Category: Fisheries

MIL-OSI China: Fujian coast guard conducts routine patrol of waters near Kinmen 2025-06-24 08:36:48 Fujian coast guard conducted a routine law enforcement patrol in the waters near Kinmen on Monday, according to a spokesperson for a regional bureau of China Coast Guard (CCG).
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
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MIL OSI China News –
June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Marine Environment – Latest trawl bycatch numbers “a grim wake-up call” – Greenpeace

Source: Greenpeace

The latest fisheries bycatch data paints a grim picture, with trawlers hauling up thousands of kilograms of coral and killing hundreds of fur seals and seabirds over a 12 month period. The bycatch deaths include 108 Salvin’s albatross, which are at high risk of extinction.

The figures from the Ministry for Primary Industries reveal that from April 2024 to March 2025, the New Zealand bottom trawling fleet dragged up over 8,300kg of protected coral, which is crucial to deep sea habitats and supports a huge range of ocean life.Over the same one-year period, 1092 seabirds, including 395 albatross, were killed by trawlers. Of those, 108 were Salvin’s albatross, a middle-sized mollyhawk which are listed as “nationally critical,” meaning they face an immediate high risk of extinction. The primary threat to Salvin’s is industrial fishing.

Just over 270 mammals also died in trawl nets. This included 25 dolphins and 239 fur seals, which are already dying in unusual numbers due to starvation, as climate change and industrial fishing put pressure on their food supply.All these figures are self-reported interactions with protected species made by fishers to MPI.

Greenpeace oceans campaigner Juan Parada calls these figures “an urgent wake-up call”.

“The New Zealand bottom trawling industry is one of the greatest threats to ocean health. Year after year, the trawling fleet bulldozes ocean ecosystems, threatens already endangered species and smashes vital coral habitats which take centuries to form”, says Parada”And while the seafood industry keeps insisting that such destruction is rare, the data shows otherwise. From the corals of the deep to the dolphins, fur seals and albatross that die as collateral damage in trawl nets every year, the cost of bottom trawling is too high.

“The government can no longer be complicit in the devastation this industry is inflicting on the oceans. We need an immediate ban on bottom trawling on seamounts and vulnerable areas, as well as a commitment to establish marine sanctuaries on the high seas before it’s too late.” “New Zealanders care deeply about the ocean and want to see it thrive. Bottom trawling is a major threat to healthy oceans, and it is time New Zealand finally abandoned this indefensible, archaic practice.” Bottom trawling is a destructive and indiscriminate fishing method that involves dragging large, heavy nets along the seafloor and over seamounts to catch fish.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Delivers Opening Statement At Bicameral Spotlight Forum With State AGs On Democrats’ Legal Fight Against Trump’s Lawlessness

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
June 23, 2025
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today delivered an opening statement at a bicameral spotlight forum entitled “Defending the Rights of the People: States and Congressional Allies Fight Back Against Trump’s Constitutional Abuses,” with a panel of Democratic state Attorneys General who are combatting the Trump Administration’s egregious and unlawful actions through litigation. House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08) is leading the forum with Durbin.
Key quotes:
“Our country is currently facing several catastrophic challenges that the Trump Administration is ignoring or exacerbating in favor of fomenting a domestic political crisis through their lawless and cruel directives—and unfortunately, Congressional Republicans have been willing to ignore.”
“The last two weeks alone have tragically illustrated this. President Trump ordered an unprecedented deployment of the U.S. military in Los Angeles and federal agents shoved and handcuffed our colleague, Senator Padilla, while he was trying to get answers for these abuses. Days later, a horrific political assassination occurred in Minnesota… But instead of focusing on the problem at hand, our Republican counterparts are insulating the Administration from scrutiny.”
“This lack of oversight and accountability would not stand when I was Chair of the Committee on this side. I constantly fought for agency oversight and accountability from a Democratic administration. To take just a few examples of issues that we should be addressing at the moment: The Trump Administration has removed dozens of senior officials with decades of national security experience and placed a 22-year-old recent college graduate with no threat prevention experience in charge of our primary terrorism prevention center… The Justice and Homeland Security Departments have diverted thousands of law enforcement agents away from combating drug trafficking, terrorism, violent crimes against children, cybercrimes, and gun violence to participate in a mass deportation campaign.”
“In addition to the Administration openly violating and denouncing the rule of law, President Trump and his allies have also persisted in lodging unprecedented and unacceptable attacks on the federal judiciary. In one particularly egregious example on Memorial Day, the President referred to members of the bench as ‘USA hating judges’ and ‘monsters who want our country to go to hell.’”
“The lawlessness of this Administration is having damaging effects on the rights, liberties, and pocketbooks of everybody. And in this disturbing environment, many Americans have no greater ally than their states’ Attorneys General, who are engaged in multi-pronged efforts to protect the Constitution, the public interest, and hold the federal government to account. They are protecting the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of birthright citizenship, challenging unlawful detention procedures, and fighting the Administration’s refusal to disperse funds appropriated by Congress.”
“I appreciate the work that state Attorneys General have done to defend our constituents. I want to continue that partnership today.”
Video of Durbin’s opening statement is available here.
Audio of Durbin’s opening statement is available here.
With President Trump’s increasing attacks on our constitutional order and failure to confront political violence, the legislative branch and state governments must step in and do everything in their power to defend the rule of law and protect the American people.
During today’s hearing, lawmakers will hear firsthand testimony from Democratic Attorneys General from across the country leading this fight on behalf of their constituents and the American people, including: Attorney General Andrea Campbell, Massachusetts; Attorney General Keith Ellison, Minnesota; Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Illinois; and Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, New Jersey.
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MIL OSI USA News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: U.S. Army Garrison Italy remembers longtime auto skills mechanic

Source: United States Army

Gene Willie Strahan Jr., a devoted automotive mechanic, beloved colleague and cherished friend, passed away on June 10, 2025. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

VICENZA, Italy – The military communities of U.S. Army Garrison Italy, including Vicenza and Camp Darby, are mourning the loss of Gene Willie Strahan Jr., a devoted automotive mechanic, beloved colleague and cherished friend.

Strahan knew cars—especially BMWs, his favorite. Friends described him as a gentle giant who loved car shows, fishing and spending time with his tiny dog, Thor.

A U.S. Army veteran, Strahan served in Germany in the 1980s. As a civilian, he began working in Mannheim, Germany. He later moved to Camp Darby, where he worked as a contractor and later at the post exchange. Many remember him from his time at Camp Darby’s Auto Skills Center. Following downsizing there, Strahan relocated to Vicenza, where he worked at the Auto Skills Center, part of the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.

Strahan’s love of cars translated to a sincere dedication to community members who sought his help. He offered mechanical expertise to soldiers and civilians at Caserma Ederle with humility and genuine warmth. A few minutes in the shop with Strahan often felt more like catching up with an old friend than speaking with a mechanic.

Over the years, Strahan earned several awards for his work. But his joy came from engaging with the community and making connections that lasted.

News of his June 10 passing sparked an outpouring of online condolences from Americans and Italians in Vicenza and Camp Darby, as well as friends around the world who remembered his kindness during their time in Italy.

Jimmy Roddy, DFMWR’s Business Recreation Division chief, first met Strahan 24 years ago at Camp Darby. There, Strahan helped organize the summer car show and became known for offering help to anyone with automotive issues.

“A big guy, big smile with a bigger heart—always helpful,” Roddy said. “He was very low-key, for as big as he was. He was a gentle giant.”

Strahan loved to fish as much as he loved cars. Mostly, he loved helping the community solve their auto repair problems. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Nicknamed “The Frenchman” by fishing buddies, Strahan was born on Dec. 7, 1963 in France into a military family. He grew up around Army bases, to include time in Germany.

Timothy Gordon, a friend from the Camp Darby days, recalled spending long hours fishing Italian rivers with him—a tradition that continued after both relocated to Vicenza. Another shared passion was cars.

“If you asked him about a BMW, he could tell you about it from top to bottom,” Gordon said.

In Vicenza, Strahan was often seen with Thor, a canine companion that went with him nearly everywhere.

“The smallest dog you could imagine with the biggest man you could ever imagine,” Gordon said. “People would just watch them walk down the road. He just loved small dogs.”

Strahan also befriended Soldiers, including Spc. Haron Palomo, a volunteer at the Auto Skills Center. Over the past two years, they joked, shared stories and discussed car repairs while Palomo restored a 1993 Honda Civic. As he did with other customers, Strahan offered tips on finding affordable parts.

“Sadly, he didn’t get to see it finished,” Palomo said.

Strahan is survived by his mother, daughter, sister and brothers, including Michael Strahan, a television host and former professional football player.

A memorial service will be held at noon on June 25 at Caserma Ederle’s Chapel. A second service is scheduled for noon on June 26 at Camp Darby’s chapel.

MIL Security OSI –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government recognises Matariki near Ohakune

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is recognising Matariki at the official ceremony near Ohakune today, Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka say.

“We are honoured to be guests of Ngāti Rangi for this traditional hautapu ceremony,” Mr Goldsmith says.

“This is the fourth national Matariki broadcast but the first time it has been hosted by a marae, and the first year Puanga is the star of national celebrations.

“Matariki and Puanga are both stars that sit in the night sky together to signal the start of the Māori new year for different iwi.

“We are very fortunate to have this opportunity to witness and share in the Puanga traditions of Ngāti Rangi.

“The theme for this year’s celebration is Matariki mā Puanga, which means celebrating together. I hope that no matter where people are, they get the chance to remember, celebrate and look to the future. Mānawatia a Matariki!”

“For many Iwi, Puanga shines brightest above our communities as we grow the tradition of celebrating together,” Mr Potaka says.

“These Puanga observations signal the year is coming to a close, and inform forecasts for the future. It’s a time to reflect on the past, remembering and giving thanks to those who have passed on before us.

“It’s also a time to reflect on what was achieved over the past year. Along with the rising of Matariki, we welcome the dawn of a new year and plan ahead with ancestral wisdom.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Global report praises NZ’s sustainable fisheries

Source: New Zealand Government

A United Nations report ranking New Zealand’s fisheries among the world’s most sustainable is strong recognition of the sector’s hard work, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.

“The report compared fisheries around the world and found the region including New Zealand’s waters have the second highest levels of sustainable stocks in the world.

“New Zealand has a reputation around the world for high quality, sustainable kaimoana and, as this report shows, the reputation is richly deserved,” Mr Jones says.

The review of the state of world marine fishery resources report is produced by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to give an overview of the state of fisheries around the world.

The section of the report on the Southwest Pacific, including all of New Zealand and the Australian New South Wales coast, said 85.5 percent of fish stocks were considered sustainably fished.

“The report confirms what we already knew – that the quota management system (QMS) works well to keep our fisheries sustainable and continues to be the best framework for managing fisheries sustainably,” Mr Jones says.

“It is a good validation of our approach and it didn’t happen by accident. It is the result of generations of effort since the introduction of our quota management system in 1986. Fishers, scientists, kaitiaki, volunteers and regulators all work hard to keep our fisheries sustainable.”

“While these results are incredibly positive, I believe that our fishery management system can be even better, which is why I have proposed changes to the Fisheries Act. These changes will build on what we are already doing well, and make our fishing industry more efficient and productive, to allow the sector to meet its potential.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Drone footage captured orcas crafting tools out of kelp – and using them for grooming

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vanessa Pirotta, Postdoctoral Researcher and Wildlife Scientist, Macquarie University

Sara Jenkins/500px/Getty

The more we learn about orcas, the more remarkable they are. These giant dolphins are the ocean’s true apex predator, preying on great white sharks and other lesser predators.

They’re very intelligent and highly social. Their clans are matrilineal, centred around a older matriarch who teaches her clan her own vocalisations. Not only this, but the species is one of only six known to experience menopause, pointing to the social importance of older females after their reproductive years. Different orca groups have fashion trends, such as one pod who returned to wearing salmon as a hat, decades after it went out of vogue.

But for all their intelligence, one thing has been less clear. Can orcas actually make tools, as humans, chimps and other primates do? In research out today by United States and British researchers, we have an answer: yes.

Using drones, researchers watched as resident pods in the Salish Sea broke off the ends of bull kelp stalks and rolled them between their bodies. This, the researchers say, is likely to be a grooming practice – the first tool-assisted grooming seen in marine animals.

This video shows whales using kelp tools in what appears to be social grooming behaviour. Credit: Center for Whale Research.

Self kelp: why would orcas make tools?

Tool use and tool making have been well documented in land-based species. But it’s less common among marine species. This could be partly due to the challenge of observing them.

This field of research expands what we know these animals are capable of. Not only are orcas spending time making kelp into a grooming tool, but they’re doing it socially – two orcas have to work together to rub the kelp against their bodies.

To make the tool, the orcas use their teeth to grab a stalk of kelp by its “stipe” – the long, narrow part near the seaweed’s holdfast, where it tethers to the rock. They use their teeth, motion of their body and the drag of the kelp to break off a piece of this narrow stipe.

Next, they approach a social partner, flip the length of the kelp onto their rostrum (their snout-like projection) and press their head and the kelp against their partner’s flank. The two orcas use their fins and flukes to trap the kelp while rolling it between their bodies. During this contact, the orcas would roll and twist their bodies – often in an exaggerated S-shaped posture. A similar posture has been seen among orcas in other groups, who adopt it when rubbing themselves on sand or pebbles.

Why do it? The researchers suggest this practise may be social skin-maintenance. Bottlenose dolphin mothers are known to remove dead skin from their calves using flippers, while tool-assisted grooming of a partner has been seen in primates, but infrequently and usually in captivity.

Orcas across different social groups, ages and genders were seen doing this. But they were more likely to groom close relatives or those of similar age. There was some evidence suggesting whales with skin conditions were more likely to do the kelp-based grooming.

Humpback whales are known to wear kelp in a practice known as “kelping”. But this study covers a different behaviour, which the authors dub “allokelping” (kelping others).

A surprise from well-studied pods

Interestingly, this new discovery comes from some of the most well-studied and famous orcas in the world – a group known as the southern resident killer whales. If you were a child of the 90s, you would have seen them in the opening scene of Free Willy, the movie which set me on my path to study cetaceans.

These orcas consist of three pods known as J, K and L pods. Each live in the Salish Sea in the Pacific Northwest on the border of Canada and the US.

Researchers fly drones over these resident pods most days and have access to almost 50 years of observations. But this is the first time the tool-making behaviour has been seen.

Unfortunately, these pods are critically endangered. They’re threatened by sound pollution from shipping, polluted water, vessel strike and loss of their main food source – Chinook salmon.

A pod of killer whales off Vancouver, Canada.
Vanessa Pirotta, CC BY-NC-ND

Orcas are smart

In one sense, the findings are not a surprise, given the intelligence of these animals.

In the Arctic, orcas catch seals by making waves to wash them off ice floes. Before European colonisation, orcas and First Nations groups near Eden hunted whales together.

They can mimic human speech, while different groups have their own dialects. These animals are awe-inspiring – and sometimes baffling, as when a pod began biting or attacking boats off the Iberian peninsula.

While orcas are often called “killer whales”, they’re not whales. They’re the biggest species of dolphin, growing up to nine metres long. They’re found across all the world’s oceans.

Within the species, there’s a surprising amount of diversity. Scientists group orcas into different ecotypes – populations adapted to local conditions. Different orca groups can differ substantially, from size to prey to habits. For instance, transient orcas cover huge distances seeking larger prey, while resident orcas stick close to areas with lots of fish.

Not just a fluke

Because orcas differ so much, we don’t know whether other pods have discovered or taught these behaviours.

But what this research does point to is that tool making may be more common among marine mammals than we expected. No hands – no problem.

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

– ref. Drone footage captured orcas crafting tools out of kelp – and using them for grooming – https://theconversation.com/drone-footage-captured-orcas-crafting-tools-out-of-kelp-and-using-them-for-grooming-259372

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Backing fair trade and healthy oceans

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is investing a further $150,000 to support implementation of the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement—ensuring New Zealand exporters can compete on a level playing field while helping protect global fish stocks.

“This is about backing rules that stop unfair subsidies and make sure all countries are held to the same standards,” Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay says.

“It’s in New Zealand’s direct interest to see this Agreement fully implemented—especially in the Pacific, where many of our key partners operate and where our seafood exporters are active.”

New Zealand’s total contribution now stands at $310,000.

The 2022 Agreement—ratified by 102 WTO members—will ban subsidies that support illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, fishing of overfished stocks, and unregulated high seas fishing. Just nine more ratifications are needed for it to enter into force.

“Unfair subsidies distort global trade and undercut responsible producers like ours. This Agreement ensures a more level global playing field—while also supporting the sustainability of fish stocks we all rely on,” Mr McClay says.

“New Zealand will continue to push for the Agreement to enter into force and for negotiations on additional rules to conclude quickly.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Pressley, Clark, Warren, Trahan Stand with Planned Parenthood, Condemn Proposed Cuts to Reproductive Health Care Under GOP’s Big Ugly Bill

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

Ahead of Dobbs Anniversary, Lawmakers Slam GOP Budget That Slashes Health Care Coverage, Defunds Planned Parenthood

Pressley Shines Light on the Life-Saving Work of Planned Parenthood, Underscores Critical Need to Confront Converging Black Maternal Mortality and Reproductive Justice Crises that Cost Adriana Smith her Life

Video

BOSTON – Today, ahead of the third anniversary of the Dobbs decision that dismantled the basic right to abortion care, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus, and the women of the Massachusetts delegation, Whip Katherine Clark (MA-05), Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Rep. Lori Trahan (MA-03) joined Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts President Dominique Lee for a press conference in solidarity with Planned Parenthood as they collectively fight to stop Republicans’ latest attack on reproductive freedom in the GOP’s Big, Ugly Bill.

Their advocacy comes as Donald Trump and Republicans are advancing a cruel budget reconciliation bill that would defund Planned Parenthood health centers, bar private health insurers on the ACA marketplace from offering abortion coverage, and slash Medicaid health care coverage — leaving over 300,000 Massachusetts residents unable to access basic health care services.

“As we mark three years since the devastating day the Supreme Court denied us our bodily autonomy and ripped away the basic right to abortion care in America, we recommit to fighting for families across this country to access the basic medical care they need to survive, to be safe in birth, to be treated with human dignity,” said Rep. Ayanna Pressley, Co-Chair of the House Reproductive Freedom Caucus. “It starts by defeating Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill – their shameful reconciliation bill that would put necessary health care further out of reach for millions of people and would drastically defund Planned Parenthood. Planned Parenthood clinics across this nation are quite literally saving lives – often the only option for miles for life saving cancer screenings, affordable birth control, and compassionate prenatal care. We will never yield to Trump and Republicans’ agenda to make America a nation of forced birth – this is not an inevitability, and I’m proud to join Whip Clark, Senator Warren, and Congresswoman Trahan in standing with Planned Parenthood in our fight to restore true bodily autonomy and reproductive justice.”

“Tomorrow will mark three years since Trump’s Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. For three years, the Republicans have marched nonstop toward their ultimate goal of a national abortion ban — with total control over women’s health care in every state, including Massachusetts,” said Whip Clark. “And now, we have their Big, Ugly Betrayal of Women Budget, which will impose the single biggest health care cut in our country’s history and inflict the biggest assault on women’s health care since Dobbs. To put it simply, this is a life-and-death fight every day. Republicans are choosing to make life harder and more expensive and more dangerous for America’s 170 million women and girls. All to help America’s 900 billionaires.”

“Since Trump’s Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, we’ve seen a new form of hell at every turn. Now, Republicans in Congress are on track to pass a bill that amounts to a backdoor ban on abortion — even in states where it’s protected. Republicans’ bill to cut Medicaid and defund Planned Parenthood is a one-two punch to women across the country, and we are not going to let them get away with it,” said Senator Warren.

“Three years ago, Donald Trump’s Supreme Court opened the floodgates to extreme abortion bans in GOP-controlled states across the country – bans that criminalize doctors, endanger women’s lives, and force survivors of rape to carry pregnancies against their will,” said Rep. Trahan. “Now, Republicans in Washington are trying to punish states like Massachusetts for protecting access to abortion by withholding federal health care funding for families who need it most. It’s a coordinated effort to force every state to fall in line with Trump’s anti-abortion, anti-woman agenda, and we have to do everything in our power to stop it from passing.”

“The so-called ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ is a backdoor abortion ban, even in safe-haven states like Massachusetts,” said Dominique Lee, president of the Planned Parenthood Advocacy Fund of Massachusetts. “This bill would ‘defund’ Planned Parenthood by blocking Medicaid reimbursement, which could impact half of Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts’ budget. PPLM serves more than 30,000 patients annually, and nearly 40% of them are on Medicaid. If this bill passes, it won’t matter that abortion is legal here. People could lose access to abortion, birth control, STI testing, cancer screenings and other care from the provider they trust most. Planned Parenthood will not abandon our patients, our staff, or our communities, but we need everyone with us to help stop this attack on people’s health and freedom.”

A transcript of Congresswoman Pressley’s opening remarks is available below and the video is available here.

Transcript: Pressley, Clark, Warren, Trahan Stand with Planned Parenthood, Condemn Proposed Cuts to Reproductive Health Care Under GOP’s Big Ugly Bill
Boston, MA
June 23, 2025

Good morning. In a couple of days, our daughter, Cora, will turn 17, and as we’re looking at colleges, you know, one factor that shapes that decision – and it’s a key factor – is where she’ll be able to access healthcare. That’s now a part of our calculus and our decision-making.

This morning, she asked me, in the wake of recent events in the Middle East, “Are we going to be okay?”

She has shared with me her concerns for classmates who are immigrants, who have expressed anxiety and fear about going away for a vacation, and whether or not they’ll be able to come back into the country – and they were born here.

So every day that she asks me, “Are we going to be okay?” – it becomes harder and harder to answer that question with confidence that “Yes, we will be.”

But standing here shoulder-to-shoulder with my colleagues, you certainly fortify me in this work and in that belief that we will be okay and we will get to the other side of this. Thank you all for being here today.

I want to echo the sentiment offered by our Whip a moment ago that Congress should do everything in its power to reign in Trump and to prevent an endless war in Iran.

I want to underscore the urgency of protecting our reproductive freedom – I reiterate this in my role as the Co-Chair of the House Reproductive Freedom Caucus.

So we have to do everything to protect our reproductive freedom and preventing Republicans’ shameful – and it is shameful – reconciliation bill from putting necessary health care further out of reach for millions of Americans.

When we say an abortion ban, what does that really mean?

A nation of forced birth.

A nation of forced birth – what could be more violent than that?

What could be more void of common sense and compassion in a country that does not yet have universal childcare, paid leave – an administration that seems to be hostile towards women, attacking our freedoms at every turn, degrading Head Start.

There are 80 million Medicaid recipients in this country. 40% of births in this country are covered by Medicaid.

So I want to say thank you to our partners in good at Planned Parenthood, who labor in love day in and day out, navigating a very perilous and unpredictable terrain. Thank you for showing up for Massachusetts to provide our constituents with essential health care.

And I’ll just share when I came here in 1992 to, you know, pursue a higher learning – in a city where I did not know a soul – and found myself experiencing debilitating pain, I came to Planned Parenthood and was diagnosed with uterine fibroids.

And I was met with compassion and community and embrace, and that meant everything.

Again, I did not know a soul. I knew no one. But I knew that I could get answers and help with Planned Parenthood.

Later, as a survivor of campus sexual assault, I also returned to Planned Parenthood for counseling and STI testing. So I just want to personally, again, just express my heartfelt gratitude for the entire team here, from your security to providers and the like.

Every time we’re in Washington and folks across the aisle – mostly, but not only, white men – start to attack the critical work of Planned Parenthood, I know the moment they open their mouth that they’ve never sat across from a dedicated Planned Parenthood provider or patient, because if they had, they would understand the vital importance of this work.

Planned Parenthood is often the only accessible health care provider for families. In the Massachusetts seventh, we are fortunate to have a real density of health care services – but in many parts of the country, the only place you can access care for miles is a Planned Parenthood.

And Planned Parenthood clinics across this nation are quite literally saving lives. Planned Parenthood is often the only option for miles for life saving cancer screenings.

Regardless of zip code, they are the trusted provider folks turn to for preventative and routine medical care. Planned Parenthood is the place you can go to to get affordable birth control and compassionate prenatal care.

The attacks on Planned Parenthood are nothing new. In this moment, they are far more coordinated and sinister than we have ever seen, however.

Those who aim to rob people of this essential health care in their communities are using every tool – the courts, complicit state houses in many states, and notably this Big Ugly Bill in Congress.

Imagine having the full power and authority of the United States government, controlling the White House and the Senate, and you choose to go after cancer screenings for mothers.

The cruelty is the point.

At this point, Republicans can’t deny that they’re actually in the business of making people across America sicker, poor and more vulnerable.

I walked in here today with a heavy heart, with Adriana Smith on my mind.

Adriana Smith was a 30-year-old nurse and the mother to a vibrant six-year-old when she experienced debilitating headaches – her pain was dismissed, not believed. She was sent home from the hospital without the care she needed. She woke up gasping for air, arrived at the hospital, and shortly thereafter, was declared brain dead. The blood clots the doctors had missed had claimed her life.

But to be a black woman in America means that not only was Adriana’s pain dismissed and her son robbed of a mother – no, because of an extreme abortion ban in Georgia, the hospital stated that they could not take her off of life support.

And because she was nine weeks pregnant when she was declared brain dead, about a month past a missed period, the hospital would not allow Adriana’s family to make sensitive end of life medical decisions for their loved one. The hospital made her body an incubator.

This week, baby Chance was delivered by a posthumous emergency C section and remains in the NICU. Adriana’s family was finally able to lay her to rest and to pick up the pieces as they navigate their deep grief.

I wish I could say that Adriana’s story is a horrific anomaly, but we are experiencing up close the converging crises of black maternal mortality and denials of essential abortion care in this post Dobbs decision world.

None of us are free until all of us are free.

So this week, as we mark the three years since the devastating day the Supreme Court denied us our bodily autonomy and ripped away the basic right to abortion care in America, we recommit to fighting for families across this country to access the basic medical care they need to survive, to be safe in birth, to be treated with human dignity.

This is not an inevitability.

A more just America is possible, and it starts by defeating this Big Ugly Bill before it dismantles essential health care in America.

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MIL OSI USA News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say on proposed catch limits for fisheries across New Zealand

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Catch limits and other management changes for nearly 30 fisheries across the country are included in proposals for the next regular fisheries sustainability review, says Fisheries New Zealand director of fisheries management Emma Taylor.

The public consultation, which began today, includes proposed changes for 3 blue cod stocks, snapper on the west coast of the South Island, and blue mackerel on the west coast of the North Island.

“The blue cod fish stocks being reviewed are all highly-prized shared fisheries, important to recreational, customary, and commercial fishers alike,” says Emma Taylor.

“Proposed cuts to commercial catch for 2 blue cod stocks are in response to latest abundance estimates, while the third had a commercial catch limit cut last year. Recreational daily catch limits are proposed to be reduced for all 3 fisheries, in line with the settings in place under the National Blue Cod Strategy.”

Emma Taylor says the latest assessment of blue mackerel on the west coast of the North and South Islands shows that the fish stock is above the target level, so the proposals include an increased catch for the fishery.

“These are just a small portion of the fish stocks included in the proposed changes. I encourage anyone with an interest in our fisheries to read the consultation material and provide feedback.

“The fisheries included in this review represent stocks that are of importance to New Zealand economically, socially, and culturally,” says Emma Taylor.

“We need to ensure that catch limits and other settings for our fisheries strike the right balance between getting value for all New Zealanders while ensuring they remain sustainable for future generations.

“Following consultation, we will prepare advice for Fisheries Minister Shanes Jones to make decisions on any changes, which would come into effect for the fishing year starting 1 October 2025,” says Emma Taylor.

Also included in the proposed changes are deemed value rate changes for 6 fish stocks. The consultation is open now and will run until 23 July 2025.

The full proposals, as well as more information about the consultation and how to make a submission can be found on Fisheries New Zealand’s website.

Proposals for changes to catch limits for orange roughy on the Chatham Rise are also being developed and will be available for consultation in the coming weeks.

Find out more

Review of sustainability measures for fisheries – October 2025 round

Review of sustainability measures for fisheries – October 2024 round

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: It’s time to face an uncomfortable truth: maybe our pampered pets would be better off without us

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nancy Cushing, Associate professor, University of Newcastle

ROSLAN RAHMAN/AFP via Getty Images

Pet-keeping is often promoted for the benefits it brings humans. A close association with another animal can provide us with a sense of purpose and a daily dose of joy. It can aid our health, make us more conscientious and even help us form relationships with other humans.

But the situation is perhaps not as rosy for the animal itself. Domesticated animals often live longer than their free-living counterparts, but the quality of those lives can be compromised. Pets can be fed processed foods that can lead to obesity. Many are denied a sexual life and experience of parenthood. Exercise can be limited, isolation is common and boredom must be endured.

In the worst cases, pets suffer due to selective breeding practices, physical abuse and unethical commercial breeding.

Is this the best life for the species we feel closest to? This question was raised for me when I heard the story of Valerie, the dachshund recaptured in April this year after almost 18 months living on her own on South Australia’s Karta Pintingga/Kangaroo Island.

Is being a pet the best life for the species we feel closest to?
Oleksandr Rupeta/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Valerie: the story that captivated a nation

Valerie, a miniature dachshund, escaped into the bush during a camping trip on Kangaroo Island in November 2023. After several days of searching, her bereft humans returned to their home in New South Wales. They assumed the tiny dog, who had lived her life as a “little princess”, was gone forever.

Fast-forward a year, and sightings were reported on the island of a small dog wearing a pink collar. Word spread and volunteers renewed the search. A wildlife rescue group designed a purpose-built trap, fitting it out with items from Valerie’s former home.

After several weeks, a remotely controlled gate clattered shut behind Valerie and she was caught.

Cue great celebrations. The searchers were triumphant and the family was delighted. Social media lit up. It was a canine reenactment of one of settler Australia’s enduring narratives: the lost child rescued from the hostile bush.

A dog’s-eye view

But imagine if Valerie’s story was told from a more dog-centred perspective. Valerie found herself alone in a strange place and took the opportunity to run away. She embarked on a new life in which she was responsible for herself and could exercise the intelligence inherited from her boar-hunting ancestors.

No longer required to be a good girl, Valerie applied her own judgement – that notorious dachshund “stubbornness” – to evade predators, fill her stomach and pass her days.

Some commentators assumed Valerie must have been fed by anonymous benefactors – reflecting a widely held view that pets have limited abilities.

Veterinary experts, however, said her diet likely consisted of small birds, mammals and reptiles she killed herself – as well as roadkill, other carrion and faeces.

Valerie was clearly good at life on the lam. Unlike the human competitors in the series Alone Australia, she did not waste away when left in an island wilderness. Instead, she gained 1.8 kg of muscle – and was so stocky she no longer fit the old harness her humans brought to collect her. She had literally outgrown her former bonds.

Valerie could have sought shelter with the island’s humans at any time, but chose not to. She had to be actively trapped. Once returned to her humans, she needed time to reacclimatise to life as a pet.

Not all missing pets thrive in the wild. But all this raises the question of whether Valerie’s rescue would be better understood as a forced return from a full life of freedom, to a diminished existence in captivity?

A long history of pets thriving in the wild

Other examples exist which suggest an animal’s best life can take place outside the constraints of being a pet.

Exotic parrots have fled lives in cages to form urban flocks. In the United States, 25 species initially imported as pets have set up set up self-sustaining, free-living populations across 23 states.

Or take the red-eared slider turtle, which is native to parts of the US and Mexico. It’s illegal to keep the turtles as pets in Australia, but some of those smuggled in have later been released into urban wetlands where they have established large and widespread populations.

Cats are perhaps the most notorious example of escaped pets thriving on their own in Australia. They numbers in the millions, in habitats from cities to the Simpson Desert to the Snowy Mountains, showing how little they need human assistance.

One mark of their success is their prodigious size. At up to 7kg, free-living cats can be more than twice the weight of the average domestic cat.

Around the world, exotic former companion mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians and insects have all established populations large enough to pose problems for other species.

Rethinking animals as pets

Of course, I am not advocating that pets be released to the wild, creating new problems. But I do believe current pet-keeping practices are due for reconsideration.

A dramatic solution would be to take the animal out of the pet relationship. Social robots that look like seals and teddy bears are already available to welcome you home, mirror your emotions and offer up cuddles without the cost to other animals.

A less radical option is to rethink the idea of animals as “pets” and instead see them as equals.

Some people already enjoy these unforced bonds. Magpies, for example, are known to have strong allegiances with each other and are sometimes willing to extend those connections to humans in multi-species friendships.

As for Valerie, she did make “her little happy sounds” when reunited with her humans. But she might look back with nostalgia to her 529 days of freedom on Kangaroo Island.

Nancy Cushing receives funding from the State Library of New South Wales as the Coral Thomas Fellow. She is a member of the executive committee of the Australian Historical Association.

– ref. It’s time to face an uncomfortable truth: maybe our pampered pets would be better off without us – https://theconversation.com/its-time-to-face-an-uncomfortable-truth-maybe-our-pampered-pets-would-be-better-off-without-us-256903

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Bear Creek Fire in Alaska

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

strong>BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Bear Creek Fire burning in the Denali Borough, Alaska.
The state of Alaska’s request for a declaration under FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program was approved by FEMA Region 10 Acting Administrator Vincent J. Maykovich on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 3:33 a.m. PT. He determined that the Bear Creek Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declaration in 2025 to help fight Alaska wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Healy, Ferry, Clear and Anderson, as well as the Clear Space Force Base. The fire was also threatening highways, electrical utilities, parks, commercial sites, a watershed, fishing streams and spawning sites, wildlife, and environmental and cultural resources.
FMAGs make funding available to pay up to 75 percent of a state’s eligible firefighting costs for fires that threaten to become major disasters. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. 

MIL OSI USA News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Lyon Creek fish barrier removal project along SR 104 begins June 30 in Lake Forest Park
Source: Washington State News 2

LAKE FOREST PARK – Construction is set to begin on a fish barrier removal project along Lyon Creek where it passes beneath State Route 104/Ballinger Way Northeast in Lake Forest Park.

Beginning Monday, June 30, contractor crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will replace an existing culvert that prevents fish from passing with a 24-foot-wide concrete structure near the SR 104 intersection with 35th Avenue Northeast. The project also will improve habitat within Lyon Creek, which flows from Snohomish County into Lake Washington through Lake Forest Park.

The new culvert structure will open 7.5 miles of potential upstream habitat to Chinook, coho, steelhead, sockeye, sea-run cutthroat and resident trout.

Closure details

Construction will happen up to seven days a week, with traffic control primarily occurring between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Crews will perform site work and utility upgrades before installing the new culvert beneath SR 104, which will require extended road closures.

The following closures are planned during different stages of the project:
- Overnight, single-lane closures on SR 104, 35th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 185th Street with flaggers alternating traffic in each direction.
- A five-day closure along Northeast 185th Street.
- At least one overnight closure along 35th Avenue Northeast near SR 104.
- A 35-day closure along SR 104/Ballinger Way.
The dates for each extended closure have not been finalized, although the 35-day closure on SR 104/Ballinger Way is tentatively planned to start in early September.

What to expect

Signed detour routes will guide vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians around the road closures. Local access will be permitted during construction, although people will not be able to cross through the work zones.

King County Metro will relocate bus stops along SR 104/Ballinger Way during construction.

Johansen Construction Co. is the prime contractor for the $8.71 million project that, weather permitting, is expected to finish this fall. This work advances WSDOT’s efforts to comply with a U.S. District Court ruling requiring the agency to remove barriers to fish passage beneath state highways.

MIL OSI USA News –
June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: An energy solution made in Saskatchewan

Source: – Press Release/Statement:

Headline: An energy solution made in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan should recommit to its plan to procure 3,000 MW of abundant, affordable wind and solar energy by 2035.

Regina, June 23, 2025—The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is concerned that the Government of Saskatchewan’s plans to extend the lifecycle of their coal-generation plants, as signalled on June 18, will have an impact on future renewable energy plans in the province.

CanREA encourages the government, in its effort to protect Saskatchewan jobs and utilize Saskatchewan resources, to recommit to its 2022 commitments to procure 3,000 MW of wind and solar by 2035, as part of an energy vision that leverages wind energy, solar energy and energy storage technologies.

“Saskatchewan has world-class wind and solar resources—among the best in Canada—and it makes sense to tap into these abundant, affordable, renewable sources of energy,” said Kelly Hall, CanREA’s Director for Saskatchewan and Indigenous Engagement.

The 3,000 MW target will support five key priorities: affordability, Indigenous Reconciliation, economic development, effective project siting and engagement, and long-term energy security. These priorities have been cited to justify extending coal power production, but they’re even stronger reasons to accelerate the shift to renewables.

Affordability

Renewables with storage are the most cost-effective and rapidly deployable new energy sources, according to financial services firm Lazard.

For example, on May 1, 2025, SaskPower announced long-term (25-30 year) PPAs for the 200 MW Rose Valley Wind Project, east of Assiniboia, and the 100 MW Southern Springs Solar Project, south of Coronach. While contract prices remain confidential, SaskPower President Rupen Pandya disclosed average bid prices of $64/MWh for wind and $90/MWh for solar—both well below SaskPower’s current retail rate of $150/MWh.

These prices align with 2018 results, when Potentia Renewables won a PPA for the Golden South Wind facility at $42/MWh for 29 wind bids. Now operational, that project delivers affordable electricity to the grid, as do all Saskatchewan’s 920 MW of wind and solar projects.

Renewables help keep costs low for all ratepayers, and Saskatchewan deserves more success stories like these.

Indigenous Reconciliation

Wind and solar are well suited to Indigenous equity partnerships, which will advance economic reconciliation in Saskatchewan. Equity partnerships benefit Indigenous communities, ratepayers and the electricity system.

For example, SaskPower recently selected renewable energy projects jointly owned by Potentia Renewables, Meadow Lake Tribal Council and Mistawasis Nehiyawak. These majority Indigenous-owned ventures continue Saskatchewan’s tradition of Indigenous leadership in renewables.

With a commitment to Indigenous equity in all future RFPs, the 3,000 MW renewables plan can expand on past success.

Economic development & job opportunities

Renewables bring billions in investment and create jobs. At the May 1 SaskPower announcement, Potentia Renewables said the Rose Valley Wind Project will cost nearly $450 million; the solar project, about $185 million.

Based on current projects, a typical 200 MW wind project creates 200 to 300 construction jobs, invests more than $400 million locally, and generates more than $1 million annually in property taxes and landowner payments.

Saskatchewan’s 3,000 MW renewables plan could mean 4,500 to 6,000 jobs, $5 to 6 billion in rural investment, and tens of millions annually for local landowners and municipalities. Investing in renewables is investing in rural Saskatchewan.

Project siting and community engagement

Communities across the province expect thoughtful project siting and responsive public engagement. Fortunately, new wind and solar projects require local landowner agreements, are designed to co-exist with agriculture and deliver direct benefits to host municipalities.

Responsible development is already a standard practice in the renewables sector and among CanREA members.

Energy security

In uncertain times, energy security is a valid concern. Saskatchewan can count on its outstanding wind and solar resources to reduce its reliance on imported fuels and protect itself from cross-border risks.

New wind and solar projects can give Saskatchewan control over its grid, without worrying that another jurisdiction might turn off the tap.

It makes sense for the province to invest in its own abundant, affordable resources. Recommitting to the plan of 3,000 MW of renewable energy by 2035 will support energy security, protect local jobs, maintain affordability, and promote Indigenous Reconciliation, all in harmony with landowner and community needs.

“It’s an energy solution that’s made in Saskatchewan,” said Hall.

Quote

“Saskatchewan has world-class wind and solar resources—among the best in Canada—and it makes sense to tap into these abundant, affordable, renewable sources of energy. It’s an energy solution that’s made in Saskatchewan.”
—Kelly Hall, Director for Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and for Indigenous Engagement, Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA)

For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:

Communications Canadian Renewable Energy Association communications@renewablesassociation.ca

About CanREA

The Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) is the voice for wind energy, solar energy and energy storage solutions that will power Canada’s energy future. We work to create the conditions for a modern energy system through stakeholder advocacy and public engagement. Our diverse members are uniquely positioned to deliver clean, low-cost, reliable, flexible and scalable solutions for Canada’s energy needs. For more information on how Canada can use wind energy, solar energy and energy storage to help achieve its net-zero commitments, consult “Powering Canada’s Journey to Net-Zero: CanREA’s 2050 Vision.” Follow us on Bluesky and LinkedIn here. Learn more at renewablesassociation.ca.
The post An energy solution made in Saskatchewan appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

MIL OSI Economics –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Panels established to review Canadian surtaxes, Chinese duties on farm and fish products

Source: World Trade Organization

DS627: Canada — Measures on Certain Products of Chinese Origin

China submitted its second request for the establishment of a dispute panel with respect to the surtax measures imposed by Canada on certain products of Chinese origin, including electric vehicles and steel and aluminium products. Canada had said it was not ready to accept China’s first request for the panel at a DSB meeting on 23 May.

China said it considers Canada’s measures inconsistent with provisions of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). It added that it was open to constructive discussions and remains committed to resolving the dispute.

It is unfortunate that China has included in its panel request claims related to certain solar products, critical minerals, semiconductors, permanent magnets and natural graphite imported from China, Canada said, noting that there are no Canadian surtax measures on these products. China has therefore failed to identify the specific measures at issue as required under the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU), Canada said.

Canada said its surtax measures on electric vehicles and steel and aluminium products are justified under the GATT and that it was fully prepared to defend these measures. Canada remains committed to maintaining constructive dialogue with China even as the dispute moves to the panel stage, it added.

The United States said that China responded to the surtaxes by imposing countermeasures in the form of additional duties on Canadian agricultural and fishery products.

The DSB agreed to the establishment of the panel.

Australia, the European Union, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Norway, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Ukraine and the United States reserved their third-party rights to participate in the proceedings.

DS636: China — Additional Import Duties on Certain Agricultural and Fishery Products from Canada

Canada submitted its second request for the establishment of a dispute panel with respect to the additional import duties imposed by China on certain Canadian agricultural and fisheries products. China had said it was not ready to accept Canada’s first request for the panel at a special DSB meeting on 5 June.

Canada said the import duties imposed by China represented a unilateral determination and trade countermeasures contrary to WTO rules. Canada moreover said that as the dispute concerns perishable goods, the case should be treated as urgent as provided by the DSU. Canada remains committed to maintaining constructive dialogue with China even as the dispute moves to the panel stage, it added.

China replied that it regretted Canada’s decision to seek the establishment of a panel and opposed Canada’s claim that DSU provisions on urgency apply to this case. China said it will defend itself in the proceedings and is confident that its measures will be found consistent with WTO rules. It added that it remained open to engagement with Canada.

The United States reiterated that the measures at issue are countermeasures imposed by China in response to Canadian measures China is challenging in DS627.

The DSB agreed to the establishment of the panel.

Australia, the European Union, India, Japan, Norway, the Russian Federation, Singapore, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States and Viet Nam reserved their third-party rights to participate in the proceedings.

Appellate Body appointments

Colombia, speaking on behalf of 130 members, introduced for the 88th time the group’s proposal to start the selection processes for filling vacancies on the Appellate Body. The extensive number of members submitting the proposal reflects a common interest in the functioning of the Appellate Body and, more generally, in the functioning of the WTO’s dispute settlement system, Colombia said.

The United States said it does not support the proposed decision and noted its longstanding concerns with WTO dispute settlement that have persisted across US administrations. The United States emphasized that the dispute settlement process was meant to help members resolve specific disputes without creating new rules that alter rights and obligations under the covered WTO agreements. The US reiterated that fundamental reform of WTO dispute settlement is needed and that it will reflect on the extent to which it is possible to achieve such a reformed WTO dispute settlement system.

More than 20 members took the floor to comment, one speaking on behalf of a group of members. Several members urged others to consider joining the Multi-party interim appeal arrangement (MPIA), a contingent measure to safeguard the right to appeal in the absence of a functioning Appellate Body.

Colombia, on behalf of the 130 members, said it regretted that for the 88th occasion members have not been able to launch the selection processes. Ongoing conversations about reform of the dispute settlement system should not prevent the Appellate Body from continuing to operate fully, and members shall comply with their obligation under the Dispute Settlement Understanding to fill the vacancies as they arise, Colombia said for the group.

Dispute settlement reform

The DSB Chair, Ambassador Clare Kelly (New Zealand), said that the General Council (GC) Chair Ambassador Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) had informed members in a 6 June communication that, regarding dispute settlement reform, his consultations have confirmed readiness to preserve and build on the progress already made, and to advance only when the time is ripe to make meaningful progress on key unresolved issues with the engagement of all delegations.

The GC Chair also indicated that both the DSB Chair and the GC Chair will be closely monitoring the situation and will revert to members at the appropriate time. The DSB chair added that her door is open to delegations wishing to further discuss the matter.

Surveillance of implementation

The United States presented status reports with regard to DS184, “US — Anti-Dumping Measures on Certain Hot-Rolled Steel Products from Japan”, DS160, “United States — Section 110(5) of US Copyright Act”, DS464, “United States — Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Measures on Large Residential Washers from Korea”, and DS471, “United States — Certain Methodologies and their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China.”

The European Union presented a status report with regard to DS291, “EC — Measures Affecting the Approval and Marketing of Biotech Products.”

Indonesia presented its status reports in DS477 and DS478, “Indonesia — Importation of Horticultural Products, Animals and Animal Products.”

Next meeting

The next regular DSB meeting will take place on 25 July 2025.

Share

MIL OSI Economics –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Demands Transparency Around Immigration Proceedings for Unaccompanied Minors

Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

REP. DAN GOLDMAN DEMANDS TRANSPARENCY AROUND IMMIGRATION PROCEEDINGS FOR UNACCOMPANIED MINORS

Trump’s March Attempt to Terminate Federally Funded Legal Aid for Unaccompanied Migrant Children Has Thrown System into Disarray

Juvenile Dockets Safeguard Unaccompanied Children from Trafficking, Exploitation, and Abuse

Read Letter Here

Washington D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) led 77 of his colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee to direct the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to submit a report to Congress detailing the status of unaccompanied children’s immigration proceedings. The letter also asks the Committee to include language in its FY2026 report encouraging EOIR to continue using specialized juvenile dockets to improve fairness, efficiency, and child protection in immigration court proceedings.

“The immigration courts have a critical role to play in administering justice efficiently while maintaining standards that ensure due process, which can be especially difficult in proceedings where children are the sole or principal respondent. Utilization of specialized juvenile dockets with robust anti-trafficking safeguards and child-appropriate accommodations can both help protect children from dangers and achieve much needed efficiency benefits for the backlogged immigration courts, all while improving due process in children’s cases,” the Members wrote.

Children as young as two are often left to navigate America’s complex and unforgiving immigration system entirely on their own, exposing them to serious risks of abuse, human trafficking, and long-term harm. Earlier this year, Donald Trump terminated the federal contract that provided critical legal assistance to these unaccompanied migrant children, stripping away one of their few remaining protections for over 26,000 unaccompanied migrants. The Members asked for the following language to be included in the FY26 federal budget:

“The Committee encourages EOIR to continue using specialized juvenile dockets across the immigration courts to improve the fairness and efficiency of immigration adjudications involving unaccompanied children, better protect those children against trafficking and exploitation, and connect children with legal assistance. The Committee directs EOIR to submit a report to the Committee, within 180 days of enactment of this act, detailing the status of unaccompanied children’s immigration proceedings.”

Congressman Dan Goldman has consistently fought to ensure unaccompanied minors receive support and proper legal representation when navigating the U.S. immigration system.

Congressman Goldman was instrumental in prompting the Biden Administration’s Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to release new guidance for children’s immigration proceedings. This guidance established specialized children’s dockets in every immigration court, overseen by dedicated judges.

The Biden Administration’s Executive Order followed the introduction of Congressman Goldman’s Children’s Court Act, which intended to reduce the immigration court backlog and strengthen due process rights for children.

In March 2025, President Trump terminated federal funding for legal services that protected and provided legal aid to over 26,000 unaccompanied migrant children.

Read the letter here or below:

Dear Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Meng:

As your committee considers appropriations for Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, we urge you to direct the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) to submit a report to Congress detailing the status of unaccompanied children’s immigration proceedings.

The immigration courts have a critical role to play in administering justice efficiently while maintaining standards that ensure due process, which can be especially difficult in proceedings where children are the sole or principal respondent. The immigration courts are also an important element of creating a system that ensures unaccompanied children are protected from dangers like human trafficking, exploitation, and abuse. Utilization of specialized juvenile dockets with robust anti-trafficking safeguards and child-appropriate accommodations can both help protect children from dangers and achieve much needed efficiency benefits for the backlogged immigration courts, all while improving due process in children’s cases.

In December 2023, EOIR clarified in the Director’s Memorandum on Children’s Cases in Immigration Court that each immigration court would have a specialized juvenile docket for cases where the sole or principal respondent was under 21 years old. These dockets would be held separately from adult cases and would be overseen by judges who receive specialized training. The Memorandum also outlined certain procedures and practices that immigration judges should follow to create a system where children could better comprehend their proceedings; where indicators of trafficking would be identified; and through which the courts could work towards streamlining benefits.

Unfortunately, EOIR rescinded the Director’s Memorandum this year and reinstated 2017 guidance that offers fewer trafficking safeguards, efficiency benefits, and pragmatic processes. This change threatens to create unnecessary delays which further exacerbate the severe immigration court backlog. It also diminishes critical safeguards designed to ensure that children can seek relief for which they may be eligible and that they comply with their immigration responsibilities, including updating their address with government agencies.

Given the important role of Congress in overseeing the immigration courts’ handling of juvenile proceedings, we ask the Committee to include the following language in its report:

The Committee encourages EOIR to continue using specialized juvenile dockets across the immigration courts to improve the fairness and efficiency of immigration adjudications involving unaccompanied children, better protect those children against trafficking and exploitation, and connect children with legal assistance. The Committee directs EOIR to submit a report to the Committee, within 180 days of enactment of this act, detailing the status of unaccompanied children’s immigration proceedings. This report shall address: the name and number of immigration courts implementing juvenile dockets; training that has been provided to juvenile docket judges; any restrictions imposed on judges’ ability to use docket management tools for children’s proceedings; methods that courts are using to facilitate legal representation for children; and other relevant matters, as appropriate.

We appreciate your consideration of this important issue.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: I’ve studied faiths and cultures around the world. Here’s how finance can be made more inclusive and sustainable

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Atul K. Shah, Professor, Accounting and Finance, City St George’s, University of London

Krailath/Shutterstock

Financial products are becoming increasingly sophisticated – as are the frauds associated with things like crypto, hacking and digital robbery. Many people are already overwhelmed by financial matters, and being unable to manage money can lead to mental health problems.

But money is primarily a social and cultural construct. Humans created it to serve their everyday needs for food, clothing and shelter. You could argue, however, that this servant of society has now become the master. Money permeates every aspect of life, including health, wellbeing and love – even relationships can become transactional.

Humans have done immense damage to the planet. We urgently need to re-examine our financial motives and institutions so that we nurture the Earth, rather than extract, plunder and destroy it.

Meanwhile, in the last 50 years, the discipline of finance has grown in influence and reach. In fact, most other disciplines in business, such as marketing, organisational behaviour and management, have become subservient to finance. The priority has been to maximise profits to satisfy the demand for constant growth in revenues and shareholder wealth. This is known as financialisation.

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This, along with rising inequality, makes it a good moment to examine the knowledge system (epistemology) and beliefs (ontology) of finance. What are its core ethics, when did they go wrong, and how can they be reformed to help shape a sustainable society in future?

Given the vast cultural and religious diversity on Earth, as well as the global challenges of inequality and sustainability, I have examined a variety of experiences, beliefs and perspectives on money in my new book, Organic Finance.

This has resulted in a framework akin to organic farming, where the health of the soil, air and water is respected. Tradition, morality, culture and belief play a highly influential role in cultivating sustainable societies. Making money is placed into a wholesome cultural and planetary context. I have looked at attitudes towards money across culture and uncovered forgotten wisdom.

Many religions have strong views on money, debt and their role in building peace and cohesion. Most have rejected the accumulation of wealth for its own sake, and warned about the limits of greed and materialism. But these principles are the antithesis of how modern abstract economics and finance are modelled and taught all over the world. This has endorsed environmental degradation through resource depletion and extraction.

Countless cultures and traditions have emphasised the importance of kinship, charity, volunteering and service towards building communities and social relationships. Trust and mutuality have been central to many cultures and beliefs, yet severely undermined and ignored by the teachings of modern finance.

In contrast, for many indigenous traditions, money has historically played only a small role in livelihoods. For example, the Jains have a record dating back several hundred years of philanthropy for people, animals and the environment.

The first chapter of my book is titled “Evil Finance”, and outlines how some people have become defined by competition, exploitation and expropriation. Multinational corporations have amassed significant global power, and are very hard to govern and regulate. This is often accepted as a scientific reality, when in fact such behaviour is unsustainable.

Nature and spirituality are important when it comes to framing a conscious and responsible future for finance. A ground-up view of finance that includes kindness towards living beings, including rural communities and animals, would help to keep the focus on soil health, water purity and unpolluted air. And it would ensure that humans are humble and nurturing.

Trust before profits

Across the world, there are millions of small businesses that simply want to provide a valuable service and feed their families. They have no aspirations of exponential growth and want to keep expansion within manageable proportions. And because they want to pass the business to future generations, sustainability is deeply woven into their business culture. Trust and relationships are valued more than profits or wealth.

In the book, I also examine how profits and wealth maximisation have serious consequences, with side-effects including pollution and insecure jobs. Sadly, I’ve seen from decades of research and teaching experience that words like morality, trust, relationships and community have been disappearing from corporate finance and banking textbooks, encouraging selfishness and a calculating mindset.

Unless we go back to the basics of the cultural and ethical nature and limits of money, reforms in finance such as ESG (environmental, social and governance) investment criteria or net zero goals are going to be sticking plasters on fundamentally short-termist, greedy and selfish market institutions.

For people who work in finance, it’s about understanding the limits of materialism. Finance can once again become a servant of society and nature, helping to boost values of family and community. We can start by placing ethics and culture at the centre of accounting, economics and finance training.

When we allow self-reflection and diverse cultures and traditions into the finance curriculum, we enable rich dialogues, strong moral frameworks and an ability to put money in its place. Such a rewriting of finance would be respectful of diverse cultures and traditions, allowing them to learn from one another, and work together to build an equal society and healthy planet.

This article features references to books that have been included for editorial reasons, and may contain links to bookshop.org. If you click on one of the links and go on to buy something from bookshop.org The Conversation UK may earn a commission.

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

– ref. I’ve studied faiths and cultures around the world. Here’s how finance can be made more inclusive and sustainable – https://theconversation.com/ive-studied-faiths-and-cultures-around-the-world-heres-how-finance-can-be-made-more-inclusive-and-sustainable-258254

MIL OSI Analysis –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: I’ve studied faiths and cultures around the world. Here’s how finance can be made more inclusive and sustainable

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Atul K. Shah, Professor, Accounting and Finance, City St George’s, University of London

Krailath/Shutterstock

Financial products are becoming increasingly sophisticated – as are the frauds associated with things like crypto, hacking and digital robbery. Many people are already overwhelmed by financial matters, and being unable to manage money can lead to mental health problems.

But money is primarily a social and cultural construct. Humans created it to serve their everyday needs for food, clothing and shelter. You could argue, however, that this servant of society has now become the master. Money permeates every aspect of life, including health, wellbeing and love – even relationships can become transactional.

Humans have done immense damage to the planet. We urgently need to re-examine our financial motives and institutions so that we nurture the Earth, rather than extract, plunder and destroy it.

Meanwhile, in the last 50 years, the discipline of finance has grown in influence and reach. In fact, most other disciplines in business, such as marketing, organisational behaviour and management, have become subservient to finance. The priority has been to maximise profits to satisfy the demand for constant growth in revenues and shareholder wealth. This is known as financialisation.

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This, along with rising inequality, makes it a good moment to examine the knowledge system (epistemology) and beliefs (ontology) of finance. What are its core ethics, when did they go wrong, and how can they be reformed to help shape a sustainable society in future?

Given the vast cultural and religious diversity on Earth, as well as the global challenges of inequality and sustainability, I have examined a variety of experiences, beliefs and perspectives on money in my new book, Organic Finance.

This has resulted in a framework akin to organic farming, where the health of the soil, air and water is respected. Tradition, morality, culture and belief play a highly influential role in cultivating sustainable societies. Making money is placed into a wholesome cultural and planetary context. I have looked at attitudes towards money across culture and uncovered forgotten wisdom.

Many religions have strong views on money, debt and their role in building peace and cohesion. Most have rejected the accumulation of wealth for its own sake, and warned about the limits of greed and materialism. But these principles are the antithesis of how modern abstract economics and finance are modelled and taught all over the world. This has endorsed environmental degradation through resource depletion and extraction.

Countless cultures and traditions have emphasised the importance of kinship, charity, volunteering and service towards building communities and social relationships. Trust and mutuality have been central to many cultures and beliefs, yet severely undermined and ignored by the teachings of modern finance.

In contrast, for many indigenous traditions, money has historically played only a small role in livelihoods. For example, the Jains have a record dating back several hundred years of philanthropy for people, animals and the environment.

The first chapter of my book is titled “Evil Finance”, and outlines how some people have become defined by competition, exploitation and expropriation. Multinational corporations have amassed significant global power, and are very hard to govern and regulate. This is often accepted as a scientific reality, when in fact such behaviour is unsustainable.

Nature and spirituality are important when it comes to framing a conscious and responsible future for finance. A ground-up view of finance that includes kindness towards living beings, including rural communities and animals, would help to keep the focus on soil health, water purity and unpolluted air. And it would ensure that humans are humble and nurturing.

Trust before profits

Across the world, there are millions of small businesses that simply want to provide a valuable service and feed their families. They have no aspirations of exponential growth and want to keep expansion within manageable proportions. And because they want to pass the business to future generations, sustainability is deeply woven into their business culture. Trust and relationships are valued more than profits or wealth.

In the book, I also examine how profits and wealth maximisation have serious consequences, with side-effects including pollution and insecure jobs. Sadly, I’ve seen from decades of research and teaching experience that words like morality, trust, relationships and community have been disappearing from corporate finance and banking textbooks, encouraging selfishness and a calculating mindset.

Unless we go back to the basics of the cultural and ethical nature and limits of money, reforms in finance such as ESG (environmental, social and governance) investment criteria or net zero goals are going to be sticking plasters on fundamentally short-termist, greedy and selfish market institutions.

For people who work in finance, it’s about understanding the limits of materialism. Finance can once again become a servant of society and nature, helping to boost values of family and community. We can start by placing ethics and culture at the centre of accounting, economics and finance training.

When we allow self-reflection and diverse cultures and traditions into the finance curriculum, we enable rich dialogues, strong moral frameworks and an ability to put money in its place. Such a rewriting of finance would be respectful of diverse cultures and traditions, allowing them to learn from one another, and work together to build an equal society and healthy planet.

This article features references to books that have been included for editorial reasons, and may contain links to bookshop.org. If you click on one of the links and go on to buy something from bookshop.org The Conversation UK may earn a commission.

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

– ref. I’ve studied faiths and cultures around the world. Here’s how finance can be made more inclusive and sustainable – https://theconversation.com/ive-studied-faiths-and-cultures-around-the-world-heres-how-finance-can-be-made-more-inclusive-and-sustainable-258254

MIL OSI Analysis –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Causes and Consequences of Flooding in California’s Central Valley
Source: US Geological Survey
Breadcrumb

News

Causes and Consequences of Flooding in California’s Central Valley
USGS researchers are leveraging advances in satellite-based monitoring to better characterize and predict flood inundation, which is essential for effective emergency response and water management planning.

Atmospheric rivers (ARs) are long corridors of water vapor transport that extend from the tropics to mid-latitudes. These meteorological phenomena can bring large amounts of rain or snow to the western United States each year. In locations like California, AR storms are responsible for the largest magnitude floods in the state.

Emergency responders, water managers and planners need to be able to predict where flood inundation will occur due to an AR storm. But the complex connection between AR precipitation and flooding – which is needed for these predictions – is only partially understood.

How remote sensing is helping complete the picture

Fortunately, advances in satellite-based monitoring enabled USGS researchers to create long-term map records of surface water dynamics (including flooding) from 20 years of MODIS satellite imagery. These new records are high frequency (monthly) and cover the entire year. The winter-time record is especially valuable; previous research using Landsat excluded this time period due to wintertime cloud cover limitations in the satellite image record.

This pair of images shows flooding in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Valley region inland of San Francisco Bay. The image on the left was captured by the MODIS Aqua satellite on December 10, 2005, and the image at right was captured on January 4, 2006. Water is dark blue/black, vegetation is green, bare land is brown, and clouds are white.

In collaboration with the Desert Research Institute and other federal and academic partners, USGS scientists used these map products to investigate the connection between ARs and wintertime flooding in California’s Central Valley. Their study was recently published in the Journal of Flood Risk Management. The researchers compared spatially explicit locations of winter inundation to a chronology of atmospheric river landfalls, the corresponding integrated vapor transport associated with each storm (a measure of the total amount of precipitation passing over a specific area), and surface conditions (i.e., antecedent soil moisture).

They found significant relationships between inundation patterns and climatic factors, helping identify specific locations and conditions under which flooding occurs in relation to ARs. The findings also indicate areas where surface water frequently occurs outside of designated flood boundaries.

Actionable science

By revealing the relationship between AR storms and winter inundation patterns, the scientists were able to assess infrastructure flood exposure and identify possible floodwater management strategies, specifically the opportunity to use floodwaters for aquifer recharge. This knowledge can help inform land use planning, like infrastructure development and cropland distribution. The findings also highlight where AR-driven flooding occurs, driving home the importance of revising flood boundary maps and management strategies. Overall, remote sending products are a valuable decision-support tool for enhancing flood risk mitigation and groundwater recharge efforts in the region and beyond.

Related

May 30, 2017

Patterns in the Landscape – Analyses of Cause and Effect

Understanding the rates and causes of land-use/land-cover (LULC) change helps answer questions about what, where, how, and why the Earth’s surface is changing. Land-surface change results from human activities or natural processes like floods, droughts, and wildfires, and many of these change processes are observable in satellite imagery. The growing historical catalog of satellite images allows…

Understanding the rates and causes of land-use/land-cover (LULC) change helps answer questions about what, where, how, and why the Earth’s surface is changing. Land-surface change results from human activities or natural processes like floods, droughts, and wildfires, and many of these change processes are observable in satellite imagery. The growing historical catalog of satellite images allows…

Learn More

June 3, 2025

Assessing causes and consequences of winter surface water dynamics in California’s Central Valley using satellite remote sensing Assessing causes and consequences of winter surface water dynamics in California’s Central Valley using satellite remote sensing

California’s Central Valley is increasingly vulnerable to winter floods. A comprehensive spatial baseline of flood extents is critical for inundation analyses that can enhance future flood predictions, but cloud cover has prevented the regular observation of surface water extents with optical satellite imagery. In this study, we leveraged the daily resolution of Moderate Resolution…

Authors

Christine M. Albano, Christopher E. Soulard, Blake A. Minor, Jessica J. Walker, Britt Windsor Smith, Eric K. Waller, Michael D. Bartles, Tom Corringham, Anthony T. O’Geen, Melissa M. Rohde, Anne Wein

MIL OSI USA News –
June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: LaLota, Vietnam Veterans Demand VA Cancer Action

Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

Rocky Point, NY – On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, Representative Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County), Navy Veteran and member of the Military Construction & Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, was joined by Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner, Vietnam Veteran Gerald Wiggins, members of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 11, and members of Rocky Point VFW Post 6249 to call for urgent action to expand VA care and support for Vietnam Veterans suffering from bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma) linked to their military service.

The event followed the April 7, 2025 House passage of LaLota’s bipartisan Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act, which directs the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct a comprehensive study on the connection between liver fluke exposure during the Vietnam War and bile duct cancer in Vietnam Veterans compared to Veterans in other theaters. The bill passed the House unanimously, with a vote of 411–0.

“The facts are clear: Vietnam War veterans who served in-theater are 30% more likely to develop bile duct cancer than those who served elsewhere. Yet the VA still refuses to acknowledge the connection. That must change.

We’ve passed a corrective bill out of the House twice, but only after Gerald Wiggins walked into my office two years ago and said, ‘Nick, you’ve got to step up for the rest of us.’ And we did. Now it’s time for the Senate—and the VA—to do the same.

The VA could fix this with the stroke of a pen. They don’t need another study. But if that’s what it takes, we’ll keep pushing until this bill becomes law and the VA finally does right by our Vietnam Veterans,” said LaLota.

Gerald Wiggins, a Vietnam Veteran and Suffolk County resident in attendance, who has been instrumental in sparking legislative attention to this important issue, shared his personal story of delayed diagnosis, limited treatment options, and the emotional toll of navigating a system that has not formally recognized his illness as service-related.

“The disease lasts for 30, 40, 50 years. They don’t know how or why in your bile duct. It releases, goes to your liver. By the time you know about it, you’re dead. They say, ‘Well, the Vietnam Veterans are alcoholics and drug addicts, so that’s why their liver went bad.’ There are 800,000 Veterans in New York State. There are 134,000 Veterans on Long Island. If you push this bill through, you’re a hero,” said Wiggins. “Can someone explain to me in the Senate now why you can’t pass this bill? If 800,000 Veterans come together in Washington, D.C., like they did in the ’60s and ’70s—maybe something will go through. I’m positive. I’m still positive. I have a disease in me that, once it hits another organ, I could die. Right now it’s in my body, but I’m still alive.”

To read the full text of the bipartisan Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act, click HERE.

Background:

LaLota initially introduced the Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act during the 118th Congress, and it passed the House in September 2024. The Senate failed to act.

The Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act seeks to address this gap by requiring the VA, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to conduct a comprehensive study on the prevalence of liver fluke infections among Vietnam Veterans. This legislation aims to ensure that Vietnam Veterans receive the care and recognition they deserve for this debilitating condition.

To watch LaLota’s remarks ahead of the bill’s passage in the House, click HERE.

In 2018, the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center in New York conducted a groundbreaking study on liver fluke infection among Vietnam Veterans, using a 50-Veteran sample size. Although the study was smaller than most, its findings highlighted an urgent need for a larger-scale investigation, the development of standardized treatment protocols, and expanded access to care for affected Veterans at VA facilities nationwide.

Following this, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) initiated the Vietnam Era Veterans Mortality Study, comparing mortality rates from cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) between Veterans deployed to the Vietnam War theater and those who served elsewhere. The study suggests a potential link between exposure to parasitic infections, contracted through contaminated freshwater fish, and a heightened risk of cholangiocarcinoma among Vietnam Veterans.

Despite this evidence, during a Legislative Hearing before the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Health, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) indicated that the VA does not support further research on the topic. Additionally, the VA has yet to designate cholangiocarcinoma as a service-connected condition, despite the findings of the Vietnam Era Veterans Mortality Study.

LaLota recently sent a letter to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Doug Collins, urging him to designate cholangiocarcinoma as a presumptive, service-connected condition for Vietnam-era Veterans. Additionally, LaLota was successful in including language in the House Report attached to the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Subcommittee, directing the Department of Veterans Affairs to report to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations within 180 days of enactment of the bill on steps taken to review existing evidence, update claims adjudication guidance if necessary, and enhance outreach to potentially impacted Vietnam-era Veterans.

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MIL OSI USA News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Plymouth raises the flag, marking the start of Armed Forces Week

Source: City of Plymouth

The Armed Forces Flag was raised today following a ceremony outside Plymouth Guildhall, marking the start of Armed Forces Week.

The ceremony was attended by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Kathy Watkin and Captain Iain Ritchie representing the Naval Base Commander, alongside other military and civic leaders.

The flag will be flown all week, as events take place across the city, including the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, hosted by the Royal Navy on Thursday 26 June and Armed Forces Day in association with Babcock International, on Saturday 28 June, both on Plymouth Hoe.

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Events, said: “Plymouth is incredibly proud of its military history and Armed Forces based in the city. Armed Forces Week is an opportunity to celebrate and say thank you to our military, from serving personnel to reservists, veterans and cadets, for all the admirable work they do.

“On Thursday we are extremely privileged to be able to hold the Strength of Spirit Games, ahead of celebrating Armed Forces Day on Plymouth Hoe, which is looking to be a truly spectacular event.”

Captain Iain Richie, HMNB Devonport’s Captain of the Base (COB) said: “Armed Forces Week in Plymouth is a celebration of the strong relationship between the Armed Forces based in and around the city and the community that supports us. People will know that ships, submarines, Commandos, Gunners, and medical personnel from Plymouth are continually deployed to protect the UK and provide stability around the globe; none of that would be possible without the support of the people of Plymouth. Events this week will showcase our close bond with the city.”

Visitors are encouraged to come along to Plymouth Hoe and watch the athletes compete in the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, sponsored by AECOM and Defence Recovery. The event starts with the swim at Tinside Lido, followed by the cycle and static row, before crossing the all-important finish line!

For the second year running the games will include the Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge, sponsored by AECOM, from 10am to 11.15am, also on Plymouth Hoe. This will see children from military families will take part in their own thrilling rowing challenge, representing 24 local primary schools.

Darren Carlile, Head of National Security UK&I AECOM, said: “AECOM is proud to stand behind the Armed Forces community, including serving personnel and veterans. As a former member of the Corps of Royal Engineers and a colleague to many fellow veterans, I witness daily the exceptional skills and value they bring to our organisation.

“We’re honoured to once again support the Strength of Spirit Games, including the inspiring Rehabilitation Triathlon, and we’ll be cheering on all the remarkable athletes taking part. We’re also thrilled to back the Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge and wish every student competing the very best of luck.”

There will be plenty more interactive displays, military equipment, thrilling demonstrations, and entertainment to enjoy at Armed Forces Day, delivered in association with Babcock , on Saturday, from 10am. Visitors can get up close to the Merlin Mk4 helicopter and chat to the aircrew, and watch an air demonstration from 4pm, with the Swordfish W5856, Yak-52 and the Black Cats Helicopter Display. (Subject to weather).

John Gane, Site Managing Director of Babcock’s Devonport facility, said: “Celebrating the significant contribution that our Armed Forces bring to the nation through this series of events is fantastic. As a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, an employer of veterans and reservists, and one of the UK’s largest defence businesses, it is a privilege to support Plymouth Armed Forces Day again this year.

“We’ve got an action-packed display planned on 28 June, featuring plenty of hands-on activities for all ages, including a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) challenges to try, and where you can find out more about the wide range of career opportunities available, including our award-winning apprenticeships.”

Armed Forces Day will see ‘villages’ set up across the Hoe, from each Military Service, Emergency Services and the Veterans Village supported by the Royal British Legion Devon County, which includes over 100 charities and organisations offering information and advice, plus lots of hands-on activities to try.

There will be a range of live music performances throughout the day, finishing with a free evening concert, sponsored by C&G Catering, featuring: Company B, Not the Cowboys, Be Here Now and Good Times.

Both military events are supported by sponsors and partners – thank you to Babcock International, Royal British Legion Devon County, C&G Catering, Foster for Plymouth, South West Highways, Plymouth Citybus and Ivor Dewdney for supporting Armed Forces Day. And AECOM, Defence Recovery with delivery partners: South West Highways, Plymouth Active Leisure and Samworth Brothers Cornwall for supporting the Strength of Spirit Games.

For all the latest information about Plymouth Armed Forces Day including the full programme, and the Strength of Spirit Games, visit: plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Intense cold front to hit SA midweek

Source: South Africa News Agency

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that an intense cold front is expected to make landfall on Wednesday over the south-western parts of South Africa, bringing a significant shift in weather conditions across the region.

“The cold front is expected to be accompanied by heavy rainfall with a risk of localised flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape, especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas on Wednesday into Thursday [25-26 June 2025],” Head of Disaster Risk Reduction at the SAWS, Rudzani Malala, said on Monday.

The public has been cautioned that wet and slippery roads may result in dangerous driving conditions.

“Motorists should exercise caution and adhere to safety measures. Strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees. Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape.

“Strong and gusty winds over the interior may cause localised damage to structures and uproot trees. Cold to very cold conditions can be expected, along with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, spreading into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape,” Malala explained.

READ | Western Cape prepares for severe cold, wet weather

The maritime forecast includes gale-force winds and very rough seas, with wave heights between 5.5 metres to 7.5 metres, along the coastlines of the Northern Cape and Western Cape.

These conditions will lead to disruptions to fishing and port operations, an increased risk of vessels capsizing, accidents at sea, and hazardous shoreline conditions.

Coastal residents and beachgoers are urged to exercise caution.

“As the system progresses eastwards, it will affect the Eastern Cape, which is already vulnerable to weather-related impacts. The key concern here is strong, damaging winds that are expected across most parts of the province on Thursday, 26 June 2025.

“Furthermore, interior winds are expected to pick up and spread over the remainder of eastern provinces on Thursday and Friday, 26 and 27 June 2025, with daytime temperatures dropping to the cold category,” he said.

READ | Cold front in the Eastern Cape brings strong winds

Call to heed weather reports

The weather service called on communities to follow daily weather reports and heed severe weather warnings.

“This means following weather reports on radio, television, newspapers, social media, websites and staying attuned to what disaster management authorities have to say. This needs to be in each person’s daily routine. It is that important – a matter of life and death,” Malala said.

Additionally, the South African Weather Service will continue to monitor any further developments relating to the weather systems and will issue subsequent updates as required.

Furthermore, intermediate updates may be followed on X (@SAWeatherServic), Facebook (South African Weather Service) or other SAWS supported social media platforms.

“Impact Based Weather Warnings, if any, will continue to be issued via the system I have just elaborated on. As I have said, we need to work more closely with stakeholders to ensure to it that we save lives and property.

“Dissemination efforts aside, the South African Weather Service will continue with its elaborate public education and awareness programme, which includes own initiative mass events and piggybacking on other governmental events to equip vulnerable communities with information that could save lives and property.

“We will also carry on with our quarterly community radio programme targeted at vulnerable communities, partnering with disaster management authorities, municipal emergency services, and humanitarian bodies such as Red Cross International for an impactful collaboration,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Call to treat municipalities like businesses to attract skilled staff

Source: South Africa News Agency

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has called for a differentiated approach to tackling the challenges facing municipalities.

This includes improving funding, providing better remuneration for councillors, and attracting skilled staff to rural areas.

“We need to adopt a style where our municipalities will be run like businesses. But to do so, we need to take a bold and new approach on structuring funding and remuneration of councillors, because if our councillors are paid peanuts, they will spend most of their time on other jobs and only pay lip service as councillors,” Hlabisa said on Monday.

The Minister was speaking at a high-level dialogue with political parties in South Africa as part of the ongoing review of the 1998 White Paper on Local Government.

Hlabisa said the remuneration of councillors, municipal managers, and Section 56 employees should be a topic for discussion.

“If you want to attract them to deep rural municipalities, there should be a discussion that, to attract competent engineers, competent accountants and competent municipal managers from big cities to deep rural municipalities, the remuneration must compensate those people so that they can go and serve our rural municipalities.”

Government officials and relevant stakeholders should engage with honesty while reviewing the White Paper and come up with recommendations on these important issues.

In April, Hlabisa officially published a discussion document on the Review of the 1998 White Paper on Local Government.

This document, published under Notice No. 6118 (Gazette: 52498), initiated a national discussion aimed at producing a revised White Paper on Local Government by March 2026.

The launch of the review process involved over 300 delegates from various sectors, with political parties having until 30 June 2025 to submit their contributions.

The review process aims to inspire fresh thinking, facilitate honest reflection, and promote decisive action toward establishing a local government system that effectively serves the people of South Africa.

The gathering stressed the need for political parties to engage in shaping the future of municipalities.

The Minister took the time to highlight the poor performance of many municipalities, citing audit outcomes, financial mismanagement, and distressed municipalities.

“We also know that the public holds the opinion that the majority of municipalities are not doing well. There are indeed municipalities that are doing well, even if it may not be said, excellent.

“Unfortunately, these few well-performing municipalities are overshadowed by the majority that are not doing well. Year after year, the audit outcomes show that few municipalities get a clean bill.”

The Minister acknowledged the essential role of political parties and expressed eagerness for their contributions and involvement.

“We can improve the White Paper on Local Government. Local government is where policies become services, promises become infrastructure, and governance becomes tangible.

“Local government is at the coalface of service delivery and the closest to the people; it is the sphere that must be strengthened in terms of human resources, capacitated in terms of capabilities, and be made financially resourced to focus on maximum service delivery.”

In addition, he stated that the involvement of traditional and Khoi-San leaders in local government must be engaged to ensure their maximum participation and contribution in advancing democracy and service delivery. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China Coast Guard Fujian Province Conducts Regular Patrols in Waters Off Kinmen

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

FUZHOU, June 23 (Xinhua) — The China Coast Guard (CCG) in east China’s Fujian Province conducted regular patrols in waters off Kinmen for law enforcement purposes on Monday, the China Coast Guard’s regional bureau said.

Zhu Anqing, spokesman for the BOC’s East China Sea Bureau, said the Fujian agency had organized the formation of a fleet since early June to strengthen regular patrols and inspections in waters adjacent to Kinmen, including special law enforcement operations related to the summer fishing moratorium.

These measures have an effective impact on strengthening control in the relevant waters, protecting the legitimate rights and interests, as well as the safety of life and property of Chinese fishermen, including those from Taiwan. This effectively guarantees the normal order of navigation and fishing activities in the Xiamen-Jinmen waters, Zhu Anqing said. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Student entrepreneurs are flourishing at ARU

Source: Anglia Ruskin University

The Helmore building at ARU’s East Road campus in Cambridge

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is one of the leading institutions for student start-up companies in the country, according to new data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA).

A total of 123 ventures were formed by ARU students in the latest reporting period of 2023/24, placing Anglia Ruskin seventh in the UK and top across all universities in the East of England.

ARU’s Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy helps entrepreneurial students and recent graduates through a diverse range of support programmes, activities, opportunities, and events.

Last year, ARU became the first UK university to receive the prestigious Entrepreneurial University Award from the National Centre for Entrepreneurship in Education (NCEE).

“At ARU we make every effort to help all our students discover and explore entrepreneurship, regardless of their background or what or where they might be studying. We aim to help them develop the mindset and skills to get them started on their own personal entrepreneurial journeys and career paths.

“Starting your own business can seem daunting, but we are fortunate to have students full of ideas and ambitions. In return, we offer them the support and guidance they need to help turn their dreams into reality and make a difference.”

Professor Gary Packham, Pro Vice Chancellor for Student Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at ARU

Among the recent start-ups is The Community Classroom CIC, founded by Nirvana Yarger, a graduate from the Distance Learning MA Education with Montessori course. The social enterprise offers accessible and inclusive educational opportunities for home-educated children, helping families who need an alternative to mainstream education.

“While teaching in a mainstream primary school, I always felt that the National Curriculum and mainstream school approach did not provide the best outcomes for many children.

“I never lost my desire to be an educator. While completing my MA at ARU, I gained a deeper understanding of home education and the reasons families choose to deregister their children from school.

“I was fortunate to be chosen for the ARU Social Value Fund and I learned the fundamentals of business planning, including forecasting and market research. I was eventually awarded a £5,000 grant to launch The Community Classroom. We would not be where we are today without ARU’s support.”

Nirvana Yarger, who is a former teacher

Cosmin Diaconu, based in Cambridge, founded sustainable fashion company RetroGusto after graduating from ARU, and has built a collaborative network, involving ARU graduates from various disciplines, including graphic design, interior design, and marketing, all united by their passion for sustainability and independent businesses.

Cosmin’s participation in ARU’s ThinkBigARU pitching competition last year helped him secure valuable partnerships, and his work has since featured in publications such as Varsity, Velvet Magazine, and GAY45, reflecting his commitment to diverse representation in fashion.

“The Anglia Ruskin Enterprise Academy gave me the support and tools to grow my business with more clarity and confidence.

“The feedback from the pitch competition was invaluable, and their seminars offered practical insights from successful entrepreneurs that continue to shape how I develop my brand and practice.”

BA (Hons) Fashion Design graduate Cosmin Diaconu

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New study looks for ways to help River Itchen salmon reach sea
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

New study looks for ways to help River Itchen salmon reach sea

The Environment Agency and partners are looking for ways to improve fish passage past barriers and restore the lower River Itchen by Southampton.

Juvenile salmon called smolt are struggling with barriers in the River Itchen. Photo by Kieran Gillingham

In Southampton, juvenile salmon, known as smolts, are struggling to get past barriers in the river during their journey to the sea.

Just upstream of the mouth of the river, the river has begun finding its own route away from the main channel.

The Environment Agency is working with partners to explore options to improve fish passage, restore the river and improve its resilience to climate change impacts

The Environment Agency is looking at options to make the journey of juvenile salmon out to sea at Southampton easier.

Each spring, shoals of juvenile salmon, known as smolts, begin their journey to the sea. This journey begins on the River Itchen, through the estuary, and out to the sea where the salmon feed and grow before returning to the river as adults to spawn. But salmon are struggling to get past the first hurdle. The bottom section of the River Itchen where it transitions to the estuary has been changed many times historically. It was once used for transport and trade as a sea lock and onward travel to Winchester. Now, the current structures control water levels through Riverside Park.

Smolt are struggling to get past water control barriers on the River Itchen like Woodmill sluice

These structures present the biggest obstacles for smolts, especially in large groups. The sharp change in water velocity created by these structures causes smolt to become hesitant and bunch up, making them vulnerable to predation and poaching. Eventually the current carries them over or under the structures and back onto their journey to the sea. But the delay impedes their migration and worsens the odds of them completing their lifecycle and eventually returning as adults to spawn. Significant changes are needed to make this critical part of the system more smolt friendly.

Breach

Part of the River Itchen has ‘breached’ with water branching off the main river.

The situation for smolts is further complicated by issues upstream in Riverside Park, where the manmade channel sits higher than the natural floodplain. Gravity has caused the river to ‘breach’ – meaning a significant amount of water is now branching off from the main river and finding its own natural course through the floodplain. For now, this does not affect the smolt who continue to follow the main course of the river, ignoring any offshoots. But over time this breach will take more water and impact the ecology of the river downstream.

In response to these intertwined issues, the Environment Agency has launched a study to find options to help smolts and improve the lower River Itchen chalk stream and wetland system.

Jackie Mellan, the Environment Agency’s project manager for this study, said:

The River Itchen has really changed in the past 10 years – the flow of the river is diverting, salmon are at significant risk of extinction, sea level has risen, and climate change makes floods and low flows more extreme and frequent.

The first step is finding out what can be done to improve the river system and increase its ecological resilience. For salmon that means improving migration to the sea and boosting their odds of returning to spawn.

Better fish passage and resilient river habitat is needed

The change in water velocity by underwater structures causes smolt to hesitate and bunch up – making them vulnerable to predation.

The investigation into options for the lower part of the River Itchen, from Woodmill to Mansbridge, is focused on the main River Itchen, lower Monks Brook, the breached channel, Marlhill Copse stream and neighbouring wetland areas. The study will be completed by October and is expected to identify suitable options ranging from restoring river habitat, improving fish passage and encouraging community engagement and support in the form of citizen science and active management of the area.

The River Itchen is a loved environment and a big part of the local community. Local groups, such as The Itchen Estuary Conservation Champions, have been active in shaping areas of focus in the project scope. The youth group has been active in the community, conducting smolt surveys and collecting water samples. Through their citizen science work they have supported the protection of salmon and advocated for more areas to be rewilded alongside salmon protection at a recent engagement event.

Councillor John Savage, Cabinet Member for Green City and Net Zero at Southampton City Council, said:

We are delighted to work closely with community groups whose vital efforts help preserve, protect, and promote the River Itchen.

Our ongoing collaboration across various issues ensures the health of the river channels and the wellbeing of young salmon—now more important than ever.

Regular meetings with Southern Water and the Environment Agency reinforce our shared commitment to safeguarding this precious ecosystem for future generations.

The River Itchen and its unique salmon

Each spring, shoals of juvenile salmon, known as smolts, begin their journey to the sea. Photo by Kieran Gillingham

The River Itchen is an internationally renowned chalk stream. It is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Area of Conservation and one of six chalk stream rivers in England to have Atlantic salmon, which have shaped the unique genetic makeup of this species. Despite this list of protections, the Atlantic salmon population remains at high risk of extinction.

In response to recent declines in Itchen salmon, the Itchen Salmon Delivery Plan was launched and brings together key conservation groups, fisheries organisations, and government agencies, including Wessex Rivers Trust, Angling Trust, Environment Agency, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Natural England, Test & Itchen Association, WildFish, Wild Trout Trust, and Southern Water. By combining resources and expertise, the initiative aims to tackle the environmental challenges that threaten salmon populations at every stage of their lifecycle – from river to sea and back again.

Background

The Itchen Salmon Delivery Plan focuses on practical solutions, including:

Restoring habitat: Improving spawning and rearing habitats to support salmon at all life stages.

Enhancing fish passage: Removing barriers that prevent salmon from migrating.

Enhancing water quality – Reducing pollution to create a cleaner, healthier river.

Managing water resources – Addressing over-abstraction to maintain natural river flows.

Strengthening fisheries enforcement: Reducing illegal fishing and poaching.

Engaging communities: Encouraging local people to get involved in protecting their river and its wildlife.

The Lower Itchen project is just one action within the plan that the Environment Agency is delivering.

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Published 23 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Central African Republic : African Development Bank Strengthens Capacity to Tackle Illicit Financial Flows and Manage Resource-backed Loans

The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has successfully concluded a high-level workshop and policy dialogue aimed at enhancing the Central Africa Republic’s capacity to combat illicit financial flows (IFFs) and improve the governance of resource-backed loans.

Held in Bangui from 10-13 June 2025 under the theme “Harnessing Africa’s Wealth: Curbing Illicit Financial Flows for Resilient Growth and Development,” the four-day event brought together 80 officials from key government ministries, including Finance, Economy, Planning, Environment, Mines and Geology – as well as civil society, the private sector, and local communities.

The sessions were convened by the African Development Institute (ADI) (https://apo-opa.co/4k3PqnO) and the Natural Resources Management and Investment Centre (ECNR) (https://apo-opa.co/3I7F8Wc) as part of the Bank’s GONAT initiative, which supports improved natural resource governance in fragile and transitional states.

High-level panelists included Prof. Richard Filakota, Minister of Economy, Planning and International Cooperation who also serves as the Bank’s Governor for the Central African Republic; Mr. Rufin Benam Beltoungou, Minister of Mines and Geology; and Prof. Chantal Laure Djebebe, Minister and Advisor to the Prime Minister on natural resources.

Illicit financial flows are a major challenge across the continent, draining billions of dollars annually and severely constraining the ability of African countries to mobilize domestic resources for development.

“The Central African Republic is rich in natural resources – gold, diamonds, uranium, copper, forests, among others. However, without enhanced oversight, institutional capacity, and sound strategic planning, these resources can become a source of political instability, illicit activities, and unsustainable debt,” warned Minister Beltoungou.

Workshop participants emphasized the growing use of resource-backed loans – facilities collateralized by natural resources – to finance infrastructure development. While these instruments can unlock critical funding, they also pose risks.

“Resource-backed loans are loans collateralized by natural resources and can help finance infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and schools. However, caution is needed in managing repayment conditions, especially when a country lacks full control over its resource accounting,” emphasized Médard Goudozoui, a geological engineer and training beneficiary.

The capacity-building sessions introduced a suite of practical tools and analytical methods for detecting and addressing IFFs in the Central African Republic.

“We explored techniques such as the Partner Country Method, trade misinvoicing, and international indices like the Financial Secrecy Index and the Corruption Perception Index – all of which help identify discrepancies between export declarations and customs records in partner countries,” noted Fanta Mariette Samba-Vomi, a geological engineer and Director of the Mining Cadastre. According to her, such tools are critical in detecting anomalies related to under- or over-valuation of exported resources – as often seen in the gold and diamond sectors in the CAR.

Gender inclusion in governance processes was also featured during the workshop.

“We welcome the GONAT project’s focus on inclusive governance, with a target of at least 40% female participation. As a Bank, we recognize that transformative and sustainable change is only possible when the voices of women and local communities are integrated into policy formulation processes,” said Mamady Souaré, Country Manager of the African Development Bank Group in the Central African Republic.

Echoing this, Alexia Molotouala, Head of Division at the Permanent Secretariat of the Kimberley Process, stated: “Increasing women’s involvement is critical because they play a key role in affected communities. Their participation enhances transparency, fairness, and policy effectiveness. Inclusive governance also promotes social cohesion and sustainable development.”

Dr. Eric Ogunleye, Director of the African Development Institute emphasized the broader impact of the sessions. “It is our firm belief that the knowledge and tools acquired will go a long way in fostering stronger oversight of resource-backed loans and better governance of extractive resources.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact:
Solange Kamuanga-Tossou
Principal Regional Communication Officer
African Development Bank
media@afdb.org

About the GONAT Project:
GONAT is a flagship initiative of the African Development Bank Group. Designed to improve governance in the natural resources sector to facilitate domestic resource mobilization in fragile and transition states, the project specifically targets the Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, and Zimbabwe. Natural resource sectors covered under GONAT include oil, gas, minerals, forestry, fisheries, and wildlife.

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

MIL OSI Africa –

June 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Curiosity Blog, Sols 4577-4579: Watch the Skies

Source: NASA

Written by Deborah Padgett, OPGS Task Lead at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Earth planning date: Friday, June 20, 2025
During the plan covering Sols 4575-4576, Curiosity continued our investigation of mysterious boxwork structures on the shoulders of Mount Sharp. After a successful 56-meter drive (about 184 feet), Curiosity is now parked in a trough cutting through a highly fractured region covered by linear features thought to be evidence of groundwater flow in the distant past of Mars. With all six wheels firmly planted on solid ground, our rover is ready for contact science! Unfortunately, a repeat of the frost-detection experiment expected for the weekend plan is postponed for a few days due to a well-understood ChemCam issue. In the meantime, our atmospheric investigations have a chance to shine, as they received additional time to observe the Martian sky.
In the early afternoon of Sol 4577, Curiosity’s navigation cameras will take a movie of the upper reaches of Aeolis Mons (Mount Sharp), hoping to see moving cloud shadows. This observation enables the team to calculate the altitude of clouds drifting over the peak. Next, Navcam will point straight up, to image cloud motion at the zenith and determine wind direction at their altitude. Mastcam will then do a series of small mosaics to study the rover workspace and features of the trough that Curiosity has entered. First is a 6×4 stereo mosaic of the workspace and the contact science targets “Copacabana” and “Copiapo.” The first target is a representative sample of the trough bedrock, and its name celebrates a town in Bolivia located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The second target is a section of lighter-toned material, which may be associated with stripes or “veins” filling the many crosscutting fractures in the local stones. These are the deposits potentially left by groundwater intrusion long ago. The name “Copiapo” honors a silver mining city in the extremely dry Atacama desert of northern Chile. A second 6×3 Mastcam stereo mosaic will look at active cracks in the trough. Two additional 5×1 Mastcam stereo mosaics target “Ardamarca,” a ridge parallel to the trough walls, and a cliff exposing layers of rock at the base of “Mishe Mokwa” butte. At our current location, all the Curiosity target names are taken from the Uyuni geologic quadrangle named after the otherworldly lake bed and ephemeral lake high on the Bolivian altiplano, but the Mishe Mokwa butte is back in the Altadena quad, named for a popular hiking trail in the Santa Monica Mountains. After this lengthy science block, Curiosity will deploy its arm, brush the dust from Copacabana with the DRT, then image both it and Copiapo with the MAHLI microscopic imager. Overnight, APXS will determine the composition of these two targets.
Early in the morning of Sol 4578, Mastcam will take large 27×5 and 18×3 stereo mosaics of different parts of the trough, using morning light to highlight the terrain shadows. Later in the day, Navcam will do a 360 sky survey, determining phase function across the entire sky. A 25-meter drive (about 82 feet) will follow, and the post-drive imaging includes both a 360-degree Navcam panorama of our new location and an image of the ground under the rover with MARDI in the evening twilight. The next sol is all atmospheric science, with an extensive set of afternoon suprahorizon movies and a dust-devil survey for Navcam, as well as a Mastcam dust opacity observation. The final set of observations in this plan happens on the morning of Sol 4580 with more Navcam suprahorizon and zenith movies to observe clouds, a Navcam dust opacity measurement across Gale Crater, and a last Mastcam tau. On Monday, we expect to plan another drive and hope to return to the frost-detection experiment soon as we explore the boxwork canyons of Mars.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Pope Leo celebrates Corpus Christi: “It is wonderful to be in the presence of Jesus”

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

VaticanMedia

Rome (Agenzia Fides) – “Dear brothers and sisters, it is wonderful to be in the presence of Jesus.” With these words, Pope Leo XIV began his homily this afternoon as he celebrated the Eucharistic Liturgy for the Solemnity of Corpus Christi in the forecourt of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral of Rome.The Gospel reading from Luke, recounting the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes, narrated the multitudes who “spent long hours listening to him speak about the Kingdom of God and seeing him heal the sick.” On Corpus Christi, a similar crowd gathered around the Successor of Peter for Holy Mass and the subsequent procession from the Lateran Basilica to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. That Eucharistic bread, said Pope Leo in his homily, quoting St. Augustine, is “bread that restores and does not run short; bread that can be eaten but not exhausted.”In the deserted place where they had listened to Jesus’ words and wished to remain near Him – the Bishop of Rome emphasized, referring to the Gospel passage – “evening fell and there was nothing to eat. The hunger of the people and the setting of the sun speak to us of a limit that looms over the world and every creature: the day ends, as does the life of every human being. At that hour of need and of gathering shadows, Jesus remains present in our midst.”Jesus multiplies the loaves and fishes for the hungry multitude, even though the disciples had advised him to dismiss the crowds. A suggestion, the Pope noted, “which reveal their lack of faith. For where the Lord is present, we find all that we need to give strength and meaning to our lives.” Jesus responds, “to the appeal of hunger with the sign of sharing: he raises his eyes, recites the blessing, breaks the bread, and feeds all present.”Today, in place of the crowds mentioned in the Gospel – the Pope continued, referring to the present day – “entire peoples are suffering more as a result of the greed of others than from their own hunger.” And faced with the misery of so many, he added, “the amassing of wealth by a few is the sign of an arrogant indifference that produces pain and injustice. Rather than sharing, it squanders the fruits of the earth and human labour. Especially in this Jubilee Year, the Lord’s example is a yardstick that should guide our actions and our service: we are called to share our bread, to multiply hope and to proclaim the coming of God’s Kingdom.”The hunger of the crowd, satisfied by Jesus’ miracle – the Pope continued, linking the Gospel story to the mystery of the Eucharist – is a sign of the hunger for salvation present in every human heart. In saving the crowds from hunger, “Jesus proclaims that he will save everyone from death. That is the mystery of faith, which we celebrate in the sacrament of the Eucharist. For just as hunger is a sign of our radical needs in this life, so breaking bread is a sign of God’s gift of salvation.” And “our hungry nature bears the mark of a need that is satisfied by the grace of the Eucharist.”The Eucharist – the Successor of Peter added, quoting the Catechism of the Catholic Church – is “the true, real, and substantial presence of the Savior, who transforms the bread into Himself, so that He may transform us into Himself. Living and life-giving, the Corpus Christi makes us – the Church itself – the Body of the Lord.”Even the Eucharistic procession, “which we are about to undertake,” Pope Leo emphasized at the end of his homily, “is a sign of that journey. Together, as shepherds and flock, we will feed on the Blessed Sacrament, adore him and carry him through the streets. In doing so, we will present him before the eyes, the consciences and the hearts of the people. To the hearts of those who believe, so that they may believe more firmly; to the hearts of those who do not believe, so that they may reflect on the hunger present within them and the bread that alone can satisfy it.” (GV) (Agenzia Fides, 22/6/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

June 23, 2025
Recycled plastics pose risks to hormone systems and metabolism: study

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

A new international study has raised concerns about the health risks posed by recycled plastic, revealing that a single pellet of recycled polyethylene plastic can contain more than 80 different chemicals. The research highlights the potential for these chemicals to leach into water and interfere with hormone systems and metabolic functions.

Conducted by researchers from the University of Gothenburg and Leipzig, the study was published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials. It underscores that while recycling is often promoted as a solution to the global plastic pollution crisis, it can also inadvertently introduce toxic substances into the environment and consumer products.

In the experiment, researchers obtained recycled polyethylene plastic pellets from various parts of the world and soaked them in water for 48 hours. Zebrafish larvae were then exposed to the water for five days. The results showed notable changes in gene expression related to lipid metabolism, adipogenesis (the formation of fat cells), and endocrine regulation in the fish.

“These short leaching times and exposure times are yet another indicator of the risks that chemicals in plastics pose to living organisms,” said lead author Azora Konig Kardgar, a researcher in ecotoxicology at the University of Gothenburg. “The impacts that we measured show that these exposures have the potential to change the physiology and health of the fish.”

The findings echo previous research suggesting that exposure to toxic plastic chemicals may also affect human health, contributing to reproductive issues, hormonal imbalances, obesity, diabetes, and even certain cancers.

Professor Bethanie Carney Almroth, principal investigator of the study, noted: “This is the main obstacle with the idea of recycling plastic. We never have full knowledge of what chemicals will end up in an item made of recycled plastic. And there is also a significant risk of chemical mixing events occurring, which render the recycled plastic toxic.”

The study comes ahead of a crucial meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee under the United Nations Environment Program. Nations will gather in Geneva this August to finalize negotiations on a Global Plastics Treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution and addressing the associated health risks.

-ians

June 23, 2025