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Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smart Electrical Panel Startup SPANs NREL’s Accelerator Programs

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    SPAN created a smart electrical panel that goes beyond traditional capabilities. Photo from SPAN

    Imagine a severe storm knocks out a neighborhood powerline; while most homes go dark, one homeowner seamlessly manages their backup energy, prioritizing critical appliances. This is not the future—it is happening now with SPAN’s smart electrical panel.

    SPAN is the only startup company to go through two of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) startup assistance programs: the Shell GameChanger Accelerator Powered by NREL (GCxN) and the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator (IN2). SPAN created a smart electrical panel that goes beyond traditional capabilities, allowing users to control individual circuits for individual devices. SPAN also has an app that provides users with a dashboard to keep track of the connected appliances and electric loads. The panel provides real-time visibility into a homeowner’s energy consumption, broken out by individual breakers, so homeowners can prioritize different loads during a power outage, while utilities can gain insight into grid flexibility strategies.

    When NREL Senior Engineer Bethany Sparn had SPAN’s smart panel installed in a lab, all the laboratory electricians were excited about it.

    “The electrician that installed the panel asked me how it worked, and I explained that every circuit had a dedicated power meter and relay, all hidden in the backplate of the panel,” Sparn said. “They thought it was really cool. The SPAN panel shook up the world of breaker panels in a way that feels like the early days of smart thermostats. They created a product that would be beneficial to utilities and consumers.”

    SPAN Vice President of Business Development Alex Pratt said the company reimagined a power panel from the ground up.

    “Each of the circuits in our panels are granularly metered and controllable through a relay,” Pratt said. “This combined with significant onboard processing and multichannel communications creates a powerful platform to provide novel home energy management capabilities.”

    The first project that brought SPAN’s technology to NREL was through the GCxN program in 2019. NREL scientists, including Senior Research Engineer Shibani Ghosh, focused on simulations to test the possible impacts of high adoption of SPAN panels at the neighborhood scale under a utility’s distribution feeder. The simulations demonstrated how grid operations could improve and help utility consumers when individual consumptions are managed by SPAN smart panels.

    “If a smart panel like SPAN’s can communicate and track when the electricity price goes down,” Ghosh said, “you can schedule the operation of your devices and save money within your time preferences.”

    SPAN is the only startup to participate in both the IN2 and GCxN programs. Photo from SPAN

    The results of the simulations supported that SPAN’s panel could deliver grid benefits as expected, so as the GCxN project wrapped up, SPAN joined IN2 in 2020, initiating Sparn’s work with the smart panel in the lab.

    “SPAN was unique in that they had already gone through GCxN, but that had been an entirely simulation-based project,” Sparn said. “For IN2, we wanted to get their hardware in the lab. We wanted to look at a number of features that could help people add electrical equipment or provide resilience. For instance, if you install their panel with a backup battery, you can change what circuits are powered during a grid outage and even prioritize them.”

    Pratt points to a concrete example of how the panel operates and provides value when a homeowner goes to install a new electrical load in the home, such as an electric vehicle (EV) charger or heat pump. These additions could exceed the amount of electricity the home was originally designed to draw.

    “The panel eliminates the need for the consumer to upgrade their service level with a utility and instead will intelligently balance the loads in their home automatically,” Pratt said.

    The laboratory testing of the panel confirmed that its advanced features, such as turning off circuits to avoid overloading the electrical service and configurable backup power, were working as expected. The IN2 laboratory experiments laid the groundwork for further collaboration between SPAN and NREL.

    In addition to the GCxN and IN2 programs, another collaboration opportunity was led by Xin Jin, NREL group manager for Grid Edge and Advanced Controls at the Building Technologies and Science Center. Jin and his team developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven home energy management system, called foresee™, which won an R&D 100 award in 2018. Through a cooperative research agreement after the IN2 project, Jin explored how integrating SPAN’s panel with foresee could generate additional benefits.

    “This maximized the work NREL did with SPAN through the GCxN and IN2 projects,” Jin said. “With their panel and our software, we can modulate the thermostat, manage EV charging, and control the water heater. We can talk to every major load in the home. By combining their panel and circuit-level power metering with foresee, there is more control, and that translates to utility bill savings.”

    NREL’s foresee software uses advanced algorithms that learn the dynamics of each home along with its occupants’ patterns to predict future energy consumption. Automated control of connected appliances and systems will save energy, reduce strain on the grid, and could save homeowners up to $9 billion on energy bills—without asking people to become energy experts. Introduced in 2018, it was a significant breakthrough in the home energy management market, attracting interest from startups and large HVAC manufacturers.

    SPAN continues to scale up in the way it works with NREL. The company started in California and Hawaii, and its panels are now widely deployed in all 50 states, supported by a network of hundreds of electrical installers. While homeowners and contractors have traditionally been SPAN’s target audience, it is also exploring applications for utility grid services.

    “As we’re trying to introduce a new category and new approach to home energy management technology, having the credibility from a partnership with an entity like NREL is invaluable,” Pratt said. “We’ve proven the viability and value of our product. We are now focused on accelerating adoption, and electric utilities represent a step-function change in the scale we can achieve and impact we can have.”

    The SPAN panel made a lasting impact on the NREL researchers, and they remain excited about its potential.

    “Their panel is really sleek,” Jin said. “It’s like an art piece—it’s very beautiful and well built. In terms of function, it’s very advanced.”

    Learn more about the GCxN program and IN2.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Reaches Settlement with California Towing Company for Illegally Auctioning a Navy Lieutenant’s Car While He Was Deployed at Sea

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Note: View settlement here.

    The Justice Department today announced that it reached an agreement with California towing company Tony’s Auto Center to resolve allegations that it illegally auctioned a deployed Navy Lieutenant’s car, in violation of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). Under the settlement agreement, U.S. Navy Lieutenant Jonathan Liongson will receive $7,500 in damages. The United States will also receive a $2,000 civil penalty, and Tony’s Auto Center must implement new policies to prevent future violations of the SCRA.

    According to the United States’ complaint, in November 2022, before leaving for deployment aboard the USS Bunker Hill, Lieutenant Liongson placed personal items in his 2011 Mazda 6 and parked it at a friend’s house. While he was deployed at sea, Tony’s Auto Center towed the car and, about two months later, sold it at auction without first obtaining a court order, as is required by the SCRA.

    “Members of our armed forces should not have to worry about their cars being auctioned off while they are deployed on missions defending our freedoms, liberties, and rights,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Civil Rights Division. “This settlement should send a strong message to other towing companies that they should not take advantage of our servicemembers while they are keeping Americans safe.”

    “The SCRA protects the rights of the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces, which allows them to devote their full attention to defending our country,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon for the Southern District of California. “While Lieutenant Liongson was at sea, he understood that his ship’s mission and the duration of their deployment could change at any moment. He accepted that reality in the fulfillment of his solemn oath. In turn, the SCRA provides grace and understanding about certain personal affairs. Lieutenant Liongson’s car should not have been auctioned off in his absence. We hope this settlement encourages all towing companies to review and improve their policies and ensure that the rights of all servicemembers are honored and respected.”

    The SCRA is a federal law that provides a variety of financial and housing protections to members of the U.S. military. The law prohibits a towing company from auctioning off a vehicle owned by a servicemember unless it first obtains an order from a court allowing it to do so.

    Servicemembers and their dependents who believe their SCRA rights have been violated should contact the nearest Armed Forces Legal Assistance Program Office. Office locations can be found at http://legalassistance.law.af.mil/.

    The Justice Department’s enforcement of the SCRA is conducted by the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section and U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the country. Since 2011, the Department has obtained over $481 million in monetary relief for over 147,000 servicemembers through its enforcement of the SCRA. Additional information on the Department’s enforcement of the SCRA and other laws protecting servicemembers is available at www.servicemembers.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Online Marketplace Operator Charged with Trafficking Deadly Synthetic Opioids Stronger Than Fentanyl

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Today, an indictment was unsealed in the District of Columbia charging eWorldTrade LLC (eWorldTrade), a U.S. company, with conspiracy to distribute synthetic opioids for unlawful importation into the United States. Law enforcement authorities also seized eWorldTrade’s website domain, which was allegedly used to operate an online business-to-business marketplace that facilitated the distribution of synthetic opioids such as isotonitazene and carfentanyl, both significantly more potent than fentanyl.

    According to the indictment, from March 2024 through March 2025, eWorldTrade conspired with others to distribute isotonitazene, a Schedule I controlled substance, and carfentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, knowing that the controlled substances would be imported into the United States.

    eWorldTrade is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances for unlawful importation into the United States. If convicted, the company faces a maximum fine of $50,000,000.

    On the same day of the unsealing of the indictment, law enforcement authorities seized eWorldTrade’s website and shut down its operation. The website now displays the following warning messages to the public.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville Office made the announcement.

    The HSI Knoxville Office, in partnership with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Chattanooga Office, investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Jayce Born of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section is prosecuting the case. Former Trial Attorney Ann Daniels and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee provided valuable support.

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

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Speaks to Passage of Pro-Ag Bills Through Second Round Debate

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Speaks to Passage of Pro-Ag Bills Through Second Round Debate

    LINCOLN, NE – Today, the Nebraska Legislature voted two pro-agriculture bills through the second round of debate. Both were introduced at the request of Governor Jim Pillen.

    LB317 would merge the Department of Natural Resources with the Department of Environment and Energy, forming the Department of Water, Energy and Environment. Sponsored by Senator Tom Brandt, LB317 aims to streamline the operations of both agencies, especially in areas for which they currently have shared interest, like water quality, quantity and management.

    The second bill, LB246 sponsored by Senator Barry DeKay, would prohibit the production, sale, promotion or distribution of cell-cultured meat products in the state.

    “These are commonsense pieces of legislation that support Nebraska’s number one economic driver – agriculture. And, in the case of LB317, it reduces the scope of state government operations,” said Gov. Pillen. “I look forward to signing both bills once they are voted through final reading.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Stakeholders acknowledge progress with Zimbabwe arrears clearance dialogue, call for more effort and support

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    WASHINGTON D.C., United States of America, April 23, 2025/APO Group/ —

    • Challenges should not overshadow the good results achieved so far, says former president Chissano
    • “Zimbabwe has made a lot of progress, against all odds. Now, we all should rally around it to conclude this process,” Adesina
    • Former farm owners welcome compensation payment

    International organisations, creditors, and other stakeholders in the Zimbabwe arrears clearance and debt resolution unanimously acknowledged on Monday that tremendous progress has been made after two years of an extensive Structured Dialogue process but observed several challenges that need to be addressed.

    At a roundtable meeting on Zimbabwe’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process held on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Group Spring Meetings in Washington, participants highlighted achievements in two of three reform areas: economic growth and stability, land reforms, and compensation of former farm owners. However, they called for more effort in the governance pillar.

    “The parameters of the dialogue have been set. Most issues have been dealt with. Commitments and targets have been agreed upon. We should all be proud of the dialogue process and what it has achieved,” said Joachim Chissano, former president of Mozambique and facilitator of Zimbabwe’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process.

    Other speakers included Dr Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank and champion of the dialogue process; Ndiamé Diop, the World Bank Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa; Abebe Selassie, Director of the African Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who represented the Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva; representatives of the governments of the Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany; and the Southern African Development Community Executive Secretary Elias M. Magosi.

    “Zimbabwe has made a lot of progress, against all odds,” said Adesina, pointing out, however, that recent ascent to the Private Voluntary Organization (PVO) bill is a significant setback and poses a risk to the arrears clearance and debt resolution process.

    Adesina laid out several concrete next steps, including the need for the IMF to approve the Staff Monitored Programme for Zimbabwe at the Spring Meetings, support from potential donors for bridge loan financing, exploration of additional resources from the African Development Fund, and prioritisation of Zimbabwe’s arrears clearance within the G20 Common Framework.

    He said the African Development Bank Group will explore the possibility of mobilising additional resources for Zimbabwe’s arrears clearance within the framework of the 17th replenishment of the African Development Fund coming up towards the end of the year. This will form part of an agreed-upon process for clearing the bridge loan.

    “Similarly, we encourage the World Bank’s International Development Association to do the same to clear arrears,” the Bank Group president said.

    “To move the arrears clearance and debt resolution forward, the African Development Bank Group is financing the Global Sovereign Advisory and legal advisors, Kepler-Karst, to support the arrears clearance and debt resolution process, with clear timelines,” Adesina said.

    Progress across three reform pillars

    Chissano outlined other reforms that the Zimbabwe government undertook within the dialogue process framework, including the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe ceasing its quasi-fiscal operations, with all liabilities transferred to the treasury; the exchange rate system moving closer to market-determined rates; prudent fiscal policy and expenditure rationalisation being pursued; and the ongoing token payments to creditors.

    Under the land tenure reform, Chissano and other speakers welcomed the ongoing compensation for former farm owners and the Farm Title Deed programme launched in December 2024. The programme provides for a 99-year lease agreement that is bankable and transferable.

    Regarding governance reforms, the meeting heard that Zimbabwe had abolished the death penalty and that other significant reforms were underway to improve efficiency in the justice sector, enhance measures to fight corruption, and improve public sector transparency and accountability.

    However, like other speakers, Chissano noted that challenges remain in civil society engagement, democratic elections, judicial processes, freedom of assembly, and freedom of expression.

    “These challenges show that dialogue is still needed for reforms to take root. They also show that political reforms are not a linear process,” he said, urging that these challenges “should mobilise us to redouble our efforts and re-energise the dialogue process.”

    The government of Zimbabwe has proposed a plan to secure bridge financing of $2.6 billion to clear arrears to international financial institutions.

    In his presentation, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, Mthuli Ncube said the country’s economic outlook shows signs of recovery with expected growth of 6.0% in 2025. This is a remarkable improvement on last year’s 2.0% due to severe drought. The introduction of ZiG currency in April 2024 is helping to restore macroeconomic stability.

    The arrears clearance roadmap aims to secure and implement a Staff Monitored Programme with the IMF in 2025, develop a credible strategy to close the fiscal financing gap, clear arrears with international financial institutions by early 2026, and complete comprehensive debt restructuring under the G20 Common Framework.

    The Southern African Development Community Executive Secretary, Elias M. Magosi, said Zimbabwe should be supported to bounce back, pointing to its strategic role in regional trade, integration, and development.

    Back in Zimbabwe, the former president of the Commercial Farmers Union, Mr. Andrew J. Pascoe, confirmed receipt of payments made to former landowners, describing the development as “another momentous event.”

    “Monday, 24 March 2025, saw the first US Dollar Cash payments due under this plan being paid to the signed-up Former Farm Owners (FFOs),” he said. “After almost 20 years, we, as Zimbabweans had been able to put aside our differences and, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust, negotiated an agreement that laid the foundation for the payment of compensation for improvements on farms which the government of Zimbabwe had acquired under the Fast Track Land Reform Programme.”

    “I would like, as a representative of these farmers, to sincerely thank His Excellency, President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa and his government for standing by the commitment made by His Excellency in 2018 to pay compensation for acquired farms in line with the Constitution of Zimbabwe,” he said.

    Nearly three years ago, President Emmerson Mnangagwa asked Dr Adesina to champion Zimbabwe’s arrears clearance and debt resolution process.

    “I knew the job would be difficult,” Adesina recalled and expressed confidence, saying, “We will succeed in giving Zimbabwe and its people a full arrears clearance and debt resolution so that it can receive critical concessional financing needed to boost its growth and development further.”

    “Now, we all should rally around it to conclude this process,” he added.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Albuquerque Man Sentenced in Federal Firearms Case Adopted from Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A previously convicted felon has been sentenced to 84 months in prison after violently assaulting his pregnant partner and threatening her with a loaded rifle during a domestic incident.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court records, on August 13, 2023, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a violent domestic assault at a residence in the South Valley. The victim, who was six months pregnant, reported that Marlando Luis Martinez, 36, had physically assaulted her throughout the night, including punching her, striking her with a whip, choking her multiple times to near unconsciousness, and threatening her with an AR-15 rifle, which he discharged near her face. Deputies observed visible injuries on the victim, including welts, bruising, and a cut lip.

    The victim recounted to responding officers that Martinez threatened to kill her and her unborn child if she contacted law enforcement. After Martinez fell asleep, the victim escaped and sought help from a neighbor. Deputies transported her to safety and documented her injuries. A subsequent search of the residence uncovered multiple firearms, ammunition, and evidence corroborating the victim’s account, including a rifle with a round in the chamber and a bullet hole in the headboard.

    The loaded rifle, ammunition and extended magazine
    Second rifle, ammunition and extended magazine

    Martinez was apprehended later that day with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service Task Force. He was arrested without incident and federally charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, having previously been convicted of aggravated battery against a household member.

    Upon his release from prison, Martinez will be subject to three years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Haynes is prosecuting this case as part of an agreement with the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

    Through the agreement, Assistant District Attorneys are designated Special Assistant United States Attorneys (SAUSAs) in the United States Attorney’s Office. The SAUSA from the Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office screens felony criminal complaints filed in Bernalillo County for federal criminal offenses, prioritizing federal charges against those who drive violence in the Albuquerque metropolitan area. Since 2020, the United States Attorney’s Office has reviewed almost 3,000 cases and has charged more than 300 criminal cases pursuant to this program.

    The United States Attorney’s Office has similar agreements with the New Mexico Department of Justice and the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office and plans to expand the program throughout the state. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province is on the right track toward safer roads in B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People in British Columbia will benefit from further road and pedestrian safety measures in their communities through the Vision Zero Grant Program.

    The grants are awarded directly to communities in B.C. to improve local road safety, make active transportation more accessible and prevent injuries. In 2025, a total of $794,991 has been distributed to 50 communities. This includes 15 projects in First Nations communities.

    “Putting the prevention of serious injuries and fatalities at the heart of our transportation systems makes our communities healthier and safer,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “Through the Vision Zero Grant Program, communities are receiving the resources they need to make meaningful road-safety improvements. By working together, we are creating safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone, whether they walk, cycle or drive.”

    This is the fourth year of the Vision Zero Grant Program, a joint initiative between the provincial government, the regional health authorities, First Nations Health Authority and the BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit (BCIRPU). The grants are provided by the Province through the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Transportation and Transit, with additional funding top-ups provided by the regional health authorities. The Vision Zero Grant Program has funded more than 200 projects, totaling more than $3 million in awards disbursed since its inception in 2021.

    By implementing Vision Zero, the Province is working toward making roads in British Columbia safer by preventing vulnerable road-user injuries or reducing their severity. Making roads safer for all users also contributes to:

    • helping address the disproportionate number of traffic injuries occurring in underserved communities, neighbourhoods and populations, as well as within Indigenous communities;
    • reducing health-care system usage, lowering health-care costs and improving health-system capacity by freeing up health-care space when injuries are prevented;
    • building capacity in the public-health system in an area of injury that represents one of the two largest sources of trauma presented at British Columbia emergency departments; and
    • supporting provincial climate change efforts by shifting people to transportation with lower carbon footprint, such as walking, cycling and micro-mobility (e.g., e-scooters, e-bikes), and by taking specific steps to make these modes safer and more attractive.

    “Keeping people safely on the move is a top priority for our ministry,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “These grants will upgrade the infrastructure that makes it safer to walk, cycle and use other forms of active transportation, and improve road safety in our communities.”

    This initiative builds on the $24 million recently provided to 53 active transportation infrastructure projects and nine transportation network plans through the B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program, helping to increase safety and improve active transportation options in the province. 

    Quotes:

    Dr. Shelina Babul, director, BCIRPU –

    “It takes foresight and recognition to identify a problem in your community and then to try and do something about it. The BCIRPU is responsible for co-ordinating the Vision Zero Grant Program in the province. We’re pleased that these applicants took the initiative to improve road safety in their communities and encourage active transportation in a tangible way.”

    Chief Alice Mackay, Matsqui First Nation –

    “Our First Nation is very happy that we have received funding from the BC Vision Zero in Road Safety Grant Program for our Máthxwi Temexw Bus Connector project. Many of our members don’t own cars, so having a safe public-transportation option for our members will fill a long-time mobility gap for our community. Currently, the nearest bus stop is a four-kilometre walk away along a very unsafe, narrow, fast road with lots of traffic and no shoulder at all. With this funding secured, we can now work with BC Transit, the City of Abbotsford and other partners to start a transit-service pilot project to show that this service is needed and will be used, and to get real-world learnings about what would make a permanent service successful for our community.”

    Patrick Johnstone, mayor of New Westminster –

    “The City of New Westminster is grateful to receive funding to support the comprehensive redesign of this section of Princess Street. These improvements result from consultation with concerned community members and advance our goal of providing safe, comfortable and accessible mobility options for people of all ages and abilities, especially vulnerable road users. Thank you to the Vision Zero Grant Program for this opportunity to make our streets safer.”

    Ken Popove, mayor of Chilliwack –

    “The BC Vision Zero in Road Safety Grant will help us improve safety for people using the Lickman Park and Ride, a very well-used transit facility connecting Chilliwack to Abbotsford, Langley and Burnaby. Improving the pedestrian crossing at this location will really help to create a safer and more comfortable environment for people who are interested in using transit here. We are thankful that the BC Vision Zero Grant Program has provided us with this opportunity to improve pedestrian safety in our community.”

    Learn More:

    For more details about the program, visit: https://www.visionzerobc.ca/

    For information about the list of communities receiving funding, visit: https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/678ef2b34de2f87c67fbbdaa/67f970573dd5008f6429b8ca_Vision%20Zero%20BC%20-%202025-2026%20Projects%20List.pdf

    For information about each funded project, visit: https://www.visionzerobc.ca/our-projects

    For information about B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/funding-engagement-permits/funding-grants/active-transportation-infrastructure-grants

    For more information about BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit, visit https://injuryresearch.bc.ca

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Working Toward Equal Access to the Justice System: Attorney General Bonta Urges Congress to Fund Civil Legal Assistance for Low-Income Americans

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a bipartisan coalition of 40 attorneys general in submitting letters to Congressional leaders urging them to fund the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) in full. LSC is funded by federal appropriation and is a critical complement to state and other funding for legal aid. The LSC is the biggest source of funding for civil legal aid for low-income Americans across the United States, ensuring equal access to justice for those who need it most. 

    “Equal access to our justice system is critical to ensuring every American has the opportunity to succeed, yet low-income families often face financial barriers when trying to access legal services,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The Legal Services Corporation helps ensure that our legal system works for all Americans, not just those who can afford representation. From helping domestic violence survivors find safety to protecting seniors from scams, this important work cannot go unfunded. I urge Congress to support our most vulnerable constituents and prioritize investment in the Legal Services Corporation.”

    Since its establishment by Congress 50 years ago, LSC has provided civil legal services to low-income Americans across the United States who otherwise would not have access to such services. LSC is funded by federal appropriation and the amount of the investment will determine the number of Americans in need that LSC will be able to assist. Each year, LSC provides grants to local nonprofits who together provide legal services to low-income individuals throughout the United States from approximately 900 offices nationwide, stretching from urban centers to small towns. LSC-funded programs help veterans secure rightful benefits, support disaster victims rebuilding their lives, assist domestic violence survivors seeking safety and stability, and protect seniors from financial exploitation. 

    In submitting the letters, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Colorado, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washinton, West Virgina, Wisconsin, Wyoming, American Samoa, the District of Columbia, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

    A copy of the letters can be found here and here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE — HP Announces 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator Cohort

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights:

    • Eight nonprofit organizations in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain selected for the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator.
    • Organizations are serving disconnected adolescents and adults through digital skills training, education access, and other community-driven initiatives.
    • Each nonprofit will receive $100,000 of HP technology and solutions, capacity-building cash grants, and six–months of training and programming to support scale.
    • In its first three years, the Accelerator helped 27 participating organizations expand their reach by more than 9 million people.
    • The Digital Equity Accelerator, a joint initiative of HP Inc. and the HP Foundation, helps power the future of work by improving access to technology, digital literacy, and AI-driven skills development.

    PALO ALTO, Calif., April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) and the HP Foundation announced the selection of 8 nonprofit organizations in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain for the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator (Accelerator). The Accelerator will provide the 2025 cohort with a USD $100,000 grant, HP technology (~USD $100,000 value), and six months of virtual training to strengthen capacity and drive digital inclusion.

    “The future of work depends on equitable access to technology, digital skills, and opportunity,” said Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact, HP Inc. and Executive Director, HP Foundation. “Through the Digital Equity Accelerator, HP is empowering nonprofits to bridge the digital divide, ensuring disconnected adolescents and adults have the tools and training needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. By investing in these organizations, we are not just expanding access—we are powering the future of work.”

    A $1 trillion-plus digital divide is limiting billions from achieving equal access to education and economic opportunities. Through the Accelerator, HP collaborates with a network of partners to help nonprofit organizations scale digital equity solutions.

    “We are fortunate to work with companies like HP that are committed to scaling tech for good through this Accelerator,” said Hala Hanna, Executive Director, MIT Solve. “Our support programs are designed to meet nonprofit leaders where they are – providing capacity building workshops, executive coaching, peer-to-peer collaboration, and a library of in-kind resources to help them fully benefit from the program.”

    Accelerating Digital Equity in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain
    The Accelerator helps nonprofits scale digital equity programs for disconnected adults and adolescents to power the future of work. Meet the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator cohort:

    Greece:

    • Socialinnov (Social Impact and Innovation) – Leveraging technology to drive social change, Socialinnov has equipped more than 40,000 people in underrepresented communities in Greece with digital skills training that expands access to the digital economy.
    • The Smile of the Child (TSoC) – Founded in 1995 by 10-year-old Andreas Yannopoulos, The Smile of the Child (TSoC) is a non-profit organization supporting more than 2.2 million adults and adolescents with tools, technology and other resources.

    Indonesia:

    • Solve Education Foundation – Focusing on empowering Indonesian youth with 21st century skills through its AI-powered learning platform, edbot.ai, an innovative enrichment program, helping students succeed in school and beyond.
    • Markoding (Daya Kreasi Anak Bangsa Foundation) – Helps equip underprivileged youth with 21st-century skills to foster a generation of innovators. Its flagship program, Perempuan Inovasi, has empowered over 35,000 women with STEM training, mentorship, and access to job opportunities.

    Nigeria:

    • She-Code Africa Women Tech Initiative (She Code Africa) – Provides participants across Africa with in-demand digital and technical skills. Since 2016, its training, mentorship, scholarships, and career programs have helped more than 62,000 people receive the digital skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
    • The Slum to School Initiative (Slum2School Africa) – Addressing Africa’s education crisis, this volunteer-driven organization provides quality education, skills development, and psychosocial support to underserved children and youth, empowering them to drive sustainable development.

    Spain:

    • AlmaNatura Foundation – Founded in a small village in Southern Spain, AlmaNatura designs and implements projects that revitalize rural areas through employment, education, health, and sustainability, fostering opportunities for local communities to thrive.
    • Fundación Esplai Ciudadanía Comprometida (Committed Citizenship Esplai Foundation) – Focuses on promoting citizen empowerment through inclusive, rights-based projects and programs. It collaborates with local, national, and international organizations to support socio-educational initiatives in information and communication technologies (ICT).

    Since 2022, the Accelerator has helped expand the reach of 27 nonprofit organizations in Brazil, Canada, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Poland, South Africa, and the U.S. by more than 9 million people.

    HP’s Commitment to Digital Equity and Sustainable Impact
    As nearly half of the world’s population remains offline, equipping youth and adults with critical skills reflects HP’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and supporting economic inclusion. The Digital Equity Accelerator is one way HP is delivering progress toward its goal to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030.

    For more information on the Digital Equity Accelerator, please visit the website.

    About HP
    HP Inc. is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Operating in more than 170 countries, HP delivers a wide range of innovative and sustainable devices, services and subscriptions for personal computing, printing, 3D printing, hybrid work, gaming, and more. For more information, please visit http://www.hp.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth on Durbin Retirement: The Senate is Losing a Giant

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    April 22, 2025
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—Senate Subcommittee on Aviation, Space and Innovation Ranking Member—with House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA-02) and House Subcommittee on Aviation Ranking Member Steve Cohen (D-TN-09) today wrote to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Acting Administrator Chris Rocheleau with their concerns regarding the safety of aircraft operations in and around Washington National Airport (DCA) in the wake of recent tragic incidents and multiple close calls. 
    “In the wake of the tragic January 29, 2025 midair collision, the operational challenges at DCA were thrust into the spotlight, drawing increased scrutiny and attention,” the Members wrote. “This includes numerous underlying issues, such as problems with existing standard operating procedures and air traffic controller resourcing.”
    Given the continuing pattern of safety incidents at DCA following the tragic mid-air collision on January 29, the Members called for the FAA to take the following actions: 
    Ensure that the required updated staffing targets at the DCA air traffic control tower are met and ensure that any necessary support roles are also fully staffed.
    Keep the hourly aircraft arrival rate at DCA at reduced levels, at least until the—
    DCA air traffic control tower is fully staffed up to such staffing targets; and
    FAA fully addresses the safety risks identified from the agency’s ongoing safety risk management panel (SRMP) review of DCA.
    Evaluate and modify any agreements with the Department of Defense and any other relevant government agencies pertaining to flight operations in the DCA capital region to ensure the safety of the flying public.
    Hold regular briefings for Congress about DCA, its operations, and any progress made in the agency’s review.
    In addition to the above actions, the Ranking Members call on the FAA to expand its ongoing SRMP review of DCA to include an analysis of various additional factors, including congestion in the airspace, the ideal staffing levels of the air traffic control tower, outstanding National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommendations, aircraft safety technology equipage and communication standards and the general mental health of aviation professionals working or operating at DCA. To ensure safer skies for the flying public, the FAA must take these immediate actions.
    The full letter is available on the Senator’s website and below.
    Dear Acting Administrator Rocheleau,
    We write to express our considerable concerns regarding the safety of aircraft operations in and around Washington National Airport (DCA). In the wake of the tragic January 29, 2025 midair collision, the operational challenges at DCA were thrust into the spotlight, drawing increased scrutiny and attention. This includes numerous underlying issues, such as problems with existing standard operating procedures (SOP) and air traffic controller resourcing.  In response, the FAA has made urgent safety changes which we strongly support, including the prohibition of operations on helicopter route 4 at DCA, the examination of helicopter operations at 21 other U.S. airports in 10 metro areas, a review of air traffic controllers staffing levels at the DCA tower, and an evaluation of DCA’s current hourly aircraft arrival rates.
    Despite these efforts, incidents at DCA continue to occur at an alarming rate. On Thursday, March 27, two air traffic controllers at DCA’s tower were involved in a physical altercation, with one controller being arrested and put on administrative leave while the FAA investigates the matter. Although the cause of the altercation has yet to be determined, we remain concerned that the mounting stress arising from the January 29 accident is having a lasting effect on air traffic controllers at DCA and that FAA’s dispatching of a ‘stress management team,’ while welcome, may be an insufficient response.
    On Friday, March 28, there was another alarming loss of separation between a military aircraft and civilian commercial carrier. According to numerous sources, a flight of four Air Force T-38 Talons was conducting a flyby of the Arlington National Cemetery (ANC), at which point DCA was advised to stop departures. Despite the notification, DCA continued to launch departures as the group of Talons continued inbound to the ANC. After Delta Airlines Flight 2983 departed Runway 19, separation was lost with the Talons, resulting in a serious near-miss event that allowed a distance between the two aircraft to be as close as 3,900 feet laterally and 100 feet vertically.
    Finally, on Thursday, April 10, 2025, two American Eagle flights, Flight 5490 operated by PSA Airlines and Flight 4522 operated by Republic Airways, made contact on a DCA taxiway. Together these planes were transporting a total of 143 passengers to Charleston International Airport (CHS) in South Carolina and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries and both aircraft safely returned to the terminal and were taken out of service for inspection. However, this event is yet another in a growing pattern of concerning incidents at this congested airport.
    Given these significant ongoing issues at DCA, we call for the FAA to take the following actions:
    Immediately implement, in coordination with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, the Collaborative Resource Working Group (CRWG) staffing targets at the DCA air traffic control tower and ensure that any necessary support roles are also fully staffed.
    Maintain the reduced hourly aircraft arrival rate at DCA to the rate put in place after standard operations first resumed on all three runways on or around February 11, 2025, at least until the—
    DCA control tower is fully staffed in alignment with the CRWG staffing targets; and
    FAA fully addresses the safety risks identified from the agency’s ongoing safety risk management panel (SRMP) review of DCA, including any risks identified from the analysis of the additional factors enumerated below.
    Evaluate and, as appropriate, modify any agreements or established SOPs with the Department of Defense and any other relevant governmental agencies pertaining to flight operations in the DCA capital region to ensure the safety of the flying public.
    Commence, at minimum, monthly briefings for our Committees describing
    Aviation safety incidents that occur in the DCA capital region, including identified airspace risks;
    Reforms the FAA or other agencies are actively implementing to improve the safety of DCA and its surrounding airspace; and
    Progress of the DCA SRMP and the implementation of its recommendations.
    In addition to the above actions, the FAA should ensure it is conducting a comprehensive analysis reviewing issues that may not currently be within the scope of the existing DCA SRMP. We urge you to either extend the scope and timeline for the existing DCA SRMP or conduct a separate review to sufficiently examine the following factors pertaining to DCA and its surrounding airspace:
    Congestion levels at DCA and its surrounding airspace;
    Any outstanding NTSB recommendations that, if implemented immediately, could improve the safety of DCA and its surrounding airspace;
    Existing data from the DCA capital region that has been collected but not analyzed, with the purpose of identifying presently unknown risks to aviation safety;
    Staffing levels of the DCA air traffic control tower and related facilities;
    General mental health of aviation professionals working or operating at DCA, including air traffic controllers, pilots, and airport first responders;
    Effectiveness and timeliness of mental health resources provided to these professionals, particularly after aviation accidents and other emergencies;
    Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) usage on aircraft operating near DCA; and
    Communication practices between air traffic controllers and flight crews, including—
    The segregation of various aircraft communications frequencies; and
    Air traffic controller and pilot callback standards and best practices;
    While it may take time for the NTSB to determine the causes of the tragic January 29 midair collision over the Potomac, we can act now to ensure safer skies for the flying public. Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.
    Sincerely,
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan Man Charged with Illegal Re-entry into U.S.

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A citizen of Guatemala has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry of a removed alien, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The one-count Indictment named Juan Manuel Secaida, 35, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, on April 1, 2025, Secaida was found in western Pennsylvania after having been removed from the United States in January 2020.

    The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Kelly M. Locher is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Coraopolis Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Citizen Charged with Illegal Re-entry of Removed Alien

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A citizen of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry of a removed alien, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The one-count Indictment named Daniel Alejandro Benzor Mora, 31, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, on March 19, 2025, Benzor Mora was found in western Pennsylvania after having been removed from the United States on or about January 3, 2024.

    The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Pennsylvania Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, combat illegal immigration, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Discusses Devastating Tariffs with GeoTech Manufacturer, Highlights New Housing and Innovative Language Learning Opportunities

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – This morning, Governor Polis highlighted learning opportunities that help Colorado kids thrive at the French American School of Denver, which gives K-5 students a unique bilingual immersion curriculum. This is Denver’s only tuition-free immersion public charter school.

    “In Colorado, we want students to learn the skills needed to thrive in the classroom and in the workforce of the future. In today’s global society, language skills are an exciting way to help Colorado’s students get ahead, and I’m thrilled that The French American School of Denver is doing just that. I recently visited a Chinese immersion school and a Spanish immersion school as well, and am excited about all the ways that our schools are preparing kids for a successful future,” said Governor Polis.

    Later in the afternoon, Governor Polis visited GeoTech Environmental Equipment, a Colorado manufacturer facing the devastating impacts of Trump’s tariff taxes. Governor Polis discussed how Trump’s tariff taxes are creating market uncertainty, stifling investment, and hurting Colorado manufacturing and jobs. GeoTech manufactures water quality, weather sensing, aerial surveying products, and more.

    “Colorado manufacturers like GeoTech are an important part of our economy, creating good-paying jobs. GeoTech manufactures products to support environmental measurements, but is being hampered by the President’s erratic tariffs.  The President must leave these failed tariffs behind and begin to repair the damage he has already made to our economy by giving Colorado businesses the certainty needed to grow and thrive,” said Governor Polis.

    Governor Polis then visited Joli, a new development creating 126 new homes for hardworking Coloradans, including a food incubator which gives local culinary entrepreneurs a space to grow a business.

    “Colorado continues to lead the way in breaking down barriers to new housing that people can afford. This exciting development creates 127 new homes for hardworking Coloradans and families, while also opening a space for culinary businesses to grow, supporting our economy,” said Governor Polis.

    Last year, Governor Polis signed legislation to create more transit-oriented communities, eliminate discriminatory occupancy limits, get rid of costly parking restrictions, and give Coloradans the freedom to build Accessory Dwelling Units on their property. This year he is supporting legislation to break down barriers for modular housing, allow communities to build more single-stair buildings that will save Coloradans money on housing, and support the construction of more condos that Coloradans can afford.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Hosts Colorado-Mexico Friendship Day to Celebrate State’s Strong Trade, Tourism & Cultural Partnership

    Source: US State of Colorado

    Mexico is one of Colorado’s biggest trade partners

    DENVER – While President Trump’s tariffs barrels the U.S. toward a recession and raises costs on hardworking Coloradans, Colorado Governor Jared Polis seeks to strengthen economic prosperity  with Mexico and Canada, Colorado’s largest trading partners, and has been outspoken against the national tariffs and about the important partnerships that Colorado has with both countries. That’s why Governor Polis today hosted Colorado-Mexico Friendship Day alongside Mexican Consul General Pavel Meléndez Cruz. This comes after the Governor hosted Colorado Canada Friendship Day in March alongside Sylvain Fabi, Consul General of Canada in Denver.

    “Trump’s tariff tax increase is raising costs on hardworking people, businesses, housing, agriculture, manufacturing, and creating uncertainty for businesses. I hope our state and country do not fall into a recession because of the economic uncertainty caused by these reckless tariffs. In Colorado, we are doing everything we can to help ensure our economy, jobs, and our future are not destroyed by President Trump’s tariff tax. Republicans and Democrats in Congress can and must stop these federal tariffs,” said Governor Polis. “Colorado-Mexico Friendship Day is a great opportunity for businesses and Coloradans to celebrate the strong trade partnerships with our allies.”

    Mexico and Canada are significant economic partners for Colorado, representing 38.5% and 31% of the state’s imports and exports in 2024. Mexico was the top export destination for Colorado goods, valued at $1.7 billion, or 17% of total exports, followed by Canada at $1.6 billion. Combined, the two countries also account for 46% of Colorado’s international visitation, with Mexico leading at over 250,000 visitors, followed by Canada at 183,000 visitors. The economic impact of international travel from these two countries in 2024 was over $265 million.

    The President’s tariff tax has created uncertainty for Colorado’s thriving industries, from agriculture to manufacturing and small businesses. People in Colorado are deeply concerned about how the President’s tariff tax will increase the costs of everyday life, from gas to groceries. Much of the fruit sold in Colorado grocery stores is imported from Mexico and could see a price spike.

    Governor Polis has taken strong steps to support Colorado’s farmers and ranchers accessing new markets across the world. For instance, Governor Polis helped open exports into Mexico for Colorado’s potato growers. The Trump tariffs could threaten the livelihoods of our farmers in places like the San Luis Valley if Mexico imposes retaliatory tariffs. We have already seen damaging retaliatory tariffs put in place that hit other commodities as well as agricultural equipment. This is another way the Trump tariffs will continue raising the costs of doing business for our nation’s farmers and ranchers.

    “Recently announced widespread tariffs will harm agriculture. History tells us that farmers and ranchers will bear the burden because they rely on imports on inputs and retaliatory tariffs by other countries will lower commodity prices. Higher input costs and lower market prices are going to cause the loss of more family farms and ranches, which will further hurt our rural communities and our country. We call on the administration to use a more thoughtful and less widespread approach to trade policy,” said Chad Franke, Farmer and President of the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union.

    “The tariffs will increase expenses and cut revenues for America’s agricultural producers. The most vulnerable producers are the younger folks, who already face a huge challenge in gaining a foothold in this industry. We have already been losing producers and rural businesses for many years.  I believe if the administration continues to institute these policies this will lead to the need for them to institute a massive government bail-out program to mitigate the economic damage they are inflicting on the agricultural community and rural America. The average American consumer will also feel the pain of these tariffs through their continually increasing grocery bill,” said Kent Peppler, Former Colorado State Director for the Farm Services Agency and former President of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union.

    Colorado is 5th in the nation for beef exports. Beef is among Colorado’s largest exports and is a top driver of Colorado’s agricultural economy. In 2024, the U.S. exported a total of $10.45 billion in beef and beef products around the world. Colorado’s top export countries for beef are Mexico, Canada, South Korea, Japan, China, all countries now facing Trump’s on-again off-again tariffs. Colorado’s other largest agricultural commodities, including dairy, wheat, and corn, all rely on export markets to do business.

    In 2024, Colorado exported a record $10.5 billion of goods to the world and imported $16.8 B in goods. Colorado’s top export partners are Mexico ($1.7B), Canada ($1.6B), China ($0.8B)  South Korea ($0.6B), and Malaysia ($0.6 B), accounting for half of all Colorado exports in 2024. Top export commodities include meat (17%); nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery (15%); electric machinery (13%); optic, photo, medical or surgical instruments (11%); and aircraft, spacecraft, and related parts (5%). In 2022, exports from Colorado supported an estimated 40 thousand jobs.

    An estimated 820,200 jobs in Colorado are supported by international trade, representing 20.8% of all jobs in the state.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Advancing Clean Energy Solutions on SUNY Campuses

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the State University of New York at Oneonta (SUNY Oneonta) is the first SUNY to purchase Tier 1 Renewable Energy Certificates (REC) from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) voluntary sales program. This purchase is a model for energy users — commercial, industrial and institutional utility customers — to replicate across the State and will provide enough locally-sourced clean energy to fully power four, 200-bed residence halls on the SUNY Oneonta campus.

    “New York State continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and sustainability,” Governor Hochul said. “I applaud SUNY Oneonta for powering its campus with clean energy. Not only does this program bring the university one step closer to reaching carbon neutrality, but it also provides a blueprint for other SUNY campuses to follow.”

    Implemented by NYSERDA, the Voluntary Tier 1 REC Presale Program was established in 2023 to create an opportunity for any organization — including commercial, industrial and institutional utility customers — to purchase high-quality New York Tier 1 RECs procured by NYSERDA through a competitive process. Tier 1 RECs represent the environmental attributes of one megawatt hour (MWh) of energy derived from renewable resources such as wind and solar. For this program, the sources must be Renewable Energy Standard (RES)-eligible and come from new renewable energy generators that began operation on or after January 1, 2015. Through its REC purchase, SUNY Oneonta will claim 1,000 MWhs of new, local renewable energy in 2025.

    By participating in NYSERDA’s program, organizations can reduce their carbon footprint and support local, renewable energy projects throughout New York State.

    New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Securing locally-sourced renewable energy for all New Yorkers, especially for the many students, faculty and others who live and work on a college campus, is a critical part of New York State’s energy leadership. NYSERDA is proud of its collaboration with SUNY Oneonta and looks forward to working with other energy users, such as higher education institutions, through this program in the future.”

    State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “Through SUNY’s Climate and Sustainability Action Plan, campuses like SUNY Oneonta are making changes today that will have a direct impact on their future energy sustainability and the surrounding communities we serve. We applaud SUNY Oneonta for being the first to join Governor Hochul’s program to purchase Tier 1 Renewable Energy Certificates, and I look forward to the shared learnings from this initiative so that more of our colleges and universities will understand how RECs can best be incorporated into their clean energy programs.”

    State University of New York at Oneonta President Alberto Cardelle said, “In my role as co-chair of the SUNY Sustainability Council, I have the opportunity to work alongside leaders across the SUNY system to develop the SUNY Climate and Sustainability Action Plan. Buying Tier 1 Renewable Energy Certificates is one positive action we are taking at SUNY Oneonta to lead the way in addressing climate change and sustainability. Our campus community, from students to faculty and visitors, values sustainability and appreciates that it is one of our core values as an institution.”

    Assemblymember Brian Miller said, “I commend SUNY Oneonta for being a leader amongst SUNY institutions in using locally sourced clean energy. By becoming the first campus to fully power residence halls using NYSERDA’s voluntary sales program through the purchase of Tier 1 Renewable Energy Certificates, they are setting a powerful example of what’s possible when we prioritize sustainability, innovation, and local impact,” said Assemblyman Brian Miller. “This is a model that institutions and energy users across New York can look to as we work toward a cleaner, more resilient future.”

    This purchase is part of SUNY Oneonta’s Clean Energy Master Plan which charts a roadmap for carbon neutrality by 2045. The university converting its campus buildings over to heat pump technology and purchasing these RECs, as well as its onsite solar energy production, will help to offset SUNY Oneonta’s electrical usage.

    NYSERDA is the central administrator of Tier 1 REC purchases and sales in New York and supports a diverse supply of clean energy through its Tier 1 program. Participants in this program can immediately secure the environmental benefits from currently operating projects.

    Additional information about the program is available on NYSERDA’s website.

    New York State’s Climate Agenda
    New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former CIA Official Pleads Guilty to Acting as a Foreign Agent and Mishandling Classified Materials

    Source: US State of California

    Dale Britt Bendler, 68, of Miami, Florida, pleaded guilty today to, while being a public official at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), acting as a foreign agent required to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act and removing classified material, classified up to the SECRET//NOFORN level, from authorized locations without authority and with the intent to retain such material at an unauthorized location.

    As described in the plea agreement, starting in 2014, Bendler began working as a full-time contractor at the CIA with a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance. Before he was a CIA contractor, Bendler spent over 30 years working for the CIA as an intelligence officer and retired as a member of the Senior Intelligence Service in 2014. Beginning in July 2017 and continuing through at least July 2020, while a full-time CIA contractor and TS/SCI clearance holder, Bendler worked with a U.S. lobbying firm and engaged in unauthorized and hidden lobbying and public relations activities on behalf of foreign national clients. As described in the plea agreement, Bendler’s undisclosed lobbying activities included an attempt to use his position and access at the CIA to influence a foreign government’s embezzlement investigation of one of Bendler’s foreign national clients and a separate attempt to use his position and access at the CIA to influence the U.S. government’s decision as to whether to grant a U.S. visa to another of Bendler’s clients, who was alleged to be associated with terrorism financing. In exchange for his unauthorized outside activities, Bendler was paid hundreds of thousands of dollars.

    During the course of Bendler’s unauthorized lobbying and public relations activities, Bendler also abused his access to CIA resources and personnel by, among other things, searching classified CIA systems for any information related to his private lobbying clients, improperly storing and disclosing non-public, sensitive, and classified U.S. government information to people not authorized to receive such information, and lying to the CIA and the FBI about his status as a foreign agent and his unauthorized lobbying and public relations activities. The CIA terminated Bendler’s contract and access in September 2020.

    In addition to pleading guilty, Bendler consented to the forfeiture of $85,000. Bendler faces a maximum penalty of seven years in prison – two years for acting as a foreign agent while being a public official and five years for mishandling classified material. Bendler is scheduled to be sentenced on July 16.

    Sue Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia, Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division and Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Washington Field Office investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Adam P. Barry and Senior Trial Attorney Heather M. Schmidt of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Gordon D. Kromberg of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case. Chief Jennifer Kennedy Gellie of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section provided substantial assistance in this investigation in her prior role as a trial attorney. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: LVT Launches Integration with Axon Fusus Real-Time Crime Center Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHOENIX, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LVT (LiveView Technologies, Inc.), the leader of rapidly deployable security solutions, today unveiled its integration with Axon Fusus at the Axon Week 2025 conference. LVT’s integration with Axon Fusus’ real-time crime center provides additional situational awareness to security operators and law enforcement, helping enable a more timely and optimized response to security incidents.

    The integration is now live, requires no additional hardware and provides several notable benefits:

    • LVT customers can expedite emergency response times by providing local law enforcement access to LVT Unit cameras, enhancing communication and situational awareness.
    • First responders can view enabled LVT Units through Axon Fusus to stream live video, control cameras, and gain full situational awareness to execute an informed response to security incidents and protect everyone involved. 
    • Axon Fusus customers can leverage the features and functionality of their LVT investment along with real-time intelligence from integrated community cameras — without leaving the Fusus console, including streaming, camera control, and trigger deterrence actions to execute an informed response to security incidents.

    Learn more at www.lvt.com/integrations.

    Quotes:

    • “First responders address a diverse range of threats daily and deserve solutions that help them maximize their resources and enter any situation with a complete understanding of the risks involved,” said Steve Lindsey, LVT CTO and CIO. “LVT services a wide range of customers, including retail, property management, education, logistics, hospitals, and more. All customers can now choose to enable law enforcement to view their cameras, helping to strengthen the safety of our communities. The intelligence and critical evidence gathering of LVT Units means first responders can respond to threats in real-time and successfully pursue and prosecute bad actors.”
    • “When an incident unfolds in real time, seconds and critical intelligence matters. By integrating LVT into the Axon Fusus platform, we’re bringing more key assets into one centralized view—empowering businesses, security teams, and law enforcement to act quickly, share insights, and stay one step ahead,” said Chris Lindenau, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Axon Fusus. “As safety threats grow more sophisticated, connected public-private collaborations are key to protecting communities and creating safer cities.”
    • “Fusion platforms like Fusus are critical to real-time intelligence sharing between law enforcement and retail, “said Cory Lowe, Director of Research at the Loss Prevention Research Council. “The LVT Axon Fusus integration is a natural fit to provide real-time crime centers visibility when and where retailers and law enforcement need it.”

    About LVT
    LVT (LiveView Technologies, Inc.) is a leader in life safety and security and the premier developer and manufacturer of mobile, solar-powered, and cellular/satellite-connected surveillance solutions and software. Headquartered in American Fork, Utah, LVT’s enterprise software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution is used by retailers, critical infrastructure and utilities, construction projects, warehouse and distribution centers, police, municipalities, and more. LVT is proud to be made in the USA and manufactured in Utah. For more information, visit www.lvt.com.

    Media Contacts:
    Matthew Deighton
    LiveView Technologies
    media@lvt.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dominican Man Who Illegally Entered the U.S. After Multiple Prior Deportations Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Arrested Several Times on Local Charges, Including Assault, Gun Possession

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Melvin Gutierrez-Almonte, 42, a Dominican national unlawfully residing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced this morning by United States District Court Judge Joseph F. Leeson Jr. to 15 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after deportation.

    Gutierrez-Almonte was charged by indictment in September of last year and pleaded guilty to the charge against him in January. He admitted to illegally entering the United States in April 2023, crossing from Mexico into Arizona.

    According to immigration records, the defendant had been removed from the United States on four prior occasions — on or about March 1, 2011, September 27, 2016, March 20, 2018, and September 1, 2020 — and had not sought permission to reenter. He has three previous illegal reentry convictions, all in the District of Puerto Rico.

    As detailed in court filings, on May 18, 2024, Gutierrez-Almonte was arrested by West New York Township Police in Hudson County, New Jersey, and charged with simple assault and receiving stolen property. The case remains active and there is currently a detainer.

    Then, on July 10, 2024, Gutierrez-Almonte was arrested by Philadelphia Police and charged under the name “Conjeo Almonet” with aggravated assault, possession of an instrument of a crime, and simple assault.

    The next day, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials received a biometric notification of the Philadelphia arrest.

    Gutierrez-Almonte was subsequently charged by federal criminal complaint with illegal reentry, and on September 3, 2024, an ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officer arrested him, following the defendant’s release from Philadelphia custody.

    “Melvin Gutierrez-Almonte is a serial violator of our country’s sovereignty. He has entered the United States illegally and been removed multiple times already,” U.S. Attorney Metcalf said. “Not only has he flouted our immigration laws, he has also been arrested several times for assault, gun possession, and more. He is a great example of how certain immigrants repeatedly disrespect our laws. Anyone who wants to come to this country must do so legally, and anyone who wants to stay must honor the obligations of our laws.”

    “Ensuring the safety of our communities is at the core of our mission at ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations. This individual’s repeated unlawful reentry and criminal activity posed a significant risk to public safety,” said ICE ERO Philadelphia Acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “By apprehending, prosecuting, and removing those who threaten our neighborhoods, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the well-being of law-abiding residents. We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to uphold our nation’s immigration laws and keep our communities safe.”

    The case was investigated by ICE ERO and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rosalynda M. Michetti.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Releases New Social Security Explainer Video on YouTube to Reach Seniors Concerned About Benefits, Services

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    April 23, 2025
    “This is about all of us getting into the fight to defend the Social Security that people have paid into all of their working lives.”
    Senator Warren led Senate Democrats in launching Social Security War Room to fight back against Trump, Musk Attacks on Social Security
    Watch the Video (YouTube)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released a new Social Security explainer video on YouTube to reach seniors concerned about cuts to their benefits and services. In the video, entitled “What’s going on with Social Security — and how we’re fighting back,” Sen. Warren explains the state of play, lays out the fight ahead to protect Social Security from Trump and Musk’s attempts to gut the agency, and urges people to share their stories about what Social Security means to them. According to AARP, at least half of Americans aged 50 and older use YouTube.
    “One of the best things we can do is tell the stories. Tell the stories about why Social Security matters. Tell the stories if you’re running into problems. Tell the stories about the people you know, maybe people who work at the Social Security Administration. This is about all of us getting into the fight to defend the Social Security that people have paid into all of their working lives,” said Senator Warren.
    Senator Warren recently led Senate Democrats in launching their Social Security War Room, a coordinated effort to fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on Americans’ Social Security. The War Room coordinates messaging across the Senate Democratic Caucus and external stakeholders; encourages grassroots engagement by providing opportunities for Americans to share what Social Security means to them; and educates Senate staff, the American public, and stakeholders about Republicans’ agenda and their continued cuts to Americans’ Social Security services and benefits.
    Transcript: What’s going on with Social Security — and how we’re fighting back.YouTubeApril 23, 2025
    Senator Elizabeth Warren: You might have heard that Donald Trump and Elon Musk are taking a chainsaw to your Social Security. So let’s talk about it.
    Moderator: So what have Donald Trump and Elon Musk done to Social Security so far? 
    Senator Warren: Donald Trump and Elon Musk are saying 78% of the people they want to fire are the folks working in those field offices to help people across this country when they have a problem. This is Donald Trump and Elon Musk working together as co-presidents to keep people from getting the Social Security benefits that they earned and they were promised by law.
    Moderator: Can Trump and Musk actually do this? 
    Senator Warren: No. Not legally. Congress established Social Security, and only Congress can cut benefits officially. But Trump and Musk are so determined to cut people’s access to Social Security, they’re trying a backdoor way. They’re making it harder and harder and harder and harder for people to get the Social Security benefits that they earned, and that the law says that they have a right to.
    That’s what they’re up to.
    Moderator: Are people seeing issues with their Social Security benefits?
    Senator Warren: Oh, yeah. Tom and Chris in Massachusetts have an adult son on the autism spectrum. He relies on Social Security benefits, for his support and for the care that he needs. So they check routinely to make sure everything is okay. 
    They checked last week and they’re told “nothing.” He has no benefits, no right to any benefits. And now what are they going to do? So this is what is happening around the country. 
    Shoot, there’s a guy out in Seattle, Ned. He finds out from checking about his Social security. He receives a notice that he’s dead, and has to spend weeks going back and forth to the Social Security office just to say, “not really. I’m still alive. Please don’t take back the money already in my account and please restart my Social Security payments.” 
    Look, Social Security is a great agency and bless them and bless those workers for the work they do every day. But mistakes do happen.
    When Elon Musk and Donald Trump come in with a chainsaw and they’re firing people and creating chaos, two things happen: the number of mistakes goes up and the people there to help you get them fixed goes down. And that’s bad for everyone who counts on Social Security.
    Moderator: So what’s anyone doing about it? 
    Senator Warren: Well, I’ve established a Social Security War Room. This means I’m going to be doing oversight, investigations, we’ll be sending out letters, visiting Social Security offices, but I need help from all of you.
    One of the best things we can do is tell the stories. Tell the stories about why Social Security matters. Tell the stories if you’re running into problems. Tell the stories about the people you know, maybe people who work at the Social Security Administration. This is about all of us getting into the fight to defend the Social Security that people have paid into all of their working lives.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Democrats seek answers from inspector general on Social Security cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    April 23, 2025

    Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (New York) and four other Senate Democrats are urging the Social Security Administration’s inspector general’s office to investigate the impacts of the U.S. DOGE Service’s dramatic restructuring and sweeping cuts to the government agency.
    The letter sent to the inspector general’s office Wednesday is part of a broader Democratic effort to defend Social Security from what they describe as a reckless government downsizing campaign spearheaded by Donald Trump adviser Elon Musk. The agency provides critical benefits to more than 70 million Americans, and the lawmakers say the recent upheaval could leave many without access to basic services.

    Having received few answers about the scale and effect of the cuts, Schumer led the call for oversight from the agency’s independent watchdog because that avenue has yielded answers in the past, according to a person familiar with his thinking who spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak candidly.
    The letter was signed by Schumer, Sens. Ron Wyden (Oregon), Elizabeth Warren (Massachusetts), Kirsten Gillibrand (New York), and Mark Kelly (Arizona).
    In the sharply worded letter to acting inspector general Michelle L. Anderson, the lawmakers expressed “deep concern” over what they called a “drastic” disruption to Social Security’s ability to serve the public. The letter cites mass layoffs, additional pressure on existing staff and a dramatic overhaul of internal agency structures — many carried out, the lawmakers say, with little to no transparency.
    “This will undoubtedly lead to disruption in benefit payments and increasing barriers for Americans to access their Social Security benefits,” the senators wrote.
    The senators asked the inspector general to determine whether Social Security assessed what effect the changes could have had and whether they have affected customer service. The lawmakers also requested quarterly updates from the independent watchdog on the effects stemming from the agency’s changes.
    White House spokeswoman Liz Huston told The Post in a statement that Democrats’ concerns were “fake.”
    “President Trump will fiercely protect Social Security, eliminate unfair benefit taxes to boost seniors’ take-home pay, and drive the Social Security Administration to modernize systems, enhance customer service, and combat fraud,” she said.
    The move follows a similar push in the House. Last week, Gerry Connolly (Virginia) — the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee — sent a separate letter to Anderson urging a full investigation into DOGE’s changes within the agency, citing whistleblower allegations that the restructuring has “already degraded operations” and put beneficiaries’ sensitive data at risk.
    While Musk and DOGE officials have defended their approach as an overdue modernization of a bloated bureaucracy, Democrats argue the opaque, rapid-fire changes are putting some of the country’s most vulnerable citizens at risk.
    The growing drumbeat from Democrats suggests Social Security could become a centerpiece issue in the lead-up to the 2026 midterm elections. Party operatives have already begun using the Musk-led restructuring efforts in political ads targeting Republican lawmakers. Last week, former president Joe Biden broke his silence for the first time since leaving office to warn of the consequences of cuts to Social Security.
    By:  Meryl KornfieldSource: Washington Post

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Schumer, Wyden, Senate Democrats Demand Social Security Watchdog Investigate Impact of DOGE’s Social Security Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    April 23, 2025
    Text of Letter (PDF) 
    Washington, D.C. – In their latest move to defend Social Security, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ranking Member of the Finance Committee, and Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), led Senate Democrats in writing to the Acting Inspector General (IG) of Social Security, requesting a report into how the recent cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts have affected Americans who rely on Social Security.
    In the last two months, DOGE has moved to dramatically reduce the workforce of the Social Security Administration, including through laying off staff, pressuring employees to resign, and closing regional offices. This includes staff that work in field offices, who directly support Social Security beneficiaries, and that maintain and protect the SSA’s online systems millions rely on to access their benefits—which have been plagued with technical difficulties and service blackouts since DOGE initiated its takeover of SSA. 
    “These actions have already created a chilling effect among the agency’s workforce, with several senior SSA officials with centuries’ worth of institutional knowledge and experience having already left the agency,” wrote the senators. 
    “Collectively, this will undoubtedly lead to disruption in benefit payments and increasing barriers for Americans to access their Social Security benefits,” the lawmakers continued. 
    The senators requested the IG’s review include the agency’s organizational restructuring, closure of field offices, and moves to reduce its workforce to determine whether it has affected the agency’s ability to provide quality customer service. The senators also requested the IG’s office provide recurring quarterly updates on the impact of the agency’s reorganization and workforce reductions on customer service.
    “We are concerned that this hostile environment will foster burnout, low morale, higher attrition, and worse productivity among employees,” the senators wrote. 
    This call for an investigation is part of Senate Democrats’ Social Security War Room, a coordinated effort launched this month to fight back against the Trump administration’s attack on Americans’ Social Security. The War Room coordinates messaging across the Senate Democratic Caucus and external stakeholders; encourages grassroots engagement by providing opportunities for Americans to share what Social Security means to them; and educates Senate staff, the American public, and stakeholders about Republicans’ agenda and their continued cuts to Americans’ Social Security services and benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Statement on Trump Detaining Vermont Farm Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    BURLINGTON, Vt., April 23 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement on the detention of eight farm workers in Vermont by the Trump administration:
    Trump wants to deport migrant agricultural workers. This will only disrupt families, raise food prices and put more pressure on struggling family farms. It is exactly the wrong approach. The time is long overdue for real immigration reform and a path to citizenship for migrant workers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. supports advanced manufacturing of forestry products

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    New support for forestry-sector manufacturers in the province is creating sustainable jobs, strengthening local supply chains, establishing new made-in-B.C. products and reinforcing B.C.’s position as a leader in mass-timber innovation.

    “These timely investments into our province’s manufacturing and forestry value-added sectors will help strengthen homegrown B.C. companies, which in turn creates stronger local economies and sustainable jobs,” said Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “We’re working alongside industry to build a stronger, more resilient economy that works better for people and communities.”

    Through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund (BCMJF), the Government of B.C. is contributing as much as $11 million toward four forestry-sector capital projects in the province. The projects are helping B.C.-based forestry-product manufacturers grow their businesses by constructing new production facilities, purchasing new equipment and adding new high-value product lines, while creating and protecting hundreds of jobs.

    Spearhead Timberworks Inc., near Nelson, specializes in the design and fabrication of highly advanced timber architecture. Spearhead is strengthening its capabilities, backed by as much as $7.5 million from the B.C. government to drive its expansion. This includes construction of a new purpose-built facility and implementation of advanced technology that will increase its competitiveness on the international stage, adding state-of-the-art production lines for specialized curved and double-curved glulam. The project will strengthen Spearhead’s capacity to fabricate high-complexity, high-value timber projects using B.C. wood, while creating more than 60 skilled jobs in the Nelson area.

    Spearhead’s cutting-edge technology and high-value products demonstrate how B.C.’s fibre can be used to generate significant economic benefits and highly skilled jobs in a high-demand sector. The Kootenay region is quickly establishing itself as a hub for British Columbia’s growing mass-timber economy, uniting a network of local sawmills. The network includes but is not limited to Harrop-Procter Community Cooperative and J.H. Huscroft Ltd., value-added wood manufacturers, such as Kalesnikoff Mass Timber Inc., and progressive training in wood design, digital fabrication and sustainable construction delivered through Selkirk College.

    “Over the past 35 years, we’ve honed our craft in advanced timber fabrication, completing over 450 projects worldwide and building a reputation as trailblazers in our field,” said Josh Hall, partner at Spearhead Timberworks Inc. “This investment from the Province will help us showcase B.C.’s remarkable wood resources globally, while creating long-term jobs at home. We’re honoured by the trust placed in us and excited to continue contributing meaningfully to our community and timber industry.”

    More forestry-sector manufacturers receiving funds from the BCMJF include:

    • Langley – Westlam Industries Ltd. is a wood-product manufacturer that specializes in construction-grade plywood. Westlam’s products play an important role in the housing and commercial building sector in B.C. and Canada, ensuring a strong local supply of key building materials. It will receive as much as $1.5 million to construct a new production facility and install new automated equipment that will introduce automation, improve fibre utilization, and increase output and productivity, while creating 46 jobs.
    • Castlegar – Mercer Celgar Limited Partnership is a kraft pulp mill and biorefinery that produces premium pulp and generates bioenergy for the BC Hydro power grid. The company will receive as much as $1.75 million to modernize its small-log line and install equipment capable of processing smaller-diameter logs and a wider range of low-grade fibre. This investment will help maximize the value of fibre inputs and secure more than 400 jobs at the facility, making it one of the largest employers in the region.
    • Penticton – Greyback Construction Ltd. is a commercial, residential and industrial construction contractor that is diversifying into prefabricated housing construction. It will receive as much as $235,000 to renovate a former mill site and purchase equipment that will vertically integrate and streamline production of prefabricated exterior walls and floors while creating 12 jobs, helping to create more homes quicker in B.C.

    “British Columbia’s forestry companies and workers show what innovation, craftsmanship and hard work looks like,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests. “Spearhead, Westlam, Mercer Celgar, Greyback Construction, and many, many more across the province are stepping up and investing in their workers and their communities, and we’re right there with them. The Manufacturing Jobs Fund creates jobs, strengthens supply chains and supports people in their incredible work around this province.”

    The BCMJF is helping manufacturers throughout the province scale and grow their operations to make more made-in-B.C. products that create good jobs and strengthen the economy. BCMJF has also accelerated transition within the forestry-product sector to high-value manufacturing. The program has incentivized more than $680 million flowing into forestry-product manufacturing, leading to the direct creation and protection of more than 3,500 forestry-sector jobs, many in regional, remote and Indigenous communities. Nearly one-quarter of all wood-product manufacturers in B.C have applied to the program, demonstrating that producers are investing in the future of forestry in the province.

    BCMJF has also led to increased production of mass timber, engineered wood and bioproducts, with B.C.-based companies leading the way in innovative uses of waste wood, residuals and available fibre for high-value, high-demand products and exports. The Province has partnered with 73 forestry-product manufacturers with more to come, dedicating more than $97 million to the industry in collaboration toward a stable, sustainable forestry sector in B.C.

    Quick Facts:

    • The BCMJF supports high-value industrial and manufacturing capital projects in all sectors that create and protect well-paying jobs.
    • The BCMJF has committed $146 million toward 132 projects to date, unlocking more than $1 billion in private-sector and other public investment.
      • Every million dollars invested results in $7 million in total direct capital investments in B.C., $590,000 in tax revenue to the Province and $5.3 million in provincial gross domestic product (GDP) during the capital construction phase alone.
    • Funded projects will create and protect more than 4,700 jobs throughout B.C. 

    Learn More:

    To learn about the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, including a list of recipients and updated application deadline information, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/ManufacturingJobsFund     

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Saskatchewan Uranium Production and Sales Reach all Time Highs

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 23, 2025

    Saskatchewan’s uranium industry is responding to growing global demand by setting new records for annual sales and production in 2024.  

    Last year, uranium sales reached a new high of $2.6 billion, exceeding Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan target of increasing the annual value of uranium sales to $2 billion dollars by 2030. Uranium production also reached a new record high of 16.7 thousand tonnes in 2024, up 28 per cent from 2023.  

    “The strong growth of our world-class uranium industry is great news for Saskatchewan,” Energy and Resources Minister Colleen Young said. “With our abundant, high-quality reserves and stable regulatory approach to resource development, our government is very optimistic about Saskatchewan’s increasing role in global energy security in the coming years. We expect uranium production will continue to rise with the McClean Lake mine resuming operations this year and other major projects approaching construction.”  

    In 2024, uranium exploration spending is estimated to have reached $200 million and is expected to remain strong in 2025. With this increased exploration investment targeting uranium, Saskatchewan is projected to reach its Critical Minerals Strategy goal of securing 15 per cent of Canadian mineral exploration spending this year, well ahead of the 2030 target.  

    Saskatchewan potash production also reached record highs in 2024. Last year, 15.1 million metric tonnes potassium oxide (K2O) of potash was produced in Saskatchewan, an eight per cent increase from 2023. Saskatchewan is the world’s leading potash producer, accounting for approximately one-third of global production.

    Saskatchewan is the world’s second-largest producer of uranium and has the largest high-grade uranium deposits in the world in the Athabasca Basin. The province’s uranium industry employs over 3,400 people and procures hundreds of millions of dollars in goods and services from Saskatchewan businesses.  

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Construction of New, Larger Yarmouth Emergency Department to Begin

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Construction of the new emergency department at Yarmouth Regional Hospital will start next week, a project that will provide better access to emergency healthcare for people in Yarmouth, Shelburne and Digby counties.

    The new facility will have twice the capacity of the current department – able to care for 30 people at a time, up from the current 14. It will also have space for four ambulances, up from two.

    “Investing in healthcare infrastructure is how we support the healthcare needs of our growing population and recruit and retain the best and brightest healthcare professionals to our communities,” said Nick Hilton, MLA for Yarmouth, on behalf of Public Works Minister Fred Tilley. “A new, modern and larger emergency department will improve care for Nova Scotians in Yarmouth, Shelburne and Digby counties.”

    Some of the other features of the new emergency department will include:

    • two triage spaces
    • a resuscitation/trauma area
    • two virtual-care exam rooms and a dedicated kids’ waiting area
    • mental health facilities
    • a dedicated ear-nose-throat exam room.

    The new facility is scheduled to open in 2027.

    Quotes:

    “Our emergency department team, our patients and our community have been looking forward to work getting started on the Yarmouth Regional Hospital emergency department redevelopment. We will be excited to see boots on the ground and work happening. We are confident it will ultimately allow for better care in a more spacious, modern environment, resulting in an enhanced patient and provider experience. Bring it on.”
    — Dr. Joe Gillis, site medical lead, Yarmouth Regional Hospital

    Quick Facts:

    • during construction, patients will be able to access all hospital services as usual; as work proceeds, there will be some adjustments to things such as parking and patient drop-offs/pickups, but any disruptions will be minimized
    • PCL Constructors Canada Inc. was awarded the construction tender through a competitive process; it is valued at $77.8 million
    • the total cost of the project will be released once it is complete

    Additional Resources:

    News release – Yarmouth Emergency Department Expansion Update: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/02/23/yarmouth-emergency-department-expansion-update

    More, Faster: The Action for Health Build: https://buildns.ca/healthcare/more-faster-the-action-for-health-build/

    Department of Public Works on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NS_PublicWorks

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Larsen Statement on Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Rep. Larsen Statement on Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks

    Washington, April 23, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement on ongoing peace talks between Ukraine and Russia:

    “In word and in action, the U.S. must continue to stand up for the young democracy in Ukraine. I don’t care what President Trump says – Putin started this war and the crisis is not over until Ukraine’s borders are restored and Ukrainians have the freedom to choose their own leaders and future. I will continue to advocate for aid to Ukraine in its fight against Putin’s war of aggression, and continue to welcome and support Ukrainian families in Northwest Washington and across the U.S.

    “The Trump administration’s offer to recognize Crimea as Russian territory is just the latest example of Trump rolling over for Putin. Rewarding Russia for invading a neighbor by providing formal recognition and sanctions relief invites further aggression.

    “I commend President Zelenskyy for standing up against Russian aggression and continuing to fight for a free Ukraine. American interests are clear – standing with our allies and partners, not with Russia.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casten, Moore, Beyer, Hayes Demand Department of Education Restore Office for Civil Rights

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Sean Casten (IL-06)

    April 23, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Sean Casten (IL-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Don Beyer (VA-08), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) led 39 House Democrats in a letter to Department of Education (DOE) Secretary Lisa McMahon demanding DOE immediately restore shuttered Office for Civil Rights (OCR) hubs and fulfill its statutory civil rights mandate.

    “While slashing the Department’s workforce has impacted every aspect of the Department’s role, OCR was particularly hard hit,” the lawmakers wrote. “At the time of these terminations, OCR had 550 employees, at least 243 of whom have reportedly been put on administrative leave or terminated. These terminations, and the shuttering of offices across the country, will make the Department less able to protect vulnerable students against harassment and civil rights violations.”

    The OCR is the core federal body that protects students’ right to equal access to education. OCR lawyers and staff are responsible for investigating complaints of discrimination brought by students when they are discriminated against by schools based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, and age. They also develop regulations and policy guidance to support these protections and provide technical assistance to schools attempting to protect their students’ rights. OCR administers the Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC), a biennial survey of early education and K-12 local education agencies and schools on enforcing civil rights protections in their districts.

    In March, reports indicate DOE enacted significant staffing cuts to OCR, and closed OCR hubs in Chicago, Boston, Cleveland, Dallas, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.

    In addition to Reps. Casten, Moore, Beyer, and Hayes, the letter was signed by Barragan, Cherfilus-McCormick, Chu, Clarke, Danny Davis, Espaillat, Evans, Friedman, Goldman, Huffman, Ivey, Jonathan Jackson, Julie Johnson, Keating, Krishnamoorthi, Landsman, Lynch, Mannion, McCollum, Meng, Moulton, Nadler, Panetta, Peters, Pocan, Ramirez, Ruiz, Sanchez,  Schakowsky, Simon, Tlaib, Torres, Vargas, Veasey, and Williams.

    A copy of the letter can be found here. Text of the letter can be found below.

    Dear Secretary McMahon:

    The staffing cuts to the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the Department of Education and the closure of OCR hubs in Chicago, Boston, Cleveland, Dallas, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco, clearly compromise the Department’s ability to fulfill its statutory civil rights mandate. We demand an immediate restoration of these staff and offices to fulfill the Department’s congressionally directed responsibilities.

    The Department of Education was established with the express purpose to strengthen the Federal commitment to ensuring access to equal educational opportunity for every individual, as well as to increase the accountability of Federal education programs to the President, the Congress, and the public. The Office for Civil rights was explicitly established within the Department to ensure that all schools receiving federal funds abide by federal civil rights laws.

    The OCR, established by the Department of Education Organization Act in 1979, provides an invaluable service to students nationwide, protecting their equal access to education. OCR lawyers and staff are responsible for investigating complaints of discrimination brought by students, when they are discriminated against by schools based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, and age. They also develop regulations and policy guidance to support these protections and provide technical assistance to schools attempting to protect their students’ rights.

    OCR also administers the Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC), a biennial survey of early education and K-12 local education agencies and schools on enforcing civil rights protections in their districts. The data collected through the CRDC informs the investigation and enforcement work OCR conducts when it receives specific complaints from students and the regulations and guidance that the Department of Education promulgates. This data is critical to help the Department of Education and lawmakers understand trends in discrimination and school climate.

    No student should be unsafe in school and OCR is a key component of keeping our students safe. 

    OCR provides a crucial safeguard when state and local education agencies are unable or unwilling to protect their students, and robust funding for their work is more critical than ever. In 2023 OCR received over 19,000 individual complaints from students who alleged discriminatory treatment by their publicly funded schools. 

    This broke the 2022 record and is more than double the number of complaints received in 2021. Eliminating staffing and closing the hubs flies in that face of the transparently increasing demand.

    Despite the increasing number of complaints, OCR was already underfunded and understaffed and closing these regional offices will worsen the situation and further jeopardize the office’s vital work. As of 2023, OCR had eighteen percent fewer staff than in 2016, and OCR was recently further diminished by the widespread layoffs that hit the Department in March 2025. While slashing the Department’s workforce has impacted every aspect of the Department’s role, OCR was particularly hard hit. At the time of these terminations, OCR had 550 employees, at least 243 of whom have reportedly been put on administrative leave or terminated. These terminations, and the shuttering of offices across the country, will make the Department less able to protect vulnerable students against harassment and civil rights violations.

    After meeting with House Members who expressed concern with the unlawful dismantling of the Department of Education, you tweeted, “[our] collective goal should be to support students, not the broken bureaucracy.” OCR’s role is to do just that – guaranteeing students equal access to education, but firing these staff just contributes to broken bureaucracy. The legacy of Ruby Bridges demands that we have a successful and robustly staffed OCR.

    To better understand the Trump Administration’s plans regarding the Department of Education, please respond to the following questions:

    1. Please describe in detail how the proposed OCR hub closures and staffing reductions will improve its authorized and funded activities, and how it will enhance the educational climate and well-being of students across the country.
    2. What impact, if any, does the Administration estimate these closures and terminations will have on the number, type, depth, or length of investigations at the Office of Civil Rights? How did you arrive at these estimates?
    3. How were the Office for Civil Rights offices in Chicago, Boston, Cleveland, Dallas, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco chosen for closure? How did the Department assess the impact of these office closures on the work of the Office of Civil Rights prior to initiating these terminations?
    4. Please provide a justification for whether or not these closures include any reprogramming or transfer of funds.
    5. How will these office closures impact the process by which students, families, and teachers report allegations of civil rights violations in schools? How will any new processes be communicated to these groups?

    We are deeply concerned that these actions are a de facto violation of the Department’s legislative mandate, urge you to reemploy OCR staff and reopen essential OCR regional offices nationwide. We look forward to your prompt response.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Legislation considered under suspension of the Rules of the House of Representatives during the week of April 28, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives announces bills that will be considered under suspension of the rules in that chamber. Under suspension, floor debate is limited, all floor amendments are prohibited, points of order against the bill are waived, and final passage requires a two-thirds majority vote.

    At the request of the Majority Leader and the House Committee on the Budget, CBO estimates the effects of those bills on direct spending and revenues. CBO has limited time to review the legislation before consideration. Although it is possible in most cases to determine whether the legislation would affect direct spending or revenues, time may be insufficient to estimate the magnitude of those effects. If CBO has prepared estimates for similar or identical legislation, a more detailed assessment of budgetary effects, including effects on spending subject to appropriation, may be included.

    CBO’s estimates of the bills that have been posted for possible consideration under suspension of the rules during the week of April 28, 2025, include:

    • H.R. 452, Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act
    • H.R. 617, American Music Tourism Act of 2025
    • H.R. 859, Informing Consumers About Smart Devices Act
    • H.R. 866, ROUTERS Act, as amended
    • H.R. 906, Foreign Adversary Communications Transparency Act
    • H.R. 973, Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act
    • H.R. 1402, TICKET Act
    • H.R. 1442, Youth Poisoning Protection Act, as amended
    • H.R. 1479, Hotel Fees Transparency Act of 2025
    • H.R. 1664, Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2025
    • H.R. 1721, Critical Infrastructure Manufacturing Feasibility Act
    • H.R. 2399, Rural Broadband Protection Act of 2025
    • H.R. 2444, Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act of 2025
    • H.R. 2449, FUTURE Networks Act
    • H.R. 2458, Secure Space Act of 2025
    • H.R. 2480, Securing Semiconductor Supply Chains Act of 2025
    • H.R. 2482, NTIA Reauthorization Act of 2025, as amended
    • S. 146, TAKE IT DOWN Act

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Linking tidal-creek sediment fluxes to vertical sediment accretion in a restored salt marsh

    Source: US Geological Survey

    We investigate mechanisms of sediment transport, resuspension dynamics in shoals, wave evolution in the shallows, wave attenuation in marshes, and transport of sediment between mudflats and marshes. We produce data sets for calibration of and comparison with sediment transport models, including wave parameters, suspended sediment concentration, and sediment flux.

    Learn More

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: HP Announces 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator Cohort

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights:

    • Eight nonprofit organizations in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain selected for the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator.
    • Organizations are serving disconnected adolescents and adults through digital skills training, education access, and other community-driven initiatives.
    • Each nonprofit will receive $100,000 of HP technology and solutions, capacity-building cash grants, and six–months of training and programming to support scale.
    • In its first three years, the Accelerator helped 27 participating organizations expand their reach by more than 9 million people.
    • The Digital Equity Accelerator, a joint initiative of HP Inc. and the HP Foundation, helps power the future of work by improving access to technology, digital literacy, and AI-driven skills development.

    PALO ALTO, Calif., April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) and the HP Foundation announced the selection of 8 nonprofit organizations in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain for the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator (Accelerator). The Accelerator will provide the 2025 cohort with a USD $100,000 grant, HP technology (~USD $100,000 value), and six months of virtual training to strengthen capacity and drive digital inclusion.

    “The future of work depends on equitable access to technology, digital skills, and opportunity,” said Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact, HP Inc. and Executive Director, HP Foundation. “Through the Digital Equity Accelerator, HP is empowering nonprofits to bridge the digital divide, ensuring disconnected adolescents and adults have the tools and training needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. By investing in these organizations, we are not just expanding access—we are powering the future of work.”

    A $1 trillion-plus digital divide is limiting billions from achieving equal access to education and economic opportunities. Through the Accelerator, HP collaborates with a network of partners to help nonprofit organizations scale digital equity solutions.

    “We are fortunate to work with inspiring innovators to amplify their impact through a six-month learning journey for the Accelerator,” said Hala Hanna, Executive Director, MIT Solve. “Our capacity-building workshops are designed to meet nonprofit leaders where they are – providing executive coaching, peer-to-peer collaboration, and a library of in-kind resources to help them fully benefit from the program.”

    Accelerating Digital Equity in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain
    The Accelerator helps nonprofits scale digital equity programs for disconnected adults and adolescents to power the future of work. Meet the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator cohort:

    Greece:

    • Socialinnov (Social Impact and Innovation) – Leveraging technology to drive social change, Socialinnov has equipped more than 40,000 people in underrepresented communities in Greece with digital skills training that expands access to the digital economy.
    • The Smile of the Child (TSoC) – Founded in 1995 by 10-year-old Andreas Yannopoulos, The Smile of the Child (TSoC) is a non-profit organization supporting more than 2.2 million adults and adolescents with tools, technology and other resources.

    Indonesia:

    • Solve Education Foundation – Focusing on empowering Indonesian youth with 21st century skills through its AI-powered learning platform, edbot.ai, an innovative enrichment program, helping students succeed in school and beyond.
    • Markoding (Daya Kreasi Anak Bangsa Foundation) – Helps equip underprivileged youth with 21st-century skills to foster a generation of innovators. Its flagship program, Perempuan Inovasi, has empowered over 35,000 women with STEM training, mentorship, and access to job opportunities.

    Nigeria:

    • She-Code Africa Women Tech Initiative (She Code Africa) – Provides participants across Africa with in-demand digital and technical skills. Since 2016, its training, mentorship, scholarships, and career programs have helped more than 62,000 people receive the digital skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
    • The Slum to School Initiative (Slum2School Africa) – Addressing Africa’s education crisis, this volunteer-driven organization provides quality education, skills development, and psychosocial support to underserved children and youth, empowering them to drive sustainable development.

    Spain:

    • AlmaNatura Foundation – Founded in a small village in Southern Spain, AlmaNatura designs and implements projects that revitalize rural areas through employment, education, health, and sustainability, fostering opportunities for local communities to thrive.
    • Fundación Esplai Ciudadanía Comprometida (Committed Citizenship Esplai Foundation) – Focuses on promoting citizen empowerment through inclusive, rights-based projects and programs. It collaborates with local, national, and international organizations to support socio-educational initiatives in information and communication technologies (ICT).

    Since 2022, the Accelerator has helped expand the reach of 27 nonprofit organizations in Brazil, Canada, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Poland, South Africa, and the U.S. by more than 9 million people.

    HP’s Commitment to Digital Equity and Sustainable Impact
    As nearly half of the world’s population remains offline, equipping youth and adults with critical skills reflects HP’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and supporting economic inclusion. The Digital Equity Accelerator is one way HP is delivering progress toward its goal to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030.

    For more information on the Digital Equity Accelerator, please visit the website.

    About HP
    HP Inc. is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Operating in more than 170 countries, HP delivers a wide range of innovative and sustainable devices, services and subscriptions for personal computing, printing, 3D printing, hybrid work, gaming, and more. For more information, please visit http://www.hp.com.

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