Category: Americas

MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Baldwin to Host Two-Day Forum to Spotlight How Americans are Harmed by Trump’s Mass Firings at HHS

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
Former agency officials from the FDA, CMS, HRSA, CDC, NIH, and more will testify
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) will lead their Democratic colleagues in holding a two-day forum to examine the human harm caused by the Trump Administration’s shuttering of key departments and mass firings of health experts at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
The forum will be held Tuesday, May 20th and Wednesday, May 21st, and is entitled “Trump’s Destruction of HHS: Mass Firings, Reorganization, and the Human Harm Caused.”
Welch and Baldwin’s forum will feature former officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the Administration for Community Living (ACL), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Former HHS agency officials will testify and offer insights on the immediate and long-term impact of mass firings and restructuring on essential programs millions of Americans rely on.
On March 27, 2025, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. unveiled a plan to eliminate 20,000 HHS public health experts, scientists, and public servants and eliminate key agencies within HHS entirely. The Trump Administration has refused to provide Congress with information about the decision-making process or the potential impacts on vital programs that serve millions of Americans.
LOGISTICS:
WHAT:  “Trump’s Destruction of HHS: Mass Firings, Reorganization, and the Human Harm Caused.”
DATE and TIME:
Tuesday, May 20Time: 3:00–4:30PMLocation: SD-G50 Watch via livestream
Wednesday, May 21Time: 3:00–4:30PM Location: SH-216 Watch via livestream
WHO:            U.S. Senators; former officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the Administration for Community Living (ACL), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Media interested in attending this event are encouraged to RSVP to Aaron_White@welch.senate.gov by 11:00AM on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Welch Calls Out Trump for His Anti-Migrant Agenda

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) this week called out President Trump for his anti-migrant agenda, saying the Administration has knowingly and flagrantly trampled on the rights of people who are in this country legally.
“Laws matter. Due process matters. Justice matters. How we treat other human beings says more about us than it says about them,” said Senator Welch. “The Trump Administration has made a clear decision to disrespect our laws. To disregard the rights of citizens and individuals who are entitled to due process. And to do it in a way that is cruel and disrespectful of the United States and its commitment to freedom and the rule of law.
“Our Supreme Court has ruled that all people—including migrants—are entitled to due process, to an opportunity to rebut allegations against them before being deported. The Trump Administration’s attack is not just on the rights of these individuals; but it really goes to the core of principles and practices established in law that are the foundation of our democracy. And it threatens, therefore—the rights and privileges of all American citizens.
Welch concluded: “I stand here on behalf of Vermonters who are appalled by this action. I stand here as a member of the United States Senate who believes it’s my responsibility in the face of these Trump actions to stand up for the rights of people to have a hearing—to have a right to be brought before a magistrate or a judge and not be deported without any due process whatsoever. This is important to our commitment—as members of the U.S. Senate—to preserve the traditions of the Constitution, the rule of law, and the rights of individuals, and the freedom that has been the blessing of our liberty since the founding of our country.”
Watch Senator Welch’s remarks below:

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Army launches Army Enterprise LLM Workspace, the revolutionary AI platform that wrote this article
Source: United States Army

WASHINGTON – The newly launched Army Enterprise Large Language Model Workspace is a generative AI platform that showcases how the Army is harnessing cutting-edge artificial intelligence to streamline communication, enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation. From drafting press releases to reclassifying personnel descriptions, and everything in between, it is proving to be a transformative tool for warfighters and office operations alike. As a demonstration of its capabilities, the Army Enterprise LLM Workspace utilized provided prompts to author this article.

Key features of the Army Enterprise LLM Workspace include:
- Powered by Ask Sage, a cutting-edge multi-model generative AI technology tailored for Army needs
- CUI accredited, which ensures compliance with security standards for sensitive information
- Lower barrier to entry (Software-as-a-service capability eliminates the need for complex installations)
- Free for 30 days to allow immediate access for eligible users with CAC registration
- Token-based subscription (Army CIO has procured limited tokens, and organizations can procure tokens after the trial period from Army IDIQ)
- Deploying by end of May to SIPRNET and higher networks to support classified workloads
A Secure and Accessible Solution

Army Enterprise LLM Workspace, which is powered by Ask Sage IL5 Software-as-a-Service, is hosted within the Army’s cArmy Cloud and is controlled-unclassified-information accredited, ensuring compliance with stringent security standards. The platform’s SaaS capability lowers the barrier to entry, making it accessible to users across the Army enterprise without the need for complex installations or hardware requirements. Soldiers and civilians can register using their common access cards to gain immediate access to the platform’s powerful features.

Free Trial and Subscription Model

To encourage adoption and exploration, Army Enterprise LLM Workspace is available free for 30 days to all eligible users. After the trial period, users will need a token to purchase a full subscription. The Army’s Office of the Chief Information Officer has issued a limited number of tokens, and those who sign up during the first 30 days will need to contact their organization to request a token for continued access. The Army awarded Ask Sage an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract with a $49 million ceiling and a five-year ordering period. The platform leverages technologies such as Azure OpenAI Gov, Mistral, LLM3A.3.3, AWS Bedrock Gov, Google Gemini and several open-source LLMs. To request access, send an email to usarmy.apg.acc.mbx.dc3oe-army-llm@army.mil.

Driving Innovation Across the Force

Army Enterprise LLM Workspace has been a catalyst for innovation within the Army. For example, the platform was used to tackle the tedious task of reclassifying personnel descriptions, which involves defining and aligning job duties, experience and backgrounds. According to Gabriele Chiulli, chief technology officer of the Army’s Enterprise Cloud Management Agency, “The Army was able to update 300,000 personnel descriptions in a week using Army Enterprise LLM Workspace.” By comparison, it would take a human approximately 10 minutes to review each description, amounting to 50,000 hours (or 5.7 years). This efficiency demonstrates the transformative potential of generative AI in both operational and administrative contexts.

Empowering Soldiers and Civilians to Innovate

Army Enterprise LLM Workspace is not just a tool for efficiency, it’s a platform for creativity and problem-solving. Soldiers and civilians who have used the platform to innovate, or who have ideas for new use cases, are invited to submit their experiences and suggestions. These submissions will help shape the future of generative AI integration within the Army and ensure the platform continues to meet the needs of its users. To share your use case or idea, email the Army’s innovation team at innovation@army.mil.

Join the Innovation Movement

The launch of Army Enterprise LLM Workspace underscores the Army’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies and fostering a culture of innovation. By providing a secure, scalable and user-friendly AI platform, the Army is equipping its personnel with the tools they need to excel in an increasingly complex operational environment.

For more information on Army Enterprise LLM Workspace, including registration details and use case submissions, visit https://chat.genai.army.mil.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Montana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Wildfires

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Montana of the June 16 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by wildfires beginning July 12, 2024.

The disaster declaration covers the Montana counties of Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Garfield, Musselshell, Petroleum, Powder River, Rosebud, Treasure and Yellowstone as well as the Wyoming counties of Big Horn, Campbell, Crook and Sheridan.

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

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

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

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

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

Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than June 16.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Arkansas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Adverse Weather

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Arkansas of the June 16 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by adverse weather conditions occurring in July and August 2024.

The disaster declarations cover the counties listed below:

Declaration Number	Primary Counties	Neighboring Counties	Incident Type	Incident Date	Deadline
AR 20782	Jefferson	Arkansas, Cleveland, Grant, Lincoln, Lonoke and Pulaski	Excessive Rain and High Winds	July 8–9, 2024	6/16/25
AR 20783	Pope	Conway, Johnson, Logan, Newton, Searcy, Van Buren and Yell	High Winds and Lightning	Aug. 16–18, 2024	6/16/25

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

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

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

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

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

Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than June 16.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Louisiana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Francine

Source: United States Small Business Administration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Louisiana of the June 16 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Hurricane Francine occurring Sept. 9-12, 2024.

The disaster declaration covers the Louisiana parishes of Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Terrebonne.

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

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

“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

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

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

Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than June 16.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Orange You Glad that Researchers Made a “Sweet” Discovery for the Citrus Industry?

Source: US Agriculture Research Service

Orange You Glad that Researchers Made a “Sweet” Discovery for the Citrus Industry?

By: Jessica Ryan
Email: arspress@usda.gov

May 15, 2025

ARS scientists made a “sweet” discovery that may be important to solve a major problem within the citrus industry.

Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease, poses a serious threat to the Florida citrus industry. HLB is associated with tree infection by its presumed causal agent Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and is spreading to many citrus-growing areas worldwide. In Florida, HLB has caused about 90% of citrus production losses since it was first detected in 2005.

An orange from a Donaldson tree. (Photo by Giancarlo Buzzi, ARS)

ARS scientists at the U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory in Fort Pierce, FL, assessed citrus trees with oranges that could be potentially used for commercial production of orange juice. During their assessment, the scientists found a sweet orange tree named “Donaldson” at the A.H. Whitmore Citrus Research Foundation Farm in Groveland, FL. This tree is a selection from the USDA-ARS variety collection that represents over 100 years of USDA-ARS research on citrus in Florida.

“The Donaldson sweet orange tree stood out as being exceptionally healthy compared to the industry-standard trees that were planted close by and were in decline or had died,” said Matt Mattia, a research geneticist. “The Donaldson tree also tested positive for the presence of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, one of the presumed causal agents of HLB. This indicates that the tree may have tolerance to the disease.”

The Donaldson orange tree. (Photo by Giancarlo Buzzi, ARS)

Historical records show that the Donaldson tree was first planted on the farm over 30 years ago. Another tree type named “Hamlin,” which has been ravaged by HLB, was also planted around the same time. Hamlin and Donaldson are early season trees that mature from December to January. While Hamlin has been used in commercial orange juice production for years, Donaldson has remained only on the farm.

Researchers assessed if Donaldson oranges could substitute Hamlin oranges for juice production. In the study, researchers conducted taste tests to study the differences between orange juice blends using Hamlin and Donaldson oranges.

“The taste testers noted that there was a difference between the two juices,” said Mattia. “However, those differences may be explained by the lower acidity in fruits from young Hamlin trees.”

According to Mattia, Donaldson oranges could replace Hamlin oranges for commercial production, maturing in the early season and presenting good orange flavor. However, future research should explore whether Donaldson fruit could replace Hamlin fruit in juice by comparing fruits from trees of the same age.

More research is underway to determine if the Donaldson trees have long-term tolerance to HLB and if citrus growers can successfully plant these trees to meet the demands of commercial production. ARS researchers plan to work with research collaborators and industry partners to assess Donaldson’s tolerance to HLB in field trials and study the possible underlying genetic mechanisms responsible for tolerance.

The study was published in HortScience. The research done by ARS was in collaboration with researchers at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ Horticultural Sciences Department.

The Agricultural Research Service is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s chief scientific in-house research agency. Daily, ARS focuses on solutions to agricultural problems affecting America. Each dollar invested in U.S. agricultural research results in $20 of economic impact.

# # #

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Continues Political Pressure for Rail Safety, Railroad Retirement

Source: US GOIAM Union

Back-to-back weeks of railroaders hitting Capitol Hill put pressure on Congress to act on Rail Safety

IAM Assistant to the International President for the Rail Division Josh Hartford and Assistant National Legislative Director Ty Richardson, together with TCU/IAM National Legislative Director David Arouca and National Legislative Representative Connor Vargo, participated in a mass lobbying effort on Capitol Hill organized by railroad unions and companies for Rail Safety Lobby Day.

“We cannot stop pushing on this issue,” said Hartford. “Railroaders have been sounding the alarm that we need appropriate legislation to keep the public safe and prevent more derailments. We need the Rail Safety Act with specified amendments to pass, and we’re going to keep fighting until it does.”

With a large membership in the rail industry, IAM Union has continued to put pressure on legislators to finalize and pass the Railroad Safety Act to address growing issues brought on by the use of Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) and inspection time limits imposed by railroad companies, among other concerns.

The unions also participated in the day of action to advocate for the funding of Amtrak and the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), two high-priority items for IAM and TCU/IAM members.

“Railroad retirement affects every railroader across the county,” said Arouca. “We pay into this system. We expect this system to work properly, and the Railroad Retirement Board has been flat-funded for too long.”

IAM Union is working with representatives and senators on both sides of the aisle to gain support for fully-funding the RRB, so that railroad disability claims don’t take 18 months to process.

“This constraint on administrative expenses has greatly diminished customer service for the rail workers and retirees who depend on this system,” reads the letter. “A continued lack of an increase on RRB’s funding would significantly undermine the RRB’s ability to serve railroad workers, retirees, and their families.”

The legislative leaders had just finished a week of political action for the IAM 2025 National Legislative conference where they lobbied Congress about the need for rail safety legislation and other issues impacting different sectors of the union.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Report: Deadly Gaps

Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

In September 2025, the Global Fund, the main funder of a worldwide response to HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, will host its eighth replenishment conference, where donor countries will make pledges to fund its vital, life-saving work.

Ahead of the conference, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has released a report based on our experience with the communities we serve. This report highlights the challenges this replenishment faces, including the impact of shrinking donor support. Without sufficient funding there will be antiretroviral, antimalarial and tuberculosis drug stockouts, people will travel long distances only to be turned away at dispensaries, community health workers will go unpaid or under-supported, and critical prevention activities will be neglected. These challenges are not confined to ‘fragile’ settings. People in countries with functioning health systems that are simply under-resourced will also feel the impacts.

This report references findings from Burundi, Central African Republic (CAR), Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Guinea, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Pakistan, Philippines, South Sudan, and Sudan.

The stakes for replenishment are high. Now is the time to step up—to protect gains made and ensure a future where HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria do not threaten millions of lives.

Deadly Gaps: Executive Summary pdf — 3.37 MB Download

Deadly Gaps: Don’t turn away from saving lives pdf — 11.64 MB Download

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MIL OSI NGO –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Speaks on Advancement of Stand With Women Act

Source: US State of Nebraska

. Pillen Speaks on Advancement of Stand With Women Act

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen provided the statement below upon second-round approval by the Legislature of LB89, the Stand With Women Act.

“The advancement of this legislation is a victory. It achieves a key objective – making sure that girls and women are treated fairly when it comes to sports competition. We must do everything we can to protect women and women’s sports. I thank Senator Kauth for championing this legislation and I applaud the athletes and other supporters who advocated for LB89 and the creation of a level playing field.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Vetoes Bill Allowing Convicted Drug Offenders Access to SNAP

Source: US State of Nebraska

. Pillen Vetoes Bill Allowing Convicted Drug Offenders Access to SNAP

LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen issued an immediate veto of LB319, which would expand access to taxpayer-funded food stamps for felon drug dealers. The bill was approved by the Legislature today.

In his veto letter, Gov. Pillen expressed his strong objection to providing taxpayer-funded benefits like SNAP to repeat felons, especially given that the bill would permit those convicted of multiple drug offenses the opportunity to avoid undergoing substance abuse treatment.

The Governor’s veto letter is included with this email.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Canada’s audiovisual industry should better reflect the country’s diversity

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By John Schoales, Visiting Researcher and Adjunct Professor, School of Creative Industries, Toronto Metropolitan University

An important reason for underrepresentation in cultural industries is the citizenship-based approach to defining what classifies as Canadian content.
(Shutterstock)

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has recently undertaken a consultation on defining Canadian programming in the film and television industry.

A longstanding focus has been to base the definition of Canadian programming on having Canadian citizens or permanent residents occupying key creative or ownership positions in film and television. Similar definitions are used in Canada for other cultural industries such as music, publishing and the arts.

However, the growth of online content has challenged longstanding approaches that were developed when national borders played a larger role in media markets. Today, a new generation of artists and online creators are less likely to see their markets or identities confined by national boundaries.

This has also highlighted barriers faced by others, long ignored, who don’t necessarily define their cultural identity by their nationality. This can include people from other countries who want to pursue arts and culture careers in Canada, Indigenous communities or anyone who defines their identity by anything other than their citizenship.

Systemic bias

An important reason for underrepresentation in cultural industries is the citizenship-based approach to Canadian content used by the CRTC in audiovisual policy and the federal and provincial governments in a variety of culture programs.

This approach creates preferential access to opportunities for people who are much more likely to be white.

The Canadian Human Rights Commission has stated that progress towards eliminating systemic racism and discrimination in a meaningful way will remain elusive as long as any doubt remains about the existence of systemic racism in Canada.

The growth of online content has challenged longstanding approaches that were developed when national borders played a larger role in media markets.
(Shutterstock)

Canadian audiovisual policy illustrates that systemic racism does exist and remains embedded in Canadian culture policy.

The 2021 census indicated that around one-quarter of Canada’s population is racialized. That includes 69.3 per cent of immigrants and 83.1 per cent of non-permanent residents.

The census also shows that racialized people are underrepresented in all cultural industries, such as film and television, music, publishing and performing arts. Those who are able to work in cultural occupations often earn far less than their non-racialized counterparts.

As the Ontario Human Rights Commission has stated:

“Organizations must ensure that they are not unconsciously engaging in systemic discrimination. This takes vigilance and a willingness to monitor and review numerical data, policies, practices and decision-making processes and organizational culture. It is not acceptable from a human rights perspective for an organization to choose to remain unaware of systemic discrimination or to fail to act when a problem comes to its attention.”

Challenges in the immigration system

The relationship between immigration, underrepresentation and industry growth, success and cultural impact is particularly important for effective Canadian policy because almost all of Canada’s net population growth is due to immigration.

Today, Canada is increasingly using a two-step immigration system in which immigrants are selected from non-permanent residents already living in Canada. It is particularly difficult for a culture industry worker to settle in Canada because they don’t qualify for public funding programs in these industries prior to becoming a permanent resident.

In addition, relevant work they are able to find may not count toward their future immigration applications because it may be self-employment, contract or part-time work, which is the norm in these industries.

There is little effort to either attract foreign workers in these industries or help them integrate into a workforce in which self-employment and contract work is very common, and success is largely determined by access to established networks.

Definitions of Canadian content highlight barriers faced by others, long ignored, who don’t necessarily define their cultural identity by their citizenship.
(Shutterstock)

Improving creativity and productivity

Canada’s parochial approach that equates culture with nationality echoes a troubled history of cultural assimilation and discrimination.

The country does not appear to have learned important lessons about the impact of cultural nationalist assimilation from the Truth and Reconciliation process, restrictive immigration policies or the advancement of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

It says to some: your cultural identity is Canadian. It says to others: you’re not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident so anything you create has no cultural value.

Inclusive creative industries allow for the cultural contributions of more people and foster collaboration and new ideas, which are important drivers of a productive industry.

Productivity is significantly lower in Canada than in the United States. High human capital industries like the creative industries are primary drivers of productivity and are supported by the migration of skilled people.

A definition of Canadian content based on citizenship or permanent residency status is often promoted as a way to defend against the influx of American cultural products from Hollywood. However, Hollywood products currently have no citizenship focus. Like all highly successful culture centres, Hollywood has always founded its success on attracting talented people from around the world.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to impose film tariffs on foreign-produced films similarly does not reflect an understanding that this is a global industry. It is a short step from there to wanting only Americans in key creative and ownership roles. That would restrict Hollywood’s access to global talent and resources, undermine its primary advantage, and undermine the industry’s competitiveness.

Read more:
Tax Canadian movies? Why culture has always been at the centre of trade wars

As a leading global destination for immigrants and with aspirations to be inclusive, Canada has the unique potential to become a leading global culture centre with thriving and diverse creative industries.

To achieve this potential, the CRTC and Canadian governments must reorient their policies to develop cultural industries that cultivate great art by talented people, regardless of their identity or where they are from.

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

– ref. Canada’s audiovisual industry should better reflect the country’s diversity – https://theconversation.com/canadas-audiovisual-industry-should-better-reflect-the-countrys-diversity-252883

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Stefanik Encourages AG Pam Bondi to Investigate New York State’s Unconstitutional Gun Laws

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (21st District of New York)

Stefanik Encourages AG Pam Bondi to Investigate New York State’s Unconstitutional Gun Laws | Press Releases | Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Norcross Outraged by Republicans Cuts to Lifesaving Healthcare and Food Assistance for Seniors, Children, Veterans
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released a statement on Republicans budget plan to slash Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, and food assistance from our seniors, veterans, children, and hard-working families. This week, Republicans released a plan that dictates the specific cuts they would be making to these programs and voted for them in their Congressional committees.

“Trump and Republicans in Congress spent months lying to the American people, saying they would preserve health care, and they wouldn’t touch Medicaid,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “This week, Republicans voted to make the largest cuts to Medicaid and food assistance in American history. Millions of seniors, veterans, children, and hardworking families will lose their healthcare coverage, and millions more will be left hungry. Let’s be clear; when Medicaid is cut, people don’t ‘tighten their belts.’ They lose access to life-saving medications, they skip doctor visits because they can’t afford them, they forgo vital surgeries and, in some cases, they die. Cutting Medicaid won’t create prosperity it will create poverty. We must fight back, because Medicaid matters, food for our seniors and children matters. I will never stop fighting for our seniors, veterans, children, and hard-working families in South Jersey.”

The Republican budget plan will end healthcare coverage for almost 14 million Americans:
- The bill’s Medicaid and Affordable Care Act cuts terminate health insurance for 8.6 million Americans
- Republicans’ plans to take away enhanced tax credits cause another 5.1 million Americans to lose coverage.
The Republican budget plan directs:
- At least $700 billion in Medicaid cuts, terminating health insurance and slashing benefits, like home care and mental health services, for low-income seniors, kids, veterans, people with disabilities, and working families.
- A $350 billion cut to the Affordable Care Act because Republicans refuse to extend tax credits that ensure Americans can afford their health coverage
Largest cut to SNAP, which provides critical food assistance for low-income families, in American history:
- 27,000 grocery stores could be at risk of closure due to a massive loss in revenue, creating and exacerbating food deserts in largely rural areas.
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MIL OSI USA News –
May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: WSDOT urges early planning for Memorial Day weekend travel and ferry crowds
Source: Washington State News 2

Holiday travel charts provide best times to travel on busy corridors like I-5, US 2 and I-90

OLYMPIA – It may not be officially summer yet – but travelers should certainly plan ahead for summer-like crowds for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.

The Washington State Department of Transportation has released Memorial Day weekend travel charts showing the best (and worst) times to travel on key routes like Interstate 5, US 2, I-90 and at the I-5/Canada border crossing. Most state highway construction will pause Friday through Tuesday, May 23-27 to help ease congestion, though some temporary lane shifts, closures or adjusted bike lanes may remain in place for travel.

Holiday weekends often mean increased traffic and delays along state highways, waterways, airports and pedestrian trails. Travelers should be patient, expect delays and stay alert. Delays may also occur as crews respond to crashes or conduct emergency repairs. Washington state ferry routes also are expected to be busy and reservations are strongly encouraged on routes that offer them.

WSDOT encourages travelers to “know before you go,” and follow these tips whether traveling across town or statewide:
- Get informed about WSDOT’s online tools, including the WSDOT mobile app, traffic cameras and email alerts.
- Visit online traveler information for traffic, weather, ferry schedules and a real-time travel map.
- Follow WSDOT on various social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Bluesky and X.
- Identify potential safety rest areas before heading out, to ensure enough breaks to avoid drowsy driving.
- Pre-program vehicle radios to 530 AM and 1610 AM for highway advisory radio alerts – and be alert for other stations listed on notice signs in some areas.
- Have a backup outdoor destination as parks and other outdoor recreation sites tend to fill up quickly on holiday weekends. If a site’s parking is full, never park along road shoulders as this is unsafe for everyone on the roadway, including emergency response vehicles.
Most highway construction paused

Most state highway construction work is suspended through the holiday weekend – including both Friday, May 23, and Monday, May 26 – to ease congestion. However, travelers should stay alert for lane shifts or work zone staging that may remain in place. Emergency repairs and crash response will still occur, so drivers need to give crews plenty of space to work safely. While no major construction is planned over the holiday weekend, work zone speed cameras may still be active in areas where speeding has been an ongoing issue and crews are present.

Snoqualmie Pass

No construction is planned on I-90 from Friday, May 23, through Tuesday, May 27. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic means travelers should expect delays, especially eastbound on Friday and westbound on Monday (see charts for more detail). People can receive text message alerts about significant delays by texting the words “WSDOT Snoqualmie” to 468311.

Chinook and Cayuse passes

State Route 410/Chinook Pass and SR 123/Cayuse Pass are tentatively scheduled to reopen Friday, May 23. Check the mountain passes webpage to ensure the passes are open and to view current conditions.

Mount Rainier information
- The National Park Service has a project in progress to repair sections of SR 123 that adds about 30 minutes of travel time, seven days a week, through October.
- This year marks the second season of timed-entry reservations into the park. More information.
Vantage Bridge

To help accommodate increased travel during the two major summer holidays (Memorial Day and Independence Day weekend), all four lanes of I-90 across the Vantage Bridge will be open from May 23 through July 7. Outside of that time, the bridge will have only one lane in each direction through fall due to construction on the bridge. This project is part of a long-term effort to replace the deteriorating bridge deck, with construction expected to be complete by fall 2028.

Tolling

In the Puget Sound region, weekend toll rates will be in effect on Monday, May 27, on the SR 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. The I-405 express toll lanes and SR 167 HOT lanes will be free and open to all drivers on the Monday holiday. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and temporary account payment options on the Good To Go! visitors page.

Ferry travel

People boarding a ferry by vehicle can expect the busiest sailings will likely be westbound (or onto an island) Thursday through Saturday, May 22-24, and eastbound (or off island) Saturday through Monday, May 24-26. Walk-on passengers can bypass vehicle lines and usually board much faster.

Trains, airports and transit

Travelers making a trip by train, personal aircraft or bus also should plan ahead to avoid holiday delays:
- Amtrak Cascades passengers are encouraged to purchase tickets early and plan to arrive at the station one hour before departure. Trains are running between Vancouver, British Columbia and Eugene, Oregon, stopping at 18 stations along the way. Buses also are available for travel between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia and between Seattle and Bellingham. Visit www.AmtrakCascades.com or call 800-USA-RAIL for tickets and schedules.
- For information about traveling via state-sponsored airports, visit wsdot.wa.gov/travel/aviation/airports-list or call 360-618-2477.
- Check with local public transit agencies for any holiday schedule or service changes, including some Dial-A-Ride and fixed-route service that may not run on holidays.
MIL OSI USA News –
May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Second Annual Outside Festival to Showcase Vital Role of Outdoor Recreation Industry in Colorado
Source: US State of Colorado

New Events to Feature Colorado Small Businesses

DENVER – Today, Gov. Polis and the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC), a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), joined Outside Interactive Inc., Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and Visit Denver to preview the second annual Outside Festival and Summit taking place in Denver May 29 – June 1, 2025. This growing flagship event promotes access to Colorado’s incredible outdoors while highlighting the contributions of the outdoor recreation industry to the state’s thriving economy, including new opportunities to showcase Colorado’s small businesses.

“Colorado’s great outdoors industry is one of our state’s critical economic drivers, as well as a path for so many Coloradans and visitors to enjoy our wild, open spaces. This festival celebrates all things outdoors in Colorado and we are excited for another great year. I hope to see my fellow Coloradans coming out to enjoy the festival,” said Governor Jared Polis.

“In 2023, the outdoor recreation industry contributed $17.2 billion to our state’s economy, compared to $13.9 billion just the year before. This growth underscores the vital role the sector plays in generating job growth and stimulating local economies. The Outside Festival is a powerful way to expand this momentum, while ensuring more people have equitable access to the outdoors,” said Eve Lieberman, Executive Director of OEDIT.

Last year, the inaugural Outside Festival drew 18,000 attendees, 40% of whom came from outside of Denver and 20% from outside the state. Thirty-one percent of ticket buyers identified as BIPOC, and the Festival generated an estimated $16 million in economic impact. The Outside Summit, which convened outdoor leaders, government officials, prominent influencers and tech innovators to discuss the future of the outdoor recreation industry, drew 500 participants, 47% of whom came from out of state.

“The inaugural Outside Festival exceeded our expectations, drawing people from across the state and beyond to celebrate Colorado’s incredible outdoors,” said OREC Director Conor Hall. “Like the outdoor recreation industry as a whole, this growing event is an important economic driver. We are thrilled to support its development while promoting Colorado’s small businesses and increasing equitable and safe access to the outdoors.”

This year, the Festival will include two new opportunities to showcase the small businesses so essential to Colorado’s outdoor recreation industry:
- Camp Colorado – A new exhibit space within the Outside Festival will feature outdoor recreation industry businesses, nonprofits and destinations from across the state, giving attendees the opportunity to explore Colorado products and services designed to get more people outdoors.
- Outside Ignite – As part of the Outside Summit, outdoor industry and active lifestyle startups will have the opportunity to hone their business pitches, gain valuable exposure and compete for a prize worth $100,000.
A Community Engagement Council established last year and chaired by OREC will continue to support outreach to youth and communities that have historically encountered barriers to participation in outdoor recreation, including partnerships with organizations like Adaptive Adventures, Great Outdoors Colorado, Next 100 and many more.

“Last year’s Outside Festival and Summit created an inspiring space for outdoor enthusiasts, seasoned adventurers, and visionary leaders to connect and celebrate Colorado’s incredible outdoors and the strength of our national industry,” said Robin Thurston, CEO of Outside Interactive. “We’re thrilled to host an even bigger event this year, continuing to build this vital community, expand outdoor access, and drive economic growth within our category.”

This Outside Festival is driven by a partnership between OREC, Outside Interactive Inc., and VISIT DENVER, sponsored by Capital One and REI Co-Op. To support the festival’s continued development, the Colorado Economic Development Commission approved $350,000 to help implement the 2025 event. Outside and the State of Colorado invite the entire outdoor community to join this celebration of the spirit of adventure, music, and togetherness at the Outside Festival this summer in Denver. For more information, including tickets, please visit www.theoutsidefestival.com.

About Outside Interactive Inc.

Outside Interactive Inc. is the premier destination for outdoor inspiration, activation, and reward. Each month, Outside reaches 80 million of the most active consumers in the world across its network of 25 media, digital, and technology platforms, creating an experience for both longtime adventurers and those just getting started. Outside’s mission is to get everyone outside. Outside’s subscription offering, Outside+, bundles best-in-class storytelling, videos, gear reviews, mapping apps, online courses, discounted event access, and more to help people experience healthy, connected, and fulfilling lives. Learn more at outsideinc.com.

About VISIT DENVER, The Convention & Visitors Bureau

Celebrating 115 years of promoting The Mile High City, VISIT DENVER is a nonprofit trade association that contracts with the City of Denver to market Denver as a convention and leisure destination, increasing economic development in the city, creating jobs and generating taxes. Denver welcomed more than 36.3 million visitors in 2022, generating $9.4 billion in spending, while supporting tens of thousands of jobs and making Tourism one of the city’s largest industries. Learn more about Denver on the VISIT DENVER website or at Tourism Pays Denver.

About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT)

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.

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MIL OSI USA News –
May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Josh Stein Signs HB 74

Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: Governor Josh Stein Signs HB 74

Governor Josh Stein Signs HB 74
lsaito
Thu, 05/15/2025 – 11:29

Raleigh, NC

Today Governor Josh Stein signed House Budget Technical Corrections (HB 74) into law.

“This bill makes helpful technical changes to give farmers in western North Carolina more time to apply for crop loss grants,” said Governor Josh Stein. “However, I continue to have concerns about the legislature’s unconstitutional attempt to control the State Highway Patrol. Public safety is a clear function of the executive branch and the Governor, and I will continue to do everything in my power to keep North Carolinians safe.”

Click here to view the bill.

May 15, 2025

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Colleagues File Amicus Brief Against Trump Admin’s Illegal Attempt to Shutter Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
Illegally closing the agency will leave American consumers more vulnerable to scams and fraud
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, along with 44 of his Senate Democratic colleagues, filed an amicus brief in support of a lawsuit against the Trump administration’s illegal firings of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) workers. The senators emphasized that the administration does not have the authority to abolish the CFPB without congressional approval and that any effort to undermine the agency will hurt American consumers.
“When Congress establishes an agency, that agency is required by law to exist,” wrote the senators. “The Administration’s actions, if allowed to occur, would not just be unconstitutional – they would also be disastrous.”
The CFPB defends American consumers against predatory lending and unfair practices like junk fees. It has returned $20 billion to American consumers since its establishment in 2011.
On the Senate floor, Hickenlooper previously called out the Trump administration’s effort to gut the CFPB and leave Coloradans vulnerable to scams, junk fees, and high-cost loans. Hickenlooper serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety and Data Security.
Full amicus brief is available HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy on Fox News: Why SCOTUS should seize opportunity to eliminate universal injunctions

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, penned this op-ed on Fox News urging the Supreme Court to address the problem of universal injunctions ahead of oral arguments in Trump v. CASA, Inc. on Thursday.
Key excerpts of the speech are below:
“The universal injunction gives individual judges extraordinary power. Don’t like a law passed by Congress? Gone. Don’t like an agency’s regulation? Dead. Don’t like one of the president’s policies? Sayonara.”
. . .
“One rogue judge shouldn’t be able to force the Supreme Court to rush on complex legal issues because he or she assumed the power to enjoin a federal policy nationwide.
“This isn’t an ideological issue. Justices Neil Gorsuch, Clarence Thomas and Elena Kagan have all expressed concerns about universal injunctions short-circuiting the American judicial system. Nor is this a partisan issue. Solicitor Generals for both Presidents Biden and Trump have asked the Supreme Court to put an end to universal injunctions.
“These individuals understand better than anyone that the rampant use of universal injunctions by district court judges is threatening to destabilize the judiciary, and indeed, our entire system of government. I hope the court will take advantage of the opportunity to end this unlawful practice once and for all.”
Read Kennedy’s full op-ed here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Ricketts, colleagues introduce bill to counter the People’s Republic of China’s strategic placement of military bases around the world

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) introduced the Combating PRC Overseas and Unlawful Networked Threats through Enhanced Resilience (COUNTER) Act to combat the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) attempts to strengthen its global reach by expanding its overseas basing efforts. The COUNTER Act is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).
“China is using the placement of new military bases in strategically important countries around the world to expand their military and economic power,” said Senator Coons. “A successful long-term plan to deal with our global pacing threat in Beijing must include a comprehensive approach to stop China from gaining more military footholds by working with our partners and allies across the globe. The bipartisan COUNTER Act will push our government to come up with the tailored solutions we need to face this growing challenge.”
“Communist China’s growing military footprint across the world poses a serious threat. We cannot afford to be reactionary to Xi Jinping’s military expansion and his desire to project power globally. The COUNTER Act will ensure that we have the urgency, strategy, and coordination necessary to potentially mitigate the next overseas PLA military base from developing,” said Senator Ricketts.
“China is rapidly expanding its global footprint, and we need to do more to address the threat this poses to our national security and the security of our allies,” said Senator Kaine. “This bipartisan legislation would help ensure that the U.S. government has a comprehensive strategy to counter China’s establishment of new military bases around the world.”
“The Chinese Communist Party is aggressively working to undermine the United States and spread its authoritarian influence to strategic countries by building military bases and undermining national security and global stability,” said Senator Cornyn. “The COUNTER Act would enhance our understanding of their devious plans and sharpen our efforts to thwart future CCP footholds, and I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to push back against their hostile actions.”
The PRC has significantly increased its efforts in recent years to establish an overseas network of military and transportation bases, which would allow the People’s Liberation Army to project and expand military power. The COUNTER Act would begin to mitigate the threat this poses to the United States and our allies by requiring a comprehensive intelligence assessment of the PRC’s global basing activities, as well as a strategy from the State Department and the Department of Defense to address them. The legislation would also create an interagency task force to implement the strategy and identify proactive measures to counteract both current and future Chinese attempts to add military bases in strategic countries.
Specifically, the COUNTER Act would:
Require an assessment from the Director of National Intelligence analyzing the risk of PRC global basing to the U.S and allied power projection and freedom of movement
Require a strategy from the State Department and the Department of Defense identifying current or future PRC basing locations
a comprehensive list of U.S. government activity aimed at addressing PRC global basing in each location
an identification of resource or personnel constraints limiting the U.S. response
an identification of the most effective practices to persuade foreign governments to terminate plans for hosting a PRC base in their territory

Establish an interagency task force to counter the PRC’s global basing expansion and prevent new locations
Require a report every four years on updates to PRC basing intentions and subsequent updates to U.S. strategy
Senator Coons is the Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Senator Ricketts is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
A one-pager on the bill is available here.
The text of the bill is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK advocates clean energy development in Honduras
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
World news story

UK advocates clean energy development in Honduras

English

Español de América Latina

An official from the UK’s Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) engaged with stakeholders in Honduras to advance energy transition.
Mitchell Lloyd, Senior Policy Advisor on International Energy Transition at DENZ visited Honduras 15-16 May. He met with the Secretary of Energy, other government departments, private sector and international financing institutions developing clean energy initiatives in Honduras.

The discussions included a series of topics ranging from the need to galvanize global and local leadership and foster international cooperation on a clean energy transition, to unlocking clean growth, job opportunities and build robust clean energy supply chains.

Honduras aims to achieve an 80% share of renewables in power generation by 2038. The country has high-quality solar potential for electricity production, and hydropower has historically been a significant contributor.

The visit supports the UK’s government mission to become a clean energy superpower, protecting households from unstable fossil fuel markets, including coal, while at the same time unlocking job opportunities at home and abroad for the clean energy sector.

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Published 15 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Vice President JD Vance Delivers Remarks at the Annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service

Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

Washington, D.C.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMbwTw8gyj4

MIL OSI Video –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Calling All ‘Leaders and Legends’ to Join Us at the 2025 IAM Retirees Conference

Source: US GOIAM Union

We’re proud to invite our IAM family to the upcoming IAM Retirees Conference, taking place Oct. 20-22, 2025, at the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront (1500 N. Atlantic Ave., Cocoa Beach, FL). This year’s theme, “Leaders and Legends,” will honor the contributions of our retirees while energizing and empowering us for the work ahead.

Register today.

This gathering is more than just a conference, it’s a celebration of solidarity and strength. Retirees and future retirees from across North America will come together to build community, share experiences, and strategize on how to elevate retiree engagement within our union.

View the call letter.

You can expect dynamic guest speakers, thought-provoking breakout sessions, and the opportunity to connect with fellow IAM members who have helped shape our proud history. As a highlight of the event, we’ll take a special tour of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday, Oct. 22 — an experience you won’t want to miss.

The deadline to register for both the conference and hotel: Friday, Aug. 29, 2025.

We look forward to seeing you in Cocoa Beach as we celebrate the legacy of our retiree leaders and legends and chart a bold path forward together.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Carter announces $35 million in additional funding for Brunswick Port

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

Headline: Carter announces $35 million in additional funding for Brunswick Port

Carter announces $35 million in additional funding for Brunswick Port

Washington, May 15, 2025

BRUNSWICK – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) announced today that the Port of Brunswick will receive $35 million in additional funding as part of the Army Corps of Engineers’ Work Plan for operations and maintenance of the channel for the #1 Ro/Ro port in the nation.

“We have worked diligently with the Corps to address unacceptable shortfalls in maintenance at the Port of Brunswick. I am thrilled that our efforts paid dividends in the form of this much-needed funding. The world-class Georgia Ports are the economic engine of the southeast, and this funding will ensure that the Port of Brunswick has the funds necessary to maintain, operate, and strengthen one of the fastest growing ports in the nation,” said Rep. Carter.

“The Georgia Ports Authority is grateful that the Administration has prioritized the long-awaited funding necessary to properly maintain the Port of Brunswick. We are further grateful for the extraordinary advocacy of Chairman Carter, Chairman Collins, and the entire Georgia Congressional delegation on behalf of this important gateway. As the largest and busiest port in the United States for handling automobiles and machinery, the maintenance of Brunswick’s harbor is critical before vessel access to the port is limited,” said Griff Lynch, President and CEO of the Georgia Ports Authority.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Protects the Central Valley from Illegal Street Racing

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G Valadao (CA-21)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) to reintroduce the They’re Fast, We’re Furious Act. This bipartisan bill would establish a Street Racing Prevention and Intervention Task Force under the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to coordinate local, state, and federal strategic responses to street racing and unlawful organized street shows. The task force would directly address the impacts of street racing and develop best practices to combat the problem, creating safer communities and potentially saving lives.

Congressman Valadao co-sponsored the They’re Fast, We’re Furious Act of 2023 in the 118th Congress.

“In the Central Valley, street racing is an epidemic that puts our communities in danger,” said Congressman Valadao. “Kern County’s fatal hit-and-run accident rate is over 151% higher than the national average, and deadly crashes are a direct result of reckless driving at high speeds. Illegal street racing in our neighborhoods puts the lives of other drivers, first responders, and innocent bystanders at risk, and I’m proud to join Congresswoman Pettersen to give law enforcement the tools they need to combat this dangerous trend.”

“I’ve heard from constituents across Broomfield and Jefferson Counties who are concerned by the illegal street racing on the rise in our communities, including the death of a college student in Westminster caused by a street racing incident” said Rep. Pettersen. “As a mom, I’m committed to making sure our communities are a safe place for our kids and neighbors. That’s why I’m working with Congressman Valadao during National Police Week to ensure law enforcement has the tools they need to crack down on reckless driving and save lives.”

Background:

A national study analyzing data from 2018 to 2022 found that two counties in California’s 22nd Congressional District—Kern and Tulare—rank among the top 25 in the nation for fatal hit-and-run crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding has contributed to roughly one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities over the past two decades. Illegal street racing and unlawful street shows are becoming increasingly common across the Central Valley, and with growing populations and more vehicles on the road, the risk of tragic outcomes continues to rise.

Beyond the dangerous nature of these activities, street racing and unlawful street shows cause noise and safety disruptions, negatively impacting neighborhoods in rural areas and large cities alike. This bill is a step towards cracking down on these dangerous activities, as the established task force would coordinate efforts nationwide and ensure law enforcement and agencies have the best information and resources available. Members of the task force would be appointed by the Attorney General, Secretary of Transportations, and the FBI Director, and would be composed of employees from the DOJ Criminal Division, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the FBI, and local and state law enforcement agencies.

Read the full bill here.

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MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Supervised Exercise Improves Broken Hip Outcomes in Older Women
Source: US State of Connecticut

Results from a recent multi-center, randomized, controlled trial demonstrate that testosterone gel does not improve long-distance mobility compared to exercise alone in older women recovering from a hip fracture.

The STEP-HI (Starting a Testosterone and Exercise Program after Hip Injury) study results were published in JAMA Network Open on May 15. This is to date the largest study of testosterone administration to women following a fracture of the hip.

UConn Center on Aging was a clinical trial site for the national STEP-HI study since its launch in 2018.

Threat of Broken Hips in Older Women
“Historically, despite dramatic advances in surgical techniques, nearly three out of four older women fail to regain their previous level of function following hip fracture even when followed by the usual level of rehabilitation,” shares study co-author Dr. George Kuchel, director of the UConn Center on Aging.

In fact, hip fractures are the most serious type of osteoporotic fracture, as they are accompanied by considerable pain, loss of muscular and bone strength, reduced mobility and independence with daily activities, and increased risk for future fractures and death. After a hip fracture, patients undergo surgery to repair the broken bone, followed by a period of rehabilitation.

Patient does leg presses at UConn Center on Aging. (Lauren Woods/UConn Photo)

Results of the STEP-HI Clinical Trial
The large STEP-HI study focused on interventions intended to improve outcomes after standard therapy was completed. The study, “Effects of Exercise Training and Testosterone Therapy in Older Women after Hip Fracture: A Randomized Clinical Trial,” provides valuable information that does not support adding low-dose testosterone to exercise in women recovering from a hip fracture to improve long-distance mobility. Testosterone is a hormone present in all women that declines with age. It has effects on muscle that were hypothesized to augment the benefits of exercise during the recovery period.

The study was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial that enrolled women aged ≥ 65 years who had a recent surgical repair of a hip fracture, met objective criteria for mobility impairment, and were community-dwelling. Participants (n=129) were recruited from 8 clinical sites in the United States between February 2018 and February 2023.

Key findings of the study include:
- 24 weeks of supervised exercise combined with testosterone therapy did not significantly improve Six Minute Walk Distance (a measure of long-distance mobility) compared to supervised exercise alone. This suggests that adding testosterone to exercise may not provide further benefits beyond exercise itself in terms of long-distance mobility in older women post hip fracture.
- Adding testosterone therapy to exercise had positive effects on short-distance mobility and balance, while also reducing the requirement of assistive walking devices at the end of the study. These secondary findings will require further research to confirm.
Jenna M. Bartley, Ph.D. served as the UConn Center on Aging’s clinical trial site principal investigator alongside Kuchel and Richard Fortinsky, Ph.D.

“While we did not see improvements with testosterone in endurance activities, these findings are important for our understanding of how older women can best recover from hip fracture. While we thought that adding an anabolic agent like testosterone would aid in mobility improvements, we did not see a benefit in that aspect. We did see a benefit of testosterone in other functional domains, but more research is needed to confirm those findings,” Bartley reports.

Kuchel, director of the UConn Center on Aging, agrees.

“Our findings did not demonstrate any additional benefits in long-distance mobility of testosterone replacement beyond the positive effects of exercise. However, our findings confirm that more intense and sustained exercise protocols are well-tolerated by older women and can result in substantial functional improvements.”

Kuchel stresses a secondary post hoc finding of the study that needs further investigation.

“Among women who required a walker or cane at baseline, those who were randomized to receive exercise and testosterone replacement were more likely to be able to walk without a cane or walker 6 months later as compared to women receiving only exercise or usual care. These findings will require future study and further confirmation,” says Kuchel of UConn.

Striking Impact of Strength Training for Older Women at UConn Center on Aging
“What was most striking from our STEP-HI study was how well the older women performed the progressive resistance training and how much they improved over the course of the study,” says Principal Investigator Bartley at UConn.

She says while some women were hesitant at first, by the end of the study some were leg pressing over 100lbs!

“It was really impressive to see the progress over time from these women. It really is never too late to start an exercise training program!” Bartley advises.

Also, Bartley shared how progressive resistance training for 6 months led to huge improvements in functional outcomes.

‘‘The power of weight training is really impressive, even in these older women. This research really highlighted how older women can benefit from weight training despite being recently injured or more frail,” concludes Bartley.

The study team of co-authors concluded overall that: “Although testosterone did not provide the functional benefits to older women recovering from a hip fracture that we were expecting, our study offers valuable information on the importance of exercise and other treatments during recovery,” wrote the study co-authors led by Dr. Ellen F. Binder of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

Other study co-authors include: Sarah D. Berry, MD, MPH, Peter Doré, MS, Steven R. Fisher, PT, PhD, Richard H. Fortinsky, PhD, Camelia Guild, MPH, Douglas P. Kiel, MD, MPH, Robin L. Marcus, PT, PhD, Christine M. McDonough, PT, PhD, Kelly M. Monroe, MSW, Denise Orwig, PhD, Rocco Paluch, MA, Dominic Reeds, MD, Jennifer Stevens-Lapsley, PT, PhD, Elena Volpi, MD, PhD, Kenneth B. Schechtman, PhD, and Jay Magaziner, PhD.

The JAMA Network Open study co-authors are faculty at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, the UConn Center on Aging, Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Hebrew Senior Life and the Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, University of Texas Medical Branch, University of Utah, University of Pittsburgh. University at Buffalo, University of Colorado, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio GRECC, Sealy Center on Aging, and the University of Texas Medical Branch.

This work is in part supported by the following grants: The National Institute on Aging provided funding and supervision for STEP-HI under award numbers: R21 AG023716, R34 AG040257, R01 AG051647, P30 AG067988 (UConn Older Americans Independence Pepper Center), P30 AG024832, P30 AG028747. Support for STEP-HI at the Baltimore site was also provided by the Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Centers (GRECC).

MIL OSI USA News –
May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: OPIM Professor Fasheng Xu, a ‘Forward-Thinking’ Scholar, Wins Early Career Award

Source: US State of Connecticut

Fasheng Xu, a professor of Operations and Information Management (OPIM), has been awarded the 2025 Chelliah Sriskandarajah Early Career Research Accomplishments Award, a global honor bestowed on just one scholar annually.

The award, presented at the Production & Operations Management Society’s (POMS) annual conference in Atlanta last weekend, recognizes exceptional research contributions by a scholar who completed his or her doctorate in the last six years.

“Since joining UConn two years ago, Fasheng has made outstanding contributions to our research and teaching,’’ said professor Cuihong Li, head of the OPIM department. “He has enhanced our expertise in supply chain finance, risk management, and the integration of emerging technologies, particularly blockchain and Generative AI, into supply-chain management.”

“He exemplifies the qualities of a forward-thinking scholar, constantly exploring the evolving landscape of business and technology, analyzing their impact on supply chains and their intersections with other business functions, and bringing the latest insights into the classroom,’’ she said.

The Sriskandarajah award was created to recognize and reward exceptional faculty who have made significant accomplishments to the field and broadened, extended or altered the way production and operations management is conceptualized, practiced, and viewed.

Most recently, Xu’s research has focused on Generative AI, addressing questions about AI governance, market dynamics, and organizational transformation, including how companies can optimally integrate human and GenAI capabilities to enhance decision-making and drive innovation.

Xu said GenAI intrigues him. “I think GenAI will be more disruptive than other recent emerging technologies I’ve studied, and it’s a fascinating area that opens up new frontiers for both research and teaching,’’ he said.

Regardless of topic, Xu focuses his research to join theoretical rigor with actionable insights for the business community. One example is a series of articles he co-authored recently exploring the impact of blockchain technology adoption in various supply chain settings, identifying both the benefits and challenges. He typically has about 10 research projects underway at all times.

Xu also recently applied his knowledge to create a new UConn MBA course on supply chain finance, equipping students with analytical tools and practical knowledge to address real-world challenges. Creating a course from scratch was demanding, but something he enjoyed. Recently, he also led two faculty development workshops on the use of Generative AI for enhancing productivity in teaching and research.

His work has appeared in leading journals, including three papers each in Management Science and Manufacturing & Service Operations Management. Xu has also reviewed more than 130 manuscripts for leading journals.

Xu, who is based at the Stamford campus, said he was drawn to UConn because of the faculty’s research productivity, and that he has been able to collaborate with many of his colleagues here on new projects. He joined the faculty after working as an assistant professor of supply chain management at Syracuse University, where he was an award-winning faculty member. Xu earned his Ph.D. in Operations Management at Olin Business School at Washington University in St. Louis.

Xu credited Li’s encouragement and unwavering support as a factor in his receipt of the award.

“I likely wouldn’t have applied if it weren’t for Professor Li, who strongly believed in the quality and impact of my work,” he said. “I’m truly grateful for her mentorship and advocacy. Having my research recognized in this way has been a meaningful and motivating boost.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI: Westhaven Completes Brokered Private Placement for Gross Proceeds of $4.6 Million

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V:WHN) (“Westhaven” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the closing of its previously announced brokered private placement (the “Offering“) for aggregate gross proceeds of $4,600,000, which includes the full exercise of the agent’s option for proceeds of $600,000. Under the Offering, the Company sold (i) 19,022,708 units of the Company (each, a “Unit”) at a price of $0.12 per Unit for gross proceeds of $2,282,725 from the sale of Units, and (ii) 17,165,000 common shares of the Company that will qualify as “flow-through shares” within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a “FT Share”, and collectively with the Units, the “Offered Securities”) at a price of $0.135 per FT Share for gross proceeds of $2,317,275 from the sale of FT Shares.

Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (each, a “Unit Share”) and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Warrant”). Each whole Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share of the Company (each, a “Warrant Share”) at a price of $0.18 at any time on or before May 15, 2027.

Red Cloud Securities Inc. (the “Agent”) acted as sole agent and bookrunner in connection with the Offering. In consideration for their services, the Agent received a cash commission of $276,000 and 2,171,262 non-transferable broker warrants (the “Broker Warrants”). Each Broker Warrant is exercisable for one common share of the Company (each, a “Broker Share”) at a price of $0.12 per Broker Share at any time on or before May 15, 2027.

The Offered Securities were sold to purchasers by way of the “accredited investor” exemption under National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Quebec, Ontario and Saskatchewan and to purchasers in certain offshore jurisdictions. The Unit Shares, Warrants, FT Shares and Warrant Shares issued and issuable from the sale of Offered Securities, and the Broker Shares, are subject to a hold period under Canadian securities laws ending on September 16, 2025.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of Units for working capital and general corporate purposes. The gross proceeds from the sale and issuance of the FT Shares will be used to incur “Canadian exploration expenses” on the Company’s projects in British Columbia and will qualify as “flow-through mining expenditures”, as defined in subsection 127(9) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (collectively, the “Qualifying Expenditures”), which will be incurred on or before December 31, 2026 and renounced to the subscribers under the Offering with an effective date no later than December 31, 2025 in an aggregate amount not less than the gross proceeds raised from the issue of the FT Shares. In addition, with respect to British Columbia resident subscribers or those who are eligible individuals under the Income Tax Act (British Columbia), the Qualifying Expenditures will be eligible for the 20% BC mining flow-through share tax credit.

Although the Company announced the possible sale of flow through units of the Company to be sold to charitable purchasers (“Charity FT Units”), the Agent and the Company determined not to proceed with the sale of any Charity FT Units.

Related Party Transaction

Members of the Company’s management, board of directors and certain other insiders participated in the Offering acquiring an aggregate of 2,459,000 Units for aggregate proceeds of $295,080. The issuance of Units to insiders pursuant to the Offering constitutes a “related party transaction” within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”). The Company relies on exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements provided under sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 on the basis that participation in the Offering by insiders will not exceed 25% of the fair market value of the Company’s market capitalization.

The securities offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act, as amended, or any state securities law, and may not be offered, sold or delivered, directly or indirectly, within the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of U.S. persons, absent registration or an exemption from such registration requirements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of securities in any state in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

WESTHAVEN GOLD CORP.

“Ken Armstrong”

Ken Armstrong, President & CEO

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

About Westhaven Gold Corp.

Westhaven is a gold-focused exploration company targeting low sulphidation, high-grade, epithermal style gold mineralization within Canada’s newest gold district, the Spences Bridge Gold Belt. Westhaven controls ~61,512 hectares (~615 square kilometres) within four gold properties spread along this underexplored belt. The Shovelnose Gold Project is the most advanced property, with an updated 2025 Preliminary Economic Assessment that validates the Project’s potential as a robust, low cost and high margin 11-year underground gold mining opportunity with average annual life-of-mine gold production of 56,000 ounces and having a Cdn$454 million after-tax NPV6% and 43.2% IRR (base case parameters of US$2,400 per ounce gold, US$28 per ounce silver and CDN/US$ exchange rate of $0.72). Initial capital costs are projected to be Cdn$184 million with a payback period of 2.1 years. Please see Westhaven’s news release dated March 3rd, 2025 (Link: March 3, 2025 News Release) for details of the updated PEA. The technical report supporting this disclosure can be found under the Company’s profile on Sedar+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and on the Company’s website. The Shovelnose Gold Project is situated off a major highway, near power, rail, large producing mines, pipelines and within commuting distance from the city of Merritt, which translates into low-cost exploration and development. Qualified Person: The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Fischl, P.Geo, who is a Qualified Person for the Company under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Westhaven trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol WHN. For further information, please call 604-681-5558 or visit Westhaven’s website at www.westhavengold.com.

Forward Looking Statements:

This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws, which is based upon the Company’s current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. The forward-looking information included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the Company’s expectations with respect to the Offering; and the use of proceeds of the Offering. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information relate to future events and future performance and include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information often, but not always, can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved.

Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, and without limitation: the Company will not be able to raise sufficient funds to complete its planned exploration program; that the Company will not derive the expected benefits from its current program; the Company may not use the proceeds of the Offering as currently contemplated; the Company may fail to find a commercially viable deposit at any of its mineral properties; the Company’s plans may be adversely affected by the Company’s reliance on historical data compiled by previous parties involved with its mineral properties; mineral exploration and development are inherently risky industries; the mineral exploration industry is intensely competitive; additional financing may not be available to the Company when required or, if available, the terms of such financing may not be favourable to the Company; fluctuations in the demand for gold or gold prices generally; the Company may not be able to identify, negotiate or finance any future acquisitions successfully, or to integrate such acquisitions with its current business; the Company’s exploration activities are dependent upon the grant of appropriate licenses, concessions, leases, permits and regulatory consents, which may be withdrawn or not granted; the Company’s operations could be adversely affected by possible future government legislation, policies and controls or by changes in applicable laws and regulations; there is no guarantee that title to the properties in which the Company has a material interest will not be challenged or impugned; the Company faces various risks associated with mining exploration that are not insurable or may be the subject of insurance which is not commercially feasible for the Company; the volatility of global capital markets over the past several years has generally made the raising of capital more difficult; inflationary cost pressures may escalate the Company’s operating costs; compliance with environmental regulations can be costly; social and environmental activism can negatively impact exploration, development and mining activities; the success of the Company is largely dependent on the performance of its directors and officers; the Company’s operations may be adversely affected by First Nations land claims; the Company and/or its directors and officers may be subject to a variety of legal proceedings, the results of which may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business; the Company may be adversely affected if potential conflicts of interests involving its directors and officers are not resolved in favour of the Company; the Company’s future profitability may depend upon the world market prices of gold; dilution from future equity financing could negatively impact holders of the Company’s securities; failure to adequately meet infrastructure requirements could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business; the Company’s projects now or in the future may be adversely affected by risks outside the control of the Company; the Company is subject to various risks associated with climate change, the Company is subject to general global risks arising from epidemic diseases, the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, rising inflation, tariffs and interest rates and the impact they will have on the Company’s operations, supply chains, ability to access mining projects or procure equipment, supplies, contractors and other personnel on a timely basis or at all is uncertain; as well as other risk factors in the Company’s other public filings available at www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The Company cannot guarantee future results, performance, or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in the Company’s expectations, except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The MIL Network –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON POLICE WEEK

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

MIL OSI USA News –

May 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Huizenga, Foster, Moolenaar, and Krishnamoorthi Introduce the Chip Security Act to Detect and Prevent Illegal AI Chip Smuggling
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL), Chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party John Moolenaar (R-MI), Ranking Member of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rick Crawford (R-AR), House Intelligence Committee Member Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), House Intelligence Committee Member Darin LaHood (R-IL), and House Foreign Affairs Committee Member Ted Lieu (D-CA), introduced the Chip Security Act.

The Chip Security Act would require advanced chip manufacturers to implement technical security measures to detect and prevent smuggling to unauthorized countries and end-users. This legislation responds to ongoing reports of AI chips being smuggled into China, where they are used to power state-controlled AI projects. Despite export controls, smuggling networks and front companies continue to move U.S.-made chips into restricted countries.

“American innovation and AI computing technology has the potential to change everything from how we complete daily tasks to unlocking the next era of scientific breakthroughs” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “In order for the United States to maintain our technological advantage, we must employ safeguards to help ensure these advanced AI chips are not being shipped to bad actors who would use them for nefarious purposes. The Chips Security Act is a bipartisan solution that strengthens our ability to protect American interests as well as our technological advances.”

“As Congress’ chip designer, AI programmer, and PhD physicist, I know that we have the technical tools to prevent powerful AI technology from getting into the wrong hands. With advanced AI chips being smuggled into China and posing a national security risk, Congress must act,” said Congressman Bill Foster. “I’m proud to lead the effort on this bipartisan legislation, which is an important step in protecting our exports and ensuring that U.S. technology is not used to undermine democracy and global stability.”

“For too long, the Chinese Communist Party has exploited weaknesses in our export control enforcement system—using shell companies and smuggling networks to divert sensitive U.S. technology, fuel the PLA’s military advancement, and extend its surveillance capabilities to further its repression,” said Congressman John Moolenaar, Chairman of the China Select Committee. That puts our national security and our leadership in artificial intelligence at risk. This bipartisan bill closes those gaps with real safeguards to keep our most advanced chips out of the wrong hands. I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and we’re committed to getting this legislation across the finish line and signed into law.”

“This bipartisan legislation will help ensure our most advanced technologies don’t end up in the wrong hands,” said Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ranking Member of the China Select Committee. “I’m proud to join my colleagues, including Congressman Foster—whose deep expertise and leadership on science and national security issues continue to strengthen our country—in introducing this commonsense measure.”

The bill would require:
- Location Verification: High-end AI chips must have the ability to identify their location before they are exported.
- Mandatory Reporting: Companies exporting these products must report any credible information about the diversion of the product, including if the location has changed.
- Additional Technical Requirements: Requires the Secretary of Commerce to assess second-level security mechanisms to prevent misuse or diversion of these chips.
- Enforcement: Provides the Secretary of Commerce enforcement capabilities to verify that the exported chips have not been diverted.
This issue was highlighted in the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party’s recent report on DeepSeek.

The Chip Security Act legislative text is available here. Companion legislation to the Chip Security Act has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR).

MIL OSI USA News –
May 16, 2025

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