan.

    TAB Bank’s high-yield CD rate, currently at a 4.15% Annual Percentage Yield (APY), is a primary reason the medical supply chain solution provider chose to work with TAB. This strategic move allows the company to earn a return on its deposit while simultaneously building its commercial borrowing profile.

    The company offers supply chain financing and logistics support tailored specifically for North American medical service providers purchasing from local and global manufacturers. It provides a data-driven approach to procurement, inventory and end-to-end supply chain management of essential medical commodities, such as surgical supplies and medical devices for healthcare providers.

    “The medical supply chain solution provider’s decision to utilize TAB Bank’s high-yield CD as collateral is a smart, forward-thinking strategy,” said Ryan Gabriel, Vice President and Business Development Officer for the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada at TAB Bank. “It also highlights one of TAB’s key strengths—offering competitive deposit products that work hand-in-hand with our lending solutions to build value for our clients.”

    TAB Bank offers customized financial products to small and midsized businesses across a wide range of industries, like asset-based lending, equipment financing and working capital solutions. The bank’s personalized service and bold financial solutions continue to attract clients across North America.

    About TAB Bank
    At TAB Bank, our mission is to unlock dreams with bold financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses nationwide. We are committed to making financial success accessible to everyone through our innovative banking products. Our dedication drives us to continuously improve, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our clients with excellence and agility. For over 25 years, we have remained steadfast in offering tailored, technology-enabled solutions designed to simplify and enhance the banking experience. 

    For more information about how we can help you achieve your financial dreams, visit www.TABBank.com.

    Contact Information:
    Trevor Morris
    Director of Marketing
    801-624-5172
    trevor.morris@tabbank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Sidhu meets with United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade and President of the Board of Trade Jonathan Reynolds

    Source: Government of Canada News

    June 4, 2025 – Paris, France – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, met with Jonathan Reynolds, the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade and President of the Board of Trade, on the margins of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Ministerial Council Meeting in Paris, France.

    Minister Sidhu and Secretary of State Reynolds discussed expanding trade and investment through the Canada-United Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement. Minister Sidhu highlighted the importance of Canada continuing to work with the United Kingdom through forums such as the G7, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and with international organizations in support of the rules-based global trading system.

    Minister Sidhu looks forward to continuing working with Secretary of State Reynolds on the Canada-UK trade relationship.

    Associated links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko Reintroduces Sweeping Offshore Wind Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    Tonko Reintroduces Sweeping Offshore Wind Bill

    Amidst administration attacks on offshore wind development, Tonko’s bill would provide needed leasing and permitting certainty to support clean energy future

    Washington, June 4, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) today reintroduced the Offshore Energy Modernization Act, legislation that provides a comprehensive blueprint to ensure the long-term viability and success of U.S. offshore wind development.
    This introduction comes amidst an onslaught of attacks from the Trump administration on wind energy development. On day one, President Trump issued an executive order blocking all new approvals, permits, and funding for wind energy, both on and offshore — potentially putting thousands of jobs and billions in industry investments on the chopping block.
    “Despite President Trump’s best efforts to tank clean energy development, offshore wind remains a massive boon and opportunity, not only for coastal regions, but across the nation — including New York’s Capital Region — in the form of good paying jobs, increased manufacturing, and development of critical components,” Congressman Tonko said. “Republicans are waking up to the benefits that wind energy presents. Robust federal leadership is needed to support long-term and responsible offshore wind development, support domestic supply chain, and drive American energy dominance. My Offshore Energy Modernization Act is the solution. I urge my colleagues join me in supporting this legislation to ensure we unlock the full potential of American offshore wind energy production and deployment.”

    The Offshore Energy Modernization Act of 2025 is the first comprehensive federal legislation to support long-term and responsible offshore wind development in the United States. This bill: 

    • Reforms the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to better reflect the realities of offshore wind development and provide long-term certainty for this emerging industry. 
    • Facilitates timely and efficient permitting of offshore renewable energy projects by providing funding for early, frequent, and robust community engagement, including Tribal consultation. 
    • Ensures that offshore renewable energy projects support good-paying, union jobs and a reliable, domestic supply chain. 
    • Invests in marine and coastal habitat protection and compensates fishing interests that have been impacted by offshore wind development. 
    • Establishes the Offshore Power Administration to provide Federal assistance to advance shared offshore transmission infrastructure. 
    • Creates new Department of Energy grant and loan guarantee opportunities to support U.S. shipbuilding needed to construct offshore wind projects. 
    A fact-sheet of the Offshore Energy Modernization Act can be found HERE.
    A section-by-section summary can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Cato T. Laurencin 2025 Wallace H. Coulter Lecturer at Pittcon

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Laurencin’s presentation, Regenerative Engineering: The Frontier is Here, highlighted his work in regenerative engineering and how many scientific disciplines are being integrated and are blending to drive meaningful progress in clinical applications. He noted several regeneration engineering project areas that spotlight the work he and his team are doing that are having a substantial impact on human health. His work, which bridges advanced materials science, stem cell biology, physics, developmental biology, and clinical translation, is a testament to how interdisciplinary science is making measurable impact in medicine.

    Pittcon is a dynamic, international conference and exposition on laboratory science, a venue for presenting the latest advances in analytical research and scientific instrumentation, and a platform for continuing education and science-enhancing opportunity. It is a confluence of brilliant minds, groundbreaking technologies, and the unrelenting pursuit of innovation in analytical science.

    In an interview, conducted at Pittcon, with News Medical, one of the world’s leading open-access medical and life science hubs, Laurencin spoke about the importance of mentorship for the next generation of scientists, especially in regenerative engineering. He noted how deeply inspired he was by Dr. Robert Langer, at MIT, and decided to follow in his footsteps.

    In his remarks, Laurencin talked about the honor of being the Coulter Lecturer at such a prestigious event as Pittcon. “I am truly honored on multiple levels. First, it is the Coulter-endowed lectureship, and I have always respected the Coulter Foundation. They were among the first to recognize that while great science and engineering are important, they are not enough—discoveries need to be translated into real-world impact,” said Laurencin. “I am also honored to be here at Pittcon, one of the largest gatherings of scientists in the world. Being invited as the keynote speaker is a privilege, and I look forward to staying engaged with Pittcon in the future. I am very impressed with the work that is being done here.”

    Professor Sir Cato T. Laurencin is the University Professor at UConn and Albert and Wilda Van Dusen Distinguished Endowed Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at UConn School of Medicine, professor of Chemical Engineering, professor of Materials Science and Engineering, and professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Connecticut. He is the chief executive officer of The Cato T. Laurencin Institute for Regenerative Engineering, a cross-university institute named in his honor at the University of Connecticut. He is the first individual to receive the American Association for Advancement of Science (AAAS) Mentor Award, the Beckman Award for Mentoring, and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Math, and Engineering Mentoring bestowed by President Obama. Nationally, the Society for Biomaterials established the Cato T. Laurencin, M.D., Ph.D. Travelling Fellow Award Program for undergraduates in his honor.

    Laurencin received the 2023 Priestley Medal, the highest honor of the American Chemical Society and the Von Hippel Award, the highest honor of the Materials Research Society. He will receive the Dickson Prize for Medicine. Many of the Dickson Prize awardees have gone on to receive the Nobel Prize. Sir Cato Laurencin was bestowed Knight Commander of the Order of St. Lucia, under the auspices of King Charles III of England. He is recognized as the leading international figure in polymeric biomaterials chemistry and engineering who has made extraordinary scientific contributions and has had profound contributions to improving human health.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Integrates Solana Pay to Enable Instant Crypto Payments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, has integrated Solana Pay, enabling users globally to make instant, low-fee crypto payments. The move expands Bitget Wallet’s real-world utility and supports its goal of making crypto seamless and accessible for everyday use.

    With this integration, Bitget Wallet users can scan Solana Pay QR codes to complete transactions using stablecoins like USDC and other Solana tokens. The feature supports both in-store and online payments, with upcoming compatibility for national QR code systems in regions such as Southeast Asia and Latin America. Transactions are settled directly from the user’s wallet, fee-efficiently and without intermediaries. This is part of Bitget Wallet’s growing PayFi suite, which aims to make crypto practical for commerce.

    “Our mission is to make crypto useful in everyday life — not just to hold or trade, but also to spend,” said Alvin Kan, COO of Bitget Wallet. “By integrating Solana Pay, we give users a fast and affordable way to use crypto globally. Combined with features for trading, staking, and DApp exploration, Bitget Wallet is becoming a true all-in-one platform for Solana and beyond.” The wallet supports 130+ blockchains, offers swaps across hundreds of DEXs, and connects users to thousands of Web3 apps in a secure, self-custodial environment.

    Solana Pay is an open-source payments framework built on Solana that enables decentralized, instant, and low-cost payments. The integration was made possible through collaboration with Venta, a Solana-powered payments provider offering scalable infrastructure for real-world blockchain payments. Venta connects wallets, merchants, and ecosystems to accelerate crypto adoption. “People everywhere deserve modern payments that don’t drain their pockets. Helping Bitget Wallet integrate Solana Pay for their millions of users shows that open, composable rails are the answer, letting any wallet, merchant, or developer tap into instant, low-cost transactions with just one integration. Together, Venta and Bitget Wallet are making that a reality,” said K, Co-Founder & CEO of Venta.

    Bitget Wallet offers a full Solana feature set across Trade, Earn, Pay, and Discover. Users can access Solana-native limit order trading through integration with Jupiter DEX, perform cross-chain swaps, and stake SOL via the wallet’s Earn suite. The wallet also supports reclaiming idle SOL through Solana account rent refunds, provides built-in MEV protection, and enables gas fee coverage using GetGas with Solana Paymaster support. Additionally, users can explore a wide array of Solana-based DApps directly within the app. These capabilities reflect Bitget Wallet’s broader commitment to making onchain finance more accessible, efficient, and secure for users engaging with the Solana network.

    To showcase the integration, Bitget Wallet will join the Solana Summit 2025 as a major partner. Taking place from June 5 to 7 in Da Nang, Vietnam, the summit will gather nearly 2,000 developers, founders, and ecosystem leaders. Bitget Wallet will host a branded booth with free coffee, exclusive merchandise, and live demos. The team will also lead a developer workshop and join a panel discussion, highlighting the wallet’s growing role in real-world crypto adoption. An evening side event will also offer a more informal setting for connecting with builders and partners.

    Find out more on Bitget Wallet’s official channels.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook
    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    About Venta
    Venta is a Solana-powered payments provider revolutionizing the payment landscape with scalable solutions, empowering merchants, consumers, and tech teams alike with an express lane to distribution and innovation. For more information, please visit https://www.venta.xyz/

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ecaf0437-beae-428f-bd47-f006f696735a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Chairs Homeland Hearing Focused on Mass Gathering Events

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON — Today, Representative Dale W. Strong (AL-05), Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology, led a hearing entitled, “Mass Gathering Events: Assessing Security Coordination and Preparedness” as the U.S. gears up for a historic stretch of major international events. 

    The hearing assessed how state and local law enforcement and the private sector coordinate with the federal government for mass gathering events.  

    “By their very nature, mass gathering events draw large crowds in concentrated areas, making them attractive targets for malicious actors. Ensuring their safety requires complex coordination among federal, state, and local authorities – including law enforcement and emergency services. It also requires close collaboration with partners in the sports and entertainment industries,” said Representative Dale Strong.  

    The United States is entering an unprecedented period of hosting major international sporting events, including the 2025 Ryder Cup, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, 2026 FIFA World Cup, and 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. 

    The 2026 World Cup alone will include 78 matches played in 11 U.S. cities, drawing an anticipated 5 million fans from around the globe, and as many as 6 billion viewers watching online. Given these staggering figures, the focus on safety has never been more important. 

    The events will test the country’s ability to manage crowds, protect international visitors, and mitigate threats from terrorists and criminals. Effective security depends on strong coordination between federal, state, local, and private partners to protect people and infrastructure, prevent attacks, and manage crowds.  

    “I witnessed the scale of these challenges firsthand when I led a congressional delegation to New Orleans to survey security preparations for the Super Bowl following the New Year’s attack on Bourbon Street. That incident, and others like it, serve as stark reminders that terrorist threats persist and underscore our shared responsibility to safeguard such gatherings,” said Strong.  

    To meet these challenges, Congress and the White House have launched new efforts to strengthen event security. On March 7, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order Establishing the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026.  

    At the same time, the House Committee on Homeland Security formed its own bipartisan “Task Force on Enhancing Security for Special Events in the United States,” focused on special events such as the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and the United States’ 250th Anniversary. Congressman Strong will serve as a member of this task force, which will work in coordination with its counterparts in the White House to ensure the United States demonstrates global leadership in its security practices. 

    “I applaud Vice Chairman McCaul, who will be chairing the task force, and Chairman Green for their leadership on this issue. I’m honored to have been selected to join the task force,” said Strong.  

    In advance of these high-profile events, the task force will visit select event sites, hold hearings, host roundtables, and release a final report on their findings as part of the Committee’s oversight of National Special Security Events (NSSEs) and major Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) events. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Statement on House Passage of One Big Beautiful Bill Act, Advancing President Trump’s Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON — Representative Dale W. Strong (AL-05) issued the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to advance President Trump’s America First Agenda.  

    “This is not just legislation, it’s a promise kept to the American people. It’s pro-worker, pro-family, pro-growth—and it’s exactly what our country needs right now,” said Rep. Strong. “I’m proud to support President Trump’s promise to deliver historic tax relief and put money back in the pockets of American families, secure our southern border, strengthen our national security, and right-size wasteful government spending.” 

    Specifically, the bill: 

    • Secures and expands the doubled Child Tax Credit, benefiting nearly 90,000 hardworking North Alabama families 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Endangered North Carolina Frog Gets a Head Start 

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Endangered North Carolina Frog Gets a Head Start 

    Endangered North Carolina Frog Gets a Head Start 
    jejohnson6

    KURE BEACH

    Carolina gopher frog populations declining in the wild are getting a leg up through the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF) head starting initiative. Led by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC), head starting is one focus of their Gopher Frog Conservation Plan with NCAFF and other partners. NCAFF is one of three Aquariums and a pier operated by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (NCDNCR).
     

    The Aquarium implemented the initiative in 2011 to augment  wild populations of these state endangered amphibians. The NCWRC team collects small portions of each egg mass and delivers them to the Aquarium team for care until frogs emerge. This year’s crop, now in tadpole stage, is from Southport near the Military Ocean Terminal at Sunny Point. Staff divided 444 tadpoles among 12 mesocosms, controlled small-scale ecosystems designed to mimic natural environments. The next step is to release the frogs to this same location.

    HEADSTARTING

    NCAFF aquarists suggested the plan after monitoring egg masses in Holly Shelter Game Land alongside NCWRC staff for several years. The number of frogs appeared low—as few as six to eight egg masses deposited in some years. Because of drought conditions, the pond had just enough water to stimulate the frogs to breed, but would not hold water long enough for the tadpoles to fully develop. Head starting gives them the right environment to go from tadpole to frog in their journey back into the wild.

    “We have continued to receive great support for our head starting work through the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission for the Carolina Gopher Frog and we look forward to a successful release in the coming weeks,” said Ryan McAlarney, husbandry curator, NCAFF. “The conservation of this species is important to the mission of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.” 

    HISTORY AND HABITAT

    The gopher frog, Rana capito, requires both appropriate breeding ponds and upland terrestrial habitat. Breeding ponds must be large enough to retain water throughout the tadpole stage, but shallow enough to dry periodically, because the gopher frog does not tolerate fish. Additionally, these ponds must be relatively open canopy with plenty of grasses where gopher frogs deposit their egg masses and developing tadpoles feed.

    POPULATION DECLINE

    The gopher frog was once found in many ponds across the southeastern Coastal Plain, ranging from North Carolina through South Carolina and Georgia, across Florida and into Alabama. However, many of these wetlands, or the uplands they are associated with, are gone. Historically found in at least 23 populations in North Carolina among 53 ephemeral ponds, the species is now only found in seven populations, with only 14 of those historical ponds still being used by gopher frogs. Most of these ponds have been destroyed or altered significantly; for example, deepened and stocked with fish.
    CALL TO ACTION

    • Service vehicles regularly to avoid leaking toxic fluid into waterways or wetlands.
    • Put bug spray on before you go into a wildlife habitat so that you don’t introduce it into the animal’s home.
    • Don’t touch frogs or toads. Their skin is very thin, and they can absorb anything from your skin, and it may be toxic to them.
    • Choose environmentally friendly pesticides and herbicides.
    • Drive extra carefully during and after spring rains, when amphibians are most likely to be crossing roads as they travel to breeding ponds.

    ###

    About the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher  
    The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is just south of Kure Beach, a short drive from Wilmington on U.S. 421 and less than a mile from the Fort Fisher ferry terminal. The Aquarium is one of three Aquariums and a pier that make up the North Carolina Aquariums, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The mission of the Aquarium is to inspire appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments. The Aquarium features a 235-000-gallon sand tiger shark habitat, an albino alligator, a bald eagle, a loggerhead sea turtle habitat and two families of mischievous Asian small-clawed otters.

    Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $12.95 ages 13-61; $10.95 children ages 3-12; $11.95 seniors (62 and older) and military with valid identification; NC EBT card holders*: $3. Free admission for children 2 and younger and N.C. Aquarium Society members and N.C. Zoo members. *EBT rate is applicable to a maximum of four tickets.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    May 30, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Juneteenth Observances Set Across the State

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Juneteenth Observances Set Across the State

    Juneteenth Observances Set Across the State
    jejohnson6

    To commemorate Juneteenth, numerous N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources sites across the state will feature events and tours throughout June.

    Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) marks the day in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that the Civil War had ended and ensure that all enslaved people were freed. It signifies the official end of slavery in the United States.

    The North Carolina African American Heritage Commission is excited to share the 2025 Juneteenth Celebration Toolkit. The toolkit is an interactive slide deck that invites readers to learn about North Carolina’s unique liberation stories of African Americans.

    The NCAAHC has partnered with two N.C. State Historic Sites — the N.C. State Capitol and Bennett Place — to share their sites’ Liberation Stories. To access and learn more about the toolkit, visit https://aahc.nc.gov/2025-juneteenth-toolkit.

    The commission will host two events at the N.C. Freedom Park site in June.

    The NCAAHC and the North Carolina State Capitol will host walking tours of the Capitol grounds and Freedom Park Saturday, June 14 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

    On Saturday, June 21, the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission invites visitors to N.C. Freedom Park in downtown Raleigh to celebrate the inspiration and reflections of North Carolina’s African American history. Led by the dynamic vocalist and historian Mary D. Williams, the event will feature tables inviting attendees to explore Freedom Park and the valuable resources offered by the African American Heritage Commission, the State Library of North Carolina, and the State Archives of North Carolina.

    For information about the commission’s June events, visit https://aahc.nc.gov/events.

    For more information about Juneteenth, including how the holiday is being marked at sites across the state, visit the 2025 Juneteenth Event Calendar | NCAAHC.

    DNCR Juneteenth Observances

    North Carolina African American Heritage Commission
    1 E. Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601
    Voices of Freedom Walking Tour
    June 14, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
    On Saturday, June 14, in commemoration and honor of Juneteenth, the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission and the North Carolina State Capitol invite visitors to downtown Raleigh for walking tours of the Capitol grounds and Freedom Park. Tours will take place at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. This new guided walking tour will connect the history of the Capitol to individuals highlighted in Freedom Park. Tour topics include the enslaved men whose skill and labor constructed the Capitol, the stories of the Civil Rights movement in downtown Raleigh, and the African Americans who fought for freedom across our state’s history. Participants have a chance to win a NCAAHC tote bag at the end of each tour. Register by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/voices-of-freedom-walking-tour-tickets-1355351806739. Contact: ncaahc@ncdcr.gov

    Songs of Liberation at NC Freedom Park
    218 N. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27601
    June 21, 2-4 p.m.
    NC Freedom Park celebrates the inspiration and reflections of North Carolina’s African American history. Led by the dynamic vocalist and historian Mary D. Williams, this incredible performance honors the ideals of NC Freedom Park. The event will also feature tables inviting attendees to explore NC Freedom Park and the valuable resources offered by the African American Heritage Commission, the State Library of North Carolina, and the State Archives of North Carolina. Contact: ncaahc@ncdcr.gov

    North Carolina Museum of Art
    2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607
    Open Stu: Proofs of Black Life
    Friday, June 20, 6-11 p.m.
    This Juneteenth weekend, join artists Derrick Beasley and Marcella Zigbuo Camara for Proofs of Black Life, a special edition of their ongoing community series, Open Stu.

    Open Stu: Proofs of Black Life is an invitation to the North Carolina creative community to create archival memory that centers Blackness. With the NCMA’s current exhibition, The Time Is Always Now: Artists Reframe the Black Figure as a backdrop, attendees are invited to contribute to the expansive canon of Black cultural memory through portraiture and archiving. Childcare is available. Cash bar and refreshments. Contact: (919) 715-5923 or help@ncartmuseum.org

    Historic Stagville
    5828 Old Oxford Rd, Durham, NC 27712
    Emancipation Tours at Stagville
    Thursday, June 19, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.Each June, Historic Stagville offers special tours focused on Emancipation as part of the site’s commemoration of Juneteenth. This guided tour will highlight how enslaved people claimed their freedom at Stagville in 1865. Please call ahead for groups of 10 or more. Space may be limited in Juneteenth tours depending on guide availability. The event is free. Contact: (919) 620-0120, or stagville@dncr.nc.gov

    Juneteenth at Stagville
    5828 Old Oxford Rd, Durham, NC 27712
    Thursday, June 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Visit Stagville for the site’s Juneteenth program to remember and celebrate freedom at one of the state’s largest plantations. Explore local history about slavery and emancipation in Piedmont, North Carolina. Visit the original slave quarters at Horton Grove to reflect and remember those who survived slavery. Discover real stories of African American families who witnessed emancipation. Stories of love, loss, family, and resistance illuminate the complex history of freedom in 1865. This year will be the 19th annual Juneteenth program at Historic Stagville. Free. Contact: (919) 620-0120, or stagville@dncr.nc.gov

    Museum of the Albemarle
    501 S. Water St., Elizabeth City, NC, 27909
    Take It, Make It: Celebrate Freedom on Juneteenth
    Saturday, June 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
    Stop by and pick up a free Take It, Make It Packet to celebrate Juneteenth! You’ll find at-home activities, learning resources, and information about regional sites that explore the history of slavery and emancipation in northeastern North Carolina. Packets are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Contact: Noah Janis, (252) 331-4032, or noah.janis@dncr.nc.gov

    Lake Norman State Park
    759 State Park Rd. Troutman, NC, 28166
    StoryWalk©: Juneteenth for Mazie and Make your own Juneteenth Flag
    June 1-30, All Day
    The story walk is all month-long during park hours.Take a break from the heat and walk around inside the visitor center at Lake Norman State Park to read Floyd Cooper’s “Juneteenth for Mazie.” Visitors can also enjoy a make-your-own Juneteenth Flag craft station. Juneteenth-themed books will feature on a table display, to help celebrate our newest federal holiday. “Juneteenth for Mazie” was written and illustrated by Floyd Cooper and was published by Picture Window Books in 2015. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont. Contact: (704) 528-6350, or lake.norman@ncparks.gov

    Jones Lake State Park
    4117 N.C. 242 N., Elizabethtown, NC 28337
    StoryWalk©: Juneteenth for Mazie and Make your own Juneteenth Bracelet
    Thursday, June 19, 10-11 a.m.
    Join park staff in celebrating Juneteenth with a StoryWalk reading of Floyd Cooper’s “Juneteenth for Mazie” and bracelet making. The StoryWalk will be up throughout the week for all to enjoy. There will be Juneteenth bracelet making starting at 10 a.m. Participants should meet at the Jones Lake State Park Visitor Center at 10 a.m.Juneteenth-themed books will be featured on a table display. “Juneteenth for Mazie” was written and illustrated by Floyd Cooper and was published by Picture Window Books in 2015.The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont. Contact: Monique Mckoy, monique.mckoy@ncparks.gov

    Vance Birthplace
    911 Reems Creek Rd, Weaverville, NC 28787
    Summer Storytime
    Saturday, June 21,10 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Families with young children can enjoy stories themed around Juneteenth and the Fourth of July in the Vance house at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, and 1 p.m. Try out fun crafts in the visitor center as well! This event is free and does not require registration in advance, but donations are accepted. Our storytimes will be held seasonally/quarterly. Children who attend multiple storytimes are eligible for fun, bookish prizes at our Christmas Storytime in December. Contact: vance@dncr.nc.gov, or (828) 645-6706.

    About the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission
    Created in 2008, the African American Heritage Commission is a division of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The commission works across the department to preserve, protect, and promote the state’s African American history, art, and culture for all people. Its endeavors include identifying heritage sites, compiling resources for educators, extending the work of national programs such as the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom Underground Railroad, and independent initiatives, including Oasis Spaces: Green Book Project African to Carolina, and much more. For additional information, please visit aahc.nc.gov

    About the North Carolina State Capitol
    The State Capitol’s mission is to preserve and interpret the history and function of the 1840 building and Union Square. It is within the Division of State Historic Sites within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, and is located at One Edenton Street, Raleigh. For additional information, please call or visit historicsites.nc.gov/.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    May 30, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ‘Blue Whales’ exhibition opens at Museum of Natural Sciences June 21

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: ‘Blue Whales’ exhibition opens at Museum of Natural Sciences June 21

    ‘Blue Whales’ exhibition opens at Museum of Natural Sciences June 21
    jejohnson6

    Blue whales are BIG! How big are they? They can grow up to 110 feet long, weigh up to 400,000 pounds, and have a heart the size of a small car. Even their appetites are big: they can eat 16 tons of tiny, shrimp-like krill in a day. And their voices? Blue whale songs can travel 1,000 miles underwater and measure 190+ decibels. Dive into the details behind their mind-blowing biology and discover how these mammals became and remain our planet’s largest animals ever in “Blue Whales,” a new special exhibition opening at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences on June 21. The Museum is an agency of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    Visitors to “Blue Whales” will see the enormous skeleton of a recovered blue whale and the only blue whale heart model in the world, then discover how these giant creatures evolved from land to sea, how they became so giant and how they breathe. Or step into the exhibition’s Whale Sound Chamber and experience surround-sound whale calls, compare different whale songs, and learn how and what exactly whales are communicating.

    Visitors will also learn about blue whales’ remarkable feeding behavior. Their enormous mouths contain rows of baleen — made of keratin like human nails or hair — that hang in “plates” from their upper jaw and act like a sieve. During feeding, blue whales open their mouths wide and engulf large volumes of water and krill, then push the water out of their mouth with their tongue while their baleen keeps the krill trapped inside. The exhibition even offers “License to Krill,” an exciting game of survival where visitors try to dodge dangerous obstacles and “dive deep” to capture and eat krill.

    Despite their massive size, blue whales are very vulnerable, and their population is only a small fraction of what it was before commercial whaling significantly reduced their numbers during the early 1900s. This immersive exhibition provides insight into what caused the decline of blue whales, what’s being done to protect them, and how scientists are using DNA to unlock some of the secrets of these elusive creatures.

    “Blue Whales” is produced and circulated by the ROM (Royal Ontario Museum), Toronto, Canada. Sponsored by Friends of the NC Museum of Natural Sciences. After nine blue whales were trapped beneath sea ice and died off the coast of Newfoundland in 2014, researchers from ROM worked with community partners to recover two of the whales, one of which is featured in this exhibition.

    “Blue Whales” runs through Jan. 11, 2026, and is offered in English and French.

    Admission: Museum Members get in FREE. Join today at naturalsciences.org/membership. Non-member Adults $18, Children (3–12) $14. Tickets are available onsite at the Museum Box Office or online at naturalsciences.org/whales. Exhibition Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.); also open Mondays (May 26 – Sept. 1 only), 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.).

    About the NC Museum of Natural Sciences
    The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in downtown Raleigh (11 and 121 W. Jones St.) is an active research institution that engages visitors of every age and stage of learning in the wonders of science and the natural world. In addition to two downtown buildings showcasing seven floors of world-class exhibits, the Museum runs Prairie Ridge Ecostation, a 45-acre outdoor education and research facility in west Raleigh, as well as satellite facilities in Whiteville, Greenville and Grifton (Contentnea Creek). Our mission is to illuminate the natural world and inspire its conservation. Downtown Raleigh Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. General admission is free. For more information, visit www.naturalsciences.org.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 2, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Aquatic WILD Workshop Gets Educators Outside at NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Aquatic WILD Workshop Gets Educators Outside at NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

    Aquatic WILD Workshop Gets Educators Outside at NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
    jejohnson6

    PINE KNOLL SHORES

    Formal and informal educators get ready for a bit of fun this summer during an interactive, hands-on, STEM workshop called Aquatic WILD on June 9 at the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. The Aquarium is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    Any interested teachers, informal educators, and homeschool parents can sign up for Aquatic WILD workshop from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. June 9 at the Aquarium.

    During the Aquatic WILD workshop, an interdisciplinary conservation and environmental education program emphasizing wildlife, teachers will learn how to use the Aquatic WILD curriculum and activity guide, engage with other educators, and participate in WILD field investigations, STEM activities, outdoor activities, and connections to wildlife careers.

    “We hope that teachers will be able to use the WILD guides to incorporate environmental and conservation education into their daily teaching and be able to connect their students with the wildlife around them,” said Michelle Van-Hove, NCAPKS educator.

    All activities are aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and North Carolina’s science, ELA, social studies, and math curriculums. Incorporating the curriculum in teachings will also help in WILD’s main goal of assisting students in developing awareness, responsible behavior, and constructive actions concerning wildlife and the environment.

    To register, visit the website www.ncaquariums.com/pks-teachers.

    About the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
    The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is five miles west of Atlantic Beach at 1 Roosevelt Blvd., Pine Knoll Shores, N.C. 28512. The Aquarium is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Its mission is to inspire the appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments and animals. The Aquarium is under the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information, please visit www.ncaquariums.com/pine-knoll-shores or call 252-247-4003.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 3, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Summer Paint Night Series Starts June 11 at N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Summer Paint Night Series Starts June 11 at N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

    Summer Paint Night Series Starts June 11 at N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
    jejohnson6

    PINE KNOLL SHORES

    Splash into an underwater world of art during Family Paint Nights Under the Sea at N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. The summer paint night series starts June 11 and ends Aug. 11 with a Sip and Paint. The Aquarium is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    During Family Paint Nights, paint a sea turtle June 11, a sea star June 18, a seahorse July 2, or octopus July 9 with your family, your friends, or for yourself. Bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy while you make fin-tastic memories during this relaxing night of creating artwork.

    Instructors will provide all painting supplies and guide you every step of the way. Family Paint Nights are held 6:30-8:30 p.m. in front of the 306,000-gallon Living Shipwreck habitat and are for ages 6 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

    On Aug. 11, for one night only the Aquarium will host a Sip and Paint for ages 21 and up where participants will paint a beach sunset scene. For this special paint night, bring your own beverage and favorite snacks. Event will be held 6:30-8:30 p.m.

    Family Paint Nights and Sip and Paints are limited-capacity events. Register and purchase tickets only online before the event. No ticket sales at the door. Visit the event page for more information and to register for individual paint nights. www.ncaquariums.com/paint-nights.

    About the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
    The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is five miles west of Atlantic Beach at 1 Roosevelt Blvd., Pine Knoll Shores, N.C. 28512. The Aquarium is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Its mission is to inspire the appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments and animals. The Aquarium is under the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information, please visit www.ncaquariums.com/pine-knoll-shores or call 252-247-4003.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 3, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bentonville Battlefield’s ‘Heavy Thunder’ Event to Feature Cannon and Musket Demonstrations

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Bentonville Battlefield’s ‘Heavy Thunder’ Event to Feature Cannon and Musket Demonstrations

    Bentonville Battlefield’s ‘Heavy Thunder’ Event to Feature Cannon and Musket Demonstrations
    jejohnson6

    A free, family-friendly living-history event at Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site will bring the Civil War era to life.

    On Saturday. June 7, Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site, a part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, will host its “Heavy Thunder: Summer Artillery and Infantry” program. The event runs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Food vendors will be on site.

    Historic weapons demonstrations will occur at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Costumed interpreters will perform infantry and artillery drills, while living-history displays offer a deeper understanding of 19th-century battlefield medicine and civilian life

    The Harper House, which served as a Union field hospital during the battle, will be open for tours throughout the day. An interpretive talk at noon in the visitor center will provide additional historical context.

    The Battle of Bentonville, fought March 19-21, 1865, was the largest battle fought in North Carolina and one of the last major battles in the Civil War. The sound of cannonfire during the battle, it was said, boomed with a distinct echo.

    “The din of battle roared like one continuous peel of heavy thunder,” wrote one eyewitness to the 1865 battle of Bentonville.

    About Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site
    Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site interprets the battle and the Harper House, a farmhouse used as a field hospital where surgeons treated nearly 600 men wounded in the battle. The site is located at 5466 Harper House Rd., Four Oaks, NC 27524, 3 miles north of Newton Grove on S.R. 1008, about one hour from Raleigh and about 45 minutes from Fayetteville. For more information, visit https://historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/bentonville-battlefield or call (910) 594-0789.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 3, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Choose Your Summer Adventure at NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Choose Your Summer Adventure at NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores

    Choose Your Summer Adventure at NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
    jejohnson6

    PINE KNOLL SHORES

    Whether you want to get out into the marsh, trek along the shoreline, or cool down on the dock in the evening, the N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores offers unique summer opportunities for everyone. The Aquarium is part of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    Learn about sea turtles during the popular Sea Turtle Trek program held 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Join Aquarium staff onsite for an introduction to sea turtles and to learn more about the conservation work the Aquarium does to help these endangered and threatened marine reptiles. Then, venture out to a local public beach access to the sea turtle habitat and learn about the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission volunteer sea turtle monitoring project. Ages 5 and up. $20 per person.

    During our paddle trips, explore the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Area behind the Aquarium. Choose between our Kayak Paddle Trip program held on Mondays and Wednesdays, or our Stand-up Paddleboard rental program held Fridays. Both programs are 9 to 11 a.m. and are weather permitting. Ages and prices vary.

    Spend a summer evening on the Aquarium’s dock and try your hand at fishing. Children and adults will enjoy or Fishing Fanatics program. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the maritime forest along Bogue Sound just before sunset. Aquarium staff will help bait hooks and offer instruction on casting and information on sustainable fishing practices in North Carolina. Gear and bait provided. Held 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays. Ages 5-12 $25 per person.

    If you’d rather spend a hot summer day inside instead, you may be interested in seeing what it takes to run an Aquarium during a Behind-the-Scenes Tour. From preparing food for animals to maintaining habitats and checking water quality, you’ll get an up-close look at life at the Aquarium during one of several tours held daily. Choose between Feeding Frenzy held Monday, Wednesdays and Saturdays, At A Glance held daily, and Shark Snack held Tuesdays and Fridays.

    About the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
    The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is five miles west of Atlantic Beach at 1 Roosevelt Blvd., Pine Knoll Shores, N.C. 28512. The Aquarium is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Its mission is to inspire the appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments and animals. The Aquarium is under the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. For more information, please visit www.ncaquariums.com/pine-knoll-shores or call 252-247-4003.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 4, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 67 North Carolina Students Headed to National History Day® Contest in Maryland

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: 67 North Carolina Students Headed to National History Day® Contest in Maryland

    67 North Carolina Students Headed to National History Day® Contest in Maryland
    jejohnson6

    After months of in-depth research, creativity, and competition, 67 students from 24 schools across North Carolina have earned their spot at the 2025 National History Day® Contest, taking place June 8–12 at the University of Maryland in College Park. They will join nearly 3,000 middle and high school students from across the globe in a celebration of historical scholarship and storytelling.

    The students qualified through North Carolina History Day, a statewide program that reached more than 5,000 participants this year. Managed by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR), the program encourages students to explore the past through hands-on research aligned with this year’s theme: “Rights and Responsibilities in History.” Participants chose topics that mattered to them, ranging from civil rights movements to constitutional debates, and brought them to life through exhibits, documentaries, performances, websites, and research papers.

    “The most powerful part of this program is that it’s student-driven,” said Karen Ipock, State Coordinator for N.C. History Day. “Students pick topics that genuinely interest them, which sparks deep engagement and creative expression — whether that’s designing a website, writing a paper, or producing a live performance. It’s a program that brings history to life and gives students a voice in telling its stories.”

    Competitions began with eight regional contests held across the state, coordinated by DNCR and local partners. Top entries advanced to the state-level contest on May 3 at UNC Greensboro, where finalists were selected to represent North Carolina at nationals.

    Beyond the contest itself, several North Carolina students have also been selected for exclusive workshops and showcases in Washington, D.C., on June 11 — an added recognition of the quality and impact of their work.

    • 8th grader Thanapat Lucksanapirak from Alston Ridge Middle School in Cary, N.C., will have his documentary, “The WTO: Balancing Rights and Responsibilities in Global Trade,” shown in the Oprah Winfrey Theater at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

    • 10th grader Andrew Lar from Watauga High School in Boone, N.C., will attend a writer’s workshop with the White House Historical Association for his research paper, “‘Not in Our Name’: The Central American Sanctuary Movement and the Struggle for Salvadoran Asylum Rights.”

    • 6th grader Elsie-Mae Clayton from Swain County Middle School in Bryson City, N.C., will showcase her exhibit at the National Museum of American History, “The Federal Government and the Broken Promises,” about the building of Fontana Dam and the Road to Nowhere.

    • 10th and 11th graders Ava Karis Renegar, Campbell Hodge, Elianna Yoder, Jonah Hardin, and Kyle Malt from Classical Scholars in Mills River, N.C., will perform their project, “Nothing About Us Without Us: How One Group of Disability Rights Activists Fought for Recognition by Forcing the Government to Accept Responsibility for Discrimination,” at the National Museum of American History.

    “The doors this competition opens for students are incredible,” said Ipock. “They’re not only sharing their research in some of the nation’s most prestigious museums, but also learning firsthand from historians, scholars, and museum professionals who are leaders in their fields.”

    The National History Day® contest wraps up on Thursday, June 12, with a highly anticipated awards ceremony recognizing the top three entries in each category. Students will also be eligible for a range of special prizes —  some up to $2,000 — for outstanding work in specific areas of historical research.

    North Carolina’s impact doesn’t end with its student competitors. Two outstanding educators — Jeffrey Stanek of Holly Shelter Middle School in Castle Hayne and Emily Lemus of EDGE Academy of Health Science in Rocky Mount — are national nominees for excellence in history education. Both have been recognized for their exceptional work in the classroom, using historical inquiry to engage and inspire students. Final selections for these prestigious teaching awards will be announced during the national contest, and North Carolina is proud to have such dedicated educators in the running.

    Students competing from each N.C. region include:

    West:  Charlie Hurwitz and Owen McAbee, Cane Creek Middle (Buncombe County); Isaiah Zebley, Gemma Edwards, and Lilly Cacawa, ArtSpace Charter (Buncombe County); Kate Huscher and Maddux Hansel, Hendersonville Middle (Henderson County); Cayden Rybicki, North Hendson High (Henderson County); Campbell Hodge, Ava Karis Renegar, Elianna Yoder, Jonah Hardin, Kyle Malt, Kathleen Godfrey, Colin Brown, David Ruland, Ezra Kushigian, Rowan Maishman, Ryan Malt, Anslee Renegar, Evie Koppin, Tybi Dugdale, and Zia Cartrett, Classical Scholars (Henderson County); Elsie-Mae Clayton, Swain County Middle (Swain County); Andrew Larsen, Watauga High (Watauga County)

    Piedmont: Anisa Hasanaj, North Carolina School Of Science and Mathematics (Durham County); Elena Gale, Emma Rose Laurell, Sophia Siebert, and Zelie Polnaszek, St. Michaels Homeschool Co-op (Gaston County); Marnie Lasher, Early College at Guilford (Guilford County); Riley Gale and Woody Taylor, Woodlawn School (Iredell County); Finn McElwee and Suh Hee Shin, Chapel Hill High (Orange County); Laura Cratty and Louisa Cratty; Cratty Family Homeschool (Orange County); Thanapat Lucksanapirak, Alston Ridge Middle (Wake County); Magali Murray, Holly Springs High (Wake County); Arsema Belete, Kaana Anda-Morelli, Katelyn Kwark, Olivia Steigerwald, and Max Wagner, Pine Springs Preparatory Academy (Wake County); Catherine Kendall, Ellen Lan, and Joyce Xu, Cary Academy (Wake County)

    East: Joselyn Hutson, Sadie Lankford, Scarlett Rauen, Ben Gardner, and Gavin Oplinger, Holly Shelter Middle (New Hanover County); Lyla Varnum and Abigail Blair, The International School at Gregory (New Hanover County); Lily Atwill, Anah Stough, and Kayligrace Moody, Isaac M Bear Early College High School (New Hanover County), Olivia Stetler, Wilmington Early College High (New Hanover County); Adam Politi, Jackson Renton, Rowan Forkin, and Slade Forkin, Cape Fear Academy (New Hanover County), Mariana Nieblas-Lugo, Pamlico County Middle (Pamlico), Blondge Phanor, Wayne School of Engineering (Wayne County)

    Each year, more than half a million students from all 50 states, Washington D.C., U.S. territories, and international schools take part in the National History Day® program. North Carolina’s affiliate, North Carolina History Day, is proudly administered by the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and supported by the North Caroliniana Society and the Federation of North Carolina Historical Societies. To learn more, visit www.dncr.nc.gov/nchistoryday.

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

    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Jun 4, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Kevin Greenidge: Creativity and culture are not luxuries – they are necessities

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Good evening.

    It is a pleasure to join you once again to open the Season of Emancipation Visual Arts Exhibition Series. This annual tradition remains one of the most meaningful ways we celebrate our cultural identity as a nation, offering a space to reflect on who we are, how far we’ve come, and where we aspire to go.

    This year’s exhibition is especially significant. It opens on African Liberation Day, unfolds during the Season of Emancipation, and sets the stage for Barbados’ hosting of CARIFESTA 15. Each of these milestones is important in its own right. But together, they form a powerful moment for us to examine ourselves, not just as a nation, but as part of the wider Caribbean and African Diaspora family.

    The theme, Inner Visions, is both introspective and provocative. It invites us to pause, look inward, and ask: What do we see when we examine ourselves through the lens of freedom? What shapes our desires and dreams? And how do our current realities align with the promises made at Independence and the aspirations of the 1937 generation?

    The two exhibitions – Self-Reflections and Diasporic Connections – challenge us to confront difficult truths even as we celebrate the richness of our culture. They ask: What does it mean to be truly free – mentally, socially, creatively? How do we balance tradition and transformation? Are we fulfilling our potential?

    These are not rhetorical questions. They are deeply personal, and also profoundly national. Because freedom is not just about breaking chains. It’s about building the conditions for self-actualization.

    At the Central Bank of Barbados, we are proud to once again sponsor this initiative, continuing a commitment we first made more than three decades ago. For the third consecutive year, we are investing $80,000 to support this exhibition and to help strengthen Barbados’ visual arts sector. But our investment goes beyond funding. It is an affirmation that creativity and culture are not luxuries, they are necessities. They help us name our experiences, understand our histories, and imagine our futures.

    The Bank itself reflects this philosophy. We’ve curated a remarkable art collection over the years, much of it acquired through this very exhibition. These works document Barbadian life in all its beauty, struggle, complexity, and joy. They now form part of our national heritage, reminding us that art is not just something to observe, it is something to live.

    This year’s inclusion of animation, digital sculpting, and interactive installations is a welcome evolution. It reflects the ingenuity of our artists and mirrors the Bank’s own digital transformation journey. More importantly, it underscores our ability as a people to stay rooted while embracing change.

    Art also creates tangible economic value. It fuels creative industries, supports livelihoods, attracts global attention, and offers opportunities for youth. As we prepare to host CARIFESTA once again, this exhibition stands as an early and powerful showcase of the creative excellence Barbados brings, not just to the region, but to the world.

    But perhaps most powerfully, this exhibition reminds us that the deepest revolutions begin within. Before we change systems, we must first shift mindsets. Before we build the future, we must confront the truths of the past.

    In the spirit of Bussa, Nanny Grigg, and the countless unnamed whose inner visions gave rise to bold action, we are called to do the same. To reflect. To be courageous. To reimagine.

    To the National Cultural Foundation and the Queen’s Park Gallery, thank you for your vision and your leadership.

    To the artists, thank you for holding up a mirror to this nation. Thank you for showing us who we are, and who we might yet become. Your work is invaluable.

    I encourage everyone here to fully engage with this exhibition, not just with your eyes, but with your heart. Because in every brushstroke, frame, and installation, there is a question being asked:

    What do you see when you look within?

    Thank you and enjoy the exhibition.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –