NewzIntel.com

Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran, US begin fifth round of nuclear talks in Rome

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    ROME, May 23 (Xinhua) — The fifth round of talks between Iran and the United States to resolve differences over the Islamic Republic’s nuclear program began in the Italian capital Rome on Friday with the mediation of Oman, Iranian media reported.

    The last round of discussions between the two sides took place on May 11 in Oman. As Italian publications note, since then tensions have arisen between Iran and the United States over the issue of uranium enrichment by the Iranian side.

    The administration of US President Donald Trump reportedly sought to halt all uranium enrichment work in Iran, but Tehran rejected the concept of “zero enrichment” and demanded the lifting of economic sanctions.

    Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani told the media that the Italian government “fully supports these mediation efforts.” However, as the diplomat noted, “these are certainly not easy negotiations.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Xi Jinping congratulates N. Dan on his election as President of Romania

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a congratulatory message to Nicusor Dan on his election as Romania’s president.

    Xi Jinping recalled that Romania is the third country in the world to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. China and Romania have long respected each other and treated each other as equals, he noted, adding that mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries has been steadily advancing, and the traditional friendship has become stronger over time.

    The Chinese President noted that the world is currently undergoing accelerated changes unseen in a century. As good friends and good partners, China and Romania should strengthen communication, consolidate consensus and deepen cooperation to jointly seize the opportunities of the times and jointly deal with risks and challenges, the Chinese leader said.

    Xi Jinping noted that he attaches great importance to the development of Chinese-Romanian relations and is ready, together with N. Dan, to write a new chapter in the history of interstate friendly cooperation for the benefit of the peoples of both countries. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Guardsmen from multiple states participate in National Guard Day at the Washington Nationals game

    Source: US National Guard (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rs9rNQaQvAA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Announcing FY 2025 Notices of Funding Opportunity

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Announcing FY 2025 Notices of Funding Opportunity

    I am pleased to share that the Office on Violence Against Women has released 19 Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) inviting applications for grants to combat domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. We anticipate releasing more NOFOs over the coming weeks and will periodically update our NOFO Release Plan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Highlights Connecticut’s Parks, Beaches, and Attractions as Summer Tourism and Activity Season Begins

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont is encouraging Connecticut residents and those who live outside of the state to consider the many parks, beaches, and other destinations that Connecticut has to offer as they make recreational plans during the upcoming summertime tourism and activity season.

    “Summer is a wonderful time to spend in Connecticut, with some of the best outdoor recreational opportunities around, including many state parks that are among the best in the country and are a huge part of our tremendous quality of life here in our state,” Governor Lamont said. “Tourism to our state has been increasing in recent years as more people learn about and explore the attractions of all kinds that Connecticut has to offer. Whether you’ve lived in Connecticut your whole life or have never been to our state, I guarantee there is a destination everyone with all interests can enjoy.”

    Tourism is an $18.5 billion industry in Connecticut and supports more than 125,000 jobs in the state. In 2023, more than 68 million people visited Connecticut, up 2% from the prior year. (For more data, check out the most recent Connecticut State of Tourism Report.)

    Connecticut tourist attractions and restaurants climb on national rankings

    Recently, several attractions in the state have received notable attention in the rankings from national tourism publications, including by Condé Nast Traveler, which ranked Litchfield County as one of the “Best Places to Go in the U.S. in 2025,” and USA Today, which named Mystic Seaport Museum the “#2 Best Open-Air Museum” for the second consecutive year.

    Connecticut also boasts some of the most celebrated restaurants in the U.S. that any foodie would love. Recently, several Connecticut chefs and restaurants have gained increased national recognition, capped by chef David Standridge of The Shipwright’s Daughter in Mystic capturing the world-renowned James Beard Award for best chef in the northeast, and several others named semifinalists, including Renee Touponce of Oyster Club and The Port of Call in Mystic who was nominated in the outstanding chef category, and Coracora in West Hartford nominated for outstanding restaurant.

    Even Bradley International Airport, the state’s largest airport, has been named a “Top 10 Best Airport in the U.S.” by Condé Nast Traveler for the last eight consecutive years in recognition of its convenience, growing list of airlines and nonstop destinations, and amenities offered to travelers.

    “Whether you’re escaping from NYC or Boston, or wanting a more accessible staycation, Connecticut’s blend of activities, culture, and cuisine offers a taste of everything,” Anthony Anthony, Connecticut’s chief marketing officer, said. “We’ve packed more fun per square mile than most states twice our size, which is likely why Connecticut has seen occupancy rates rise 2.3% year-to-date over last year and ahead of our regional peers.”

    Connecticut also offers many opportunities in the popular area of agritourism. Visitors can pick their own apples, berries, and sunflowers at charming family farms, and taste locally-produced beverages at one of the state’s award-winning farm-cideries and wineries.

    In the last year, the state also recently launched two new trails to guide visitors on some of the unique experiences that Connecticut has to offer, including the Connecticut Oyster Trail and the and the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail, and later this year the state will officially launch the Connecticut Pizza Trail to celebrate its designation as the Pizza Capital of the United States.

    The best way to explore tourism destinations in Connecticut and find activities to do in the state is by visiting the official Connecticut Tourism website at CTVisit.com.

    State parks, forests, and beaches are available within minutes of any spot

    Connecticut has a long history of celebrating and preserving its natural resources, and offers 110 state parks, 32 state forests, 29 state campgrounds, 117 state boat launches, and 4 coastal state beaches that provide any number of recreational opportunities. Located across the state, there is a state park available with a 15-minute drive of virtually any spot in Connecticut.

    The best way to explore these opportunities and plan a trip is by visiting the official Connecticut State Parks website at CTParks.com.

    “We are making your Connecticut State Parks more accessible than ever before,” Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “Thanks to Governor Lamont and our partners in the state legislature, we’ve been hard at work putting Restore CT State Parks funding to use to improve roads, restrooms, electrical infrastructure, campgrounds, boat launches and more to ensure that these well-loved parks remain for the next generation of Connecticut residents. And, once again this summer, visitors arriving at our beautiful state parks in Connecticut-registered vehicles pay no parking fees thanks to the Passport to the Parks program. We’re making it even easier to access your state parks, and we hope you have a fun and safe summer season in the parks.”

    The state also has made it a priority to make its natural resources accessible to everyone and now provides all-terrain wheelchairs at no cost at seven state parks, giving greater access to those who have varying mobility levels. To learn more about the All-Terrain Wheelchair Program and to make an online reservation to use an all-terrain wheelchair, visit ctparks.com/all-terrain-wheelchairs.

    While most state parks are available to everyone at no cost, anyone driving a motor vehicle that has a Connecticut license plate does not have to pay any fees at those few state parks that require a fee to park, including at the popular Hammonasset Beach State Park, made possible by the Passport to the Parks program.

    Governor Lamont has recently committed more than $70.7 million to make infrastructure repairs and improvements across the state park system, such as picnic pavilion repairs, restroom improvements, upgrades to campgrounds and boat launches, and more. (To view a full list of these projects, click here.)

    Reservations at state campgrounds can be made online at connecticutstateparks.reserveamerica.com or by calling 1-877-668-CAMP (2267).

    It is strongly recommended that anyone planning a visit to a state park or boat launch – especially on weekends or holidays – should check DEEP’s social media accounts for up-to-the-minute updates on parking lot capacity before heading to their destination. This information can be found on the social media app X at @CTStateParks and @CTBoatingInfo.

    More than 15 million people visit Connecticut’s state parks and forests each year.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Celebrates Groundbreaking for New D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette Township

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement to celebrate today’s groundbreaking ceremony for the new D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette Township. In 2023, Peters helped secure the $57.6 million federal investment needed to begin construction of the new Michigan Veteran Homes facility:  
    “Veterans in Michigan and across our country have made incredible sacrifices to defend our democracy, our freedoms, and our American way of life. We have a moral obligation to support them when they return home and ensure they can receive the quality care they earned during their service.  
    “Today’s groundbreaking marks a new chapter for veteran care in the Upper Peninsula, helping to ensure we can continue providing the skilled nursing care our veterans deserve for decades to come. I want to thank our partners at Michigan Veteran Homes, as well as other state and local officials, who have made this new facility a reality.” 
    “This groundbreaking on the new MVH D.J. Jacobetti in Marquette Township marks the beginning of the next chapter in Michigan’s long history of caring for veterans here in the Upper Peninsula. In this new Home, veterans will receive the amazing care and quality of life they’ve received for decades at the Jacobetti, but soon in an environment that promotes the dignity and respect these veterans earned, and deserve,” said Anne Zerbe, Chief Executive Officer, Michigan Veteran Homes. “This is a generational investment in veterans of the U.P. It’s an investment and partnership between the state and federal government that represents a promise to those who’ve worn the uniform. We’re grateful for the state and federal leaders who’ve championed this cause for years – including Senator Gary Peters. That advocacy has come to a point of action. It’s a new – and incredible – era for veteran skilled nursing care in Michigan.” 
    “On behalf of all Veterans organizations, the Marquette County Veterans Alliance thanks Senator Gary Peters for his persistent and continual support for this much-needed replacement for the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans,” said Jim Provost, Chair of the Marquette County Veterans Alliance. “Having access to private rooms, up-to-date technology, and expanded facilities, along with current outstanding medical staff, administration, and support staff will be appreciated by Veterans and their families. We look forward to seeing the progress and completion of this project in the near future.”
    This project was made possible by a federal investment provided through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program, which Senator Peters has consistently championed during his time in the Senate. Peters has annually led a bipartisan group of his colleagues in urging the Senate Appropriations Committee to provide robust funding for the program. Since his appointment to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, Peters has repeatedly helped secure robust funding for the program through the annual government funding laws. Peters has also continued to advocate for the program’s importance, including during a hearing with then-VA Secretary Denis McDonough in 2023.  
    State Veterans Homes are operated by state governments and partner with the VA to provide nursing home, domiciliary, and adult day care services to veterans with special medical needs, including thousands of elderly veterans. Federal funds provided by the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program allow states to make critical facility upgrades or construct new facilities to serve aging veteran populations. 
    More information on the State Veterans Home Construction Grant Program can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Welch to Join Bipartisan Senate Delegation to Canada 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) will join  Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and a bipartisan delegation, including Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) in Ottawa, Canada for meetings with Prime Minister Mark Carney, Foreign Minister Anita Anand, Minister of National Defense David McGuinty, Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly, the Business Council of Canada, and other leading Canadian companies and business groups.  
    During the trip, the Senators will underscore the deep and bipartisan support for a strong U.S.-Canada partnership among Congress and the American people. The Senators will reiterate the importance of the bilateral trading relationship, including through deeply integrated supply chains in key sectors like the automative and defense industries that benefit both sides economically and lower costs for consumers. Lastly, they will highlight America’s deep security cooperation with Canada, including through NATO and NORAD.  
    Learn more about the bipartisan delegation to Canada here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Hassan & Budd Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Cut Taxes for Small Businesses to Provide Retirement Plans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Ted Budd (R-NC) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to cut taxes for small businesses with fewer than 10 employees that create retirement accounts for their employees. The current tax credit that helps small businesses pay for the costs of starting retirement plans for employees is often insufficient for the smallest businesses, as the tax credit is provided on a per-employee basis. This legislation would ensure that small businesses with under 10 employees can receive at least a $2,500 tax credit to help pay for the costs of creating retirement accounts. 
    “Small businesses are the backbone of the Granite State economy, and they need to be able to compete with larger ones,” said Senator Hassan. “Especially as small businesses continue to face rising costs, this bipartisan legislation will provide small businesses with the tax relief that they need to be able to offer good retirement plans to their employees, helping both business owners and workers build financial security for the future. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join us in advancing this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that strengthens our economy and helps hardworking Americans prepare for retirement.” 
    Senator Budd said, “America’s small businesses are the foundation of our economy and at the forefront of job growth. By equipping Main Street with the means to offer retirement plans, we are not only helping to create a pathway to financial security for millions of workers, but also laying the foundation for long-term economic growth. I am proud to lead this bipartisan legislation alongside Senator Hassan as we work to ensure retirement plans are within reach for hardworking Americans.” 
    The Retirement Investment in Small Employers (RISE) Act raises the floor for the existing $250 per-employee tax credit available to small businesses to create retirement plans, ensuring that all small businesses can receive a tax credit of at least $2,500. These tax cuts will help small businesses that have fewer than 10 employees offer retirement savings options to their employees. 
    Senator Hassan has helped pass into law two bipartisan packages – the original SECURE Act and the SECURE 2.0 Act – to increase access to retirement savings options, and she and her colleagues first established the program that the RISE Act is expanding in that legislation. Provisions Senator Hassan helped secure included measures to enable more businesses to join multiple employer plans (MEPs), expand tax cuts to small businesses that provide retirement benefits to their employees, increase retirement plan flexibility for public safety officers, and improve access for military families. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Moth X Human by Ellie Wilson inspired by Wiltshire nature reserve

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Moth X Human by Ellie Wilson inspired by Wiltshire nature reserve

    Data from Parsonage Down National Nature Reserve is used by composer violinist Ellie Wilson for her Moth X Human performances at Bradford and Southbank Centre.

    Moth X Human by Ellie Wilson will be played at Bradford City of Culture 2025 and the Southbank Centre with imagery created by Northern School of Art students.

    Moths are rather unassuming creatures, often playing second fiddle to their insect cousins, butterflies.  But in a new work being premiered next month, they are far from that. In fact they have been instrumental in creating the immersive soundworld that forms the basis of composer Ellie Wilson’s piece.

    “Moth X Human” is an instrumental piece, based on moth activity data collected last summer, much of it from Natural England’s Parsonage Down National Nature Reserve near Salisbury.

    The piece will have its first airing in Bradford during the UK City of Culture celebrations on 7 June and then will also be played at the Southbank Centre in London on 5 July, as part of a New Music Biennial. 

    Classically trained Ellie said the idea to use insect activity to create music that explores declining biodiversity came to her at breakfast one morning and from there she was introduced to the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology which had created a system with high-resolution cameras to capture images of moths and record their species. 

    The numbers of moths visiting Parsonage Down National Nature Reserve by Salisbury were used to create this instrumental. Image by Northern School of Arts.

    Ellie chose two lots of data on which to base her composition. One was from Parsonage Down, where over the course of four hours, 80 different moth species were recorded on 1 August, including elephant hawk, burnished brass, water veneer and ruby tiger moths. The second was from monoculture farmland, where pesticides have been used and on the same night. Just 19 different species were recorded. 

    The species were each given a unique sound or note to create the 12-minute long piece that is played alongside live musicians.

    Ellie said:

    At some points the moths create short melodic fragments and these can be heard later in the piece as repeating motifs in the cello and piano.

    By contrast, the end of the piece uses data from a poor habitat, audibly demonstrating declining biodiversity due to human interference.

    Natural England’s senior reserve manager for National Nature Reserves in Wiltshire, Stuart Hales, said:

    National Nature Reserves are our most important places for nature, so it’s exciting to see Parsonage Down providing inspiration for the arts, in addition to being crucial for conservation.

    We hope that this fabulous project helps connect people with nature through the power of music to bring it to a whole new audience.

    Students from the Northern School of Art have created more than 100 moth designs, which are being animated to complement the music during the performances.

    Be sure to catch the premiere of Moth x Human as part of New Music Biennial 2025 – a festival presented in partnership by PRS Foundation, Southbank Centre, and Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture. Free tickets available now for Bradford (6 to 8 June) and Southbank Centre (4 to 6 July).

    Listen to a trailer of Moth X Human.

    Background

    • OCM is a unique producer and charity that works to develop and present the highest quality and most innovative new music and sound-based live events, to engage diverse local and national audiences with our work, and to deepen understanding and appreciation of musical cultures from within the UK and worldwide. OCM’s raison d’être is to bring music, artists and audiences together in ways that encourage and create memorable and meaningful experiences for all. See OCM.
    • PRS Foundation and Southbank Centre’s New Music Biennial is a critically acclaimed free festival of new music, presenting a unique snapshot of contemporary music in the UK today. 20 pieces of new music will be performed across two festival weekends at Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture (6 to 8 June 2025) and London’s Southbank Centre (4 to 6 July 2025), broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and available for download from NMC Recordings. You can find out about all 20 New Music Biennial commissioning organisations and composers at New Music Biennial. PRS Foundation’s New Music Biennial is generously supported by Southbank Centre, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, BBC Radio 3, Arts Council England and NMC Recordings. You can find out more at PRS Foundation. Moth X Human will be presented in Bradford and London, in collaboration with Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, London’s Southbank Centre and PRS Foundation’s New Music Biennial.
    • UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) is a leading independent research institute dedicated to understanding and transforming how we interact with the natural world. With over 600 researchers, we tackle the urgent environmental challenges of our time, such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. See CEH.
    • The Northern School of Art is a specialist art and design school based in North East England. The higher-education campus in Hartlepool, Durham, delivers a wide range of Art, Design and performance-based degrees across undergraduate and postgraduate study. The School, established 150 Years ago, and is rated TEF Gold. The School is also well-known for its further education campus, providing a range of diplomas, A-level and Foundation study across the art, design and performance disciplines, rated Ofsted Outstanding. Find more information at Northern Art.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Next phase of Hull water project brings boost to wildlife

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Next phase of Hull water project brings boost to wildlife

    The next phase of Hull’s Dynamic Drains project gets underway – helping to transform the city’s urban watercourses.

    The new mural created on Northern Powergrid’s electricity sub station

    Unloved green spaces have been revamped into a new park as the next phase of an exciting project to transform a city’s urban watercourses gets underway.

    Hull’s Dynamic Drains aims to improve the city’s urban watercourses, boost wildlife habitats and encourage people to connect with their natural environment.

    The latest developments along Holderness Drain in the east of the city includes a new park between Portobello Street and St John’s Grove, a new piece of striking wildlife artwork co-designed by local children that has transformed Northern Powergrid’s electricity substation, and easier access to fishing.

    The city’s wildlife and history trail has also been expanded, with wildlife mascots Wendy the water vole and Percy the perch taking walkers from East Carr Road all the way to King George Dock and the Humber Estuary.

    Along the way people can find out more about the local history at each of the 12 bridges crossing the drain and spot some wildlife native to the location.

    Hull’s Dynamic Drains is a partnership project with the Environment Agency, Groundwork Yorkshire, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Hull City Council.

    The £500,000 pilot phase of the project to bring improvements along Beverley and Barmston Drain was completed last year.

    Encouraging people to connect with nature

    The Environment Agency’s Dan Jagucki said:

    We’re delighted to have rolled out the exciting Hull’s Dynamic Drains project to Holderness Drain.

    This partnership work has already created new green spaces to enjoy and is encouraging people to connect with nature in what is a largely urban environment.

    Bringing together a local artist with local children – supported by Northern Powergrid – and transforming an old building into a new striking mural has really helped to bring the project to life for the community.

    Pupils from Archbishop Sentanu School with the mural they helped to design. Credit: Katie Cawthorne.

    So far the £235,000 project, largely funded by the Environment Agency, has included:

    • A new piece of public artwork at Preston Road created by artist Mike Sprout. With permission and support from Northern Powergrid, the walls of a previously dull electricity substation have been transformed into a wildlife themed mural. With support from Mike and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, the mural was co-designed by children from Archbishop Sentanu School, Woodlands Primary School and The Hut Youth Centre (Child Dynamix), with some children even helping with the painting.
    • The expansion of the city’s history and wildlife trail, which was originally created during the Beverley and Barmston Drain pilot project. The new trail takes people from East Carr Road to King George Dock and the Humber Estuary. The wildlife mascots Wendy the water vole and Percy and perch tell people about the history and wildlife of the area.
    • Designed and delivered by Groundwork Yorkshire a new linear park has been created between St John’s Grove and Portobello Street. A winding footpath leads people through an avenue of trees including apples, pears and plums to pick, with stone seats for people to use. Four new bins have also been provided by Hull City Council along the path to help reduce littering.
    • Access for fishing on the drain has been made easier and safer with the installation of two flights of fishing steps in the new park, soon to be complemented by two new fishing platforms on the opposite bank at Flinton Grove.

    One of the new signs as part of the history and wildlife trail. Credit: Groundwork Yorkshire.

    Project shows ‘nature finds a way to thrive’

    Yorkshire Wildlife Trust’s David Craven said:

    It’s easy to assume the drains through a major city are brown and lifeless, but this project shows that nature finds a way to thrive.

    We hope the ongoing success of Dynamic Drains encourages everyone from school children to commuters to stop and look around them at the wildlife in their community.

    The introduction of fruit trees and public art only further the strong sense of community that is being brought together.

    Peter Murphy, Operations Director for Groundwork Yorkshire, added:

    Working on Hull’s Dynamic Drains programme has been so rewarding, bringing a multi-disciplinary team together to deliver community engagement, landscape design and contract management, resulting in meaningful improvements to the land along these important blue-green corridors.

    Future plans to roll out the project further

    Future plans for work on Holderness Drain includes more tree planting along the trail and two new pocket parks at Saltshouse Road and Maybury Road.

    Hull’s Dynamic Drains also has plans to continue working across the city on its other urban waterways.

    Councillor Charles Quinn, portfolio holder for Environment at Hull City Council, said:

    Hull’s Dynamic Drains is a very important and exciting local environmental project. As a port city on the Humber estuary, water has always defined Hull’s identity.

    Residents have told us how much they appreciate the transformation of the drain bank. It has made a significant improvement to people’s safety, especially the children going to and from Archbishop Sentamu Academy.

    Plus, it has improved people’s access to local nature, improved leisure opportunities like fishing, and boosted general fitness with improved accessibility for walking and cycling.

    Cathryn Harper, Customer Service Manager for Northern Powergrid, said:

    This is the second time we’ve supported the Dynamic Drains team with local projects.

    After being part of a successful project to restore a section of Beverley and Barmston drain near our Clough Road depot, it was a yes when they approached us about decorating the Preston Road substation.

    Local residents were just as enthusiastic when we went out to check they were happy with the initial designs, but I think it’s fair to say the stunning end result has surpassed everyone’s expectations!

    Background

    More information on the pilot project at Beverley and Bramston Drain.

    More detail on the Hull’s Dynamic Drains project.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ARU sharpens the focus on African photography

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    A photograph by Patrick Chilaisha, which will be on display in Lusaka next month

    Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is playing a role in establishing Zambia’s first-ever international photographic festival, which aims to give a platform to African photography within the continent.

    The first Bakashimika International Photography Festival, taking place in the capital Lusaka between 12-18 June, is currently the only international photography festival in southern Africa.

    Bakashimika will showcase bold, innovative work that reflects contemporary African narratives; spotlighting both emerging and established photographers from Zambia and neighbouring countries.

    With 20 exhibitions and more than 40 photographers from Angola, Congo, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and South Africa, as well as Zambia, the festival will celebrate photography as a powerful tool for storytelling, cultural expression, and connection.

    Bakashimika is being supported through Anglia Ruskin University’s QR impact planning funding, recognising the festival’s potential to shift the creative and cultural landscape in the region.

    Dr Kerstin Hacker from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has been researching visual self-governance in Zambia since 2008 and has collaborated with Geoffrey Phiri, former Chairperson of the Zambian National Visual Arts Council, to organise exhibitions and workshops for emerging photographers in the country since 2016.

    “Currently there are no international networking opportunities for photographers and lens-based artists in southern Africa, let alone Zambia itself. This festival is about creating space for southern African stories, promoting south-to-south engagement, achieving global visibility, and nurturing the next generation of African photographers.

    “The festival will celebrate indigenous African visual storytelling and spark a new wave of creative talent and visual self-governance in Zambia. Bakashimika also aims to be a meeting place for Zambian, southern African and international photographers, educators and industry experts.”

    Dr Hacker, Senior Lecturer in Photography at ARU

    Alongside Dr Kerstin Hacker and Geoffrey Phiri, the festival is organised by Edith Chiliboy, the artistic director and a leading voice in Zambia’s photography scene, and Patrick Chilaisha, operational director of Bakashimika, who is shaping the festival’s digital presence.

    The week-long celebration of lens-based art begins on 12 June and will include exhibitions, artist talks, workshops, screenings, and portfolio reviews. For further information, visit https://bakashimika.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: University hosts World Energy Business Schools (WEBS) Conference 2025 On 22 May 2025, the University of Aberdeen hosted the second World Energy Business Schools (WEBS) Conference, reaffirming its commitment to global collaboration on energy and sustainability challenges.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    On 22 May 2025, the University of Aberdeen hosted the second World Energy Business Schools (WEBS) Conference, reaffirming its commitment to global collaboration on energy and sustainability challenges.
    Building on the success of the inaugural event in 2024, this year’s conference – entitled ‘Strengthening Global Ties for a Sustainable Future’ – brought together academics from across Europe and Australia to share research and foster partnerships aimed at advancing the energy transition.
    While the first conference laid the groundwork for collaboration between the University of Aberdeen, Curtin University (Australia), and the University of Calgary (Canada), the 2025 event expanded the network, drawing participation from seven universities:

    University of Aberdeen, Scotland
    University of Dundee, Scotland
    Curtin University, Australia
    University of Insubria, Italy
    University of Southern Denmark
    University of Groningen, Netherlands
    University of Stavanger, Norway

    This broader engagement marks a significant step in the evolution of the WEBS initiative, reinforcing its potential as a platform for international cooperation in research and education on energy and sustainability.
    Although held primarily online, the event also welcomed in-person attendees at the Sir Duncan Rice Library in Aberdeen, with School Director of Research, Professor Keith Bender, serving as host. The one-day conference featured a full schedule of presentations grouped around four key thematic areas:

    Sustainable Workers and Firms
    Public and Private Environmental Policy
    Energy Transitions
    Finance and Policy in Sustainable and Circular Economies

    Presentations addressed diverse topics, ranging from workforce sustainability and peer effects in low-carbon housing adoption, to friend-shoring, circular economy challenges and financial risks in the context of climate change. A highlight of the day included cross-national insights into renewable energy governance, corporate sustainability, and collaborative consumption strategies in business-to-business networks.
    The WEBS 2025 Conference underscored the value of sustained dialogue among business schools in energy-active regions. As global energy systems evolve, the WEBS network provides a forum for collaborative research, joint funding bids and PhD training opportunities.
    With two successful conferences now completed, the WEBS initiative is poised to become a leading academic network driving forward interdisciplinary insights and policy-relevant research on the future of energy.
    The Business School at the University of Aberdeen looks forward to continuing this important collaboration in the years ahead. Academics, researchers, and graduate students interested in energy, sustainability, and global collaboration are encouraged to engage with the WEBS network.
    Whether through joint research projects, future conference participation, or knowledge exchange, WEBS offers a growing platform for impactful interdisciplinary work. For further information or to express interest in future events, please contact the Business School at bs-research@abdn.ac.uk.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – Water Taxi CI secures sea link subsidy between Jersey & Alderney for 2025 Friday 23 May 2025

    Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

    Press Release

    Date: May 23rd 2025

    Water Taxi CI secures sea link subsidy between Jersey & Alderney for 2025

    Water Taxi CI Operating under Go-Sail.je will operate a subsidised passenger sea link service between Jersey and Alderney for the summer season following the outcome of a tender process which commenced at the start of 2025.

    The Economic Development Committee has confirmed that the company will operate four rotations per week on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday (one rotation per day) from the 26th May to 29th September inclusive.

    “We are delighted that the tender process for the Jersey – Alderney route has proved to be competitive and that we were able to identify a provider to operate this largely unexploited route. We envisage that the service will complement our island’s offering,support our hospitality sectorand strengthen our transport links, and we look forward to assessing the value of this new route to our island, both socially and economically.”said Stuart Clark, Chair of The Economic Development Committee.

    The service will be monitored during the season to assess demand for the route with a view to continuing the service in 2026.

    Funding has been committed by the States to reduce the price per ticket in the opening weeks of service, fares will be £78 one way for May and June for all customers. A fare of £93 one-way for adults and £82 one-way per child up to 15 years of age inclusive will be applicable for July, August and September.

    Max Boleat, Founder of Water Taxi CI is quoted as saying:

    “We are delighted to have been selected to operate this new inter-island link. We have been operating the route on a private charter basis for a number of years and have a well-established customer base that will be excited to continue using the service, along with a wealth of interest from tourists for weekend breaks. Our new vessel “Atlantic Isle” accommodates 12 passengers in comfortable forward-facing seating and has been specifically chosen to support this new inter-island link. We look forward to sharing our new vessel with everyone & undertaking berthing trials in Alderney this week and getting the service underway. We would also like to take the opportunity to invite any local Alderney businesses that will benefit from the new passenger link to engage with our management team to explore opportunities for driving tourism towards Alderney from Jersey.”

    Bill Sadler, Jersey Harbour Master said:

    “We welcome the introduction of this new direct route between Jersey and Alderney, which represents a positive step forward in strengthening inter-island connectivity. Supporting safe and efficient maritime links is a core part of our role, and we look forward to working with Max and his team to ensure a smooth and successful launch of the service. This new connection will not only benefit residents and visitors, but also contribute to the broader economic and social ties between our islands.”

    Bookings can be made via www.watertaxici.co.uk

    Ends

    Media contact: Publications.Alderney@gov.gg

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Details of Duncombe Square’s Passivhaus homes revealed

    Source: City of York

    The latest details of the 34 spacious new Passivhaus homes at Duncombe Square have been revealed.

    Those who have already expressed an interest in the homes can now have a clearer idea of the layout, interiors and details of these homes designed by prize-winning architects Mikhail Riches.

    Built in stylish terraces, the generously-sized apartments and houses have traditional brickwork with a contemporary twist blending, and render and clay tile finishes.

    Internal features include exposed softwood staircases, oak-veneer window sills and shutters. The kitchens are fully-fitted with high-quality Howden’s units, Silestone worktops and integrated appliances.

    Duncombe Square’s 34 homes are built to the rigorous Passivhaus standard; widely considered to be the world’s leading standard for energy-efficient homes. Supporting that are electricity-generating solar PV panels on roofs and low-energy air source heat pumps which work alongside high levels of insulation. Inside are mechanical ventilation heat recovery systems to keep air continually filtered and fresh and triple-glazed windows to maintain a comfortable ambient temperature and reduce heat loss.

    To create a safe, welcoming environment for all residents, cars are kept off the streetscape to make the neighbourhood a cleaner, quieter and safer place. In its shared green spaces and ginnels, people take priority: children can play and neighbours can meet and build a community in shared green spaces.

    Prices for the shared ownership and market sale homes will be announced shortly before the homes are released for sale.

    Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said:

    This is our first ever Passivhaus development and Duncombe Square is looking to be an exceptional addition to the city’s housing. This is reflected in the tremendous interest we’ve had from people eligible for shared ownership and for the market sale homes.

    “The homes’ prices must reflect the market and maximise receipts to enable us to invest in building more much-needed social housing. The new homes for social rent at Duncombe Square will be allocated shortly and will be an important addition to Council housing in the city.”

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment at City of York Council, said:

    Being Passivhaus ensures residents will have consistent indoor temperatures all year round, significantly reducing the need for heating and cooling – and yes, you can open the windows! This means long-term cost savings and comfortable room temperatures for residents, and a lower carbon footprint for us all.

    “The grounds at Duncombe Square are green and community focussed, encouraging residents of all ages to enjoy time outdoors.”

    Kate Draper, Senior New Homes Manager and Affordable Housing Specialist at estate agent William H Brown, said:

    We are delighted to be partnering with Shape Homes, as selling agent for Duncombe Square, the first Passivhaus development in the North of England to be launched to market. 

    “Demand is already high and we’re sure the development will be a huge success, bringing something unique to the York housing market.”

    Find out more about Duncombe Square’s homes and express your interest here. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Candidates announced for the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart by-election

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    The candidates standing in the upcoming Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart by-election have been confirmed.

    13 candidates have been nominated to stand in the by-election, which will elect one new councillor, on Thursday 26 June 2025.  

    The candidates standing for election are:

    • Bonnie Prince Bob, Independent
    • Derrick Emms, Independent
    • Lukasz Furmaniak, Scottish Libertarian Party
    • Mark Hooley, Scottish Conservative and Unionist
    • Richard Crewe Lucas, Scottish Family Party
    • Q Manivannan, Scottish Greens
    • Kevin Joseph McKay, Scottish Liberal Democrats
    • Catriona Munro, Scottish Labour Party
    • Gary Neill, Reform UK
    • Mark Rowbotham, Independent
    • Murray Visentin, Scottish National Party (SNP)
    • Steve Christopher West, Independent
    • Marc Wilkinson, Independent

    Returning Officer for the City of Edinburgh, Paul Lawrence said:

    With nominations now closed and just over a month remaining until polling day, residents of the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart ward can start thinking about who they will vote for in the upcoming by-election.

    Councillors play an important role in our democratic system, making crucial decisions that impact our city.

    I’d encourage as many residents as possible to take part in this by-election. Please make sure you register to vote before the deadline and make your voice heard.

    The election will use the Single Transferable Vote (STV) system, where voters rank candidates in order of preference by assigning numbers rather than just marking a single cross. You can choose to vote for as many or as few candidates as you wish.

    Poll cards will be delivered to registered voters in the area from today (Friday May 23), including further information on when and where to vote.

    If you live in the Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart ward you must register to vote by midnight on Tuesday June 10. For new postal vote applications, the deadline is 5pm on Wednesday June 11 and for new proxy votes its 5pm on Wednesday June 18.

    Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm and will be at:

    • Kingsknowe Golf Club
    • Edinburgh Corn Exchange
    • St Michaels Church Hall
    • Fountainbridge Library
    • Boroughmuir Rugby & Community Sports Club
    • Craiglockhart Parish Church Hall
    • Tollcross Community Centre

    The electronic election count will take place on Thursday 26 June starting at the close of poll at 10pm. 

    The by-election follows the sad passing of Councillor Val Walker in April 2025.

    Find out more about this by-election Edinburgh and how to register to vote on the Council website.

    Published: May 23rd 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Officer dismissed for inappropriate conduct

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A Met officer has been dismissed for acting inappropriately towards a student officer.

    PC Christopher Lee, attached to the Central West Command Unit, was dismissed following a misconduct hearing, which concluded on Tuesday, 27 May.

    In 2021, while off duty and acting as a street duties instructor, PC Lee inappropriately touched a student officer. He also sent intimidating messages, abusing his position of trust as a more senior colleague.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah, who leads policing in the area, said:

    “PC Lee’s behaviour was wholly unacceptable and fell well below the standards we expect.

    “Instead of offering support and guidance, he used his position behave in a way that goes against the Met’s expected values and behaviours, and with no regard to the impact on a more junior officer.

    “I am thankful that, due to the bravery shown by the officer who came forward, we were able to investigate, leading to PC Lee’s dismissal.”

    The panel found that PC Lee had breached the standards of professional behaviour relating to discreditable conduct and his actions amounted to gross misconduct.

    He will be added to the barred list held by the College of Policing, preventing future employment within policing and certain oversight bodies.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Electrical Company General Manager Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding Keolis Commuter Services

    Source: US FBI

    BOSTON – The former general manager of a Massachusetts-based electrical company was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for a false invoicing scheme that defrauded Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis) of over $4 million.

    John Rafferty, 72, of Hale’s Location, N.H., was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to one year and one day in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. Rafferty was also ordered to pay $4,016,087 in restitution and a $893,227.93 forfeiture money judgment. In June 2023, Rafferty pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Rafferty was charged in April 2023 and his alleged co-conspirator, John P. Pigsley, was charged in a separate case.

    Keolis has operated the MBTA commuter rail system since 2014 under an annual contract of $291–$349 million. Rafferty was the general manager of LJ Electric, Inc., an electrical supply vendor to which Keolis paid over $17 million between 2014 through 2021.

    Between July 2014 and November 2021, Rafferty and Pigsley defrauded Keolis of over $4 million through a false LJ Electric invoicing scheme. Specifically, Rafferty spent more than $3 million on items for Pigsley and others – including: at least nine trucks; construction equipment including at least seven Bobcat machines; at least $1 million in home building supplies and services; and a $54,000 camper. Rafferty then recovered the cost of these items by submitting false and fraudulent LJ Electric invoices to Keolis, which also included a percentage profit that Rafferty kept for himself.

    In April 2025, Pigsley was sentenced to 70 months in prison, three years of supervised release, $8,580,311 in restitution to Keolis and $2,689,206 to the Internal Revenue Service, forfeiture of three real properties and a $7,687,083.70 money judgment.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Brian C. Gallagher, Special Agent in Charge, Northeastern Region, U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Inspector General made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristina E. Barclay of the Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit and Raquelle Kaye of the Asset Recovery Unit are prosecuting the cases.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 18th Street Gang Associate Pleads Guilty to Dealing Fentanyl

    Source: US FBI

    BOSTON – An associate of the 18th Street Gang pleaded guilty yesterday to drug charges in federal court in Boston.

    Elvin Martinez-Flores, 23, of Everett, pleaded guilty to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams and more of fentanyl. United States District Judge Indira Talwani scheduled sentencing for Aug. 5, 2025. Martinez-Flores was charged by criminal complaint in January 2025.

    On Sept. 20, 2024, Martinez sold approximately 400 pressed fentanyl pills to a cooperating witness. Later, on Oct. 28, 2024, Martinez sold another 500 pressed fentanyl pills to the cooperating witness.

    The charge of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kim Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations; Suffolk County and Middlesex County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Boston, Chelsea, Everett, Falmouth, Lynn, Medford, Nantucket and Revere Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy Moran and Fred Wyshak of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit are prosecuting the case.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Who Attempted to Stab Flight Attendant and Open Airplane Door Mid-Flight Pleads Guilty

    Source: US FBI

    BOSTON – A Leominster, Mass. man pleaded guilty today in connection with an incident in which he attempted to open an emergency exit door while aboard a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston and then attempted to stab a flight attendant in the neck with a broken metal spoon.

    Francisco Severo Torres, 34, pleaded guilty to one count of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for July 17, 2025. Torres was charged by criminal complaint in March 2023 following his arrest at Boston Logan International Airport. He was subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2023.

    On March 5, 2023, Torres was a passenger aboard a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Boston. Approximately 45 minutes prior to landing, the flight crew received an alarm in the cockpit that a starboard side door located between the first class and coach sections of the aircraft was disarmed. Upon inspection, a flight attendant found that the door’s locking handle had been moved out of the fully locked position – approximately a quarter of the way towards the towards the unlocked position – and that the emergency slide arming lever had been moved to the “disarmed” position. The flight attendant reported this to the captain and flight crew after securing the door and emergency slide.

    In subsequent discussions, a fellow flight attendant reported that he had observed Torres near the door and believed Torres had tampered with the door. A flight attendant then confronted Torres about tampering with the door, to which he responded by asking if there were cameras showing that he had done so. The flight attendant then notified the captain that they believed Torres posed a threat to the aircraft and that the captain needed to land the aircraft as soon as possible.  

    Shortly thereafter, Torres got out of his seat and approached the starboard side door where two flight attendants were standing in the aisle. One of the flight attendants saw Torres mouthing something that he could not hear. Video taken by a passenger depicts Torres yelling at points that he would “kill every man on this plane” and “I’m taking over this plane.” Torres then thrust towards one of the flight attendants in a stabbing motion with a broken metal spoon, hitting the flight attendant on the neck area three times. Passengers then tackled Torres and he was restrained with the assistance of flight crew. Torres was immediately taken into custody upon the flight’s arrival to Boston.  

    During subsequent interviews, passengers who were aboard the flight reported that Torres asked a fellow passenger where on the safety card it showed where the door handle was located during the flight attendants’ safety briefing prior to takeoff and that Torres was seen pacing in a galley before attacking the flight attendant.

    The charge of interference and attempted interference with flight crew members and attendants using a dangerous weapon provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Gang Members Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Firearms; Defrauding Federal Credit Union; Hundred-Thousand-Dollar Check Theft Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    BOSTON – A Mission Hill gang member with multiple prior convictions has pleaded guilty to three separate indictments charging him with a sweeping slate of federal charges – including trafficking firearms, defrauding a credit union of over $130,000 and stealing mail as part of a large-scale “card cracking” scheme that caused up to half a million dollars in losses.

    Glenroy Miller, a/k/a “Trinny,” 28, of Boston, pleaded guilty on May 9, 2025 to three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition; one count of unlawful possession of a machinegun; one count of trafficking in firearms; two counts of conspiracy to commit bank fraud; one count of bank fraud and aiding and abetting; and one count of conspiracy to steal and possess stolen mail. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for Aug. 7, 2025.

    In September 2019, Miller was convicted in Suffolk Superior Court of possession of a firearm without a permit; carrying a firearm with ammunition; possession of a firearm with a defaced serial number; and resisting arrest. He was subsequently sentenced to three years in prison, followed by two years’ probation. In December 2019, shortly after beginning his state prison sentence, Miller conspired with long-time friend Nadaje Hendrix to defraud a credit union where Hendrix served as a loan officer and assistant branch manager at the time. Specifically, between December 2019 and August 2021, the two defrauded the credit union by obtaining loans in the names of other individuals, including Miller’s fellow inmates, as well as loans under stolen identities. In total, Miller and Hendrix defrauded the credit union of approximately $134,000. The two were indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2024 in relation to this conduct. In October 2024, Hendrix was sentenced to eight months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty in July 2024.

    In the summer of 2023, upon his release from state prison, and prior to his January 2024 indictment, Miller conspired with other Mission Hill members to engage in a mail theft and “card cracking” scheme while on probation. According to court documents, card cracking involves the theft of checks – usually checks stolen from USPS collection boxes – which are chemically washed to remove the payee information. The checks are then rewritten in the names of others who have typically been recruited into the scheme via social media, deposited into their bank accounts and withdrawn or transferred as soon the funds are made available. According to the signed plea agreement, Miller is responsible for $250,000 – $550,000 in losses or attempted losses via checks that were stolen from the mail, washed and/or deposited into recruited accounts between June 2023 and February 2024. In August 2024, Miller was indicted by a federal grand jury along with eight other Mission Hill gang members and associates for their alleged roles in the card cracking scheme.

    Additionally, during the summer of 2023, while on state probation, Miller sold six firearms to a cooperating witness on four separate occasions on Aug. 7, 2023 and Oct. 24, 2023. One of the sales included a firearm with a high-capacity magazine equipped with a machinegun conversion device. Additionally, Miller was aware that the cooperating witness was a convicted felon who was prohibited from purchasing or possessing the firearms.

    The charges of being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition each provide for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of unlawful possession of a machinegun provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of trafficking in firearms provides for a sentence up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charges of bank fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud each provide for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. The charge of conspiracy to steal and possess stolen mail provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James Crowley, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Randy Maloney, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Boston Field Office made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston and Wellesley Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kriss Basil, Lucy Sun and Philip C. Cheng of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Man Pleads Guilty to Making Hate Crime Threat against Michigan Attorney General

    Source: US FBI

    DETROIT – A New York man pleaded guilty today to a federal crime for threatening Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. and Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    According to court documents, on October 21, 2023, AG Nessel posted to her X account a photograph of herself and her friend who had been murdered that day. Along with the photograph, AG Nessel described her friend’s faith and contributions to the community and expressed grief and shock about the murder. The next day, Kevin Delgado, 40, of Bayside, New York, posted a threatening reply to AG Nessel’s post. Delgado then pleaded guilty to one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce. Delgado admitted that he threatened her because of her religion and her perceived sexual orientation.

    “The federal government is dedicated to protecting all Americans against threats of violence. Everyone person has equal dignity, and our office will tirelessly work to protect them. And public officials must be free to exercise their office without fear,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said.

    “Threatening public officials is both illegal and unacceptable. The hateful comments made by Mr. Delgado online were especially outrageous,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, the Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those who make these dangerous and harmful threats against officials dedicated to serving and protecting our communities.”

    Delgado will be sentenced by United States District Court Judge Nancy G. Edmunds on September 22, 2025. He faces a maximum sentence of up to 5 years’ imprisonment.

    This case was investigated by the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frances Lee Carlson.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: KBC Ancora distributes an interim dividend of EUR 3.51 per share on 5 June 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Regulated information, inside information, Leuven, 23 May 2025 (17.40 CEST)

    KBC Ancora distributes an interim dividend of EUR 3.51 per share on 5 June 2025

    The Board of Directors of Almancora Société de gestion, statutory director of KBC Ancora, decided at its meeting on 23 May 2025, to make an interim dividend payable on 5 June 2025, of EUR 3.51 gross per KBC Ancora share. The net coupon amount, after deduction of 30% withholding tax, is EUR 2.457 per share.
    No final dividend will be paid.
    The financial services will be provided by KBC Bank, KBC Brussels and CBC Banque.

    Relevant dividend dates:

    • Ex-date: 3 June 2025
    • Record date: 4 June 2025
    • Payment date: 5 June 2025

    ———————————

    KBC Ancora is a listed company which holds 18.6% of the shares in KBC Group and which together with Cera, MRBB and the Other Permanent Shareholders is responsible for the shareholder stability and further development of the KBC group. As core shareholders of KBC Group, these parties have signed a shareholder agreement to this effect.

    Financial calendar:
    29 August 2025 (17.40 CEST)        Annual press release for the financial year 2024/2025
    30 September 2025 (17.40 CEST)        Annual report financial year 2024/2025 available
    31 October 2025                        General Meeting of Shareholders

    This press release is available in Dutch, French and English on the website www.kbcancora.be.

    KBC Ancora Investor Relations & Presse contact: Jan Bergmans
    tel.: +32 (0)16 27 96 72
    e-mail: jan.bergmans@kbcancora.be or mailbox@kbcancora.be 

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: 30/2025・Trifork Group: Reporting of transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company announcement no. 30 / 2025
    Schindellegi, Switzerland – 23 May 2025

    Reporting of transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities

    Pursuant to the Market Abuse Regulation Article 19, Trifork Group AG (Swiss company registration number CHE-474.101.854) (“Trifork”) hereby notifies receipt of information of the following transactions made by persons discharging managerial responsibilities in Trifork in connection with fixed salaries paid in shares. Reference is made to company announcement no. 1/2025 on 21 January 2025.

    1. Details of the person discharging managerial responsibilities/person closely associated
    a) Name Jørn Larsen
    2. Reason for the notification
    a) Position/status CEO
    b) Initial notification/
    Amendment    		 Initial notification
    3. Details of the issuer, emission allowance market participant, auction platform, auctioneer or auction monitor
    a) Name Trifork Group AG
    b) LEI 8945004BYZKXPESTBL36
    4.1 Details of the transaction(s)
    a) Description of the financial instrument, type of instrument

    Identification code

    		 Shares

    ISIN CH1111227810
    b) Nature of the transaction A share of 25% of the fixed monthly salary is paid out in shares as described in the company announcement no. 1/2025.
    c) Price(s) and volume(s) Price(s) Volume(s)
    DKK 0 1,138
    d) Aggregated information
    —
    Aggregated volume —
    Price    		 N/A
    e) Date of the transaction 23 May 2025
    f) Place of the transaction Outside a trading venue
    1. Details of the person discharging managerial responsibilities/person closely associated
    a) Name Kristian Wulf-Andersen
    2. Reason for the notification
    a) Position/status CFO
    b) Initial notification/
    Amendment    		 Initial notification
    3. Details of the issuer, emission allowance market participant, auction platform, auctioneer or auction monitor
    a) Name Trifork Group AG
    b) LEI 8945004BYZKXPESTBL36
    4.1 Details of the transaction(s)
    a) Description of the financial instrument, type of instrument

    Identification code

    		 Shares

    ISIN CH1111227810
    b) Nature of the transaction A share of 10% of the fixed monthly salary is paid out in shares as described in the company announcement no. 1/2025.
    c) Price(s) and volume(s) Price(s) Volume(s)
    DKK 0 303
    d) Aggregated information
    —
    Aggregated volume —
    Price    		 N/A
    e) Date of the transaction 23 May 2025
    f) Place of the transaction Outside a trading venue


    Investor and media contact
    Frederik Svanholm, Group Investment Director, frsv@trifork.com, +41 79 357 73 17

    About Trifork
    Trifork is a pioneering and global technology partner, empowering enterprise and public sector customers with innovative digital solutions. With 1,215 professionals across 71 business units in 16 countries, Trifork specializes in designing, building, and operating advanced software across sectors such as public administration, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, energy, financial services, retail, and real estate. The Group’s R&D arm, Trifork Labs, drives innovation by investing in and developing synergistic, high-potential technology companies. Trifork Group AG is publicly listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen. Learn more at trifork.com.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding improves access to food in northern B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People in northern B.C. will have more reliable access to healthy food, thanks to an investment from the Province.

    This support for local projects will address unique food-access challenges in rural, remote and First Nations communities. It will also increase the capacity of food-access organizations to meet increased demand for their services due to global inflation. It is made possible by a $2-million investment administered by Food Banks BC (FBBC) and the Public Health Association of BC (PHABC).

    “In many northern rural and remote communities, getting affordable fresh food can be challenging,” said Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “Working together with our partners, we are helping local groups meet the increasing demand for nutritious food.”

    This funding, part of $5 million announced in 2023, is distributed through two streams to support better food access in northern B.C. The Large Scale Innovations for Food System Transformation Pilot stream provides approximately $1.7 million for five partnerships to develop advanced models for food security. The Ideas Lab for Food Systems Transformation stream provides $300,000 across 13 projects, aiming to improve regional food security.

    “This investment underscores the power of collaboration to advance our key project priorities: strengthening food systems, empowering communities and creating lasting change,” said Dan Huang-Taylor, executive director, Food Banks BC. “As demand for food banks reaches unprecedented levels, we are proud to partner with the B.C. government and the Public Health Association of BC to expand access to local, healthy and culturally appropriate food for northern B.C. communities.”

    These projects are creating partnerships of non-profits, businesses, governments and other partners to work together and expand food access. Projects include:

    • using existing transportation networks to improve food delivery;
    • building the first school farm in northern B.C., which will provide fresh fruits and vegetables for school meals;
    • constructing greenhouses in school communities; and
    • partnering with Indigenous groups to support sustainable and culturally relevant food infrastructure.

    “Community partners have worked to build local solutions that strengthen regional food security and support dignified food access,” said Shannon Turner, executive director, PHABC. “This funding supports communities to make vital changes to food systems. Through this project, legacies of co-operation and effective policy are addressing food insecurity with new skills and models designed to reduce hunger and grow local capacity to address inequities and feed those in need.”

    Funding also supported new research to understand the unique barriers and opportunities to improve food access throughout B.C., informed by the experiences of local organizations and people experiencing food insecurity.

    This investment is part of the historic $200 million in funding announced in March 2023 to strengthen the food supply chain throughout B.C., increase the availability of fresh food, encourage more food production in remote areas, strengthen food infrastructure and create more regional community food hubs.

    Quotes:

    Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food –

    “One of the best ways we can boost our province’s food security is by directly partnering with farming communities and organizations who are on the ground in remote areas. The projects funded by these investments will put more food in the cupboards of people in northern British Columbia and beyond, and they will pay off in our long-term goal of a sustainable, healthy food system, with a thriving agricultural sector grown by and for the people of the region.”

    Dianne Villesèche, quality management system program manager, and Community Food Systems Innovation program manager, Ecotrust Canada –

    “We’re deeply grateful for the Large Scale Innovation for Food Systems Transformation Pilot grant, a giant step forward for the Prince Rupert area. With this opportunity, we’re creating school-based infrastructure that connects students to land, food, and culture, while supporting a more resilient, connected and just food economy rooted in local knowledge and community priorities.”

    Velma Sutherland, band administrator, Sik-E-Dakh (Glen Vowell) First Nations –

    “This facility is more than a place to cut and wrap meat — it’s a commitment to our sovereignty, resilience and cultural integrity. By investing in local food processing through the Large Scale Innovation for Food Systems Transformation Pilot program, we are strengthening our ability to provide affordable, high-quality food while creating jobs and training rooted in our Gitxsan values. This is a step toward revitalizing Gitxsan Food Ways — honouring the knowledge of our ancestors, respecting the animals that sustain us and building a stronger, self-reliant future for our people.”

    Nicholas Fricke, operations manager, BC Bus North (operated by Pacific Western) –

    “We are proud to be a partner with the Northern Food Distribution Network for northern B.C. Being able to have stable access to food is paramount for all. If we can assist with helping those in need gain access to food, especially fresh produce, that is such an amazing thing to be a part of.”

    Learn More:

    For a full list of grant recipients, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/FoodGrantsNew.pdf

    To learn more about the $5 million in funding to support food access in northern B.C., visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023SDPR0061-001580

    To learn more about FBBC, visit: https://www.foodbanksbc.com/

    For more information about PHABC, visit: https://phabc.org/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeGette, Hudson, DeLauro, Cole, Norton, Stauber Introduce Legislation to Invest in Research for Down Syndrome

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Diana DeGette (D-CO), Richard Hudson (R-NC), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Tom Cole (R-OK), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), and Pete Stauber (R-MN) introduced the bipartisan DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act to advance innovative research into Down syndrome and better understand the disease.

    “Last Congress, the INCLUDE Project Act passed unanimously out of the House of Representatives because Down syndrome research is a bipartisan priority,” said DeGette. “This bill will advance vital research into Down syndrome and improve health outcomes for those living with Down syndrome and related conditions. Colorado is home to the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome Research, the largest research facility dedicated to Down syndrome in the world. The INCLUDE Project Act will help us better understand the disease while bolstering our commitment to groundbreaking and innovative research.”

    “People with Down syndrome enrich our world in many unique ways,” said Rep. Hudson. “The DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act ensures people with Down syndrome are valued, respected members of society and that NIH is supporting their health, enabling them to live their lives to their full potential – with no barriers or bias or obstacles standing in their way. I am honored to continue and grow research efforts so people with Down syndrome have the long and healthy lives they deserve.

     “Biomedical research is essential – I consider myself alive to because of it,” said DeLauro. “We must do all we can to strengthen the resources that facilitate lifesaving medical breakthroughs and help folks with Down syndrome live long and full lives. Since 2018, as the top Democrat on the Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee, I am proud that on a bipartisan basis we have provided more than $400 million in funding for the more than 200 INCLUDE Project research grant awards at the National Institutes of Health. Now more than ever, we must fight to protect that funding. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with my colleagues, to build on that success and show our strong support for this critical program.”

    “Innovative medical research has the power to transform lives. The INCLUDE Act will do just that by strengthening the environment needed to advance medical breakthroughs and support individuals with down syndrome. I am proud to help lead this legislation forward, as it will make a real difference for those with down syndrome, and I thank Rep. DeGette for introducing this legislation,” said Congressman Cole.

    “Substantial NIH research funding is needed to benefit and enhance health and quality of life for people with Down syndrome, including my own daughter Katherine, and this bill will authorize the necessary funding,” said Norton. “Thank you to Rep. DeGette for your leadership on this important issue. I urge my colleagues to support this bill to provide robust funding for Down syndrome research.”

    “As a father of a son with Down syndrome, I understand the important role research plays in improving the lives of those with disabilities,” said Rep. Stauber. “I’m proud to help lead this effort to ensure continued investment in these life-changing discoveries. Every individual deserves a chance to thrive, and this legislation brings us one step closer to that goal.”

    “The reintroduction of the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act is a powerful next step in ensuring that the NIH continues to invest in Down syndrome research that will elongate life and improve health outcomes for our children and adults with Down syndrome,” says Michelle Sie Whitten, President and CEO of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. “GLOBAL, our self-advocates and families, and our researchers and medical professionals are deeply grateful for Reps. Diana DeGette and Richard Hudson’s leadership, and we are so pleased that original cosponsors Reps. Tom Cole, Rosa DeLauro, Pete Stauber, and Eleanor Holmes Norton continue to support this effort. To know that this bill will also provide a legacy in memoriam for our Ambassador DeOndra Dixon means the world to me, Dr. Joaquin Espinosa, and our entire team. I am proud that the awesome people with Down syndrome we serve, brings both sides of the aisle together. We look forward to working with our congressional champions to pass this important legislation into law this year.” 

    The House of Representatives passed H.R. 7406, the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act of 2024, unanimously in the last Congress.

    This week, Rep. DeGette was presented with the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation for her continued strong advocacy in Congress that makes an impact on the lives of people with Down syndrome and their families.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

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

    The disaster declarations cover the counties listed below:

    Declaration
    Number

    Primary
    Counties

    Neighboring
    Counties

    Incident Type

    Incident Date

    Deadline
    20823 Willacy Cameron, Hidalgo and Kenedy in Texas Drought, Excessive Heat and High Winds Jan. 1-June 30, 2024 6/23/25
    20825 Coryell, Delta, Grayson and Hill Bell, Bosque, Collin, Cooke, Denton, Ellis, Fannin, Franklin, Hamilton, Hopkins, Hunt, Johnson, Lamar, Lampasas, Limestone, McLennan, Navarro and Red River in Texas;
    Bryan, Love and Marshall in Oklahoma    		 Excessive Moisture, Flash Flood, High Winds and Hail April 26-Sept. 10, 2024 6/23/25
    20826 Coleman and Lamar Brown, Callahan, Concho, Delta, Fannin, Franklin, McCulloch, Red River, Runnels and Taylor in Texas;
    Bryan and Choctaw in Oklahoma    		 Hail and High Winds May 9-11, 2024 6/23/25

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

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

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

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

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

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than June 23.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Texas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Excessive Heat

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Texas counties of the June 23, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by excessive heat occurring June 1–Dec. 31, 2023.

    The disaster declaration covers the Texas counties of Atascosa, Bee, Duval, Frio, Goliad, Jim Wells, Karnes, La Salle, Live Oak, McMullen, Refugio, San Patricio and Webb.

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

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

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

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 2.37% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than June 23.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: EU Archives: EU-US Summit with Bill Clinton, Europe Direct Call Centre, Greece’s Accession Treaty

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    Have you ever wondered what the European Union was up to more than 40 years ago? Dive with us into the European Commission’s audiovisual archives and discover important anniversaries with our new weekly AV history teaser!

    Upcoming anniversaries in the teaser:

    · 1979: Signing of Greece’s accession treaty to the European Communities in Athens
    · 2000: Commissioner Viviane Reding inaugurates the “Europe Direct” Call Centre
    · 2000: EU-US Summit in Lisbon
    · 2015: United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon visits the Commission

    Get the complete material from our archive:
    https://europa.eu/!nqdJkN
    https://europa.eu/!j9XvH6
    https://europa.eu/!w7Vntb
    https://europa.eu/!Y369vq
    https://europa.eu/!n6xjbv

    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZuCIr3GXxg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi says China ready to work with Germany to open new chapter in all-round strategic partnership 2025-05-23 23:03:50 Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday that China is ready to work with Germany to open a new chapter in their all-round strategic partnership, to steer China-EU relations toward new progress and to make new contributions to the stable growth of the world economy.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

    BEIJING, May 23 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday that China is ready to work with Germany to open a new chapter in their all-round strategic partnership, to steer China-EU relations toward new progress and to make new contributions to the stable growth of the world economy.

    Speaking to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over phone, Xi once again congratulated him on assuming office. He pointed out that as the world undergoes accelerated changes unseen in a century and the international landscape is marked by transformation and turbulence, the strategic and global significance of China-Germany and China-EU relations has become even more prominent.

    A sound and stable China-Germany relationship serves both countries’ interests, and meets the expectations of various sectors in China and Europe, the Chinese president added.

    China and Germany have developed their bilateral relations based on mutual respect, seeking common ground while shelving differences, and win-win cooperation, Xi stressed, calling on both sides to maintain and carry forward this fine tradition.

    First, Xi called for consolidating political mutual trust. He said China views Germany as a partner, welcomes Germany’s development and prosperity, and is willing to maintain close high-level exchanges with Germany, respect each other’s core interests and consolidate the political foundation of bilateral relations.

    Second, Xi urged the two sides to enhance the resilience of the bilateral relationship. He said both sides should not only continue to expand the existing cooperation in traditional fields such as automobiles, mechanical manufacturing and chemical industry, but seek more collaboration in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence and quantum technology, and strengthen exchanges and cooperation in areas including climate change and green development, contributing the wisdom and solutions of China and Germany to global sustainable development.

    Third, Xi noted that bilateral cooperation should continue to gather momentum. He said that China is willing to share with Germany development opportunities brought about by its high-level opening-up, adding that China hopes Germany will offer more policy support and facilitation for two-way investment, and provide a fair, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises.

    Xi pointed out that facts have fully proven that partnership is the proper positioning of China-Germany and China-EU relations, and a stable and predictable policy environment is essential to ensuring bilateral cooperation.

    As major countries, he added, both sides share a common responsibility. Noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, Xi said that the two sides should jointly review the successful experience in the development of China-EU relations and send a positive signal in support of multilateralism and free trade, as well as deepening openness and mutually beneficial cooperation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Commemorating the Erie Canal with New Visitor Experience

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the opening of “Waterway of Change: Complex Legacies of the Erie Canal,” an engaging new visitor experience at Canalside in Buffalo commemorating the Erie Canal Bicentennial. The 2,900-square-foot exhibit invites guests of all ages and abilities to explore Buffalo’s canal legacy through an inclusive and engaging lens. Housed in the Longshed building, Waterway of Change brings the canal’s layered history to life with short films, interactive touch screens, immersive audio, and historic artifacts. Complementing the indoor experience, a series of outdoor interpretive displays along the historic towpaths will offer visitors a deeper connection to this transformative chapter in New York’s story.

    “Waterway of Change shares the remarkable story of the Erie Canal, and the area now known as Canalside, with visitors,” Governor Hochul said. “As we commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal, this multi-faceted experience will draw more people to Buffalo’s waterfront and help them connect to its history in a new and participative way.”

    The exhibit traces Canalside’s history, beginning with its significance as the ancestral land of the Haudenosaunee and acknowledging the impacts of their displacement. Visitors will also experience how the area transformed from a rural village at the time the Erie Canal opened in 1825 to a bustling 19th-century port and shipping hub. It also highlights the diverse perspectives of Indigenous Peoples, Black individuals, women, and immigrant communities affected by the canal’s development, offering a richer understanding of its cultural and historical significance.

    “Waterway of Change” will be open Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays, noon to 5 p.m. and Thursdays through Saturdays, noon to 8 p.m. Free, timed-admission ticketing is available here.

    Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Waterway of Change showcases the multilayered history of the canal, from its technical innovations and contributions to Buffalo’s rapid transformation to the lived experience and perspective of the people who were part of the journey. The Erie Canal’s legacy is alive in Buffalo, and I encourage all New Yorkers to visit this unique experience at Canalside as a starting point for your Bicentennial commemoration.”

    The Buffalo History Museum is providing operational and support services for “Waterway of Change.” The Museum plans to create unique guided experiences both inside the new visitor center and outdoors, at the ruins, thresholds, and replica Canal terminus. Programming will be geared toward all ages and abilities, including sensory friendly quiet hours, tours for school groups of all ages, and tour bus experiences for adults. The Museum is also operating a gift shop on site.

    The Buffalo History Museum Executive Director Melissa Brown said, “The Erie Canal changed everything—and its legacy still influences who we are. The Buffalo History Museum is excited to partner with ECHDC to share stories that invite curiosity, conversation, and deeper connection to this place. We’re honored to collaborate on Waterway of Change to help ground this bicentennial moment in context—offering Canalside as both a destination and a lens to better understand how this place took shape, and how it continues to shape us.”

    Local Projects, a New York City-based multi-disciplinary exhibition and media design firm, worked with Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation to create the visitor experiences for the Longshed and Canalside. Other partnerships represented include Buffalo’s Hadley Exhibits, which handled exhibit fabrication, and the Buffalo History Museum, which has provided interpretive content and historical guidance through all phases of the project. That collaboration included consultations with a diverse group of community stakeholders and subject-matter experts to ensure Buffalo’s Erie Canal story is shared with visitors from multiple perspectives and viewpoints.

    Funding for “Waterway of Change” is from the New York Power Authority, through relicensing agreements tied to the operation of the Niagara Power Project. Exhibits are sponsored by Upstate Laborers Union, Local 210.

    A free shuttle service will be available at Canalside starting Memorial Day weekend as ECHDC is projecting a higher amount of seasonal foot traffic and vehicles at Canalside and surrounding area. The shuttle will operate on a fixed route, covering key locations between parking lots surrounding Canalside and attractions within the Canalside property. The shuttle will run on a constant route loop, estimating the pickup at each location to be every 15 minutes.

    Please visit the ErieCanalTurns200.com, and connect on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram for the latest information, including Canalside programming dates and times, shuttle route and information and Waterway of Change exhibit operating hours.

    Visit Buffalo Niagara President & CEO Patrick Kaler said, “This summer promises to be a banner year for tourism in Buffalo, and the opening of the Waterway of Change exhibit at Canalside is the perfect way to kick it off. As we commemorate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal—a marvel that transformed our region and our nation—we’re proud to welcome visitors and travel writers alike to experience this new, immersive journey through history. The story of the canal is the story of Buffalo’s rise, and we’re thrilled to share it in such an engaging and innovative way.”

    New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “For the last 200 years, the Erie Canal has influenced the evolution of New York’s economy, culture and communities, especially in Western New York. Through funding support for “Waterway of Change”, NYPA continues to honor the Erie Canal’s legacy, fostering a deeper appreciation of its historical significance and providing a new way for New Yorkers to connect with one of our state’s most treasured assets.”

    New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian Stratton said, “As we commemorate 200 years of the Erie Canal and contemplate its next century of operation, one of our main objectives is sharing the many diverse stories about this historic waterway yet to be told with as many audiences as possible. This new exhibition at Canalside proudly and honorably delivers on that objective.”

    State Senator April N. M. Baskin said, “Students of history may recall that the ‘Wedding of the Waters’ occurred 200 years ago when Governor DeWitt Clinton boarded a boat from Buffalo to Albany and then New York City and poured water from Lake Erie into the Atlantic Ocean. Now, as we commemorate the historic Erie Canal bicentennial, we have an opportunity to learn more about the complex background of this iconic waterway. Kudos to all involved who have brought this rich history to life using modern exhibits and immersive technology, allowing us to experience the recreational and historic Canal in a new and exciting way.”

    Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “I’m elated to join with all of Erie County in commemorating the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, and the new “Waterway of Change” exhibit offers a powerful opportunity to reflect on the transformative legacy that the canal has had on Buffalo, New York State, and our nation. This exhibit honors the ingenuity and ambition that built the canal, while also giving voice to the diverse communities whose stories are too often left untold. I’m proud to see this dynamic and inclusive experience take shape right here at Canalside, inviting visitors of all ages to connect with our shared history in a meaningful way.”

    Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon said, “As we commemorate the Erie Canal’s bicentennial, Waterway of Change ensures that Buffalo’s waterfront continues to be a place of learning, reflection, and inspiration. The Erie Canal helped shape Buffalo into a city of opportunity, and this new exhibit at Canalside thoughtfully captures both the progress it fueled and the complex legacies it left behind. I thank Governor Hochul, the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation, and all the partners who helped bring this thoughtful and dynamic attraction to life.”

    Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said, “Erie County and the Erie Canal are inextricably linked, and ‘Waterway of Change’ will provide a fascinating look at the Canal’s history and how our county and the City of Buffalo grew right along with it. The Canal’s western terminus was the site not only for explorers and pioneers to head out to the western frontier but also for businesses and settlers to come here and stay on the shores of Lake Erie to form our early community. This in-depth historical experience provides a rich and varied portrait of the people who built early Buffalo, bringing their struggles and aspirations to life. It’s local history coming alive and is sure to interest visitors to Canalside.”

    About Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation

    The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) is governed by a nine-member board consisting of seven voting directors and two non-voting, ex-officio directors. The seven voting directors are recommended by the New York State Governor and are appointed by the New York State Urban Development Corporation d/b/a Empire State Development as sole shareholder of ECHDC. The two non-voting, ex-officio director positions are held by the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo Mayor.

    As a subsidiary of Empire State Development, the state’s chief economic development agency, the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation supports and promotes the creation of infrastructure and public activities at Canalside, the Ohio Street corridor and the Outer Harbor that is attracting critical mass, private investment and enhance the enjoyment of the waterfront for residents and tourists in Western New York. Its vision is to revitalize Western New York’s waterfront and restore economic growth to Buffalo based on the region’s legacy of pride, urban significance, and natural beauty.

    MIL OSI USA News –