Category: Americas

MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Congressman Sorensen Speaks Out on Protecting SNAP at House Agriculture Committee Hearing

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) delivered passionate remarks and tough questions during a House Agriculture Committee hearing focused on expanding opportunity through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In his testimony, Congressman Sorensen emphasized the real-world impact of proposed cuts to SNAP and pushed back on efforts to reduce assistance for families who rely on the program to survive.

“We’re looking at cuts that would affect everyone from toddlers with disabilities to senior citizen heroes who fought for us in World War II. These are real people,” said Congressman Eric Sorensen. “64,000 families in my district rely on SNAP to make ends meet, but this administration seems to be just OK turning their backs on these real neighbors of mine. The fact that we’re even debating today whether some people deserve to be helped.”

You can watch the full remarks from Congressman Sorensen by watching the video HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Sorensen, LaHood Help Prevent Closure of USPS Mail Processing and Distribution Center in Peoria in Effort to Protect Jobs

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

Congressmen Sorensen and LaHood Have Repeatedly Urged USPS Leadership to Protect the Mail Processing and Distribution Center in Peoria

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressmen Eric Sorensen (IL-17) and Darin LaHood (IL-16) applauded the announcement from the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) that the Peoria Mail Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC) will remain open at current staffing levels. For over a year, Congressmen Sorensen and LaHood have been urging USPS officials to keep the Peoria center open in an effort to protect the jobs there that help ensure Central Illinois’ mail service is not disrupted.

“The Peoria Processing and Distribution Center provides essential services to our community, small businesses, farmers, and veterans,” said Congressmen Sorensen and LaHood. “We are pleased that USPS has committed to pausing any additional changes through 2025. Together, we will work in a bipartisan manner to protect high-paying and high-quality jobs in Peoria and throughout Central Illinois.”

In February 2024, they sent a letter to USPS leadership questioning their consideration of moving jobs in Peoria to the South Suburban P&DC in Bedford Park, Illinois which would hurt working families and may increase delivery times for residents. A month later, Congressman Sorensen sent another letter urging USPS leadership to reconsider their decision to eliminate the Peoria Processing and Distribution Center. Later in May 2024, they secured a pause in “any implementation of moves” for processing centers “at least until January 1, 2025,” which led to the announcement today.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Sorensen Helps Prevent Closure of USPS Mail Processing and Distribution Center in Milan in Effort to Protect Jobs

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

Congressmen Sorensen Repeatedly Urged USPS Leadership to Protect the Mail Processing and Distribution Center in Milan

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressmen Eric Sorensen (IL-17) applauded the announcement from the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) that the Milan Mail Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC) will remain open at current staffing levels. For over a year, Congressman Sorensen has been urging USPS officials to keep the Milan center open in an effort to protect the jobs there that help ensure mail service in the Quad Cities is not disrupted.

“The Milan P&DC employees many of our neighbors who help ensure timely mail delivery that helps boost our economy,” said Congressmen Eric Sorensen. “After urging USPS leadership to keep this facility open for more than a year, I’m glad to hear that they have decided to pause any changes through 2025, keeping current staffing levels the same. I will continue working to protect high-paying and high-quality jobs in Milan and throughout the Quad Cities.”

In February 2024, Congressman Sorensen sent a letter to USPS leadership questioning their consideration of moving these jobs to Des Moines, Iowa, which would hurt working families and may increase delivery times for residents. A month later, Congressman Sorensen sent another letter urging USPS leadership to reconsider their decision to eliminate the Milan Processing and Distribution Center. Later in May 2024, he secured a pause in “any implementation of moves” for processing centers “at least until January 1, 2025,” which led to the announcement today.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Statement from National Governors Association on Fire at Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence

Source: US State of Colorado

WASHINGTON — National Governors Association (NGA) Chair Governor Jared Polis of Colorado and Vice Chair Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma issued the following statement regarding the fire at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence in Harrisburg:

“We are relieved to hear that Governor Shapiro and his family are safe following the arson attack on the Governor’s Residence. On behalf of the nation’s governors, we extend our support to the Shapiro family as they recover from this distressing event.

“We strongly condemn all acts of violence and ask our citizens to rise above these kinds of destructive actions.

“Governors are not only public leaders but also parents, spouses, and neighbors. Incidents like this remind us of the very real challenges government officials and their families can face. We are thankful for the swift actions of local first responders and emergency personnel who helped ensure everyone’s safety.

“The National Governors Association stands in solidarity with Governor Shapiro and his family during this time.”

According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the fire was determined to be an act of arson. Governor Shapiro and his family were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. The incident remains under investigation.

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MIL OSI USA News –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Honoring Former Representative John LaFalce

Source: US State of New York

overnor Kathy Hochul today announced flags on state buildings will be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Monday, April 14, in honor of former New York State representative, John LaFalce.

“John LaFalce had a profound influence on my early career, recruiting me from a large DC firm to serve as his Legislative Counsel on Capitol Hill and putting me on the path to a lifetime of public service,” Governor Hochulsaid. “A true champion for Western New York, John cared deeply about his constituents and worked tirelessly to bring transformative projects home to the district he loved. My thoughts are with his wife Pat, his son Martin, and all who loved him.”

John won his first election to the New York State Senate in 1971, then moved to the State Assembly in 1973. He then won election to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served three different districts from 1975 to 2003.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 14, 2025

MIL-OSI: Welnax BioClear Reviews [Urgent Update]: Do Not Buy Until You Read This.

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

WOODHAVEN, N.Y., April 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Millions of people around the globe silently battle with toenail fungus, it is one of the most common ailments affecting the toes. It is a deep insecurity a lot of people tend to hide.

It usually starts out a small yellow patch but quickly spreads leading to weak, brittle and awkward looking toenails.

If this is you, then you have probably tried all kinds of solutions, from over-the-counter meds, homemade remedies and what not, however toenail fungus is one tough nut to crack and most of the mainstream solutions tend to take months to work or flat out don’t work.

Luckily, technology has intervened and there is a more efficient solution on the markets, that solution is called Welnax Bioclear.

Welnax Bioclear provides a non-invasive, drug-free method to effectively treat toenail fungus, it targets the root cause of toenail fungus using specialized UV light therapy.

People of all ages can easily use this device thanks to its intuitive design. Simply place it over the affected toenail, turn it on, and let the light work. There’s no need for complicated application steps or frequent doctor visits. Many users in the U.S. report noticeable improvements in nail texture and appearance within weeks, with even better results over time with consistent use.

This review will take a closer look at the features, benefits, and real user experiences of the Welnax BioClear Toenail device. Keep reading to see if it’s the right solution for you!

What is Welnax Bioclear (Welnax Reviews)

Welnax BioClear is a revolutionary light therapy device that helps to improve the health of toenails through non-drug, non-surgical technology. Producing specific light wavelengths that can penetrate through the nail bed, it attacks fungal infections along the way as well as treating conditions such as discoloration, brittleness, and thickening of nails.

In contrast to conventional treatments like antifungal tablets or creams (usually side effect inducing with long courses of treatment—Welnax BioClear provides a safer, more convenient option.

The phototherapy component of its mode of action is designed to break down and destroy fungal cells without damaging nearby skin or nail tissue, ultimately leading to healthier, clearer nails with ongoing use.

One of the greatest things about it is that it’s so easy to use. Its lightweight, small size makes it easy for anyone to treat their toenails at home with no messy application, discomfort, or repetitive visits to the doctor’s office. Just place the device over the affected toenail, flip on the light therapy, and it’ll get to work.

The increasing popularity of light therapy on medical and cosmetic markets is testimony to its use as a non-surgical option. Visible improvements are reported by the majority of users within weeks, with usage leading to increasingly dramatic results.

If you have become frustrated with recurring toenail problems and need a break from traditional treatments, Welnax BioClear might be the revolution you are waiting for.

How Welnax BioClear Works

Laser Penetration – The unit possesses 18 antifungal laser beams which penetrate deep into the nail bed, down to the root where the fungal cells are located. The impact damages the fungus’s DNA, stopping the fungus from growing.

Thermal Effect – Along with laser treatment, the device also sends out gentle heat, which breaks down the fungus and promotes faster healing. The combination of heat and light ensures that the entire fungus is removed.

Non-Invasive & Drug-Free – Unlike oral antifungals, which have the reputation of being accompanied by side effects such as liver toxicity or skin rashes, Welnax BioClear is a completely natural, chemical-free approach.

Encourages Healthy Nail Growth – By removing the infection from the start, the device allows for the development of new healthy nails instead of the infected ones.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is also recommended by skin and nail physicians. It is safe, painless, and proved to be effective for nail fungus. You can enjoy healthier and clearer nails with Welnax BioClear without worrying about side effects of frequent treatments.

The Problem with Toe Nail Fungus (Welnax Bioclear reviews)

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis as it is referred to medically, is a humiliating and frequently embarrassing condition that afflicts millions of individuals worldwide.

What begins as an apparently harmless nail discoloration or nail thickening can quickly turn into a persistent, unsightly, and occasionally painful condition that’s hard to get rid of.

To those afflicted, it’s more than a cosmetic problem. The condition erodes self-esteem so that individuals conceal their feet in closed-toe shoes even in warm weather or feel humiliated at the beach, the pool, or even in intimate situations. It’s one of those afflictions that isn’t life-threatening, yet it has a huge effect on everyday life—particularly when the condition persists for years without relief.

The real problem is that toenail fungus is so difficult and slippery to eradicate. It’s not a rash or skin irritation that you can send packing with a couple of applications of cream.

Fungal spores are incredibly resilient, penetrating deep beneath the nail bed where most topicals are unable to reach. The infection likes warm, dark, damp environments—like the inside of shoes—and often resists treatment.

Creams and ointments, regardless of their price or promise, frequently just scratch the surface—literally. They cover the surface of the nail without reaching deep enough to eliminate the fungus at its origin.
And oral antifungal drugs might bring some degree of relief but have their own horror stories to deal with. These drugs can cause nasty side effects, such as headaches, stomach pain, liver toxicity, and hazardous interactions with other drugs.

Even more disheartening, most of these drugs must be taken for months at a time—and even then, they don’t always produce long-term effects.

Aside from the health concern, there is a monetary factor that also adds up fast. Individuals invest hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars in doctor appointments, prescriptions, over-the-counter medication, pedicures that purport to “cleanse” the nails, and “miracle” vitamins, all in the hope of getting healthy nails.

Some others try hazardous home remedies, such as vinegar or bleach soaks, that create even more problems.

And for those who opt for professional laser treatments—arguably the most effective conventional option—the costs skyrocket into the hundreds per session, often requiring multiple appointments over several months.

Add travel time, clinic wait times, and the anxiety of recurring symptoms, and you’ve got a problem that feels downright inescapable.

Perhaps the most disabling part of the toenail fungus struggle is the emotional one.

It’s easy for people who haven’t suffered from it to brush it off as something minor. But anyone who has struggled with this condition can remember the hopelessness of trying another round of treatment only to have the infection persist—or worse, spread.

It’s frustrating to think you’re doing everything correctly—washing your feet every day, trimming your nails, applying antifungal sprays—and not getting any better.

People suffer in silence with the condition, conceal their feet, and don’t discuss it due to stigma.

Shame, embarrassment, and feelings of helplessness exist. You cannot simply will your nails to be clean and healthy. You require a proper treatment—something that goes beneath the surface to combat the fungus from the inside out.

Introducing Welnax BioClear, a breakthrough treatment that doesn’t camouflage the issue but rather targets it with cutting-edge, scientifically tested technology.

This over-the-counter, handheld unit uses Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT) to penetrate the nail bed and kill fungal cells at their source—where creams and ointments can’t.

It’s a painless, chemical-free, and drug-free solution to conventional treatments, doing away with the need for toxic oral medications and messy creams. It only requires seven minutes a day to start reversing months or years of fungal growth.

And unlike laser therapy at the office that costs an arm and a leg, Welnax BioClear is a one-time expense that users can count on daily from the comfort of their own homes.

It not only claims to cure the issue of toenail fungus—it does so with ease, convenience, and guarantees.

In a world full of broken cures and unsuccessful treatments, Welnax BioClear is the genuinely effective, inexpensive, and safe answer to a problem far too many individuals have suffered in silence for far too long.

What are the benefits of Welnax Bioclear (Welnax Reviews)

On the surface, Welnax BioClear may seem like nothing more than a small device intended to cure toenail fungus.

But in reality, it’s so much more than that. It is your silent warrior in the battle against a frustrating and all-too-common condition that has likely had you feeling not in control for far too long.

Does it leverage proven technology? Yes.

Does it produce actual results? Yes.

But the true magic lies in how it transforms your confidence, enhances your day-to-day living, empowers your sense of control—and ultimately, changes your life.

Let’s take a deeper look at how Welnax BioClear benefits you—not just on the surface, but far beyond.

Immediate Benefits: Your Quick Wins

1. It Targets the Fungus at the Source
Welnax BioClear isn’t just another lotion that coats the surface. It employs Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT) to penetrate through your nail and target the fungal infection down below under the nail bed. That’s where the fungus lives—and that’s where this technology gets in to work its magic. You’re not covering up symptoms anymore; you’re actually treating the source of the issue, something most over-the-counter treatments can’t do.

2. Healthier, Cleaner Nails Begin to Regrow
The longer you keep using the product, the more you’ll see your nails smooth out, clear up, and get more luminous. Yellowing discoloration, thickening, or that horrendous crumbly texture will be a thing of the past. Your nails will, instead, grow stronger, which is a huge win—not only aesthetically, but for your nails’ overall health.

3. You Get a 100% Pain-Free, Chemical-Free Treatment
There is no burning, no stinging, and no danger to your liver from oral drugs. Welnax BioClear works gently and non-invasively, so you can get the results you want without having to suffer from unpleasant side effects. This is especially great if you’ve got sensitive skin, allergies, or just want a treatment that doesn’t feel like punishment.

4. It’s Fast and Easily Fits into Your Day
Each session takes just seven minutes. You can use it while watching TV, checking your email, or preparing for bed. No mess, no hassle, and no complicated setup. Simply put it over your nail, press a button, and let it work its magic as you go about your day.

5. In the Long Run, You Save Money
Let’s be real here—most individuals who suffer from toenail fungus spend plenty of money in the long term. From medical visits, the expense of renewing prescriptions, to the cost of over-the-counter creams that just don’t work, the funds can add up really quickly. With Welnax BioClear, there is only a single investment that eliminates all of that residual spending, offering a genuine long-term solution without depleting your bank.

6. You Can Take It Anywhere
Whether you’re on the go, sleeping over at a friend’s, or on the road for work, Welnax BioClear is convenient and portable. That means no interruption to your routine. You can keep to your routine—without the inconvenience of carrying a drawer-full of creams or skipping a step.

Long Term Benefits: Life-Changing Results

1. You Finally Feel Comfortable Showing Your Feet
You don’t know how much toenail fungus hurts your self-esteem until it’s gone. Suddenly, you’re not ashamed to expose your feet in public, you’re not avoiding sandals, and you’re not apologizing for the way your toes look. Whether you’re strolling on the beach barefoot, hanging out around the pool, or gliding into summer shoes, you’re feeling good again. That matters.

2. You Break the Cycle of Failure and Frustration
If you’ve attempted hundreds of pills and creams, yet experienced minimal or no real change, it’s little wonder despair has taken hold. Welnax BioClear shatters the vicious cycle. This is not another broken promise, but a solution founded upon real science and tangible results. The instant you notice the unmistakable signs of your recovery, a wave of relief washes over you. Hope once more starts to grow. This type of change in attitude can literally transform your life.

3. You Connect Intimately Without Self-Consciousness
Fungus on the feet is a sneaky relationship stretcher. Maybe you’ve kept your partner at arm’s length, afraid of physical intimacy, or avoided affection because you felt self-conscious about your feet. Taking care of your nails does more than make you look better—it makes you feel better about being in your own skin. That sense of self-confidence carries over into every encounter, especially those that are most meaningful.

4. You Take Charge of Your Own Health Journey
You feel the independence when you drive your own care—on your own terms, unencumbered by prescription, clinics, and the constant nag of needing to follow up. Welnax BioClear gives you that very independence. It grants you the freedom to set your own course for healing. No need to place faith in others as you move forward.

5. You Let Go of the Worry That It’ll Come Back
One of the worst fears people have with toe nail fungus is the constant worry that it will return, even when it seems to have cleared up. Welnax BioClear doesn’t just eliminate the infection you currently have; it fortifies your nails and defends you against any future invasions.
That peace of mind? Priceless.
You don’t question your own cleanliness anymore. You don’t panic every time your toe stubs or appears a bit unusual. You just keep on living.

6. You Enjoy a Life Without Limits and Shame
Toenail fungus is more than just about looks—it’s a limiter of wardrobe options, of destinations, of even your own self-image. With healthy, clear nails, those subtle concessions disappear. You wear what you want. You walk with confidence. You hold your head a bit taller. You smile more readily. That is not vanity—that is freedom.

7. You Save Time, Energy, and Emotional Drain
No more hunting for miracle cures. No more reading reviews for the next useless cream. No more standing in front of the pharmacy shelf torturing yourself over what to try next. Welnax BioClear cuts through the hype. It simply works. The peace of mind that comes from having one product that can do the job at hand is, in itself, a blessing.
In fact, Welnax BioClear not only makes you have healthier nails, what it really gives you is confidence, control, relief, and freedom.
It’s more than just curing a fungal infection; it’s really about healing the effect that infection has had on your life.
When you care for your nails, you care for so much more. That’s the benefit that really matters.

>>> Click Here To Get Welnax BioClear From The Official Website For 50% Off (Discount Expires Soon) <<<

Pros and Cons of Welnax Bioclear Device

Pros of Welnax BioClear

✔ Effectively treats fungus from its roots
Welnax BioClear utilizes Low Light Laser Therapy, which reaches deep into the nail bed to target the fungus where it actually lives—not just mask symptoms on the surface.

✔ Non-invasive and pain-free
You need not endure discomfort, chemical burns, or the uncertainties of risky medications. The treatment is entirely painless and safe, even for those with sensitive skin.

✔ Easy to use at home
Just place it on your nail and press a button. It’s quick (only 7 minutes a day) and has no setup, no appointments, and no messy cleanup.

✔ No ongoing expense
It’s a single purchase. You don’t have to continuously purchase creams, pills, or schedule podiatrist appointments. It’s cost-saving in the long term.

✔ Strengthens nails and discourages reinfection
Not only does it purify your nails, but it also strengthens them and improves circulation, thus reducing the risk of future infections.

✔ Helps restore confidence
No longer will you hide your feet, nor will you feel embarrassed in sandals or during intimate moments. You can once again take pride in your appearance.

✔ Portable and travel-friendly
It’s lightweight and compact, so you can take it with you wherever you go and stay consistent with your treatment.

✔ No mess, no chemicals, no hassle.
There is no need to apply anything or clean afterward. Simply a clean, smooth device that performs its function quietly and efficiently.

✔ Ideal for all ages
Due to the absence of aggressive drugs or chemicals, it is appropriate for both young and elderly users.

✔ 30-day money-back guarantee
If you’re not satisfied, you can return it. That kind of risk-free assurance is an indication of confidence in the product’s performance.

Cons of Welnax BioClear

✔ It demands both consistency and patience.
This is not a fast solution. You have to use it daily—sometimes for weeks or months—to see full effects. If you are not consistent, you might not get the desired result.

✔ Does not have immediate cosmetic benefits
If you are in search of a quick solution such as a nail polish or cosmetic Band-Aid, look elsewhere. New, healthy nails replacing old, damaged ones cannot be done overnight.

✔ For sale online only
Welnax BioClear is not available in physical stores; therefore, you must purchase it from the company website directly.

✔ Not designed to substitute medical care in emergencies
If you are experiencing especially painful or severe fungal infections, it is still best to consult with a healthcare professional when using this device.

Welnax Bioclear Vs Alternatives – How Does it Fare

(Welnax BioClear Toenail Reviews)

Feature	Welnax BioClear	Topical Creams	Oral Antifungal Medications	Laser Treatment at Clinics
Treatment Method	Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT)	Surface-level antifungal agents	Systemic drug therapy	Medical-grade laser therapy
Targets Fungus at the Source	✅ Yes	❌ No – Mostly surface-level	✅ Yes – But through bloodstream	✅ Yes
Painless Application	✅ 100% Painless	⚠️ Possible irritation/burning	❌ Can cause side effects	✅ Usually painless
Side Effects	❌ None	⚠️ Skin dryness, itching	❌ Liver damage, nausea, headaches	⚠️ Mild skin sensitivity possible
At-Home Use	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No – Requires doctor visit	❌ No – In-office only
Daily Time Commitment	7 minutes/day	5–10 minutes (multiple times)	Must follow daily dosage schedule	30–60 min/session (per visit)
Ease of Use	✅ One-button simplicity	⚠️ Messy application	⚠️ Strict medication schedule	❌ Must book appointments
Cost	One-time payment	Ongoing purchases	Expensive over time	Very expensive (hundreds+ per session)
Effectiveness	✅ High (with consistency)	⚠️ Low to moderate	✅ Moderate to high	✅ High
Chemical-Free	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes
FDA-Approved Technology	✅ LLLT is well-studied & safe	⚠️ Varies by brand	✅ Yes (prescriptions only)	✅ Yes
Suitable for Long-Term Use	✅ Yes	⚠️ Limited due to irritation	❌ Risky for long-term use	⚠️ Too costly for ongoing treatment
Available Without Prescription	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No
Prevents Reinfection	✅ Strengthens nails	❌ Usually doesn’t	⚠️ Depends on continued use	⚠️ Short-term unless repeated

Welnax BioClear Pricing & Discounts — Why It’s a Steal

Let’s talk real numbers.

Welnax BioClear isn’t just effective—it’s surprisingly affordable. When you compare it to the mountain of ongoing costs from traditional treatments like doctor visits, prescriptions, antifungal creams, and clinic-based laser therapy, this device starts to look like a straight-up bargain.

Right now, Welnax is offering up to 50% off, depending on how many units you grab:

✅ 1 Device – $99.90 (previously $199.99 )
✅ 2 Devices – $149.90 (previously $398.80)
✅ 3 Devices – $179.90 (previously $599.7)
✅ 4 Devices – $199.90 (previously $799.60 )

That means you can get rid of your toenail fungus for less than the cost of one clinical laser session (which often runs $200–$400 per visit—and you’ll likely need multiple sessions).

Even prescription oral antifungals can cost $60–$120 per refill, not to mention potential liver testing, doctor follow-ups, and risk of side effects. Add it up over time, and you’re easily looking at $500+ a year.

Now compare that to a one-time payment of just $99.90, and you get to keep the device, use it at home, and even share it with family (with proper hygiene precautions).

But let’s zoom in even more—this is the kind of purchase that costs:

Less than 2 large pizzas and a soda night out
Less than 4 fancy Starbucks drinks
Less than your monthly Netflix + Spotify combo
Less than one pair of trendy sneakers you’ll only wear occasionally

For something that could restore your confidence, fix your nails, and finally solve a long-standing health issue? That’s a no-brainer. You’re not just buying a device—you’re buying freedom from an annoying, recurring problem. And at this price, it’s one of the smartest health investments you can make.

>>> Click Here To Get Welnax BioClear From The Official Website For 50% Off (Discount Expires Soon) <<<

Welnax BioClear Guarantee — Zero Risk, Every Reward

We all know buying something new on the internet might appear to be a risk. That is the exact reason why Welnax BioClear is backed by a 100% satisfaction, 30-day money-back guarantee.

Here’s how it works:
If you do choose to try Welnax BioClear and aren’t satisfied with it, or don’t experience an improvement for any reason, you can return it within 30 days from when it was shipped for a complete refund—with no questions asked.

There are no complicated facts, no unexpected surprises in your path, and you needn’t explain yourself. You receive what you desire, or you receive your money back. That’s all.

Why is this important?

It testifies to the reality that Welnax stands by their product. They don’t market hype, but a clinically-supported product that provides real results, and they have the confidence to allow you to try it risk-free on your part.

Compare that to expensive laser treatments or prescription meds, which can’t be refunded, even if they don’t work. With Welnax BioClear, the only thing you risk is the chance of missing out on clear, healthy nails.

So go ahead—try it with confidence. You’ve got 30 days to see how it fits into your routine and what kind of difference it makes. And if it’s not for you? No harm done, no money lost.

>>> Click Here To Get Welnax BioClear From The Official Website For 50% Off (Discount Expires Soon) <<<

Customer Testimonials (Welnax BioClear Reviews Consumer Reports and Complaints)

Many customers have reported getting exactly the result they wanted from the Welnax BioClear. Below are Real consumer reports from verified customers:

Sophia T.| Verified Buyer – “I’ve struggled with nail fungus for years, and nothing seemed to work. I was skeptical at first, but the Welnax™ BioClear has truly been a game-changer! The Low Light Laser Therapy is gentle yet effective. I noticed a visible difference in my nails after just a few weeks of consistent use. After about two months, my nails are finally looking healthy again. I no longer feel embarrassed about my feet, and I’m so glad I gave this product a try. It’s safe, simple, and most importantly, it works!”
John H.| Verified Buyer – “I’ve tried countless treatments for nail fungus, but Welnax™ BioClear is the first one that has actually made a difference. It’s super easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of time. Within a month, I started to see healthier nail growth. I’m really impressed with how well it works and how non-invasive it is. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s struggled with nail fungus and wants a simple, effective solution.”
Dylan P.| Verified Buyer – “I’ve been using Welnax for just over a month now, and I’m amazed at the results. My nails are noticeably healthier, and the thick, discolored spots are slowly fading. I love how easy it is to use—no mess, no chemicals, just a quick 7-minute session each day. I’m finally feeling confident about my nails again and will definitely keep using this device.”
Emily W.| Verified Buyer – “I was tired of using creams and ointments that didn’t seem to help. I was about to give up. But Welnax has really surprised me. I’ve been using it for about four weeks now, and my nail is almost completely cleared up. I was skeptical at first, but now I can honestly say it works. So glad I found this!’
David S.| Verified Buyer – “ I got this for my wife because she’d been dealing with toenail fungus for a while, and honestly, she hates going to the doctor. She’d tried everything from the drugstore, but nothing worked. After using Welnax™ BioClear for a couple of months, she was super happy with the results. Her nails actually look healthier now, and she’s really glad we gave it a shot. I’m pretty relieved too!”

FAQ (Welnax BioClear Reviews)

Here are some frequently asked questions concerning Welnax bioclear

How long does it take to see results?
People experience improvements at different times based on how severe the infection is. However, after daily usage for four to six weeks, most people experience changes. Buyers like Sophia T. and Dylan P. vouch that they fully recover within a couple of months and experience good progress within a couple of weeks.

Will the Welnax BioClear benefit my fingernails?
Yes! While the product is mainly sold for toenail fungus, it also applies to fungal infections of the fingernails.

Is it easy to use?
Yes, it is simple enough to be used at home. Simply position the unit over the infected nail, turn it on, and wait for the light therapy to start; each session only takes a few minutes. There is no special setup, and it is completely painless.

When is the optimal time to take Welnax BioClear?
Depending on the intensity of the infection, the device should be used once or twice a day for optimal results. To achieve the desired outcome, it needs to be used regularly and consistently.

Is it possible for multiple people to use one device?
The Welnax bioclear is a personal item, so each one should ideally have its own to use.

What is the duration of each session?
Every session of nail treatment takes about seven minutes. Clients can continue with their daily routines during treatment.

Is it possible to combine Welnax BioClear with other treatments?
Yes, Welnax BioClear can be used in conjunction with other nail care products that promote healthy nails or antifungal creams. Most customers, however, discover that the device is enough on its own to give them the effect they need.

Does it work on stained or thick nails?
Welnax BioClear helps to make nails look natural again and removes fungal infections. With regular use, many have seen nail improvements, little colour change, and better nail health overall.

Will Welnax BioClear prevent infections in the future?
Actually, regular application of Welnax BioClear not only clears up current toenail fungus, but also prevents them from coming back by promoting healthy nail growth. Trimming, keeping clean, and drying the nails regularly also increase defense against future fungus infection.

What do people say about Welnax BioClear? (Welnax BioClear Reviews Reddit)
Welnax BioClear received many great customer reviews. Customers like Emily W. and John H. have shared their experiences, complimenting how simple and effective the device is. The majority of reviews talk about how simple it is to use and how quickly they noticed improvement in their nails. Success stories of real customers confirm that Welnax BioClear is an effective treatment for toenail fungus.

Is Welnax BioClear suitable for everyone?
Most customers report good improvements, but individual factors such as how frequently and how intensely they use it may alter the outcome. After experimenting with numerous other treatments that were not very successful, verified buyers have commended the Welnax as being a great asset in their nail fungus struggle.

Is it possible to use nail paint and Welnax BioClear simultaneously?
You will have to clear any nail polish prior to using the device. Nail polish will block the light from passing through and hence undermine the success of the light therapy as it must reach the nail bed directly.

Why is the Welnax BioClear different?
Welnax BioClear provides a painless, convenient, and natural solution to messy creams and pills with unpleasant side effects.

>>> Click Here To Get Welnax BioClear From The Official Website For 50% Off (Discount Expires Soon) <<<

Final Thoughts — Is Welnax BioClear a Good Choice?

If you’ve got toenail fungus, you know how frustrating it is. You’re self-conscious. You’re embarrassed. You’re spending money on creams and pills and treatments that don’t really work. It’s not only about having nails that look strange or are thick—it’s about feeling held back in your daily life, from what shoes you can wear to your confidence.

Welnax BioClear does more. Not only does it repair the surface, but it also combats the fungus at its root using cutting-edge Low Light Laser Therapy. It’s pain-free, chemical-free, simple to treat at home, and doesn’t require you to continually purchase it or make trips to the doctor. Just 7 minutes per day can, over time, make your nails healthier, stronger, and clearer.

You can finally be comfortable showing your feet. You don’t have to miss pool time, flip-flops, or special events. You won’t be humiliated like you’ve tried everything and failed. With Welnax BioClear, you’re not just getting rid of a persistent infection—you’re getting back your confidence, freedom, and peace of mind.

And right now, with up to 50% off, free shipping in some regions, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, there’s never been a better time to try it.

But fair warning: supplies are limited and demand is high. Once this discount window closes, you could end up paying more—or waiting for the next restock.

Don’t wait until your nail fungus gets worse or spreads. Take control now with Welnax BioClear and start your journey toward healthier nails today.

>>> Click Here To Get Welnax BioClear From The Official Website For 50% Off (Discount Expires Soon) <<<

Media Details:

Project name: Welnax BioClear
89-16 Jamaica Ave, Woodhaven, NY, 11421, United States
Postal code: NY 11421

Media Contact:
Full Name – Neil white
Company website: https://www.welnax.com/
Email: Neilwhite@welnax.com

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The MIL Network –

April 14, 2025

MIL-OSI USA News: Statement from the White House

Source: The White House

class=”has-text-align-center”>“U.S. Special Presidential Envoy Steven Witkoff, accompanied by U.S. Ambassador to Oman Ana Escrogima, conducted talks today in Muscat with Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Abbas Araghchi, which were hosted by Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi. The discussions were very positive and constructive, and the United States deeply thanks the Sultanate of Oman for its support of this initiative. Special Envoy Witkoff underscored to Dr. Araghchi that he had instructions from President Trump to resolve our two nations’ differences through dialogue and diplomacy, if that is possible. These issues are very complicated, and Special Envoy Witkoff’s direct communication today was a step forward in achieving a mutually beneficial outcome. The sides agreed to meet again next Saturday.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer, Maryland Delegation Members Slam OMB’s Proposed NASA Goddard Cuts, Vow to Fight Back Against NASA Budget

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (both D-MD), and U.S. Representatives Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) released the following statement regarding the Office of Management and Budget’s proposed cuts to NASA Goddard missions:

“Maryland is the proud home to NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and to many of the men and women who conduct the vital work being done there and at its partner launch site, NASA Wallops Flight Facility. This work is critical to our exploration of space, our understanding of the universe and the planet we live on, our development of new, innovative technologies, and our national security. Cutting NASA Goddard’s missions would not only be harmful to our state – the negative impacts would be felt across the country. That’s why we’re committed to protecting the missions at NASA Goddard, and together we will push back against this NASA budget proposal.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Terminations at U.S. government agencies that monitor extreme weather events will have negative effects

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Gordon McBean, Professor Emeritus, Department of Geography and Environment, Western University

A weather station in Santa Cruz, Calif. Cuts to government agencies monitoring the weather will increase the impacts of extreme weather events. (Shutterstock)

In August 2021, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Report confirmed that the climate is warming and the impacts will be widespread and more intense than anticipated.

In 2023, the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released the Weather, Water, and Climate Strategy (2023-27) for the United States and around the world.

The strategy addresses the risks to lives, property, economies and ecosystems that are increasing at an alarming rate due to the warming planet. It highlights that U.S. citizens are in harm’s way, infrastructure is increasingly outdated and at risk and, in many places, not designed for new environmental realities and extreme weather events.

In February 2025, Donald Trump’s administration reduced the government’s size. The NOAA was severely affected, experiencing budget cuts and the termination of about 800 employees’ positions. NOAA is a critically important government organization, and includes the National Weather Service (NWS).

Recent developments regarding science and scholarship in the U.S., including major reductions in federal research funding and censorship around topics such as climate change and gender, are forcing many U.S. science agencies and research organizations to abruptly suspend normal operations.

As former assistant deputy minister of the Meteorological Service of Environment Canada between 1994 and 2000, I regularly met with my colleagues at the NWS and other weather agencies. We worked together to share information to provide the best weather services possible in our countries.

Climate and misinformation

In January of this year, the World Economic Forum released its Global Risks Report. This ranked the global risks that could have major impacts on the global population, GDP or natural resources in the short term (two years) and long term (10 years).

For the short term, the top risk identified is “misinformation and disinformation,” with “extreme weather events” being the second-highest risk. Extreme weather events include storms, floods, wildfires, heat and others, with a warming climate leading to more severity and impacts. By geography, extreme weather events is ranked as the highest risk for Northern America and most other regions.

The risks due to misinformation and extreme weather events are interconnected. If an extreme weather event is about to occur and people are not informed, or are misinformed, about the occurrence and risks, they do not take actions to reduce exposure and vulnerability, resulting in higher impacts.

Impacts of layoffs

Because of the importance of the NOAA, NWS and other climate research bodies, many have spoken out about the negative impacts of these job terminations and budget reductions.

The NWS has developed leading weather forecast models by working with the academic and global science communities, and partners with others beyond national borders to share their data. The multi-year development and implementation of these weather systems has led to high quality and reliable information for weather, climate and ocean situations.

One example is science journalist Andy Revkin, who referred to Trump’s actions as “The Dangerous Trump Purge of Weather and Climate Expertise.” In his Substack, Revkin writes:

“There’s an enormous, and justified surge of criticism from private-sector and academic meteorologists from across the political spectrum over the purge of expertise and supporting staff under way at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and National Weather Service.”

Meteorologists Jeff Masters and Bob Henson wrote that “cuts to U.S. weather and climate research could put public safety at risk… and slow emergency disaster response and weaken resilience efforts.”

Ilan Kelman, professor of disasters and health at University College London, stated that the “mass job termination” will have major negative impacts across the U.S. and nearby countries, such as Canada. This will be due to reduced aviation and shipping safety; lack of information for communities to respond to severe weather; safety assessments for search-and-rescue; and other concerns.

Alarming increases

With a warming climate, the impacts of extreme weather events are rising around most of the world. The year 2024, the warmest on record, was also the single-most expensive year on record in terms of Canadian insurance payouts of C$8.5 billion, with the number of catastrophe claims exceeding 273,000. Disaster costs in the U.S. also increased with many billion-dollar events.

On Oct. 17, 2024, NOAA shared initial imagery from the GOES-19 lightning mapper showing lightning activity in two extremely hazardous hurricanes – Helene and Milton — on Sept. 24.
(GOES-19/NOAA)

In September 2024, Hurricane Helene caused 228 deaths and economic losses assessed at US$78.7 billion. In advance of Helene’s landfall, states of emergency in Florida and Georgia were declared by the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

The U.S. Air Force Weather Reconnaissance Squadron provided information for the NHC to upgrade the storm to Tropical Storm Helene. Follow-up research by the World Weather Attribution concluded with “high confidence” that Helene was made worse by climate change.

Reliance on observation and collaboration

Forecasting extreme weather events relies on observational systems that provide weather information over a significant area which extends beyond a country. In North America, the U.S. weather forecasts rely on information from Canada, Mexico and countries across the Gulf of Mexico, and vice versa.

The World Meteorological Organization, the UN’s lead agency on weather and climate, co-ordinates international co-operation for the free and unrestricted exchange of data and information, products and services in real time. This is critical for the safety and security of society, economic welfare and protection of the environment.

With the NOAA’s reductions in resources, there will be negative impacts across all services in the U.S. and on the effective sharing of data between internationally collaborating weather services.

These cuts to NOAA also relate to broad concern about impacts on science. The European Federation of Academies of Sciences and Humanities has expressed grave concern over the escalating threats to academic freedom, both in the U.S. and beyond.

Gordon McBean receives funding from Western University and the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction to undertake research on building climate resilient communities. None of my affliations are relevant to this paper.

– ref. Terminations at U.S. government agencies that monitor extreme weather events will have negative effects – https://theconversation.com/terminations-at-u-s-government-agencies-that-monitor-extreme-weather-events-will-have-negative-effects-251314

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: U.S. tariffs are about to trigger the greatest trade diversion the world has ever seen

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Wolfgang Alschner, Hyman Soloway Chair in Business and Trade Law, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa

United States President Donald Trump’s tariffs have shaken the global trading system. Canadians have rightly been preoccupied by the tariff’s devastating impact on U.S.-Canada relations, but the wider ripple effects could prove just as damaging.

The tariffs have redirected billions of dollars in exports originally bound for the U.S., which are now poised to flood global markets — including Canada’s. This will trigger a historic trade diversion that will put even the most free trade-minded nations to the test.

Around 15 per cent of global imports went to the U.S. in 2024. The country has long been the world’s biggest consumer market, in part, due to its low average tariffs of just 3.3 per cent.

These days are now over. On April 2, the U.S. increased its average tariff rate seven-fold to a staggering 22 per cent — by far the highest among countries with a major economy.

Read more:
Canada was mostly spared from Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, but it must not grow complacent

Even though the U.S.’s “reciprocal” tariffs have since been suspended for all countries except China and Trump has now exempted smartphones, computers and microchips, a 10 per cent baseline rate and several sectoral duties remain in place.

Together, they form a tariff wall around the U.S. unlike anything seen in generations.

The Great Trade Diversion

Much of the trade disruption stems from China. In 2024, China exported US$438.9 billion worth of goods to the U.S. Millions of parcels, sent via e-commerce platforms like Shein, entered the U.S. duty-free because they fell below the US$800 “de minimis” threshold.

On April 2, Trump eliminated this exemption for low-value Chinese exports and imposed a reciprocal tariff on all Chinese imports of 34 per cent.

This rate was increased further after China vowed to retaliate on April 4, and is now stacked on top of a 20 per cent fentanyl-related tariff. The result is an effective tariff rate exceeding 100 per cent, making it prohibitively costly for China to export to the U.S.

Last time U.S.-China trade tensions escalated, China rerouted many of its exports through Southeast Asia. This time, however, Southeast Asian countries were hit hard, too.

Vietnam, a major destination of Chinese export-oriented foreign investment, exported US$137 billion in goods to the U.S. in 2024. While the 46 per cent reciprocal tariff against Vietnam has since been suspended, the U.S. is unlikely to tolerate such circumvention this time around.

The U.S. has also imposed a 25 per cent tariff on all imported automobiles. South Korea, Japan and Germany all export cars to the U.S. market. While some of these exports may continue as tariff costs are absorbed or passed on to customers, others will divert their vehicles to alternative markets.

All told, billions of dollars in trade are being rerouted, with a tidal wave of diverted goods now headed for markets around the world.

A repeat of the Great Depression

The world has been here before. In the 1930s, the U.S. enacted the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, which raised tariffs on thousands of imported goods in an effort to shield American industries during the Great Depression. The result was a rapid contraction of global trade.

What ultimately tipped the world over the edge wasn’t direct retaliation against the U.S. Instead, global trade collapsed as U.S. trading partners turned on each other. Faced with a flood of diverted goods, they rushed to protect their own manufacturing by enacting trade restrictions of their own.

Similarly, today, we face a similar risk. The greater concern is not Trump’s tariffs themselves or even the retaliation they provoke, but rather the resulting trade diversion and wave of protectionism it can trigger.

Old fears, new pressures

In some respects, the world may be in a more precarious position today than it was in the early 1930s.

For close to a decade, western policymakers, including G7 members, have sounded alarm bells over “Chinese overcapacity.” China consumes too little at home and exports too much abroad, often using unfair non-market practices such as covert subsidization to undercut local prices.

Fears of deindustrialization have already led some governments to put new trade barriers in place. Canada, for example, placed a 100 per cent tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles to protect its own nascent industry in 2024. A flood of diverted Chinese imports will only heighten these pre-existing concerns.

At the same time, global trade rules meant to safeguard against protectionism have become brittle. The U.S. has blocked the appointment of judges to the World Trade Organization’s highest court, which is tasked with enforcing trade rules.

The resulting impunity has emboldened countries beyond the U.S. to openly flout WTO rules. Indonesia, for example, continues to maintain a WTO-inconsistent export ban on nickel. Canada’s electric vehicle tariff will likely be judged illegal under trade rules as well.

Global trade system at a crossroads

The Great Trade Diversion is set to put an already strained system to the test. There is still time for countries to reaffirm their commitment to international trade rules. Those same rules also allow countries to temporarily restrict trade when faced with a flood of imports.

The Canadian government can proactively identify sectors at risk of disruption and call on the Canada Border Services Agency to self-initiate investigations into vulnerable sectors to swiftly clear the procedural hurdles for imposing temporary import restrictions.

If countries stick to these rules, the global trading system can weather the storm. Just as possible, though, is a slide toward protectionism. Faced with a deluge of goods coming from China, the temptation to erect illegal trade barriers like the U.S. already has will be high.

The global economy stands at a crossroads: one path leads to a reassertion of international co-operation and global rules; the other to a cascade of protectionist measures and a weakening of the very system that has enabled decades of economic growth and stability.

Wolfgang Alschner receives funding from the SSHRC.

– ref. U.S. tariffs are about to trigger the greatest trade diversion the world has ever seen – https://theconversation.com/u-s-tariffs-are-about-to-trigger-the-greatest-trade-diversion-the-world-has-ever-seen-254049

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s record-breaking contract with the Toronto Blue Jays is a win-win deal for both sides

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ryan Clutterbuck, Assistant Professor in Sport Management, Brock University

After missing out on the Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto sweepstakes in 2023 and 2024, the Toronto Blue Jays and first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have reportedly agreed to a record-breaking 14-year US$500 million extension to his contract with the team.

The deal will likely prove to be a win-win for both sides.

For the Blue Jays, the win, as articulated by current Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer, means “you just solidified your organization, and you know who’s playing first for the next 14 years.”

One of Guerrero Jr.’s wins (that doesn’t include a dollar sign), according to teammate Bo Bichette, is that he gets to remain at a team he wants to keep playing for.

In terms of lessons learned, this contract offers future sport managers and negotiators from across disciplines several reminders to reflect on and incorporate into future deals.

Dealing with time pressures

Time pressure arises in auctions or negotiations when people feel like they are running out of time.

It can lead to people making unwise decisions, such as the winner’s curse, where someone ends up overpaying for something because they overestimated its value. However, in negotiations, there are real time pressures and imagined time pressures, and recognizing each is important.

For example, we can imagine an alternate universe in which the Blue Jays accepted and then acted upon Guerrero Jr.’s Feb. 18 deadline to negotiate a contract extension.

In that universe, there’s no win-win potential. Instead, negotiations between the Blue Jays and Guerrero Jr. end and the conversation turns to possible trading partners and timelines to secure the greatest possible return.

The Blue Jays recognized Guerrero Jr.’s Feb. 18 deadline represented an imagined rather than a real time pressure. Faced with an imagined time pressure, the Blue Jays executed a clever act of negotiation jiu-jitsu.

Over a month after Guerrero Jr.’s Feb. 18 deadline had passed, Blue Jays President Mark Shapiro said: “I think we’re going to sign him. I think we’re going to extend him. The reason I feel that way is because we have such a clear alignment on the desired outcome.”

Whereas other, perhaps less experienced negotiators may have been tempted to meet Guerrero Jr.’s demands with reciprocal force, for example, by issuing their own counter-ultimatum (as in: take it or leave it!), Shapiro simply ignored the demand and reinforced the team’s desire to make Guerrero Jr. a Blue Jay for life.

Even experienced negotiators can fall into repetitive action-reaction cycles in which every demand, ask and ultimatum is met with equal or increased resistance from the other side. Of course, in every negotiation, either side will have to stand up for their interests and push back at times. But sometimes it can be more useful to simply step aside than it is to push back.

Time value of money

There were also financial issues that had to be resolved via negotiation. Notable, as well, is the time-value-of-money concept that entered into the sport lexicon with hitter Shohei Ohtani’s uniquely structured contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers (US$700 million over 10 years with US$680 million deferred until 2034). This may have been a major factor for Guerrero Jr. too.

To understand how the time-value-of-money concept can impact negotiations, it may be helpful to reflect on how far $50 used to go 10 years ago and far it does today. Just as $50 in 2015 was more valuable then than it is today, the same will be true for hundreds of millions of dollars.

Much has been made of Guerrero Jr.’s reported contact and its compensation structure that, similar to outfielder Juan Soto’s deal with the New York Mets, does not include such team/ownership-friendly deferrals.

Ohtani may be more comfortable and uniquely positioned, by virtue of his lucrative off-the-field endorsements in North America and Japan, to defer a large chunk of his US$700 million deal with the LA Dodgers. However, the message from Soto and Guerrero Jr.’s camps seems to have been: show me the present value.

What is interesting from a negotiation standpoint and worth reflecting on here and for the future is how showing Guerrero Jr. the present-value-of-money facilitated the deal.

Despite challenges to securing a long-term win-win, that included an arbitration hearing in February 2024, the application of time pressure by Guerrero Jr. a year later and a reported deadlock over $50 million in the late stages of the negotiation, the Blue Jays and Guerrero Jr. can now each claim victory. It’s a classic win-win.

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

– ref. Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s record-breaking contract with the Toronto Blue Jays is a win-win deal for both sides – https://theconversation.com/vladimir-guerrero-jr-s-record-breaking-contract-with-the-toronto-blue-jays-is-a-win-win-deal-for-both-sides-254055

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: How I’m teaching Holocaust literature in light of Canadian recommendations around combatting antisemitism
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Regan Lipes, Extended Sessional Instructor, English and Comparative Literature, MacEwan University

As university students encounter hate speech, like statements perpetrated by music industry personalities they may have once enjoyed, they have questions about antisemitism — and what it really is.

I research and teach Jewish literature with a focus on Holocaust narratives. With rising tensions on both sides of the Israel-Hamas War, and 24 hostages still in captivity, Canadian communities feel the continued conflict domestically.

In December 2024, the House of Commons’s Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights released a comprehensive document: Heightened Anisemitism in Canada and How to Combat It.

Since Oct. 7, 2023, societal tolerance for blatant acts of antisemitism has risen. This makes this document all the more timely, especially as it reports: “Many witnesses noted that the rise in antisemitism has been particularly acute on university campuses.”

Among the document’s 19 recommendations is guidance around Holocaust education and remembrance. While there is longstanding scholarly discussion around best practices and ethics pertaining to teaching the Holocaust and remembrance, educators must also be responsive to our current — and evolving — contexts.

Here, I share ways I have sought to adapt my own approach to teaching Holocaust literature. For educators wondering how to begin approaching the integration of Holocaust topics, a 2020 collection of articles on the subject, Understanding and Teaching the Holocaust, edited by Laura Hilton (professor of history) and Avinoam Patt (professor of Holocaust studies), could be a launching point.

Modern-day antisemitism, trajectories

The committee’s sixth recommendation is that the government of Canada work with provinces and territories to “ensure that Holocaust education in public schools and other institutions includes explanations of modern-day antisemitism and integrates a Jewish community-centered lens.”

For a course teaching film adaptations of the Holocaust, I solicited the assistance of a colleague, historian Carson Phillips, at the Azrieli Foundation, a charity whose eight funding areas include Holocaust education and legacy, to tackle this recommendation.

Working with Phillips brought an additional voice to the discussion of how Holocaust denial and Holocaust distortion are connected to antisemitism. Holocaust denial is a form of antisemitism with all its malignant intentions.

Read more:
How Hitler conspiracies and other Holocaust disinformation undermine democratic institutions

Phillips suggested I try to additionally focus on survivor memoirs that explore life prior to the Holocaust to illustrate the trajectory of antisemitic agendas. He noted I should concentrate on memoirs with a connection to Canada so this message would be more relevant for my students.

He provided me with A Cry in Unison by Judy Cohen,
Flights of Spirit by Elly Gotz and Memories in Focus by Pinchas Gutter. I also applied his advice in the fiction I taught and incorporated the 1970 novel, Crackpot, by Adele Wiseman, to show that between the First and Second World Wars in Canada, there was societal antisemitism and social isolation of Jews.

To further connect this to a Canadian context, and to consider trajectories of hate, in the future I may include content around how there were plans to export the “final solution” from Europe to North America. This illustrates that tolerance of antisemitism can quickly threaten societal stability.

Antisemitism far predates Nazism

I wanted my students to see that although the Holocaust was caused by antisemitism, antisemitism long predated the rise of Nazism and survives today because of a lack of shared awareness.

The Art Gallery of Alberta recently hosted an exhibit Here to Tell of photograph portraits of Holocaust survivors and their recorded testimonies.

Read more:
Holocaust survivor stories are reminders of why we need to educate against antisemitism

In three of my courses, I gave the extra credit option to visit the exhibition and reflect on ideas, themes and concepts that resonated. Similar engagement is being implemented in high school classes to address Alberta’s curricular requirements.

This has the aim of better informing learners about what can occur when xenophobia and hate are allowed to proliferate.

The documentary connected to the exhibit vividly illustrates why antisemitism is dangerous when left to fester and breed, or if misinformation masquerades as fact.

‘Here to Tell: Faces of Holocaust Survivors’ project.

As recent events in a suburb of Edmonton suggest, not combating antisemitism allows the tentacles of white supremacy and xenophobia to affect other communities too. There, masked demonstrators stood with an apparent anti-immigration sign while one gave a Nazi salute.

Addressing Holocaust remembrance

The eighth recommendation of Heightened Antisemitism calls for the government of Canada, “in line with its commitment to build strong communities and celebrate multiculturalism,” to “provide funding to develop a five-year program to enhance the literacy of post-secondary students regarding the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism.”

For me as an educator, this made the marking of International Holocaust Remembrance Day (IHRD) especially meaningful in the context of classroom learning in Alberta.

After all, Alberta was the province where James Keegstra first began teaching Holocaust denial to high school students in the 1980s. After Prof. Anthony Hall of the University of Lethbridge finally retired in 2018, it seemed like Holocaust denial and baseless vilification of Zionism was on the decline in Alberta. As reported by CBC, in 2016 Hall was suspended without pay for “allegedly promoting conspiracy theories and denying the Holocaust in online articles and videos.”

This year was the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, and to to mark IHRD, I organized two guest speakers to present their research to students. Speakers helped contextualize the immediate legacy of the Holocaust and how this contributes to contemporary antisemitism.

With Yom HaShoah (Jewish Holocaust Remembrance Day) soon approaching, these discussions should be at the forefront of Canadian human rights awareness.

Read more:
How Jan. 27 came to be International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust

Wider implications

Although my students are likely not familiar with the report’s broader recommendations for how to combat antisemitism, a sizeable portion of the report’s advice does focus on university campuses. There are implications far beyond teaching the Holocaust or Jewish subject matters which may potentially impact students.

Recommendations include:
- Calls for more robust and effective strategies to combat antisemitism and safeguard Jewish communities across Canada;
- For action to address antisemitic incidents;
- That the “full diversity of the Jewish identity be acknowledged within Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) frameworks, including Jewish peoplehood, ethnicity, nationality, multi-denominational religion, cultural diversity, and language, as well as Zionist and Indigenous aspects of Jewish identity.” This point notes that “this includes the recognition of Zionism as the self-determination of Jewish people in their ancestral homeland of Israel.”
It has yet to be seen how a change in federal Canadian leadership will uphold the values articulated in this important committee report, but the document does provide hope for Holocaust educators and broader Canadian communities isolated by a rise in hate.

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

– ref. How I’m teaching Holocaust literature in light of Canadian recommendations around combatting antisemitism – https://theconversation.com/how-im-teaching-holocaust-literature-in-light-of-canadian-recommendations-around-combatting-antisemitism-247747
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Humanity depends on the ocean — Here is what we need to prioritize for immediate ocean science research

Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Brad deYoung, Robert Bartlett Professor of Oceanography, Memorial University of Newfoundland

Humankind is inextricably dependent on the ocean. Many of our greatest civilizations have thrived on the rim of the ocean. Today, we are more reliant than ever on the ocean for our economic, social and physical well-being.

Maritime activities, from global trade to tourism, exceed US$3 trillion annually. The “ocean economy” is the fourth largest in the world. Furthermore, our global economic vitality is largely due to the cost-effective nature of ocean transportation, which contributes to the reduced price per ton of shipped goods.

From submarine cables to shipping, fisheries and aquaculture, we are increasingly reliant on the blue economy. Roughly 20 per cent of the animal protein that we eat comes from marine fish.

The ocean has changed dramatically in the past century, and we expect more change to come. Collapses of fisheries, coral reefs, shark populations and other species — along with increased dead zones, red tide blooms and invasive species — have followed increased human development, industrial use of the sea, climate change and pollution.

Humanity is at a social, political, environmental and scientific nexus point.

We are a group of researchers and experts who served on a committee of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to advise the National Science Foundation on forward-looking approaches to investing in ocean science research, infrastructure and workforce development.

We considered the question: What vital research must we pursue now, and what investments must we make to achieve ambitious research goals?

Our scientific efforts must focus on the key gaps in our predictive knowledge, and on the critical pathways and thresholds for ocean change. We should support ocean science to prepare for the future.

Readying ocean science

Given limited resources and rapid changes, we need to consider how to set priorities. Our committee offered a distinction between urgent and vital research: urgent research is time-sensitive, with immediate relevance to emerging regional and global issues, while vital research transforms our ability to grapple with rapid changes in the ocean and the Earth system.

Our ability to observe, model and understand the ocean has greatly increased in recent years.

For example, Argo — an ocean weather observing system — provides a global view of water properties around the planet. Argo has expanded our understanding of the global ocean and has significantly improved weather forecasts.

In addition, research on the impact of climate shifts on ocean species is more accurate, helping us to understand the impact of these shifts on carbon sequestration, shoreline protection from storms and tipping points in interconnected ocean systems.

The growing focus on links between the chemical, physical, geological and biological states of the ocean, and planetary climate states, provides a much-improved structure for forecasting the state of the ocean.

Healthy oceans, healthy people

A focus on human well-being and its dependence on ocean processes can provide an important connection that places ocean sciences in key conversations related to human health.

When it comes to understanding the importance of ocean and climate, we need to determine how the ocean’s ability to absorb heat and carbon dioxide will change. While the ocean presently absorbs 90 per cent of global heat and roughly 30 per cent of carbon dioxide, changes in the physical and biological ocean will likely slow these rates, leading to accelerated atmospheric warming.

Related to this climate question, how will marine ecosystems respond to changes in the Earth system? Declining ecosystem resilience will likely have strong negative impacts on food supplies and livelihoods.

Can we develop new understanding that will support model forecasts to determine the effects of warming, acidification and de-oxygenation on marine life?

Another challenge is to improve our ability to forecast extreme events driven by ocean and seafloor processes. Marine earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes and storm surges are natural processes that pose serious risks to human well-being. Societal vulnerability to these extreme events can be profound.

As our built coastal infrastructure expands, and climate change shifts patterns of such extreme events, it is critical to improve our ability to observe, understand and forecast extreme events.

Investing in ocean futures

Ocean research depends on continued funding of basic studies and investment in key ocean science infrastructure. We must integrate emerging technologies, artificial intelligence and expanded use of existing ocean infrastructure such as globally ranging research vessels, global drifters that float on the ocean surface and gather information, underwater communication cables and coastal marine laboratories.

International co-operation is needed since few of these challenges are truly local. A move towards more collaborative, transdisciplinary research is necessary, alongside an expanded ocean science workforce with training and knowledge well beyond those of traditional disciplines.

Our assessment of the state of ocean science in the United States identified key infrastructure required to address these challenges.

For example, while advances in autonomous vehicle technology offer many opportunities, there will remain a need for specialized research ships that can operate in coastal and deep-sea waters and ice-covered regions to drill for** seafloor samples. Globally, there has been a decline in available ships to support ocean research.

Likewise, nearly 100 marine laboratories dot U.S. coastlines, providing training, access and research for thousands of students each year. The development of this infrastructure offers opportunities for international collaboration and cooperation with private sector partners. It may also be that some of the existing infrastructure, such as the Ocean Observatories Initiative, needs to be reconsidered in light of shifting priorities and developing technologies.

An ocean glider deployed at sea.
(B. DeYoung), CC BY-ND

Collective action

We differentiate between urgent and vital ocean science research priorities.

While the urgent will continue to demand our attention — the next coral bleaching event, the latest fisheries collapse — it is our commitment to the vital research priorities identified in the report that will ultimately determine our ability to steward rather than merely react to complex changes in the oceans.

Our work offers a compass, but navigation requires collective action. Research institutions must transform their approach: restructuring tenure and promotion criteria to reward transdisciplinary investigations, supporting reskilling and upskilling of faculty, and preparing an innovative, adept workforce.

Policymakers must create frameworks that value long-term investigation. And citizens must advocate for sustained investments in ocean science that transcend political cycles. The ocean’s future — and our own — depends on our willingness to pursue what is vital.

Kristen St John receives funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation. She is the author of a lab book Reconstructing Earth’s Climate History: Inquiry-Based Exercises for the Lab and Class, and an in press textbook Earth’s Climate: A Geoscience Perspective.

Mona Behl receives funding from U.S. National Science Foundation, the National Aeronautic and Space Agency, and the U.S. Department of Commerce. She is affiliated with the American Meteorological Society, and the Oceanography Society.

Peter Girguis receives funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation, Schmidt Sciences, the National Aeronautic and Space Administration, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. He is affiliated with Harvard University, Schmidt Sciences, and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution .

Richard W Murray has received funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation and other U.S. federal agencies.

Stephen Palumbi receives funding from NSF, The Pew Charitable Trusts among other sources. He is affiliated with The Ocean Conservancy as a Board member, and is a member of the National Academies of Sciences. He has been vocal about the value and fun of bringing ocean science to the general public in book like The Extreme Life of the Sea and the upcoming book Born Predators.

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

– ref. Humanity depends on the ocean — Here is what we need to prioritize for immediate ocean science research – https://theconversation.com/humanity-depends-on-the-ocean-here-is-what-we-need-to-prioritize-for-immediate-ocean-science-research-252247

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: He served in the U.S. Army at age 12?!

Source: US Army (video statements)

About the U.S. Army:

The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
#USArmy #Soldiers #Military

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bD3vozgFOmo

MIL OSI Video –

April 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government cuts price of everyday items and summer essentials
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release

Government cuts price of everyday items and summer essentials

The Government has cut prices on the imports of everyday essentials like spices and juices to boost economic growth.
Prices slashed on 89 foreign products – ranging from pasta, fruit juices and spices to plastics and gardening supplies – over next two years

Cheaper imports will save businesses at least £17 million per year in a further bid to kickstart growth as part of the Plan for Change

Savings could be passed onto families, mixologists and amateur gardeners through lower prices on everyday items and summer essentials

UK committed to economic growth, business security and lower prices through free and open trade

UK businesses and consumers could benefit from lower prices on imports of everyday essentials like spices and juices as the Government takes further action to make the UK the best place to do business and kickstart economic growth.

In a further demonstration of the government’s commitment to free trade and responding to business need, the UK Global Tariff will be temporarily suspended on 89 products saving UK businesses up and down the country at least £17 million a year.

The products include plywood and plastics, which are essential for construction – making life easier for chippies all over the country.

Working in partnership with industry, the government has decided to suspend import tariffs on a whole range of products to lower costs for businesses, tariffs will now be cut to zero until July 2027.

The savings to businesses on products such as pasta, fruit juices, coconut oil and pine nuts could be passed onto consumers just in time for the summer season, meaning lower food prices in supermarkets, restaurants and pubs.

Products including agave syrup, often used in margaritas, and plant bulbs will also see tariffs removed meaning keen cocktail-makers and amateur gardeners could enjoy lowered costs as the warmer weather approaches.

These changes will support key growth sectors such as advanced manufacturing and clean energy to compete with international rivals, supporting the Government’s Industrial Strategy with the Plan for Change.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

Free and open trade grows economies, lowers prices and helps businesses to sell to the world, which is why we’re cutting tariffs on a range of products.

From food to furniture, this will reduce the cost of everyday items for businesses, with savings hopefully passed onto consumers.

As we face a new era of global trade, this government is going further faster to make Britain the best country to do business, delivering on our Plan for Change. These suspensions are just another example of that.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

In a changing world we know families are anxious about the cost of living, and businesses uncertain about their future. That’s why we’ve announced lower prices on imports of everyday essentials – helping businesses to thrive and pass on savings to customers.

Through our Plan for Change we’re supporting British business and putting more money in people’s pockets.

The UK Global Tariff applies to goods entering the UK that do not qualify for preferential treatment under, for example, a free trade agreement.

Businesses across the UK apply for temporary suspensions on a regular basis by providing evidence of the benefits to themselves, their sector and the wider economy.

CBI Europe and International Director Sean McGuire:

In the face of an uncertain and unpredictable global trading environment, government should be commended for suspending import duties on an array of products. Measures like these will be important for reducing the financial pressures on firms and help to drive growth for businesses of all sizes across the country.

The UK has already reduced tariffs on certain imported goods, benefitting British consumers with better choice, quality and prices on products like fruit juices from Peru and vacuum cleaners from Malaysia.

The Government is going further and faster in negotiating trade deals with partners including India, the Gulf Cooperation Council, South Korea and Switzerland which will unlock new opportunities for businesses, support jobs, and boost wages.

These measures come as the government acts swiftly to protect UK businesses and workers in a new era of global trade, through increasing flexibility on the zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, cutting the red tape and bureaucracy that slows down clinical trials in the life sciences sector, investing up to £600 million in a new Health Data Research Service and backing a £30 million package to support the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport which is expected to support 5,000 jobs and boost the economy by £5 billion. 

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Published 13 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Montreux Jazz Festival unveils summer line-up, expands intl reach

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

The Montreux Jazz Festival, set for July in Switzerland, has revealed an eclectic lineup blending musical genres and fostering cultural connections between East and West.

Founded in 1967 by Claude Nobs and directed by Mathieu Jaton since 2013, the iconic festival will feature a mix of legendary and contemporary artists, including Santana, Alanis Morissette, Pulp, Chaka Khan, FKA twigs, Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, RAYE, Noah Kahan, Sam Fender and J Balvin.

“The great opening on the Lake Stage will be with Chaka Khan celebrating 50 years of career and paying tribute to Quincy Jones who passed away this year,” Jaton told Xinhua in an interview.

“There are so many incredible artists, and so we’re very pleased and very honored to welcome all those beautiful musicians to Montreux,” he added.

Jaton highlighted the festival’s spirit of diversity, with a lineup spanning rock, folk, electronic music, jazz, soul, R&B and global hip-hop.

Held in Montreux, nestled between the Alps and Lake Geneva, the festival attracts around 250,000 visitors annually, offering stunning views, top-class acoustics and free stages. It has hosted icons like Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin and Elton John over the years.

Since late 1970s, Montreux has expanded globally to cities like Sao Paulo, Detroit, Tokyo and Rio de Janeiro.

“The brand Montreux continues to expand around the world,” Jaton said. “We’re very proud and happy to now have Montreux Jazz Festival China, Montreux Jazz Festival Tokyo, Montreux Jazz Festival Brazil and Montreux Jazz Festival Miami.”

“We also continue our expansion of the Montreux Jazz Cafes and just opened a Montreux Jazz Club in Lausanne in Switzerland,” he added.

In 2021, the festival debuted in China, with the first edition held in Hangzhou under the theme “When West Meets East.” The fourth edition of the Montreux Jazz Festival China, set to take place in Suzhou on Oct. 24-26, is expected to further connect international and Chinese musicians.

Jaton emphasized that building cultural bridges between China and the world remains a priority.

“The team in China has put in a lot of energy to bring the Montreux Jazz Festival to China. The last edition (also in Suzhou) in October was really brilliant. It shows also the potential of the brand’s development in China,” he said.

“I’m sure that the Montreux Jazz Festival China will expand and become a major event in China, which is definitely a very important market for us,” he noted.

MIL OSI China News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Beats without borders — Chinese, Senegalese drummers converse in harmonic rhythm

Source: China State Council Information Office 3

The Central Conservatory of Music Percussion Ensemble perform during a cross-cultural performance titled “Drums and Music in Harmony” at the Grand National Theater Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose in Dakar, capital of Senegal, April 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

With synchronized movements and dazzling technique, percussionists from China and Senegal breathed life into diverse drum pieces during a cross-cultural performance titled “Drums and Music in Harmony” in Dakar, the capital of Senegal.

The show, held at the Grand National Theater Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose on Thursday evening, attracted nearly 1,000 spectators, eager to witness the captivating collaboration between Chinese and Senegalese artists.

“This is more than a musical performance. It’s a spiritual exchange,” said Yin Fei, associate professor from China’s Central Conservatory of Music.

He led a nine-member percussion group on a cultural visit to Senegal, where they engaged in face-to-face collaboration with the renowned Doudou Ndiaye Rose Percussion Ensemble.

From Chinese lion dance drumming to Senegalese sabar drumming, the two ensembles, each with its distinct style, found common ground in both rhythm and spirit, showcasing the universality of percussion as a shared cultural language.

Opening the performance, the Doudou Ndiaye Rose Percussion Ensemble delivered a powerful display of sabar drumming. Dressed in traditional Senegalese attire, the performers moved in sync with their rhythms, weaving stories of Senegalese heritage and community through sound and motion.

They were followed by the Central Conservatory of Music Percussion Ensemble, which presented a series of Chinese percussion pieces steeped in national character, evoking the profound cultural legacy of Chinese civilization through layered, resonant rhythms.

Idrissa Faye, a resident of Dakar, watched the performance with his four-year-old daughter. “A few days ago, I passed by the theater and saw a huge poster for this event. I had never seen a Chinese performance before, so I came early with my daughter today,” Faye said.

“The show was so amazing. I could really feel the grandeur and power of Chinese art,” he said.

Yin introduced the audience to the long and rich history of Chinese percussion. “In traditional Chinese culture, drums often symbolize authority, sanctity, unity, and strength. In ancient times, the beat of drums marked the emperor’s processions, the departure of armies, and temple ceremonies.”

“Today, drum music remains a vibrant part of Chinese festivals such as Spring Festival, temple fairs, and harvest celebrations, often used to convey blessings and festive joy,” he added.

Sabar drumming, a symbol of African percussion culture, is a dialogue between drummers and dancers. The drummer shifts rhythms based on the dancer’s movements, while the dancer responds dynamically to the beat. This vibrant interplay is known as the “conversation of the drums.”

For Mustapha Ndiaye, head of the Doudou Ndiaye Rose Ensemble, Thursday’s performance also profoundly pulled at his heartstrings.

It served as a tribute to his late father, Doudou Ndiaye Rose, who brought traditional Wolof sabar drumming, once confined to weddings and festivals, to the global stage. The grand theater itself is named in the legendary drummer’s honor.

“This exchange is a great opportunity to spark new artistic inspiration. We share so many similar stories. The drum is more than an instrument. It’s a vessel of culture and spirit,” said Ndiaye. “One day, I hope to bring Senegalese drumming culture to China.” Enditem

MIL OSI China News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Companion Animal Care recipients announced
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

Companion animals help people with their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
In brief:
- The ACT Government has awarded $200,000 in funding through the Companion Animal Care Grants Program.
- The funding will support community groups in Canberra who improve animal welfare.
- This story lists the groups who have recieved grants, and what the funding will be used for.
The ACT Government has awarded $200,000 in funding through the Companion Animal Care Grants Program. This funding will support community groups to improve animal welfare across Canberra.

Most of the groups receiving funding through the program rely on volunteers and community support. They rescue, rehome, advocate and care for companion animals such as cats and dogs.

Groups to receive funding include:
ACT Pet Crisis Support
ACT Rescue and Foster
Canberra Pet Rescue
Canberra Street Cat Alliance
Completely Rescued
Labrador Rescue
Pets and Positive Ageing
Pets in the Park
The Rabbit Sanctuary.
These groups will use the grants for a wide variety of activities including to support:
volunteer-run vet clinics to help pet owners with a Healthcare Card to care for their pets
services for older pet owners to help them keep their pets as their health declines
homeless people with companion animals by providing access to medications to treat the chronic health conditions of their pets
purchasing food and litter for foster carers to assist with rehoming cats in need
training for rescue dogs to increase the chances of rehoming them
desexing of rescue dogs to reduce the number of unplanned and unwanted litters
upgrading animal care facilities including a cattery and small animal enclosure
the rescue and rehoming of domestic rabbits.
Companion animals help many people in Canberra with their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

With the cost of living crisis, there has been an increase in abandoned and surrendered animals. This has led to more demand for the important work of these support groups.

This funding will provide support for and recognise the efforts of volunteer groups that care for Canberra’s companion animals.

Read more like this:

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MIL OSI News –
April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Smucker Leads Bipartisan Group Supporting Medicare Enrollment Protection Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-16)

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Lloyd Smucker (PA-11), Angie Craig, Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Mike Thompson (CA-05), Erin Houchin (IN-09), and Donald Norcross (NJ-01) have introduced the Medicare Enrollment Protection Act. This bipartisan legislation aims to protect seniors who enroll in Medicare Part B after their COBRA coverage ends from potential coverage gaps and late enrollment penalties.

Under current law, all seniors must enroll in Medicare Part B within three months of turning 65. Seniors who continue working past 65 and maintain employer-sponsored coverage are granted an exception. However, COBRA continuation coverage does not qualify for this exemption.

As a result, seniors who choose to extend their coverage through COBRA instead of enrolling in Medicare are subject to waiting periods of up to a year before they can begin receiving coverage and risk a lifetime of increased Part B premiums and other financial penalties.

The Medicare Enrollment Protection Act seeks to close this loophole by creating a transition period that would allow seniors on COBRA to enroll in Part B during any month they have active COBRA coverage. As long as they enroll in Medicare Part B before their COBRA coverage ends, they would not be subject to a permanent late enrollment penalty.

“This legislation is a commonsense effort to make health care more affordable for American seniors by providing a transition period before Medicare late enrollment penalties are applied,” Rep. Smucker said. “Seniors should be able to make their own choices and enroll in Medicare at an age that makes sense for themselves, not one set by the federal government. I have been fighting for this change to make the enrollment process easier since coming to Congress. I will work to secure support from my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and look forward to this bill’s passage.”

“Seniors shouldn’t be penalized for keeping their existing health coverage before enrolling in Medicare,” said Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-09). “The Medicare Enrollment Protection Act is a commonsense solution that protects seniors from unexpected penalties and ensures they have the flexibility and peace of mind they deserve.”

“Medicare has provided care to millions of seniors and people with disabilities for decades. Protecting access to this program is vital to ensure they continue to receive the care they need,” said Rep. Thompson. “The bipartisan Medicare Enrollment Protection Act will help Americans enroll in Medicare and work to ensure beneficiaries are not faced with unexpected expensive penalties. I’m pleased to join my colleagues to protect access to Medicare for those who depend on this program.”

“We want to ensure the transition from private health care to Medicare is easy,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “The current law does not meet that objective. Additionally, the law does not properly reflect the need for flexibility due to the various challenges that those exiting the workforce face in today’s economy. Our bill empowers seniors to make the health care decisions that best fit their individual needs without fear of a lifetime penalty, and I look forward to its quick passage.”

“Seniors have paid into Medicare their whole life and it is time we make it easier to access the healthcare they have earned,” said Congressman Norcross. “Seniors already have to overcome complex hurdles to find the coverage they need, and they shouldn’t face excessive penalties for the time it takes them to do so. The Medicare Enrollment Protection Act will empower seniors across South Jersey and America, increasing access to high-quality health care without burdensome penalties.”

“We should be making it easier for seniors to access the health care they need, not harder, and that’s what this common sense, bipartisan bill will do,” said Rep. Angie Craig. “I’ll keep working across the aisle to lower health care costs, cut bureaucratic red tape and make life better for every Minnesotan.”

The legislation has earned support from national and local advocates.

“Ensuring that all seniors, including those on COBRA, receive fair and equitable treatment is a vital step forward. This proposal empowers seniors to make healthcare choices that best fit their needs without the worry of lifetime penalties. NABIP commends Representative Smucker’s commitment to this issue and urges Congress to support this proposal, ensuring seniors are not subjected to undue financial hardships while maintaining access to continuous healthcare coverage.” – NABIP CEO Jessica Brooks-Woods

Joshua Brooker, Chief Visionary Officer at SnapHealth and resident of Pennsylvania’s 11^th Congressional District shared the following statement:

“As a constituent and someone who works closely with retirees navigating Medicare, I’m grateful for Congressman Smucker’s continued leadership on issues that impact seniors. In my experience, about 75% of those transitioning into retirement lean on a broker to help make sense of the process. For those who remain on COBRA, it’s often a well-intentioned decision based on familiarity and the desire to avoid making a mistake.

The Medicare Enrollment Protection Act acknowledges that Medicare enrollment can be complex—and that sometimes, people simply need a little more time and clarity. This bill provides a thoughtful, one-time opportunity for individuals to make the switch without being penalized. It’s a practical, people-first solution that reflects the reality many retirees face.

Thank you, Congressman Smucker, for continuing to support policies that meet seniors where they are.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF CONGRESSMAN JOHN LAFALCE

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
New York, N.Y. – U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer released the following statement on the passing of Congressman John LaFalce:
“Congressman LaFalce was as Buffalo as they come. He had one of the biggest brains and the biggest heart. John was a legislative giant and a dear friend going back to our time serving together in the House. He would see a problem, whether in his beloved city of Buffalo or across the country, and dedicate every fiber of his being to making sure it was solved. His dedication to public service and passion for helping others knew no bounds. He loved Buffalo and always defended Western New York. He was a good and loyal friend, and I will deeply miss him. My prayers are with his loved ones and Western NY as they mourn this tremendous loss.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Happy Passover from President Donald J. Trump

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

I want to wish the Jewish people in America and Israel, and all around the world, a very happy Passover.

Every year at this time, Jewish families celebrate God’s liberation of the ancient Israelites from slavery in Egypt, guiding them through the prophet Moses on a forty-year journey to a very, very promised land.

The story of Exodus, which is retold around the globe and all over the world at every Passover Seder, is a reminder not only of the enduring strength of the Jewish people, but of the importance of putting our faith in Almighty God no matter what the circumstance.

To all the Jewish families gathering with friends and loved ones this week, have a blessed Passover, and may God continue to watch over the Jewish people, the State of Israel, and the United States of America.

Thank you very much.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oc3XvLPD8GA

MIL OSI Video –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Announces 638 Guns Turned in at Syracuse Gun Buyback

Source: US State of New York

Today’s buyback event in Syracuse resulted in 638 guns being turned in, including 130 assault weapons, 333 handguns, 2 ghost guns, and 150 long guns. Following today’s gun buyback event, Attorney General James has helped remove more than 9,000 guns out of New York communities.

“We can only succeed in reducing gun violence if we use every strategy available,” said Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh. “Gun buybacks have and should continue to be part of our approach in Syracuse. For people in possession of guns they no longer want, buybacks provide a safe way to dispose of those weapons, and that’s good for our neighborhoods. I thank Attorney General James for teaming with the Syracuse Police Department to administer this effective program in Syracuse.”

“I would like to thank the Attorney General’s Office for organizing another gun buy back event in the city of Syracuse,” said Syracuse Police Chief Joe Cecile. “Events like these, along with other proactive initiatives and the efforts of the hardworking men and women of law enforcement, are the best team strategy for driving gun violence numbers down while protecting our law-abiding citizens.”

“The Syracuse Mayor’s Office to Reduce Gun Violence works with a team of community partners to put an end to the grief and sadness that gun violence creates,” said Lateef Johnson Kinsey, Director of the Mayor’s Office to Reduce Gun Violence. “We share a commitment to get guns off our streets because we know fewer guns will make safer neighborhoods. I’m grateful to Attorney General James for assisting our work with another gun buyback program. Without the help of Attorney General James, we could never undertake such an effort.”

MIL OSI USA News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney speaks with Secretary General of NATO Mark Rutte

Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, spoke with the Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Mark Rutte.

The leaders discussed issues of shared interest, including strengthening Euro-Atlantic security, continuing to support Ukraine in its self-defence, bolstering military readiness and burden-sharing, as well as identifying additional opportunities to further deepen transatlantic co-operation in the defence industry and innovation.

Prime Minister Carney underscored that NATO remains a cornerstone of transatlantic security. He reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to strengthening the Alliance and contributing to the capabilities it requires.

Prime Minister Carney and Secretary General Rutte agreed to remain in close contact.

Associated Links

MIL OSI Canada News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Murray, Rep. Brown Lead Members in Letter Urging Secretary Chavez-DeRemer to Abandon Plans to Dismantle OFCCP Amid Reports DOL Plans to Slash Staff By 90 Percent, Shutter Local Offices

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

40 Members call on Trump admin to reverse course on plans to dismantle agency charged with combating illegal employment discrimination ahead of April 14^th “fork in the road” deadline

OFCCP recovered $22.5 million for 12,756 affected workers in FY24 alone

ICYMI: Senator Murray Presses Deputy Labor Secretary Nominee on Trump Dismantling OFCCP And Enabling Illegal Discrimination

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and U.S. Representative Shontel Brown (D, OH-11) led 38 of their Senate and House colleagues in sending a letter to Department of Labor (DOL) Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer expressing concerns over reports of the Department’s plans to slash the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs’ (OFCCP) capacity by 90 percent and close over 50 local offices. Last Friday, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer sent an email to OFCCP employees saying they have until Monday, April 14^th, to take the “fork in the road” deferred resignation offer or be fired.

For decades, OFCCP has investigated complaints from workers and reviewed federal contractors’ employment practices—safeguarding federal contract workers from various forms of discrimination, recovering back pay, negotiating job opportunities, and more. In Fiscal Year 2024, OFCCP recovered $22.5 million for 12,756 affected workers and negotiated 407 job opportunities for workers.

In January, President Trump signed Executive Order 14173, which revoked Executive Order 11246—signed in 1965—which gave the Department of Labor the authority to investigate and remedy prohibited employment discrimination on the basis of race, religion, and national origin by federal contractors, the agency remains responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws and equal employment requirements for workers with disabilities and veterans. Federal contract workers make up more than 20 percent of the entire U.S. labor force, making OFCCP a powerful force to prevent and remedy discrimination across the country.

“Drastic cuts to staff and shuttered offices in our communities would leave workers vulnerable to discrimination. While Executive Order 11246 was revoked, the agency remains responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws and equal employment requirements for workers with disabilities and veterans. As of mid-February, the agency had 317 investigators. These investigators remain responsible for investigating thousands of contractor establishments that employ millions of workers. The estimated 36 million federal workers dispersed across the United States make investigators in regional and district offices critical for effective enforcement,” the 40 Members wrote in their letter to Secretary Chavez-DeRemer.

“The Department cannot abdicate its responsibility to workers. We urge you to abandon plans to dismantle OFCCP and reaffirm the Department’s commitment to protecting equal employment opportunities for federal contract workers,” the Members concluded.

Joining Senator Murray and Representative Brown in sending the letter were U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) as well as U.S. Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Donald Beyer (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), André Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Danny Davis (IL-07), Cleo Fields (LA-04), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Summer Lee (PA-12), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Dina Titus (NV-01), and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12).

The letter was endorsed by the American Association of University Women, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, and the National Partnership for Women and Families.

Senator Murray has loudly spoken out against the Trump administration’s plans to shutter OFCCP, slamming Trump’s Executive Order 14173 in a statement and pressing Keith Sonderling, President Trump’s then-nominee for Deputy Labor Secretary, about the consequences of the administration’s efforts to shutter OFCCP at his confirmation hearing. Throughout her career, Senator Murray has championed workers’ rights and fought to combat employment discrimination, including as the top Democrat on the Senate labor committee from 2015-2022—among other things, Senator Murray fought back against a proposed DOL rule by the Trump administration that would allow federal contractors and subcontractors to justify discrimination against women, LGBTQ+ people, and members of certain religious groups on ideological grounds. Senator Murray first introduced the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act—comprehensive labor legislation to protect workers’ right to stand together and bargain for fairer wages, better benefits, and safer workplaces—in the 116^th Congress, and also leads the Bringing an End to Harassment by Enhancing Accountability and Rejecting Discrimination (BE HEARD) in the Workplace Act, comprehensive legislation to prevent workplace harassment, strengthen and expand key protections for workers, and support workers in seeking accountability and justice.

The text of the Members’ letter is available below and a PDF is HERE.

Dear Secretary Chavez-DeRemer:

We are deeply concerned by recent reports that the U.S. Department of Labor (The Department) plans to slash capacity at the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs’ (OFCCP) by 90 percent and shut down its more than 50 local offices. Federal contract workers make up more than 20 percent of our nation’s workers and are spread across the country, making OFCCP a powerful force to prevent and remedy discrimination. We urge you to abandon these plans and instead uphold the Department’s responsibility to protect equal employment opportunities for federal contract workers.

For decades, OFCCP has worked effectively to prevent and address unlawful discrimination by investigating individual complaints from workers and by proactively reviewing federal contractors’ employment practices. This unique power to proactively review whether employers were complying with the law allowed OFCCP to identify discrimination that might have otherwise gone unreported or undiscovered. Federal contract workers have benefited from OFCCP’s efforts to recover back pay, salary adjustments, and retroactive seniority on their behalf. In FY 2024, OFCCP recovered $22.5 million for 12,756 affected workers and negotiated 407 job opportunities for workers.

Drastic cuts to staff and shuttered offices in our communities would leave workers vulnerable to discrimination. While Executive Order 11246 was revoked, the agency remains responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws and equal employment requirements for workers with disabilities and veterans. As of mid-February, the agency had 317 investigators. These investigators remain responsible for investigating thousands of contractor establishments that employ millions of workers. The estimated 36 million federal workers dispersed across the United States make investigators in regional and district offices critical for effective enforcement.

Workers deserve to be treated fairly in all aspects of employment and cannot afford to miss out on pay, a promotion or the chance to be considered for a good paying job because of discrimination. Workers cannot afford to lose their anti-discrimination enforcers.

The Department cannot abdicate its responsibility to workers. We urge you to abandon plans to dismantle OFCCP and reaffirm the Department’s commitment to protecting equal employment opportunities for federal contract workers.

Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Mfume, Maryland Delegation Members Slam OMB’s Proposed NASA Goddard Cuts, Vow to Fight Back Against NASA Budget

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks and Representatives Steny Hoyer, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Sarah Elfreth, April McClain Delaney, and Johnny Olszewski released the following statement regarding the Office of Management and Budget’s proposed cuts to NASA Goddard missions:

“Maryland is the proud home to NASA Goddard Space Flight Center and to many of the men and women who conduct the vital work being done there and at its partner launch site, NASA Wallops Flight Facility. This work is critical to our exploration of space, our understanding of the universe and the planet we live on, our development of new, innovative technologies, and our national security. Cutting NASA Goddard’s missions would not only be harmful to our state – the negative impacts would be felt across the country. That’s why we’re committed to protecting the missions at NASA Goddard, and together we will push back against this NASA budget proposal.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Issa Criticizes LA28 Decision Not to Keep Galway Downs an Olympic Venue

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

Calls for continued support of Temecula facility as 2028 Olympics Equestrian venue

Congressman Darrell Issa issued the following statement in response to the decision by LA28 to not keep Galway Downs as an Olympic venue for the 2028 summer games.

“I’m deeply disappointed to learn that Galway Downs in Temecula is reportedly no longer LA28’s proposed host site for equestrian events at the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games. This abrupt move appears arbitrary, unwarranted, and our community deserves a clear explanation of the process that led to this change. At this time, a satisfactory reason has yet to be offered.

It must be said that for several years, the state-of-the-art facility at Galway Downs, the city of Temecula, and the Riverside County community have prepared to host these important events and showcase the very best that all three have to offer. Significant investments in time, material, and preparation have already been dedicated to serving as the host site, and Galway Downs is the only equestrian venue in the greater Los Angeles region with the existing infrastructure to accommodate all Equestrian Events, including a full-length cross-country course.

I look forward to productive and informative conversations and a more comprehensive transparent process that provides fundamental fairness to Galway Downs and unifies our Southern California community as we welcome the world to our home in 2028.”

This week, Rep. Issa also joined Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-41) and a range of Riverside County regional leaders to encourage the Los Angeles City Council, the Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic Games, and the International Olympic Committee to extend continued support for Temecula’s Galway Downs Equestrian Center as the idea venue to host the Equestrian events during the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Read the letter here.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Clarification of Exceptions Under Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, as Amended

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE
THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY
THE SECRETARY OF COMMERCE
THE SECRETARY OF HOMELAND SECURITY
THE UNITED STATES TRADE REPRESENTATIVE
THE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR ECONOMIC POLICY
THE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FOR NATIONAL SECURITY AFFAIRS
THE SENIOR COUNSELOR TO THE PRESIDENT FOR TRADE AND MANUFACTURING
THE CHAIR OF THE UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION
SUBJECT:       Clarification of Exceptions Under Executive
Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, as Amended
In Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025 (Regulating Imports With a Reciprocal Tariff to Rectify Trade Practices that Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits), I declared a national emergency arising from conditions reflected in large and persistent annual U.S. goods trade deficits, and imposed additional ad valorem duties that I deemed necessary and appropriate to deal with that unusual and extraordinary threat, which has its source in whole or substantial part outside the United States, to the national security and economy of the United States.
In Executive Order 14257, I stated that certain goods are not subject to the ad valorem rates of duty under that order. One of those excepted products is “semiconductors.” The subsequent orders issued in connection with Executive Order 14257 — i.e., Executive Order 14259 of April 8, 2025 (Amendment to Reciprocal Tariffs and Updated Duties as Applied to Low-Value Imports from the People’s Republic of China), and the Executive Order of April 9, 2025 (Modifying Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Reflect Trading Partner Retaliation and Alignment), (Subsequent Orders) — incorporate the exceptions in Executive Order 14257, including for “semiconductors.”
That term’s meaning includes the products classified in the following headings and subheadings of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS):
·       8471
·       847330
·       8486
·       85171300
·       85176200
·       85235100
·       8524
·       85285200
·       85411000
·       85412100
·       85412900
·       85413000
·       85414910
·       85414970
·       85414980
·       85414995
·       85415100
·       85415900
·       85419000
·       8542
To the extent that the HTSUS does not currently fully reflect the products listed above as excepted from the ad valorem duties imposed under Executive Order 14257 and the Subsequent Orders, the HTSUS shall be modified by inserting in numerical order the headings and subheadings listed above into subdivision (v)(iii) of U.S. note 2 to subchapter III of chapter 99, effective as of 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on April 5, 2025. Any duties that were collected at or after 12:01 a.m. eastern daylight time on April 5, 2025, pursuant to Executive Order 14257 and the Subsequent Orders, on imports that are excepted under Executive Order 14257 and the Subsequent Orders because they are “semiconductors,” as explained in this memorandum, shall be refunded in accordance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s standard procedures for such refunds.
As explained in Executive Order 14257 and the Subsequent Orders, the Secretary of Commerce and the United States Trade Representative, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, the Senior Counselor to the President for Trade and Manufacturing, and the Chair of the United States International Trade Commission, are authorized to employ all powers granted to the President by the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) as may be necessary to implement Executive Order 14257 and the Subsequent Orders. Measures taken to implement Executive Order 14257 and the Subsequent Orders shall be done in accordance with this memorandum.
                              DONALD J. TRUMP

MIL OSI USA News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Thanks Sponsors of the 2025 UConn Women’s Basketball Victory Parade and Rally
Source: US State of Connecticut

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today is thanking the businesses and organizations who have reached out over the last several days offering to serve as sponsors of the 2025 UConn women’s basketball victory parade and rally, which is being held in downtown Hartford on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.

Funding from the sponsors is being used to cover all the costs of the event, including police, fire, and ambulance services; public works and sanitation; staging and production; permits and insurance; and labor hours for event set-up, management, and take-down. No state or city funding is used. The event is organized through a partnership between the State of Connecticut, the City of Hartford, and the Hartford Business Improvement District.

“We are very appreciative of the many businesses and organizations whose sponsorship is covering the costs of this victory parade and rally,” Governor Lamont said. “Their donations are making this event possible, and I thank all of them for helping to honor the 2025 UConn women’s basketball national championship team.”

The following businesses and organizations are contributing funds:
- Coca-Cola
- Jordan’s Furniture
- Hartford HealthCare
- LAZ Parking
- Mohegan Sun
- Nassau Financial Group
- PeoplesBank
- Travelers
- Bear’s Smokehouse Barbecue
- CONNSTEP
- CT Realtors
- UConn Health
- Connecticut Army National Guard
- Delta Dental of CT
- Sam’s Food Stores
- Two Roads Brewing
- Verogy
- WFSB
The following businesses are providing substantial in-kind services:
- C2 Vehicles
- DATTCO
- Manafort Brothers
- Mitchell Auto Group
- Peter Pan Bus Lines
- Powerstation Events
- XL Center
For more event information, including a map of the parade route, visit www.hartford.com/uconn.

MIL OSI USA News –
April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Passover: Minister Yaseen

Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

“Tonight, Alberta’s Jewish community gathers to celebrate the eight days of Passover and the retelling of the story of the Exodus from Egypt.

“Passover commemorates the liberation of Jewish people, marking a time of freedom, resilience and faith. It is a reminder to stand strong and united against adversity.

“The Jewish community – both here and abroad – continues to navigate challenges and hardship. I hope everyone who is celebrating has a meaningful holiday, and that G-d’s care for His people brings comfort and hope to them all.

“Chag Pesach kasher v’sameach! – wishing you a happy and kosher Passover.”

MIL OSI Canada News –

April 13, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSIONAL DEMOCRATS FIGHT BACK AGAINST TRUMP’S ATTACKS ON INDEPENDENT WORKER PROTECTION AGENCIES

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

Washington, D.C. — Today, House and Senate Democratic Leadership filed an amicus brief opposing President Donald Trump’s unlawful attempts to fire members of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). The individuals cited in this matter were duly appointed, congressionally confirmed board members at independent federal agencies. Illegal attempts to terminate them threaten the integrity of these institutions and their ability to protect American workers and uphold workplace democracy.

The NLRB and MSPB play a critical role in protecting workers, both in public service and the private sector, in their right to seek better working conditions and in safeguarding a non-political, merit-based federal workforce.

The brief was led by House Ranking Members Jamie Raskin, Gerry Connolly, and Bobby Scott, alongside House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Assistant Leader Joe Neguse, as well as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senators Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker – and was joined by 253 Congressional Democrats.

“Trump wants to dismantle the work of independent agencies like the National Labor Relations Board and the Merit Systems Protection Board. These agencies have existed for more than a half-century. They protect American workers, the integrity of our merit-based federal workforce, and the rights of whistleblowers. Trump is not a King, and he has no power to violate the law to target and fire excellent civil servants just because they don’t support his pet causes and the agenda of his billionaire friends,” said Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, House Judiciary Committee. “Democrats must stand up for a century of jurisprudence upholding administrative law because we are the party that fights for the rights of our workforce, unions, and American families.”

“President Trump and Elon Musk were never on the side of workers and now that they’re in power, they’re doing everything they can to reward billionaire bosses like themselves at the expense of hardworking Americans. Their concerted efforts to silence and disband the NLRB and MSPB are not only unconstitutional, they are part of their strategy to strip workers of their rights and dignity,” said Ranking Member Gerry Connolly, House Oversight and Government Reform Committee.

“The National Labor Relations Act of 1935 (NLRA), which created the NLRB, expressly precludes any President from removing Board Members without good cause and due process to insulate the agency from political interference. Congress explicitly limited the Executive Branch’s ability to remove NLRB Members by requiring notice and a hearing, and that any removal is based on a ‘neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other cause[,]’ to protect it ‘from being subject to immediate political reactions at elections.’ Furthermore, the NLRB’s independence ensures it can fairly adjudicate labor disputes, hold law-breaking employers accountable, and issue rules to ensure that employees have the freedom to join or form a union,” said Ranking Member Bobby Scott, House Education and Workforce Committee.

“Donald Trump and Elon Musk are committed to breaking down protections for consumers and everyday Americans by any means necessary. That includes the blatantly illegal attempted firing of independent National Labor Relations Board and Merit Systems Protection Board leaders. House Democrats will not stand for it. Congress created these independent agencies by statute and clearing the decks of current leaders in order to appoint hacks who will bend the knee to Donald Trump is illegal. I am grateful to Rep. Raskin, Rep. Connolly, Rep. Scott and Assistant Leader Neguse of the Litigation/Rapid Response Task Force for their leadership as House Democrats join with Senate Democrats to push back against illegal attempts by Trump and Republicans to leave American workers and consumers vulnerable to fraud and abuse,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

“No president, Democrat or Republican, has the authority to fire employees at independent federal agencies simply for disagreeing with them politically. House Democrats will continue to vindicate our constitution and the rule of law, and to speak up for workers, consumers, families, and the American people,” said House Assistant Democratic Leader Neguse.

“Donald Trump has ushered in an era of lawlessness and corruption,” said Leader Schumer. “Not only is he systematically dismantling our government, he is purging those who would help to hold him accountable in this endeavor. It is crucial that agencies like the NLRB and MSPB are able to operate within their full capacity to protect whistleblowers and workers. This flagrant disrespect for the law – and for the process of Senates confirmation – is something that has become a hallmark of Trump’s presidency. But Congressional Democrats are using every avenue to fight back.”

“Donald Trump’s ‘rich-as-hell’ donors expect a return on their investment in his campaign. Now, he’s giving it to them by kneecapping the agencies that stop billionaires and giant corporations from abusing workers and discriminating against employees,” said Senator Warren. “Democrats are united in fighting back against these illegal firings.”

“President Trump is attacking independent agencies that Congress created to provide essential services to Americans,” said Senator Booker. “The illegal attempts to fire duly appointed and Senate-confirmed board members of the NLRB and MSPB are a direct threat to the protections that American workers and whistleblowers depend on. I’m proud to lead this effort in the Senate with Democratic Leader Schumer and Senator Warren and join over 200 of my congressional colleagues to defend our independent agencies and ensure that workers’ rights and our nation’s tradition of a merit-based federal workforce remain protected from partisan interference.”

The amici curiae file their argument in the cases involving the attempted unlawful firings of Gwynne Wilcox, a member of the NLRB and Cathy Harris, a member of the MSPB.

The full brief is available HERE.

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MIL OSI USA News –

April 13, 2025

Category: Americas

Congressmen Sorensen and LaHood Have Repeatedly Urged USPS Leadership to Protect the Mail Processing and Distribution Center in Peoria

Congressmen Sorensen Repeatedly Urged USPS Leadership to Protect the Mail Processing and Distribution Center in Milan

Climate and misinformation

Impacts of layoffs

Alarming increases

Reliance on observation and collaboration

The Great Trade Diversion

A repeat of the Great Depression

Old fears, new pressures

Global trade system at a crossroads

Dealing with time pressures

Time value of money

Modern-day antisemitism, trajectories

Antisemitism far predates Nazism

Addressing Holocaust remembrance

Wider implications

Readying ocean science

Healthy oceans, healthy people

Investing in ocean futures

Collective action

Government cuts price of everyday items and summer essentials

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

CBI Europe and International Director Sean McGuire:

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Calls for continued support of Temecula facility as 2028 Olympics Equestrian venue