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  • MIL-OSI USA: Alaskan Wildlife: Observations from the Aleutian Arc Expedition

    Source: US Geological Survey

    As the R/V Atlantis makes its departure from Dutch Harbor and heads south down the Aleutian Islands, the Alaskan wildlife is abundant like no other. The upwelling that occurs along the Aleutian chain makes these waters a highly productive place and as a result, these are prime feeding grounds for marine birds. The rapid fluttering of Tufted Puffins renders these birds unforgettable as they are known for their deep diving, not flying. Nonetheless, puffins remain a fan favorite on board.

    A group of Tufted Puffins taking flight near Bogoslof Island. Image courtesy of The Aleutian Arc: Integrated Exploration of Biodiversity at Priority Benthic Habitats (USGS/BOEM/NOAA/ONR). Photographer: Art Howard. 

    Murres and Northern Fulmars have colonies nearby and soar in the sky in the hundreds, giving the ship an elegant show to watch and an almost insurmountable task of counting them. One could not miss the graceful flying of the many Albatross species living in this area, including the Laysan and Short-Tailed Albatross, with their long wingspans and effortless gliding close to the sea surface. Cormorants and gulls are a few other bird species that have been sighted and added to our life lists! 

    Northern fur seal diving right before Alvin came to surface near Bogoslof Island. Image courtesy of The Aleutian Arc: Integrated Exploration of Biodiversity at Priority Benthic Habitats (USGS/BOEM/NOAA/ONR). Photographer: Sam Schlegel, USGS

    Aside from marine birds, seagoers have found joy in watching Northern Fur Seals. As the human occupied vehicle Alvin was deployed on the second day of the expedition, several fur seals curiously swam around the submersible, diving down and resurfacing every so often to look around. Everyone on deck found delight in this spectacle. On the third day of the cruise, as the science team transited with rough weather, a humpback whale and an orca made appearances to those who were lucky enough to spot them. Needless to say, the Aleutians are home to incredible wildlife and anyone who experiences it will leave in awe of what they saw. 

    Laysan albatross flying near the Islands of Four mountains. Image courtesy of The Aleutian Arc: Integrated Exploration of Biodiversity at Priority Benthic Habitats (USGS/BOEM/NOAA/ONR). Photographer: Art Howard. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Appointments to St. Louis City Board of Police Commissioners

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JUNE 23, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, at a press conference in St. Louis, Governor Mike Kehoe announced his appointments to the citizen-led St. Louis City Board of Police Commissioners. The board, established by the passage of landmark public safety legislation in House Bill (HB) 495, is charged to be the governing body of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD).

    “This board represents a renewed commitment to public trust and local oversight,” said Governor Kehoe. “By bringing together respected voices from across the city who support the men and women of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, we are ensuring that public safety efforts reflect the needs, values, and concerns of the people of St. Louis and the department. These appointments mark a significant move toward transparency, collaboration, and a safer future for the city.”

    The six-member board includes the St. Louis City Mayor Cara Spencer, who will participate with full voting authority, four governor-appointed voting members who are residents of the city, and one governor-appointed non-voting commissioner who either resides or owns property in the city.

    Governor Kehoe’s appointments include the following individuals:

    • Brad Arteaga is a successful entrepreneur in St. Louis City, serving as the president and owner of Arteaga Photos Ltd., BAKM LLC., and Arteaga LLC. In addition to his proven track record of managing and growing successful businesses, Arteaga has decades of active leadership and service on multiple civic and community boards including the St. Louis City Judicial Committee, Dismas House of St. Louis, Friends of Frances Park, and more. Arteaga will serve a one-year term as a voting member of the board.
    • Donald “Don” Brown is lifelong St. Louis resident and experienced automotive executive, currently serving as the Dealer Operator of Don Brown Chevrolet. With a career spanning more than four decades, Brown has held leadership roles across multiple dealerships and has been deeply involved in the community through various boards including the 3rd Police District Business Association, the Better Business Bureau, and the Friends of Kids Board of Directors. Brown will serve a four-year term as the non-voting member of the board.
    • Sonya Jenkins-Gray is a nationally recognized human resources executive with more than two decades of leadership experience in both the public and private sectors. She previously served as the director of human resources for the City of St. Louis, overseeing HR operations for more than 5,000 employees. She also previously served on the board of Mound City Bar Foundation and is currently the chairperson for the Progressive National Baptist Convention. Jenkins-Gray will serve a two-year term as a voting member of the board.
    • Edward McVey is a seasoned business owner and operator of Maggie O’Brien’s Restaurant and Irish Pub in St. Louis, where he has led operations since 2008. With expertise in contract negotiation, strategic planning, and team leadership, McVey has built a strong track record of business development and community engagement. He is active in local organizations including the St. Patrick’s Center and the St. Louis Boys and Girls Club. McVey will serve a three-year term as a voting member of the board.
    • Chris Saracino is the owner-operator of Bartolino’s Hospitality Group, which includes several full-service restaurants across the city. He is also the co-founder of Campbell Security and Services Group, serving households and communities throughout Missouri. Saracino has held several leadership roles with the Hill Business Association, The Hill 2000 Neighborhood Association, and the St. Louis Regional Sports Authority. He also prioritizes community service as an active member of several charitable organizations including the Kiwanis Club of St. Louis City and the Italian Open Charities. Saracino will serve a four-year term as a voting member of the board.

    The board will begin work immediately, with the assistance of Transition Director Derek Winters, to ensure an orderly and responsible implementation period, without disruption to residents of the city and commissioned and civilian personnel of the SLMPD. During the implementation period, the commissioners will work to determine the board’s policies for meetings and bylaws and begin their work in overseeing the Chief of Police and the department’s policies, contracts, assets, and budgets. The day-to-day operations of the department will remain under the leadership of the Chief of Police.

    All media inquiries related to the board may now be directed to the SLMPD, at media@slmpd.org. A webpage with headshot photos for the board is forthcoming.

    For more information on the roles and responsibilities of the St. Louis City Police Board of Commissioners, as designated in HB 495, click here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals in FL Arrest Man Wanted in TN on 32 Counts of Abuse of Minors

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Tampa, FL – The U.S. Marshals Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force – Tampa Office, acting on a collateral lead from the USMS Smoky Mountains Fugitive Task Force in Eastern Tennessee, June 19 arrested in Florida a man wanted in Tennessee on 32 felony counts of sexual abuse and exploitation of three Blount County juvenile minors.

    Giovannie Torres, 30, of Tampa, was arrested at his home on a 32-count indictment including the following charges issued by the Blount County Sheriff’s Office:

    • Continuous sexual abuse of a child (1 count)
    • Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means (13 counts)
    • Especially aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor (5 counts)
    • Aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor (4 counts)
    • Unlawful exposure (1 count)
    • Sexual exploitation of a minor (3 counts)
    • Sale, loan, or exhibition of material to minors (1 count)
    • Aggravated stalking (2 counts)
    • Harassment (2 counts)

    Torres is scheduled to be extradited to Tennessee within 30 days to face his charges in Blount County. 

    The BCSO Investigation unit began an inquiry into Torres in late December 2024 when three female juvenile victims (two 14-year-olds and one 13-year-old) came forward with information that an individual they believed was a male juvenile befriended them on Snapchat. That individual then began coercing the girls into sending him inappropriate photos and videos. When the victims refused, the suspect threatened them by telling them he knew where they lived and that he would release the photos and videos publicly if they didn’t continue communications with him. He also mailed inappropriate materials to one of the victims. Using a series of investigative techniques, the Blount County Sheriff’s investigator identified Torres as the perpetrator of these crimes as well as tied him to victims in other states.

    With the help of the U.S. Marshals Eastern District of Tennessee Smoky Mountains Fugitive Task Force in coordination with the U.S. Marshals Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force – Tampa, Torres was arrested on the 32 charges earlier this year, however, a Florida judge released Torres with no bond conditions or instructions to report to Tennessee. After his release, Torres began communications with other victims outside of Tennessee. 

    The U.S. Marshals Service – FCRFTF took Torres into custody Friday evening.

    Law enforcement authorities urge parents to monitor their children’s online activity. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 23, 2025 WIPPES Act Passes Through the U.S. House Today, the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation requires wipe manufacturers to label their products as non-flushable to protect wastewater infrastructure from damage. Blockages from non-flushable… Read More

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Mullin California (15th District)

    Today, the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act passed in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    The bipartisan, bicameral legislation requires wipe manufacturers to label their products as non-flushable to protect wastewater infrastructure from damage. Blockages from non-flushable wipes cost Michigan water utilities an additional $18 million annually.

    Rep. Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.), Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) reintroduced the bill for the 119th Congress.

    “Improper disposal of wet wipes damages wastewater infrastructure, costing California utilities and consumers tens of millions of dollars a year. That’s why water professionals nationwide strongly support the WIPPES Act, which mandates clear ‘Do Not Flush’ labeling,” Mullin said. “This commonsense legislation is a critical step in protecting our infrastructure and the environment. By providing consumers with clearer guidance, the WIPPES Act will help reduce strain on our wastewater systems and safeguard taxpayer resources. I am pleased to see this bipartisan, bicameral legislation move forward.”

    “This common-sense, practical legislation will prevent rate hikes and protect water infrastructure. I am proud to lead this legislation and call on the Senate to quickly pass it,”  McClain said.

    “When non-flushable wipes back up our wastewater system, it hurts our infrastructure, our environment, and our wallets,” Merkley said. “Accurately labelling wipes and other products as ‘non-flushable’ is a necessary step to help consumers appropriately dispose of their waste. The House passage of our bipartisan WIPPES Act brings it one step closer to becoming law and protecting our water supply and wastewater infrastructure.”

     “Many consumers who use wet wipes are unaware that flushing these products creates significant problems for plumbing, wastewater treatment equipment, and septic systems,” Collins said. “This bipartisan legislation would require manufacturers to label non-flushable wet wipes, providing consumers with the information they need to safely dispose of them, and helping prevent homeowners and taxpayers from having to pay for expensive repairs.”

    The bill is supported by many outside groups and local governments:

    “It’s important that the packaging on all disposable sanitary and cleaning wipes be required to have labelling that prominently displays the words ‘do not flush’ or ‘non-flushable’. Wipes should be thrown in the trash,” Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice S. Miller said. “Not only can wipes damage sewage systems at homes and businesses, but they can cause very costly damage to municipal wastewater infrastructure systems. They form huge clumps that can severely impact the flow of wastewater even in large interceptor pipes. Wipes that get through can clog bar screens, requiring time-consuming removal and harm the pumps at pump stations.”

    “INDA is proud to join a wide array of organizations in strongly supporting U.S. House passage of the WIPPES Act, which was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives by an overwhelming bipartisan margin in 2024. The wipes industry is committed to responsibly labeling wipe products that are not designed to be flushable, protecting public infrastructure and the environment. This legislation represents several years of work between the wipes industry, wastewater operators, and environmental stakeholders and we strongly support full congressional passage of the legislation,” INDA Director of Government Affairs Wes Fisher said.

    “Creating a uniform, national policy for labeling of ‘non-flushable’ wipes is critically important to protect sewer systems and household plumbing. Personal care wipes, while convenient for the consumer, cause serious harm to municipal sewer systems across the nation when they are improperly flushed. The water sector worked hand-in-hand with industry on this commonsense legislation that will provide clarity for the consumer, protect sewer workers, and avoid millions in infrastructure damage nationwide,” Adam Krantz, CEO of the National Association of Clean Water Agencies said. “We applaud the House for passing this legislation and will work toward similar swift action in the Senate.”

    “The American Public Works Association strongly supports the WIPPES Act as a commonsense solution to a burdensome problem. Flushing non-flushable wipes accounts for $441 million a year in additional cost to wastewater systems. By requiring prominent use of a ‘Do Not Flush’ logo, this legislation protects our systems and our communities. APWA applauds Congress for recognizing the importance of safeguarding our water environment and ensuring that public works professionals can continue providing essential services efficiently and safely,” APWA President Dominick A. Longobardi said.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: TC Energy provides results of Series 3 and Series 4 conversion elections

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — News Release – TC Energy Corporation (TSX:TRP) (NYSE:TRP) (TC Energy or the Company) today announced that 104,778 of its 9,997,177 fixed rate Cumulative Redeemable First Preferred Shares, Series 3 (Series 3 Shares) have been elected for conversion on June 30, 2025, on a one-for-one basis, into floating rate Cumulative Redeemable First Preferred Shares, Series 4 (Series 4 Shares); and 1,822,829 of its 4,002,823 Series 4 Shares have been elected for conversion, on a one-for-one basis, into Series 3 Shares.

    As a result of the conversions, TC Energy will have 11,715,228 Series 3 Shares and 2,284,772 Series 4 Shares issued and outstanding. The Series 3 Shares and Series 4 Shares will continue to be listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbols TRP.PR.B and TRP.PR.H, respectively.

    The Series 3 Shares will pay on a quarterly basis for the five-year period beginning on June 30, 2025, as and when declared by the Board of Directors of TC Energy, a fixed dividend at an annualized rate of 4.102 per cent.

    The Series 4 Shares will pay a floating rate quarterly dividend for the five-year period beginning on June 30, 2025, as and when declared by the Board of Directors of TC Energy. The dividend rate for the Series 4 Shares for the first quarterly floating rate period commencing June 30, 2025 to but excluding Sept. 29, 2025 is 3.924 per cent and will be reset every quarter.

    Holders of Series 3 Shares and Series 4 Shares will have the opportunity to convert their shares again on July 2, 2030 (adjusted from June 30, 2030 to account for applicable business days) and on June 30 in every fifth year thereafter as long as the shares remain outstanding. For more information on the terms of, and risks associated with an investment in the Series 3 Shares and the Series 4 Shares, please see the prospectus supplement dated March 4, 2010 which is available on sedarplus.ca or on our website.

    About TC Energy
    We’re a team of 6,500+ energy problem solvers connecting the world to the energy it needs. Our extensive network of natural gas infrastructure assets is one-of-a-kind. We seamlessly move, generate and store energy and deliver it to where it is needed most, to homes and businesses in North America and across the globe through LNG exports. Our natural gas assets are complemented by our strategic ownership and low-risk investments in power generation.

    TC Energy’s common shares trade on the Toronto (TSX) and New York (NYSE) stock exchanges under the symbol TRP. To learn more, visit us at TCEnergy.com.

    FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
    This release contains certain information that is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties (such statements are usually accompanied by words such as “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “estimate”, “intend” or other similar words). Forward-looking statements in this document are intended to provide TC Energy security holders and potential investors with information regarding TC Energy and its subsidiaries, including management’s assessment of TC Energy’s and its subsidiaries’ future plans and financial outlook. All forward-looking statements reflect TC Energy’s beliefs and assumptions based on information available at the time the statements were made and as such are not guarantees of future performance. As actual results could vary significantly from the forward-looking information, you should not put undue reliance on forward-looking information and should not use future-oriented information or financial outlooks for anything other than their intended purpose. We do not update our forward-looking information due to new information or future events, unless we are required to by law. For additional information on the assumptions made, and the risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ from the anticipated results, refer to the most recent Quarterly Report to Shareholders and Annual Report filed under TC Energy’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov.

    -30-

    Media Inquiries:
    Media Relations
    media@tcenergy.com
    403-920-7859 or 800-608-7859

    Investor & Analyst Inquiries:
    Gavin Wylie / Hunter Mau
    investor_relations@tcenergy.com
    403-920-7911 or 800-361-6522

    PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/6554a6c4-a979-42f6-9a7c-a0e5afc39774

    The MIL Network –

  • 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. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DAUPHIN COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Join LeSean McCoy, Local Leaders for Ribbon Cutting at New Affordable Housing Development in Uptown Harrisburg

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    June 24, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA

    ADVISORY – DAUPHIN COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Join LeSean McCoy, Local Leaders for Ribbon Cutting at New Affordable Housing Development in Uptown Harrisburg

    Governor Josh Shapiro will join LeSean McCoy, state and local leaders, developers, and community members to celebrate the ribbon cutting of JMB Gardens, a newly developed 41-unit, $16.7 million affordable housing community in uptown Harrisburg.

    Developed by Vice Capital, LLC – the real estate investment and development firm led by Harrisburg native and former NFL player LeSean McCoy – JMB Gardens is a major investment in affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization in the city.

    Supported by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA), the project delivers safe, affordable housing for Harrisburg families and reflects the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to ensuring more Pennsylvanians have a safe, affordable place to live.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    LeSean McCoy, Owner, Vice Capital, LLC
    Robin Weissmann, PHFA Executive Director and CEO
    Senator Patty Kim
    Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams
    Brian Hudson, former PHFA Executive Director

    WHERE:
    JMB Gardens
    2309 N. 6th Street
    Harrisburg, PA 17110

    WHEN:
    Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM

    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phones numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The government will allocate over 33 billion rubles to create university campuses in a number of regions

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Order dated June 9, 2025 No. 1479-r

    In 2025–2027, more than 33 billion rubles will be allocated from the federal budget to a number of regions to create a network of modern university campuses as part of the new national project “Youth and Children”. The order on the distribution of these funds was signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

    The funds will be sent to the regions whose applications for the creation of campuses were approved by the Ministry of Education and Science as a result of a competitive selection. These are Perm Krai, Novgorod and Tyumen Oblasts.

    Document

    Order dated June 9, 2025 No. 1479-r

    The campuses will be multifunctional spaces with co-working spaces, classrooms, sports facilities, libraries, accommodation for students, postgraduates, teachers and researchers, and technology parks. The creation of such student campuses will not only provide additional opportunities to improve the level of research and education, but will also contribute to the development of areas adjacent to the campus and ensure cultural interaction between the city and university environments.

    Part of the funds for the creation of campuses will be invested by businesses and the regions themselves. Interaction with investors will be built on the model of public-private partnership or on the basis of concession agreements.

    The decision taken was discussed atmeeting with deputy prime ministers on June 23“By 2030, 25 such spaces should be put into operation, intended primarily for the implementation of significant educational and scientific projects, deepening the relationship between education, science and the economy, taking into account the specifics of the region where the campus is located,” noted Mikhail Mishustin.

    The head of government called this project large-scale, complex and extremely important and instructed Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko to personally monitor the quality of the implementation of planned activities, the efficiency of spending funds provided by the federal budget, and compliance with established deadlines.

    Work on creating university campuses based on public-private partnerships is being carried out on the instructions of the head of state, which he gave following a joint meeting of the State Council and the Presidential Council for Science and Education, held in 2021.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canadian community foundations rally to support local news, calling it essential to democracy

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Magda Konieczna, Associate Professor of Journalism, Concordia University

    A couple of weeks ago, a neighbour mentioned our son’s school might be moving. I couldn’t find anything about this online.

    But I did find plenty of news from down south. While the erosion of democracy in the United States is something to pay attention to, some news outlets appear to be capitalizing on its sensational aspects.

    When Donald Trump and Elon Musk get into an online fistfight, local news can seem like the less glamorous cousin.

    But there’s really not much we can do about American democracy.

    A poster on a lamp post that says ‘Good News is Coming.’
    Jon Tyson/Unsplash, CC BY

    Still, U.S. media reports have contributed to news burnout. Many Canadians are tuning out from their regular news sources. Forty per cent of Canadians responding to a survey from the 2025 Reuters Digital News Report said they were sometimes or often avoiding the news, as compared to 28 per cent eight years earlier.

    Hearing about problems we can’t do much about is disempowering, according to a study on solutions journalism. Researchers found that readers who were treated as active civic participants rather than passive consumers felt more empowered.

    The news about my kid’s school is something that profoundly impacts my family. And I can do something about it, at least in theory. I can attend public meetings and organize my neighbours to take a stand, in hopes of affecting the outcome of the discussions.

    Local news can help me do that. It’s the very stuff that can help rebuild frayed community ties and mis- and disinformation. Without access to quality local news, malicious entities can more easily step into communities with misinformation designed to sway or mislead.

    Voter turnout is higher in places with more newspapers. Local journalists act as news brokers, ensuring the flow of information, which is essential to fulfilling the information needs of communities. We know that when less local news is present, communities become more polarized, and that polarization leads to increased sharing of misinformation.

    But local news is increasingly in trouble. Local news outlets are closing — 566 across Canada, to be precise, between 2008 and April 2025. That’s compared to the 283 that opened and remain in operation in that same period, according to the Local News Research Project.

    Rallying to support local news

    My recent report for The Canadian Philanthropy Partnership Research Network, “In Defense of the Local: How Community Foundations Across Canada are Supporting Local News” describes an increasingly popular way to support these local news outlets.

    Through case studies, I documented — along with my research assistant, Jessica Botelho-Urbanski, and supported by our research team at OCADU — the early signs of a growing movement of Canadian community foundations supporting local journalism.

    Community foundations across Canada are becoming ever more aware that many of the issues they care about, like building just and sustainable communities, are connected to the availability of local journalism.

    And some communities are starting to fund their local news outlets.

    For example, the Toronto Foundation made a rare, 10-year commitment to support The Local, a non-profit news outlet founded in 2019 that describes itself as “unabashedly Toronto, reporting from corners of the city that are too often ignored or misunderstood.”

    Screenshot of a story on ‘Moss Park’ from the digital news outlet The Local.
    The Local

    Sharon Avery, Toronto Foundation’s president and CEO, says the organization hadn’t spent much time prioritizing journalism because “the dots have not been connected …that a healthy local journalism equals a healthy community.” But she grew convinced of the essential links between local news and democracy, and realized local news is a powerful tool.

    The Winnipeg Foundation has been interested in local news for a while. Most recently, it funded the salary for one reporter, shared between Winnipeg’s The Free Press, a major local newspaper, and The Narwhal, an environmentally focused digital news startup that had been looking to expand its coverage in the Prairies.

    This kind of collaboration can improve the quality of work produced while also increasing the attention garnered by the resulting journalism in a way that is truly a win-win for all partners.

    How to support local journalism

    All of this is happening alongside government support, delivered through solutions like the Local Journalism Initiative, which funds journalists to report on under-covered topics, and the Canadian Journalism Labour Tax Credit, which covers a portion of salaries of eligible journalists.

    Our report also includes recommendations on how place-based foundations can turn these initiatives into a movement to support local journalism. Community foundations could start by getting to know their local news ecosystems. What news organizations exist? What audiences do they serve?

    They should also consider policies to direct some of their ad spending to local media, following the lead of the provincial government in Ontario, which has its four largest agencies allocate at least one-quarter of their annual advertising budgets to Ontario publishers.

    Perhaps the most powerful — and most challenging — of our recommendations includes working with other local players to set up a community news fund.

    This would enable funders to pay into a pool allocated to local news. This approach has generated millions for local news ecosystems in the U.S., Europe and South America.

    Community foundations have the power to promote journalistic collaboration, which can help to combat mis- and disinformation.

    To improve the quality of life and information for Canadians from coast to coast to coast, supporting local journalism is a must.

    The contribution of the research assistant on the report described here was funded by a SSHRC grant obtained by the Canadian philanthropy partnership research network (PhiLab). The work was also supported by the Cultural Policy Hub at OCADU.

    – ref. Canadian community foundations rally to support local news, calling it essential to democracy – https://theconversation.com/canadian-community-foundations-rally-to-support-local-news-calling-it-essential-to-democracy-257873

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Presidents of both parties have launched military action without Congress declaring war − Trump’s bombing of Iran is just the latest

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Sarah Burns, Associate Professor of Political Science, Rochester Institute of Technology

    President Donald Trump is seen on a monitor in the White House press briefing room on June 21, 2025, after the U.S. military strike on three sites in Iran. AP Photo/Alex Brandon

    In the wake of the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities on June 22, 2025, many congressional Democrats and a few Republicans have objected to President Donald Trump’s failure to seek congressional approval before conducting military operations.

    They note that Article 1 of the U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power to declare war and say that section required Trump to seek prior authorization for military action.

    The Trump administration disagrees. “This is not a war against Iran,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Fox News host Maria Bartiromo, implying that the action did not require approval by Congress. That’s the same view held by most modern presidents and their lawyers in the Office of Legal Counsel: Article 2 of the Constitution allows the president to use the military in certain situations without prior approval from Congress.

    By this reading of the text, presidents, as commander in chief, claim the power to unilaterally order the military to initiate small-scale operations for a short duration. Members of Congress may object to that claim, but they have done little to limit presidents’ unilateralism. What little they have done has not been effective.

    As I’ve demonstrated in my research, even though the 1973 War Powers Resolution attempted to constrain presidential power after the disasters of the Vietnam War, it contains many loopholes that presidents have exploited to act unilaterally. For example, it allows presidents to engage in military operations without congressional approval for up to 90 days. And more recent congressional resolutions have broadened executive control even further.

    President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the U.S. declaration of war against Japan on Dec. 8, 1941.
    U.S. National Archives

    A long tradition of executive authority

    Presidents can even overcome the loopholes in the War Powers Resolution if the operation lasts longer than 90 days. In 2011, a State Department lawyer argued that airstrikes in Libya could continue beyond the War Powers Resolution’s 90-day time limit because there were no ground troops involved. By that logic, any future president could carry out an indefinite bombing campaign with no congressional oversight.

    While every president has bristled at congressional restraints on their actions, presidents since Franklin D. Roosevelt have successfully circumvented them by citing vague concerns like “national security,” “regional security” or the need to “prevent a humanitarian disaster” when launching military operations. While members of Congress always take issue with these actions, they never hold presidents accountable by passing legislation restraining him.

    President Trump’s decision to bomb Iranian nuclear sites without consulting Congress falls in line with precedent from both Democratic and Republican leaders for decades.

    Much like his predecessors, Trump did not, and likely will not, provide Congress with more concrete information about the legality of his actions. Nor are congressional lawmakers effectively holding him accountable.

    The push-and-pull between Congress and the president over military operations dates back to the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, which led Congress to declare war on Japan. Before then, Congress had prevented the U.S. from joining World War II by enforcing an arms embargo and refusing to help the Allies prior to the attack on Hawaii. But afterward, Congress began allowing the president to take more control over the military.

    During the Cold War, rather than returning to a balanced debate between the branches, Congress continued to relinquish those powers.

    Congress never authorized the war in Korea; Harry Truman used a U.N. Security Council resolution as legal justification. Congress’ vote explicitly opposing the invasion of Cambodia didn’t stop Richard Nixon from doing it anyway. Even after the Cold War, Bill Clinton regularly acted unilaterally to address humanitarian crises or the continued threat from leaders like Saddam Hussein. He sent the military to Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia and Kosovo, among other places.

    After 9/11, Congress quickly gave up more of its power. A week after those attacks, Congress passed a sweeping Authorization for Use of Military Force, giving the president permission to “use all necessary and appropriate force against those nations, organizations, or persons he determines planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001.”

    In a follow-up 2002 authorization, Congress went even further, allowing the president to “use the Armed Forces … as he determines to be necessary and appropriate in order to defend national security … against the continuing threat posed by Iraq.” This approach provides few, if any, congressional checks on the control of military affairs exercised by the president.

    In the two decades since those authorizations, four presidents have used them to justify all manner of military action, from targeted killings of terrorists to the years long fight against the Islamic State group.

    Congress regularly discusses terminating those authorizations, but has yet to do so. If Congress did, the loopholes in the original War Powers Resolution would still exist.

    While President Biden claimed he supported the repeal of the authorizations, and supported more congressional oversight of military actions, Trump has made no such claims. Instead, he has claimed even more sweeping authority to act without any permission from Congress.

    As recently as 2024, Biden used the 2002 authorization as a legal rationale for the targeted killing of Iranian-backed militiamen in Iraq, a strike condemned by Iraqi leaders.

    Those actions may have ruffled congressional feathers, but they were in keeping with a long U.S. tradition of targeting members of terrorist groups and protecting members of the military serving in a conflict zone.

    Demonstrators outside the U.S. Capitol in January 2020 call on Congress to limit the president’s powers to use the military.
    AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana

    Threats of war

    During his first presidential term in 2020, Trump ordered a lethal drone strike against a respected member of the Iranian government, Major General Qassim Soleimani, the head of Iran’s equivalent of the CIA, without consulting Congress or publicly providing proof of why the attack was necessary, even to this day.

    Tensions – and fears of war – spiked but then slowly faded when Iran responded with missile attacks on two U.S. bases in Iraq.

    Now, the U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear sites have revived both fears of war and renewed questions about the president’s authority to unilaterally engage in military action. Presidents since the 1970s, however, have effectively managed to dodge definitive answers to those questions – demonstrating both the power inherent in their position and the unwillingness among members of the legislative branch to reclaim their coequal status.

    This article is an updated version of a story published on Jan. 24, 2024.

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

    – ref. Presidents of both parties have launched military action without Congress declaring war − Trump’s bombing of Iran is just the latest – https://theconversation.com/presidents-of-both-parties-have-launched-military-action-without-congress-declaring-war-trumps-bombing-of-iran-is-just-the-latest-259636

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fourth Defendant Pleads Guilty to Scheme to Bribe Feeding Our Future Juror

    Source: US FBI

    MINNEAPOLIS – Abdiaziz Farah, who was convicted of fraud after the first Feeding Our Future trial, has pleaded guilty to his role in providing a cash bribe to a juror in that same trial, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.

    On April 22, 2024, seven defendants went to trial before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel for their roles in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme.  During the trial, Abdiaziz Farah, 36, of Savage, MN, conspired with his co-defendants, Abdimajid Nur and Said Farah, also well as with two other people, Abdulkarim Farah and Ladan Ali, to provide a cash bribe to one of the jurors in exchange for returning a not guilty verdict in the trial.

    “The attempted bribery of a Feeding Our Future juror sent shockwaves throughout Minnesota,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. “Abdiaziz Farah did what few criminal defendants have ever had the audacity to do—he and his co-conspirators tried to buy a not guilty verdict.  They were thwarted by Juror 52, who could not be bought, and by the excellent work of law enforcement.  Farah and all involved in this despicable scheme will be held to account.”

    “Juror bribery is an attack on the integrity of our justice system,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis.  “Farah’s actions directly undermined the rule of law. In partnership with our law enforcement colleagues, the FBI is unwavering in our pledge to safeguard the incorruptibility of our judicial process and ensure those who threaten that process must answer for their actions.”

    According to court documents, after the conspirators identified and decided to bribe Juror 52, at least one of Farah’s co-conspirators conducted surveillance of Juror 52 at Juror 52’s house. At or around the same time, Ladan Ali was recruited to deliver the bribe money to Juror 52. Farah worked with his co-conspirators to gather the funds necessary for the bribe. In the early morning of June 2, 2024, in furtherance of that effort, Farah sent a message to his brother and co-defendant Said Farah using an encrypted messaging app. Abdiaziz Farah told Said Farah to “[p]lease have the money ready by 10 please. It’s very important for everything we have.”

    Later on June 2, 2024, Farah instructed his co-defendant Abdimajid Nur to meet him at Said Farah’s business, Bushra Wholesalers, to pick up the bribe money. Abdimajid Nur did so. However, Farah and Said Farah did not fully trust Ladan Ali, and they remained concerned that Juror 52 would not follow through with an acquittal. As such, a co-conspirator directed Abdulkarim Farah to drive Ladan Ali to Juror 52’s house and record a video of her delivery of the bribe money.

    After meeting Ladan Ali not far from Juror 52’s house, Abdulkarim Farah and Ladan Ali drove to a nearby Target store where Abdulkarim Farah purchased a screwdriver to remove the license plate from Ladan Ali’s rental car prior to delivering the bribe to Juror 52 in an effort to avoid detection.

    At approximately 8:50 p.m. on June 2, 2024, Abdulkarim Farah drove Ladan Ali to Juror 52’s house to deliver the bribe. Abdulkarim Farah took a video recording as Ladan Ali approached Juror 52’s house with a gift bag containing the bribe money. Ladan Ali handed the gift bag to a relative of Juror 52 and explained there would be more money if Juror 52 voted to acquit the defendants.

    After Ladan Ali delivered the bribe, Abdulkarim Farah sent the video he had taken to his brother, Abdiaziz Farah. Abdiaziz Farah then forwarded that video to the third Farah brother, Said, in a message that said, “watch and delete.”

    On June 3, 2024, Farah was present in court when prosecutors announced law enforcement’s discovery of the bribe attempt. Minutes later, after being ordered by Judge Nancy Brasel to surrender his phone to law enforcement, Farah conducted a factory reset of his iPhone in order to delete the messages, video, and other evidence of the bribe attempt from his phone.

    Abdiaziz Farah pleaded guilty on June 17, 2025, in U.S. District Court before Judge David S. Doty to one count of bribery of a juror. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI with assistance from IRS – Criminal Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert, Harry M. Jacobs, and Daniel W. Bobier are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Work, wages and apprenticeships: sifting for clues about the lives of girls in ancient Egypt

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Hamilton, Lecturer in History and Archaeology, Macquarie University

    Weavers in the Tomb of Khnumhotep II, Beni Hassan, Egypt. Painted by Norman de Garis Davies (MMA 33.8.16)

    We know surprisingly little about the lives of children in ancient Egypt.

    And what records we do have about them often concern the lives of the elite – the young king or the children of senior officials. They are more prominent in surviving material evidence, especially funerary art. Infant mortality rates were high in ancient Egypt.

    As a result, much of the work in Egyptology on representations of childhood in ancient Egypt is dominated by evidence for the lives of boys and young adult men.

    But what were the lives of ordinary girls like in ancient Egypt? And how did they make their way in a deeply patriarchal culture?

    Finding hieroglyphic words for girls

    An initial problem in studying girls’ lives in ancient Egypt is answering the question: who was a girl in ancient Egypt?

    Chronological age was not always recorded by ancient Egyptians in their letters or inscriptions.

    Instead, more general words and hieroglyphic signs tended to accompany images of men, women and children to indicate their social roles.

    A woman is shown nursing a child while another woman is dressing her hair.
    Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (22.2.35)

    These words and signs were only loosely associated with biological development.

    Hieroglyphic words for infants and small children, for instance, could be marked with an image of a small, seated child – sometimes with a finger held to its mouth.

    Among the words used to describe young girls – talking, walking, and participating alongside adults in their work – was sheriyt.

    This is the word often found in ancient accounting documents recording payments of wages, indicating a girl-child worker. They are distinguished from older women in these documents, although it is difficult to know precisely how young they might have been.

    In this way, written administrative records and archaeological evidence reveals girls of many social classes were integrated into economic production from an early age.

    Payment for work

    Elephantine, a town at Egypt’s southern frontier near modern-day Aswan, provides a unique window into the urban life of some girls who worked in textile workshops during the ancient Egyptian Middle Kingdom, which dates approximately 2030–1650 BCE.

    First published in 1996, archaeologists found a ceramic bowl repurposed as a writing surface in a house in the densely packed urban settlement.

    The excavators initially dated the bowl to the reign of King Amenemhat III, who ruled almost 3,800 years ago. However, based on the style of writing and the types of names listed, some scholars have also dated it earlier. It contains lists of payments of provisions of grain for textile workers over the course of a month.

    What makes this document so important is that it names at least 18 child workers. Of these, 11 are girls, clearly marked with the Egyptian word sheriyt, working alongside 28 adult women.

    The list shows adult women in this workshop received between 50–57 heqat (around 240–274 litres) of grain – although it’s not entirely clear if this was a one-off payment, a payment per month, or something else. The girls earned smaller but still significant wages of 3–7 heqat (around 14–34 litres).

    Some other adult women seem to have also received comparable provisions to the girls, although without further information it is difficult know their social status or age.

    This document not only confirms that girls received payment for their labour. It also suggests a structured apprenticeship system where young girls (and boys) worked alongside experienced craftswomen.

    This corroborates evidence from visual art of textile workshops from the same period.

    Weavers in the Tomb of Khnumhotep II, Beni Hassan, Egypt. Painted at the tomb in 1931 by Norman de Garis Davies.
    Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (33.8.16)

    Work life, home life

    Archaeological evidence suggests textile production occurred both within homes and in dedicated workshops.

    Evidence from the excavations at Elephantine suggests homes had several rooms with multiple purposes, including courtyards, entrance vestibules, kitchens with ovens (recognisable by blackened walls and ash deposits), and possible stairs leading to roof spaces.

    Privacy would have been limited. Daily life would have included close interaction with animals, as evidenced by attached animal pens.

    More recently, close to the house where the provision list was discovered, archaeologists found needles, spindles, shuttles, and remains of pegs for a large loom.

    These were found both inside houses and in the courtyards attached to them.

    It’s hard to know what exactly these buildings were for; they probably served multiple purposes.

    Lives shaped by class and legal status

    Not all girls at Elephantine had the same experience of life. The town’s position at Egypt’s southern frontier in this period meant it was home to diverse populations, which included migrants, enslaved people and transitory workers.

    A letter dating to the reign of King Amenemhat III documents some families, including women and children, arriving at Elephantine seeking work during a famine in their home region.

    This ancient letter mentions families, including women and children, looking for work.
    © The Trustees of the British Museum. Shared under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0) licence, CC BY-NC-SA

    This evidence can be compared to a legal document from the same time period but from another Egyptian town, El Lahun. This document mentions the purchase and transfer of enslaved women and infants who are called Aamut, referring to a region in West Asia. The document shows they have been given new Egyptian names.

    These documents remind us factors such as class and legal status have always profoundly shaped girls’ lives.

    Valuing the work of girls

    Accessing the everyday thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of many ancient people, especially children, is challenging for historians. We don’t, for instance, have a wealth of personal diaries from ancient Egypt to learn about girls’ interior lives.

    But what’s clear is that girls were not merely passive participants in society. They were active economic contributors, who often received formal compensation for their work.

    Historians must always look beyond elite contexts to incorporate diverse evidence types – administrative documents, archaeological remains, and artistic representations – to construct a more complete picture of ancient lives.

    Julia Hamilton 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. Work, wages and apprenticeships: sifting for clues about the lives of girls in ancient Egypt – https://theconversation.com/work-wages-and-apprenticeships-sifting-for-clues-about-the-lives-of-girls-in-ancient-egypt-249581

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • 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 –

  • MIL-Evening Report: More women are using medical cannabis – but new research shows barriers push some into illegal markets

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vinuli Withanarachchie, PhD candidate, College of Health, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University

    Getty Images

    The number of women using medicinal cannabis is growing in New Zealand and overseas. They use cannabis treatment for general conditions such as pain, anxiety, inflammation and nausea, as well as gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis, pelvic floor conditions, and menopause.

    However, their experiences with medicinal cannabis remain under-explored in research and overlooked in policy and regulation. As our work shows, they face several gender-specific barriers to accessing medicinal cannabis. Some of these hurdles lead women to seeking cannabis from illegal markets.

    New Zealand introduced the medicinal cannabis scheme five years ago to enable access to legal, safe and quality-controlled cannabis products for any condition a doctor would deem suitable for a prescription.

    A recent analysis found the number of medicinal cannabis products dispensed has increased more than 14-fold since 2020, with more than 160,000 prescriptions administered during 2023/2024.

    In the first two years of the scheme, women were the primary recipients of medicinal cannabis prescriptions. Between 2022 and 2023, the number of prescriptions issued to female patients doubled to 47,633.

    Our findings from a large-scale national survey show that although women perceive physicians as supportive of prescribing medicinal cannabis, they were less likely to have prescriptions than men. This is similar to findings from Australia.

    Potential reasons include the cost of visiting health professionals, unpaid care-giving duties, lower workforce participation and a pay disparity – all creating barriers to accessing health services.

    Women were also more likely not to disclose their medicinal cannabis use to others, citing it would be less accepted by society because of their gender.

    Gendered risks in illegal cannabis markets

    Our latest study aligned with Australia in finding that women often seek cannabis from illegal sources because of perceived lower prices. Many could not financially sustain accessing legal prescriptions because medicinal cannabis is not funded by New Zealand’s drug-buying agency Pharmac.

    Study participants discussed the health risks of accessing illegal cannabis such as consuming products without knowing how strong they are or whether they have been contaminated with harmful substances.

    They also characterised illegal cannabis markets as unsafe and intimidating for women, with little legal protection and the presence of predatory male sellers. Some even described gender-specific experiences of physical assault, intimidation and sexual harassment, particularly when cannabis buying occurred in drug houses or locations controlled by the seller.

    Women accessing medicinal cannabis in illegal markets increasingly relied on female suppliers, viewing them as safer and more reliable. Some also helped connect others to these suppliers and used social media to warn other women of unsafe male suppliers. This created informal women-led support networks for access.

    Accessing legal prescriptions

    Women increasingly use cannabis clinics to access pain treatments.
    Getty Images

    One of our recent studies found many women begin their journeys with medicinal cannabis online via social media, often leading them to cannabis clinics with a strong digital presence. Women are now a growing demographic for specialised medicinal cannabis clinics in New Zealand and in other countries.

    Cannabis clinics have a reputation among medicinal cannabis consumers for being more knowledgeable and positive about treatments than general practitioners and other health providers. Women have been encouraged by positive online testimonies from other women using cannabis treatments for gynaecological and other conditions.

    Female medicinal cannabis patients also described the financial burden of accessing a prescription, including consultation fees and the costs of products as barriers to access.

    Their relationships with their GPs strongly influenced their decision to seek a prescription. Those with prior experiences of having their pain underestimated or misdiagnosed in mainstream care were more likely to source legal medicinal cannabis from cannabis clinics.

    Policy and practice

    The current scientific evidence for using medicinal cannabis for gynaecological conditions is still emerging. Clinical trials are under way in Australia to evaluate cannabis treatment for endometriosis and period pain.

    Women’s reliance on online sources and personal recommendations to learn about medicinal cannabis highlights a gap in public awareness and government education about the legal prescription scheme. Hesitance to discuss and recommend cannabis treatment among GPs also persists as a barrier to access.

    Online peer networks on social media platforms are promoting women’s agency and informing their decision making around medicinal cannabis, but also raise the risks of misinformation.

    Although marketing of medicinal cannabis to women may improve their engagement with the prescription scheme, it may also put them in a vulnerable position where they are encouraged to pursue expensive treatment options which may not be effective.

    The collective findings from our studies indicate complex financial, social and systemic factors affecting safe and equitable access to medicinal cannabis for women. To improve women’s engagement with New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis scheme, we suggest GPs should have informed and non-stigmatising discussions with female patients to explore when medicinal cannabis might be an appropriate treatment option.

    Better access to good official consumer information about medicinal cannabis and greater investment in clinical trials for gynaecological conditions would also improve and support women’s decision making about their health.

    Vinuli Withanarachchie receives funding from the Health Research Council for research on cannabis policy reform.

    Chris Wilkins receives funding from the Health Research Council for studies on cannabis policy and vaping.

    Marta Rychert receives funding for cannabis research from the Royal Society of NZ and the Health Research Council.

    – ref. More women are using medical cannabis – but new research shows barriers push some into illegal markets – https://theconversation.com/more-women-are-using-medical-cannabis-but-new-research-shows-barriers-push-some-into-illegal-markets-258797

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘It feels like I am being forced to harm a child’: research shows how teachers are suffering moral injury

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Glenys Oberg, PhD candidate in education and trauma, The University of Queensland

    SolStock/Getty Images

    Australia is in the grip of a teacher shortage. Teachers are burning out, warning the job is no longer sustainable and leaving the profession.

    We know this is due to excessive workloads, stress and abuse. But research suggests there is another element at play: some teachers are also experiencing moral injury.

    Moral injury occurs when teachers are forced to act against their values – leaving them feeling disillusioned and complicit in harm. In my study of 57 Australian teachers, many shared emotionally-charged accounts of being put in impossible situations at work.

    What is moral injury?

    Moral injury is when professionals cannot act in line with their values due to external demands.

    It differs from burnout or compassion fatigue: burnout stems from chronic stress and compassion fatigue comes from emotional overload.

    Moral injury was initially developed in military psychology but has since been applied to healthcare and education – professions where high-stakes ethical decision-making and institutional failures often collide.

    Previous studies on moral injury in schools have shown how rigid disciplinary policies, high-stakes testing regimes and chronic underfunding often force teachers to act in ways that contradict their professional judgement. This can lead to frustration, guilt and professional disillusionment.

    Recent studies have reframed moral injury as a systemic issue rather than an individual psychological condition. This is because institutional constraints – such as inflexible accountability measures and bureaucratic inefficiencies – prevent teachers from fulfilling their ethical responsibilities.

    My new study

    This research stems from an initial study, which looked at burnout in Australian teachers.

    The initial study included a national sample of 2,000 educators. This new study is a subset of 57 teachers who participated in follow-up surveys and focus groups. The teachers were a mix of primary and secondary teachers and some also held leadership positions within their schools.

    While the original study focused on compassion fatigue and burnout, a striking pattern emerged: teachers repeatedly described moral conflicts in their work.

    ‘It feels like I’m being forced to harm a child’

    A key theme of the new research was teachers having to enforce school or departmental policies they believed were harmful. This was particularly the case when it came to discipline. As one teacher described:

    The policy says I should suspend a student for attendance issues, but their home life is falling apart. How does that help? It feels like I’m being forced to harm a child instead of helping them.

    Others talked about having to focus on standardised tests (for example, NAPLAN), rather than using their professional judgement to meet children’s individual needs. This is a contentious issue for teachers.

    As one high school teacher told us:

    We’re asked to push students through the curriculum even when we know they haven’t grasped the basics […] but we’re the ones who carry the guilt.

    A primary teacher similarly noted:

    Teaching to the test means leaving so many kids behind. It’s not what education should be.

    ‘It’s heartbreaking’

    Teachers also spoke about teaching in environments that were not adequately resourced. In some schools, teacher shortages were so severe that unqualified staff were delivering classes:

    We’ve got classes being taught by teacher aides […] but that’s because we don’t have enough staff.

    Or in other classes, students were not getting the help they needed.

    Larger class sizes and fewer staff mean that the kids who need the most attention are getting the least. It’s heartbreaking.

    The emotional impact was profound, as one high school teacher told us:

    At some point, you stop fighting. You realise that no matter how many times you raise concerns, nothing changes. It’s like the system is designed to wear you down until you just comply.

    What can schools do to prevent moral injury?

    While these findings are confronting, teachers also gave positive examples of what can buffer against moral injury in the workplace. This involved listening to teachers and including them in policies and decisions.

    One primary teacher told us how their school had changed their disciplinary approach:

    Our school’s push for restorative justice instead of punitive measures has been a game changer. It lets us address the root causes of issues instead of just punishing kids.

    Others talked about being asked to collaborate with school leadership to address discipline issues. As one primary teacher said:

    We helped create a new behaviour management framework. Having a say in the process made all the difference.

    What now?

    My research indicates when teachers are consistently asked to compromise their ethics, they don’t just burn out, they question the integrity of the entire system.

    This suggests if we want to keep teachers in classrooms, we need to do more than lighten their workloads. We need to make sure they are no longer placed in positions where doing their job means going against their professional values.

    This means teachers need to feel heard, respected and empowered in classrooms and schools.

    Glenys Oberg 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. ‘It feels like I am being forced to harm a child’: research shows how teachers are suffering moral injury – https://theconversation.com/it-feels-like-i-am-being-forced-to-harm-a-child-research-shows-how-teachers-are-suffering-moral-injury-258821

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: How do sleep trackers work, and are they worth it? A sleep scientist breaks it down

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dean J. Miller, Senior Lecturer, Appleton Institute, HealthWise Research Group, CQUniversity Australia

    Many smartwatches, fitness and wellness trackers now offer sleep tracking among their many functions.

    Wear your watch or ring to bed, and you’ll wake up to a detailed sleep report telling you not just how long you slept, but when each phase happened and whether you had a good night’s rest overall.

    Surfing is done in the ocean, planes fly in the sky, and sleep occurs in the brain. So how can we measure sleep from the wrist or finger?

    The gold standard of sleep measurement

    If you’ve ever had a sleep study or seen someone with dozens of wires attached to their head, body and face, you’ve encountered polysomnography or PSG.

    Eye movements, muscle tone, heart rate and brain activity are measured and assessed by experts to detect which stage of sleep or wakefulness a person is in.

    When we sleep, we cycle through different stages, generally classified as light sleep, slow-wave sleep (also known as deep sleep), and rapid eye movement or REM sleep.

    Each stage has an effect on brain activity, muscle tone and heart rate – which is why sleep scientists need so many wires.

    Accurate? Absolutely. Convenient? Like two left shoes.

    This is where the convenience of wearable at-home sleep trackers comes in.

    What sensors are in sleep trackers?

    Since the 1990s, sleep researchers have been using actigraphy to measure people’s sleep outside the laboratory.

    An actigraphy device is similar to a wristwatch and uses accelerometers to measure the person’s movement. Coupled with sleep diaries, actigraphy assumes a person is awake when they’re moving and asleep when still. Simple.

    While this is a scientifically accepted method of estimating sleep, it’s prone to mislabelling being awake but at rest (such as when reading a book) as sleep.

    There’s one key addition that makes wrist-worn sleep trackers more accurate – PPG or photoplethysmography.

    It’s hard to pronounce, but photoplethysmography is a key driver in the explosion of wearable health tracking.

    It uses those little green lights on the skin-side of the wearable to track the amount of blood passing through your wrist at any given time. Clip-on pulse oximeters used by doctors are the same type of tech.

    The addition of PPG to a wrist tracker allows for the measurement of raw data like heart rate and breathing rate. From this data, the wearable can estimate a number of physiological metrics, including sleep stages.

    Since fitness wearables already have accelerometers and PPG to track your physical activity and heart rate, it makes sense to use these sensors to track sleep too. But how accurate are they?

    Many fitness trackers leverage the sensors used to measure your fitness activities and heart rate for sleep tracking.
    The Conversation

    How do scientists test sleep trackers?

    Two main factors determine the accuracy of sleep trackers. How well does the device detect whether you’re asleep or awake? And how well can it distinguish the sleep stages?

    To answer these questions, sleep scientists conduct validation studies. Participants sleep overnight in a laboratory while wearing both a sleep tracker and undergoing PSG.

    Then, scientists compare the data from both methods in 30-second blocks called “epochs”. That means for a nine-hour sleep there will be 1,080 epochs to compare.

    If both the device and PSG indicate “sleep” for the same epoch, they’re in agreement. If the device indicates “wake” and PSG indicates “sleep” for the same epoch, that’s considered an error. The same is done for sleep stages.

    How accurate are sleep trackers?

    In a 2022 study of several popular trackers, most correctly identified more than 90% of sleep epochs. But because light sleep and restful wake are so similar, wearables struggle more to estimate wakefulness, correctly identifying between 26% and 73% of wake epochs.

    When it comes to sleep stages, wearables are less precise, correctly identifying between 53% and 60% of sleep stage epochs. However, for some devices and some sleep stages the precision can be greater. A recent validation study showed that a latest generation ring-shaped wearable didn’t differ from PSG for estimating light sleep and slow wave sleep.

    In short, most modern sleep trackers do a decent job of estimating your total sleep each night. Some are more accurate for sleep staging, but this level of detail isn’t essential for improving the basics of your sleep.

    Do I need a sleep tracker?

    If you’re struggling with sleep, you should speak to your doctor. A sleep tracker can be a useful tool to help track your sleep goals, but ultimately your behaviour is what will improve sleep.

    Keeping regular bedtimes and wake-up times, having a distraction-free sleep space, and keeping home lighting low in the evenings can all help to improve your sleep.

    If you love tracking your sleep, make sure your device has been independently validated. While sleep stage data may not be essential, devices that perform well in estimating sleep stage also tend to be more accurate at detecting when you’re asleep or awake. When reviewing your data, look at long term trends in sleep rather than day-to-day variability.

    If you don’t love your sleep tracker, you can take it off or ignore it. For some people, access to sleep data can negatively impact sleep by creating stress and anxiety for getting a perfect night’s sleep. Instead, focus on improving your healthy sleep strategies and pay attention to how you feel during the day.

    Dr Dean J. Miller is a member of a research group at Central Queensland University that receives support for research (i.e., funding, equipment) from WHOOP Inc, a smart device maker.

    – ref. How do sleep trackers work, and are they worth it? A sleep scientist breaks it down – https://theconversation.com/how-do-sleep-trackers-work-and-are-they-worth-it-a-sleep-scientist-breaks-it-down-258304

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Congressional Delegation Welcomes More than $7 Million for Granite State Projects Through Northern Border Regional Commission

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    Grantee

    Purpose

    Amount

    Coos County Family Health Services

    To relocate and expand Coos County Family Health Services’ existing North Country dental clinic to a location in downtown Berlin. This new construction is the result of increased demand from the expansion of the adult Medicaid dental benefits in New Hampshire in 2023. The facility will be approximately 3,000 square feet, fully handicapped accessible, equipped for the work of visiting dental surgeons or other specialists, and feature space for student training of dental professionals.

    $222,437

    HealthFirst Family Care Center

    To renovate a recently acquired 2200 sq ft neighboring building, and connect it to their 7500 sq ft existing facility. This expansion is motivated by the 200 new patient requests per month that HealthFirst received in 2024. In the same year, the Franklin location served 3,054 patients with 7,961 visits. Of these patients, 1,679 were low-income. The expansion will add 5-10 permanent new full-time positions.

    $1,000,000

    Town of Boscawen – Feasibility Study

    The Town of Boscawen is pursuing funds from the NH Park’s Land & Water Conservation Fund, for which they have received preliminary approval. This feasibility project will produce an engineered site plan, surveying, architectural services, and meet other technical requirements for the grant. Through the full funding from NHDP, the project will culminate in a 50×30′ timber framed outdoor picnic pavilion, a Merrimack River overlook, new restroom facilities, major redesign and reconstruction of the park access road, additional parking, and full ADA accessibility to existing and new facilities.

    $39,000

    Franconia Children’s Center

    Franconia Children’s Center will acquire the building they have rented for over a decade and renovate that building to bring it up to current standards. This will allow them to add 30 new childcare slots. They are one of four centers within a 30-mile radius that accepts children under the age of three. Their service area includes 73 employers. Without acquisition, the trust that owns the building will sell the property and displace the childcare center, preserving an important childcare resource in the Franconia area.

    $428,629.72

    Town of Newport- Unity Road Waterlines

    The Town of Newport will continue a Phase 2 replacement of water lines on Unity Road, with the final goal of replacing nearly 4000 feet of line. Much of the existing system is over 100 years old, with some portions having been replaced in the 1960s. This water line is the sole water distribution system connecting the Gilman Pond and Pollards Mill sources to the downtown. It serves over 1600 homes and businesses, including Sturm Ruger, a local employer that employees 1200 people in the region.

    $512,000

    New Hampshire Boat Museum

    The NH Boat Museum will renovate their 6,500 sq ft main floor, to include community educational and meeting spaces, flexible exhibition spaces, offices, and conference areas. This is a Phase 2 renovation, building on a successful Phase 1 renovation in 2024 that increased their number of visitors, group tours, and venue events by 50%. The renovation will allow the museum to accept new community space uses, for which they presently do not have capacity. In addition to community meeting space, the renovation would allow for year-round operation of the museum. The facility is located in Moultonborough’s West Village Overlay District, slated for further economic and housing development.

    $250,000

    Littleton Community Center

    Littleton Community Center will renovate the carriage house adjacent to their main house behind Main St in Littleton. This project will revitalize the carriage house, repairing the roof and some structural issues, as well as work on the grounds and the installation of energy efficient HVAC, gutters, fire/security systems, and internet/ AV utilities. This will enable the community center to host large events of between 50-100 people.

    $1,000,000

    Town of Bow – Bow Mills Redevelopment Feasibility Project

    This project would determine the feasibility of a municipal water line extension, to activate 175 acres of developable land in the South St/Exit 1 area of Bow. Funds will support public engagement processes to better understand community priorities around the types of development planned. This project seeks to capitalize on the NH DOT I-89 Exit 1 redesign and reconstruction, which would construct direct driveway access to the development area from the exit ramp.

    $52,265

    Franklin Pierce University

    Franklin Pierce University will expand their wastewater treatment facilities in light of new environmental regulations, adding a third Rapid Infiltration Basin. This will increase their capacity for future occupancy and usage. Franklin Pierce currently enrolls around 1000 undergraduate students annually, 250 of whom are receiving training for healthcare roles in nursing, as physicians’ assistants, and in physical therapy.

    $960,000

    Town of Groton – Salt and Sand Sheds

    The Town of Groton will construct salt and sand sheds on the property of their recently USDA funded Public Works Building. The Public Works Building was originally slated to include these sheds, but budget constraints resulted in the project being phased, to pursue additional funding. Relocation of their sheds and public works building became necessary following increased flooding in their current location.

    $125,000

    Town of Plymouth – Low Service Zone Tank Replacement

    The Town of Plymouth will replace one of two large water tanks serving numerous businesses, various public service providers, a significant portion of Plymouth State University’s campus, and most shops and restaurants along Main St. The 2.5-million-gallon concrete storage tank receives water pulled up by a well pumping facility. It was constructed in 1972 and relined in 2009, but a 2015 assessment demonstrated significant deterioration, and a 2023 assessment showed critical deterioration.

    $1,000,000

    Partnership for Public Health

    The Partnership for Public Health will renovate their existing community public health building in Laconia to make it ADA-compliant, install new electrical & HVAC systems and enhance operational security through both physical security systems and a generator. This renovation will ultimately reduce operational costs, increase their capacity, and improve emergency response capabilities for the emergency preparedness group hosted by PPH. In addition, PPH offers health education, drug use prevention, chronic disease management, and resource navigation programs.

    $399,050

    Newport Chamber of Commerce

    The Newport Chamber of Commerce will renovate their historic railroad station, built in 1897, into a Welcome Center and home for the Chamber of Commerce, which presently has no dedicated space in the town. The railroad station is located just behind the center of Newport’s Main Street. The renovation will include a rental space to support the costs of maintaining the building, and as a community resource and meeting space. The project will bridge the Town’s Main Street to other local amenities, such as the Community Center, Meadow Park, Community Garden, Dog Park, and the Newport-Claremont rail trail.

    $500,000

    Main Roof Replacement – John Hay Estate at the Fells

    The Fells nonprofit will replace the roof of the Main House at the John Hay Estate, built in 1891. The roof was last replaced in the early 1990s. This project would shingle the roof in historical wood shingles and fix sections of copper roofing. The Estate hosts arts events, educational programs, weddings and ceremonies, and family festivals. Open to the public year-round, the estate has around 10,000 visitors each year. In addition to the property being open for nature hikes, they host around 30 classes, workshops and other programs annually, specializing in ecology, nature, horticulture, history, and art.

    $127,200

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Call on GOP to Drop Health Care Cuts that will Saddle More Working Families with Medical Debt

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) today urged their colleagues to reject proposed Republican Medicaid cuts that are projected to inflict severe harm on millions of families, citing a new analysis estimating that the GOP’s plans to slash health care would push 5.4 million people – including 2.2 million people currently on Medicaid and 3.2 million people with coverage through the Affordable Care Act – into medical debt and increase the total medical debt that Americans owe by $50 billion – a 15 percent jump.

    “Health coverage is prevention. It’s not just treating illness; it’s protecting families from financial ruin. Republicans are trying to gut Medicaid to give tax breaks to the wealthy, and working families will pay the price with their health, their homes, and their financial futures. We should be focused on expanding access to health care and lowering costs, not ripping coverage away and sticking people with thousands of dollars in new debt. We’re calling on our Republican colleagues to drop this dangerous proposal before it’s too late,” said the senators.

    Recent analysis published by Third Way, a centrist think tank, found that families losing coverage because of the Republican health care cuts could see their medical debt increase by as much as $22,800. The analysis found that, if the GOP plan is enacted, 107,001 more people in Virginia will be saddled with medical debt, and the amount of medical debt across Virginia would increase by $1,001,789,466.

    Medical debt already affects 100 million people in the U.S., amounting to $269 billion in unpaid medical bills. According to a recent Gallup survey, 31 million Americans report having to borrow nearly $74 billion between 2023 and 2024 to pay for health care, and 58 percent of Americans believe they would experience medical debt if faced with a health event. Despite that, Republicans in Congress are pushing a package that, if enacted, will impose the largest cuts to health care in U.S. history and lead to 16 million people in the U.S. losing health insurance coverage.

    Sens. Warner and Kaine have been sounding the alarm about the effects of the GOP plan on Virginia families if Republicans in Congress continue to insist on gutting vital programs in order to pay for tax breaks for the richest Americans, noting that the GOP bill would strip health insurance from more than 302,000 Virginians, cut SNAP benefits, raise energy costs for Virginia households, jeopardize more than 20,000 Virginia jobs, raise taxes on minimum wage workers while giving the richest 0.1% a $188,000 tax cut, make tax filing more expensive, explode the deficit, and devastate rural communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Delivering Growth Through Collaboration and Innovation: SaskTel Reports Net Income of $82.2 Million in 2024-25

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 23, 2025

    Today, SaskTel released both its Annual Report and Sustainability Report for the 2024-25 fiscal year, highlighting its financial results and initiatives and best practices driving sustainability, equity and prosperity for the province of Saskatchewan. Financial results for the 2024-25 fiscal year include net income of $82.2 million and operating revenues of $1,364.9 million. These results show SaskTel’s commitment to delivering competitive services and enhancing its world-class networks to enrich everyday life in Saskatchewan.

    “Our government and SaskTel’s commitment to delivering for Saskatchewan remains as strong as ever,” Minister Responsible for SaskTel Jeremy Harrison said. “The significant investments made by SaskTel in 2024-25 will ensure that more families, businesses, and communities across the province have access to the advanced communications networks and technologies that they need to succeed and grow in a developing smart economy.” 

    “In a time of evolution and change in the telecommunications industry, one thing that remains constant is SaskTel’s commitment to empowering Saskatchewan people, organizations and communities to reach their full potential,” SaskTel President and Chief Executive Officer Charlene Gavel said. “Thanks to the substantial investments made in 2024-25, our ongoing progress toward bringing SaskTel’s 5G and infiNET networks to more communities is already driving new economic activity and helping to ready our province for whatever comes next in the tech landscape.”

    SaskTel’s revenue is composed primarily of wireless network services and equipment revenue (49.5 per cent), fixed broadband and data services (23.4 per cent), wireline communication services (10.6 per cent), and maxTV service (7.2 per cent).

    Financial Highlights

    SaskTel’s financial measures focus on shareholder value, revenue and earnings generation and the efficient use of its capital investments. These measures provide insight into its current financial performance and contribute to its long-term financial stability. 

    SaskTel declared dividends of $32.9 million to Crown Investments Corporation during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, while maintaining a debt ratio within industry standards. 

    At the close of the fiscal year 2024-25, SaskTel’s debt ratio increased to 56.5 per cent, an increase of 50 basis points from the previous year. The overall level of net debt increased $99.2 million, primarily to fund continued investment in its fibre and 5G networks through investment in property, plant and equipment and intangible assets.

    Revenue for the fiscal year was $1,364.9 million, an increase of $16.4 million reflecting growth in key business segments including wireless network services and equipment, fixed broadband and data services, maxTV service and IT solutions services. The increase in wireless network services and equipment revenue reflects the growth in SaskTel’s wireless retail subscriber base and increased wholesale revenues. Fixed broadband and data services revenue growth was driven by SaskTel’s Rural Fibre Initiative, which continues to expand the company’s fibre footprint resulting in increased customer connections. IT solutions services revenue growth reflects increased adoption of SaskTel’s cybersecurity solutions, data centre offerings and managed IT services. 

    SaskTel invested $398.5 million of capital in 2024-25 to bring SaskTel infiNET service to more homes and businesses and grow the reach of its 5G wireless network. These investments enhance the reliability and resiliency of SaskTel’s networks and position Saskatchewan for success in the smart economy.

    Wireless spending, including 5G, LTE, and Wi-Fi, accounted for $130.1 million of the $398.5 million total, while $108.5 million was invested in SaskTel’s Fibre-to-the-X program (FTTx). These significant investments, along with the rest of the capital expenditures, have enhanced SaskTel’s systems and networks, our provincial economy and will prepare Saskatchewan to thrive and succeed in a developing smart economy.

    SaskTel’s wireless network covers over 99 per cent of the population with more than 1,000 cell towers, over 700 of which are in rural parts of the province. As of March 31, 2025, SaskTel had converted more than 700 wireless sites to the 5G network, serving 88 per cent of the province’s population with 5G. As this network evolves, it will support things such as the development of smart communities and technological innovations in agriculture, virtual health care and immersive education.

    SaskTel’s FTTx program continued to bring infiNET, SaskTel’s fibre optic network, to homes and businesses across the province. infiNET delivers up to gigabit per second speeds, allowing customers to surf, stream and share more content faster than ever before. As of March 31, 2025, the network was available in 111 communities.

    Further, SaskTel’s Aurora Program was launched last summer following an announcement that the company had received funding from the Federal Government’s Universal Broadband Fund. The program encompasses four significant projects to improve connectivity in Northern Saskatchewan and since the Aurora Program was launched, SaskTel has made significant progress in bringing fibre cabling through the Hanson Lake Road area (Highway 106).

    Sustainability Highlights

    In 2024-25, SaskTel also continued to make a social impact in our province through numerous sponsorships and partnerships as well as the generosity of SaskTel employees. SaskTel contributed $3,094,714 to 1,048 non-profit and charitable organizations, community associations, venues, events and partnerships in 260 communities throughout the province during the 2024-25 fiscal year. 

    At a time when charities and non-profits are seeing growing demand for services, SaskTel’s employees showed their dedication by making a positive difference in their communities through volunteer hours and donations. With nearly 3,700 members, including current and retired employees, SaskTel Pioneers contributed over 25,280 volunteer hours and $1,036,620 in donations to non-profit organizations. SaskTel TelCare, the employee-driven charitable donation program, donated nearly $190,000 to 47 charitable and non-profit organizations operating across Saskatchewan, a number which includes SaskTel’s 50 per cent match.

    Additional SaskTel social impact initiatives include:

    Connecting with Community Challenge

    Through the 2025 Connecting with Community Challenge, SaskTel employees, along with the SaskTel Pioneers raised $15,000 for the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation to help fund youth mental wellness programs.

    The Connecting with Community Challenge worked in tandem with Pink Shirt Day and SaskTel Be Kind Online to encourage employees to perform acts of kindness, such as helping colleagues, volunteering, or supporting local causes. Each reported act of kindness counted as a $5 donation toward the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation.

    SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start

    In partnership with the Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement, SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start provided 341 cell phones and $8,000 worth of phone cards to the Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) in 2024-25.

    SaskTel Phones for a Fresh Start provides wireless phones and phone cards to PATHS member agencies to assist individuals fleeing domestic abuse as well as youth transitioning out of permanent or long-term care from the Ministry of Social Services. By collecting and recycling old wireless phones, the program aims to minimize Saskatchewan’s environmental footprint while helping those in need. 

    SaskTel’s Annual Report and Sustainability Report provide comprehensive insights into the company’s financial performance, strategic initiatives and commitment to sustainable practices. These reports not only highlight SaskTel’s achievements and growth over the past year, but also underscore its dedication to transparency, accountability and long-term value creation for our stakeholders. By detailing our efforts in environmental stewardship, social responsibility and governance, we aim to foster trust and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to building a sustainable future for our community and beyond.

    For more information, including the full Annual and Sustainability report, please visit: sasktel.com/about-us.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Media Relations

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Crown Sector Delivered Quality Services and Value for Saskatchewan in 2024-25

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 23, 2025

    Crown Investments Corporation (CIC) and its subsidiary Crowns delivered the second lowest utility bundle in Canada and a record infrastructure investment in 2024-25. CIC’s annual report released today highlights the sector’s commitment to reliable and affordable quality services to customers and strong financial management of Saskatchewan’s Crown corporations. 

    ” Saskatchewan’s Crown sector continues to support the continued growth of our province’s economy through buying local, investing in infrastructure, and delivering essential services to families, communities, businesses and industry,” Crown Investments Corporation Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “Our Crown corporations worked diligently in 2024-25 to deliver some of the most affordable utility costs in the country. The Crowns’ record investments in building and maintaining systems continue to support service reliability, local economies and the demand from growth across the province.”  

    On behalf of its subsidiary Crowns, CIC provided strong financial returns to Saskatchewan, contributing $240 million in dividends to the General Revenue Fund, supporting provincial priorities including affordability measures, health care, education and community safety. Improved earnings at SaskEnergy and the Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan contributed to the positive financial result.

    Together, the Crown corporations invested a record $2.2 billion in infrastructure in 2024-25. A large portion of this investment was from SaskPower to support reliable electricity, including the completion of the Great Plains Power Station near Moose Jaw and the construction of the Aspen Power Station near Lanigan. SaskTel continued to strengthen its cellular and fibre optic networks, delivering the fastest internet, Wi-Fi and 5G mobile technologies in Saskatchewan. These capital projects have created an attractive investment environment for the province, provided quality local jobs and supported vendors here at home.

    The sector delivered on Saskatchewan’s priorities – enhancing Indigenous education and employment opportunities, making traffic safety improvements in cities, towns and villages, supporting thousands of non-profit and community organizations and groups, and continuing its contributions to STARS Air Ambulance to provide critical care for seriously ill and injured patients. 

    The 2024-25 Annual Report for Crown Investments Corporation is available online at www.cicorp.sk.ca.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    Media Relations
    Crown Investments Corporation
    Regina
    Phone: 306-787-7732
    Email: Communications@cicorp.sk.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Delivering for Customers, Communities and Saskatchewan: SaskEnergy 2024-25 Annual Report

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 23, 2025

    In 2024-25, SaskEnergy demonstrated its commitment to providing safe, reliable and affordable energy to the residents, businesses and industries of Saskatchewan as the demand for natural gas in the province continues to grow.

    “With Saskatchewan having one of the fastest growing economies in Canada and a record high population, there is an increasing demand for natural gas,” Minister Responsible for SaskEnergy Jeremy Harrison said. “SaskEnergy continues to reliably meet this demand, investing in system expansion, enhancing customer service, supporting energy efficiency and maintaining stable, affordable rates for Saskatchewan families, businesses and industries.”

    In 2024-25, SaskEnergy invested $171 million in system expansion and reliability initiatives. The Corporation completed system expansion projects to serve new and expanding customer operations in enhanced oil recovery, potash production and power generation, as well as projects to support growth and reliability in the Regina area. 

    SaskEnergy leveraged strong operating and financial results, along with ongoing efficiency efforts, to ensure that the average total natural gas bills for residential customers remained competitive in 2024-25, with delivery rates among the lowest in Canada.

    SaskEnergy continues to assist its customers in reducing their energy use, while also lowering their monthly bills. In 2024-25, SaskEnergy maintained its range of energy efficiency incentives for residential and commercial customers, including the Residential Equipment Replacement Rebate, First Nations Furnace Replacement Rebate and Homes Beyond Code rebate. Through these programs, $5 million in rebates were provided to residential and commercial customers who made energy-efficiency improvements to their homes and businesses. 

    “SaskEnergy’s ability to deliver safe, reliable and accessible service, while providing competitive rates and high levels of customer service, to our nearly 415,000 customers is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our more than 1,200 employees across the province,” SaskEnergy President and CEO Mark Guillet said. 

    “While investing in our system and our customer base, we are also dedicated to strengthening Saskatchewan’s economy by investing in its people and businesses. In 2024-25, we purchased nearly $300 million in goods and services from local vendors, which accounted for 66 per cent of our procurement spending. In addition, $33.2 million in contracts were awarded to Saskatchewan businesses with Indigenous ownership or Indigenous workforce representation.”

    In 2024-25, SaskEnergy recorded a net income before unrealized market value adjustments of $82 million, compared to $55 million the year prior. The increase is primarily driven by year-over-year increases in delivery and transportations revenues, as well as higher customer contributions to capital projects.

    SaskEnergy declared a dividend of $31 million to Crown Investments Corporation (CIC) based on income before unrealized market value adjustments. 

    Other highlights for 2024-25 include:

    • Capital spending of $265.8 million net of customer capital contributions.
    • Celebrated the 30th anniversary of SaskEnergy’s Share the Warmth program – marking the milestone by providing grants of up to $1,000 to more than 100 community-based organizations.
    • Supported 622 programs and events in 268 communities through community investment initiatives.
    • Signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the First Nations Power Authority to explore energy security solutions for First Nations communities and increase Indigenous economic participation through cleaner energy initiatives.
    • Achieved $5.6 million in cost savings through efficient procurement practices.
    • Received national recognition for the third consecutive year as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers.
    • Reduced emissions from its operations by 18,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). 

    View SaskEnergy’s 2024-25 Annual Report here.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State fire marshal mobilizes two task forces through Immediate Response

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing two structural task forces from Lane and Marion counties through Immediate Response to the Upper Applegate Fire in Jackson County. The fire was reported on Wednesday off Upper Applegate Road south of the town of Ruch.

    Firefighters and resources from the Applegate Fire District, other Rogue Valley fire agencies, the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Oregon Department of Forestry are on scene working to stop the fire. As of 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, the fire was estimated to be 120 acres in size and growing. According to the Oregon Department of Forestry, several air resources have been ordered including several helicopters and two large air tankers.

    These two task forces being mobilized will be added capacity for the Applegate Fire District to provide added structural protection.

    “This is our third mobilization this month, a clear signal that wildfire season is here,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “We need to do everything we can as Oregonians to be wildfire aware. This fire season has been devastating already with the tragic loss of homes in the Gorge and a second conflagration earlier this week in Jefferson County. Please help our firefighters by following local restrictions.”

    The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has issued levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices for those living near the fire. Evacuation information can be found here.

    The Oregon State Fire Marshal can send resources through Immediate Response without having the Emergency Conflagration Act invoked. The goal of this response tool is to surge resources to prevent costly wildfires.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Nonprofit Founder and Accountant Charged with Stealing Over $100 Million From Special Needs Victims

    Source: US FBI

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the  unsealing of an indictment charging Leo John Govoni (67, Clearwater) and John Leo Witeck (60, Tampa) in connection with a fraud scheme that involved stealing more than $100 million from, and ultimately bankrupting, a non-profit organization in Clearwater that managed funds for vulnerable individuals with special needs and disabilities.

    Govoni and Witeck are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, three counts of mail fraud, six counts of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Govoni is also charged separately with one count of bank fraud, one count of illegal monetary transaction, and one count of making a false bankruptcy declaration. The bank fraud offense carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. Each count of wire fraud, mail fraud, conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, and the money laundering conspiracy offense carries a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment. The illegal monetary transaction count carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and the false bankruptcy declaration carries a maximum penalty of 5 years’ imprisonment. 

    According to the indictment and court documents, around the year 2000, Govoni co-founded the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration (CSNT), a non-profit that managed funds for individuals with disabilities and other special needs, including those who received settlements, court awards, and other payments. CSNT grew to be one of the largest administrators of special needs trusts in the country, with beneficiaries located in Florida and nationwide. As of February 2024, CSNT managed more than 2,100 special needs trusts containing approximately $200 million in assets.

    As alleged in the indictment, from June 2009 through May 2025, Govoni, Witeck, and their co-conspirators solicited, stole, and misappropriated CSNT client-beneficiary funds—which they treated as a slush fund to enrich themselves and others—and concealed their illegal activities through complex financial transactions and deceit, including sending fraudulent account statements with false balances to disabled victims and their families. Govoni allegedly used stolen money to purchase real estate, travel via private jet, fund a brewery, make deposits in his personal bank accounts, and pay debts. In February 2024, CSNT filed for bankruptcy and disclosed that more than $100 million in client-beneficiary funds was missing from its trust accounts.

    Govoni is also charged with bank fraud related to a $3 million mortgage refinance loan and the alleged laundering of $205,054 of the fraud proceeds to pay off a home equity line of credit on his residence. Govoni is further alleged to have made false declarations to the bankruptcy court related to the CSNT bankruptcy proceedings.

    “Protecting the most vulnerable members of our society is a priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U. S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “The fraud alleged in this nationwide scheme is unfathomable. Due to the diligence and interagency collaboration by our dedicated law enforcement partners, these crimes will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “The subjects charged are accused of creating a slush fund to divert millions of dollars away from a nonprofit organization helping people with special needs,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “Not only were the organization’s resources drained, but the accused subjects betrayed the trust of the community and ultimately bankrupted a lifeline for vulnerable families. The FBI will not tolerate the exploitation of charitable missions for personal enrichment.”

    “The scale and audacity of the alleged fraud in this case are deeply troubling,” said Criminal Investigation Chief Guy Ficco of the IRS. “Stealing funds intended to protect and support people with special needs is as cruel as it is criminal. IRS-CI special agents are dedicated to uncovering complex financial schemes, especially those that prey on the most vulnerable in our society.”

    “The defendant disrupted access to critical services for individuals with disabilities and defrauded federal health care programs with the sole purpose of financing a life of extravagance,” stated Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, will continue to hold those who’s illicit actions seek to assail enrollees and the nation’s federal health care programs fully accountable.”

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Peresie and Michael Gordon and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Lyndie Freeman of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Nonprofit Founder and Accountant Charged with Stealing Over $100 Million From Special Needs Victims

    Source: US FBI

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the  unsealing of an indictment charging Leo John Govoni (67, Clearwater) and John Leo Witeck (60, Tampa) in connection with a fraud scheme that involved stealing more than $100 million from, and ultimately bankrupting, a non-profit organization in Clearwater that managed funds for vulnerable individuals with special needs and disabilities.

    Govoni and Witeck are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, three counts of mail fraud, six counts of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Govoni is also charged separately with one count of bank fraud, one count of illegal monetary transaction, and one count of making a false bankruptcy declaration. The bank fraud offense carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. Each count of wire fraud, mail fraud, conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, and the money laundering conspiracy offense carries a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment. The illegal monetary transaction count carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and the false bankruptcy declaration carries a maximum penalty of 5 years’ imprisonment. 

    According to the indictment and court documents, around the year 2000, Govoni co-founded the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration (CSNT), a non-profit that managed funds for individuals with disabilities and other special needs, including those who received settlements, court awards, and other payments. CSNT grew to be one of the largest administrators of special needs trusts in the country, with beneficiaries located in Florida and nationwide. As of February 2024, CSNT managed more than 2,100 special needs trusts containing approximately $200 million in assets.

    As alleged in the indictment, from June 2009 through May 2025, Govoni, Witeck, and their co-conspirators solicited, stole, and misappropriated CSNT client-beneficiary funds—which they treated as a slush fund to enrich themselves and others—and concealed their illegal activities through complex financial transactions and deceit, including sending fraudulent account statements with false balances to disabled victims and their families. Govoni allegedly used stolen money to purchase real estate, travel via private jet, fund a brewery, make deposits in his personal bank accounts, and pay debts. In February 2024, CSNT filed for bankruptcy and disclosed that more than $100 million in client-beneficiary funds was missing from its trust accounts.

    Govoni is also charged with bank fraud related to a $3 million mortgage refinance loan and the alleged laundering of $205,054 of the fraud proceeds to pay off a home equity line of credit on his residence. Govoni is further alleged to have made false declarations to the bankruptcy court related to the CSNT bankruptcy proceedings.

    “Protecting the most vulnerable members of our society is a priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U. S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “The fraud alleged in this nationwide scheme is unfathomable. Due to the diligence and interagency collaboration by our dedicated law enforcement partners, these crimes will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “The subjects charged are accused of creating a slush fund to divert millions of dollars away from a nonprofit organization helping people with special needs,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “Not only were the organization’s resources drained, but the accused subjects betrayed the trust of the community and ultimately bankrupted a lifeline for vulnerable families. The FBI will not tolerate the exploitation of charitable missions for personal enrichment.”

    “The scale and audacity of the alleged fraud in this case are deeply troubling,” said Criminal Investigation Chief Guy Ficco of the IRS. “Stealing funds intended to protect and support people with special needs is as cruel as it is criminal. IRS-CI special agents are dedicated to uncovering complex financial schemes, especially those that prey on the most vulnerable in our society.”

    “The defendant disrupted access to critical services for individuals with disabilities and defrauded federal health care programs with the sole purpose of financing a life of extravagance,” stated Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, will continue to hold those who’s illicit actions seek to assail enrollees and the nation’s federal health care programs fully accountable.”

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jennifer Peresie and Michael Gordon and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Lyndie Freeman of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Non-Governmental Organizations Brief the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women on the Situation of Women in Afghanistan, Chad and Botswana 

    Source: United Nations – Geneva

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women was this afternoon briefed by representatives of non-governmental organizations on the situation of women’s rights in Afghanistan, Chad and Botswana, the reports of which the Committee will review this week.  The report of San Marino will also be reviewed this week, but there were no non-governmental organizations speaking on that country. 

     

    Non-governmental organizations speaking on Afghanistan raised concerns relating to restrictive laws against women, the ban on girls’ education, and gender-based crimes enacted by the de-facto authorities, among other issues. 

    Speakers for Chad raised issues including women’s low representation in political and public life, gender stereotypes, and the prevalence of female genital mutilation. 

    The speaker on Botswana discussed the criminalisation of sex workers, mistreatment of gender-based violence victims, and social protection gaps impacting women.

     

    No speakers took the floor in relation to San Marino.   

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Afghanistan: Musawah and Strategic Advocacy for Human Rights (SAHR); MADRE and CUNY School of Law; Gender Persecution Working Group (GPWG); Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom; and Afghanistan LGBTIQ+ Organization – ALO. 

    The following non-governmental organizations spoke on Chad: Lutheran World Foundation Chad; and Ligue tchadienne pour les droits des femmes (Chadian League for Women’s Rights).

    Success Capital Organization spoke on Botswana.

    The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women’s ninety-first session is being held from 16 June to 4 July.  All documents relating to the Committee’s work, including reports submitted by States parties, can be found on the session’s webpage.  Meeting summary releases can be found here.  The webcast of the Committee’s public meetings can be accessed via the UN Web TV webpage.

    The Committee will next meet in public at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 24 June to consider the fourth periodic report of Afghanistan (CEDAW/C/AFG/4).

     

    Statement by Committee Chair 

     

    NAHLA HAIDAR, Committee Chair, said this was the second opportunity during the present session for non-governmental organizations to provide information on States parties whose reports were being considered during the second week of the session, namely Afghanistan, San Marino, Chad and Botswana.  

    Statements by Non-Governmental Organizations on Afghanistan

    In the discussion on Afghanistan, speakers, among other things, said that since the Taliban assumed control of Afghanistan in 2021, Afghan women and girls had been facing increasing human rights violations.  The de facto authorities had issued decrees restricting women in all aspects of their social, cultural, political and economic life.  The 2024 law on the promotion of virtue and prevention of vice mandated ‘Sharia hijab’ covering the entire body and face of women, a prohibition on women to speak in public, and a strict male relative (mahram) requirement for women when leaving the house.  It created the institution of a morality police (muhtasib) to enforce the law, further increasing the risk of arbitrary detention and arrest by the de-facto authorities.  Among the rights that Afghan women and girls were cruelly denied were the rights to education, to work, and to freedom of peaceful assembly. 

    The Taliban’s near-total ban on girls’ education after grade six and its prohibition of women’s university attendance crushed the dreams of an entire generation.  Women had been dismissed from public employment and faced restrictions in the private sector.  Women in Afghanistan also faced extensive restrictions on mobility and employment, including through the de facto authorities’ interference in the hiring process of non-governmental organization employees.  Women had been stripped of autonomy, dignity, and the means to support themselves and their families.

    Since 2021, women lawyers had not been able to obtain or renew their licenses, and could not legally represent clients in court, including female gender-based violence survivors.  Women in court were forced to rely on male advocates to represent them, meaning they effectively had no access to justice.  The Taliban had also eliminated gender-based violence services and legal protections. 

    Since August 2021, the Taliban had institutionalised gender-based crimes and systematically oppressed women, girls, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons in Afghanistan.  Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex women and transgender men had been subject to forced marriage to men and faced compounded barriers to fleeing gender violence because of mahram requirements.  The Taliban had subjected transgender women to torture, including sexual violence. 

    Women peacefully protesting these injustices had been beaten, detained and tortured, and had undergone surveillance.  The Taliban’s 2021 decree requiring permits for protests, which was used to silence women-led demonstrations, was a direct assault on freedom of assembly.  Taliban members publicly flogged women for purported “adultery” or for “running away from home.” 

    Women and girls were facing gender apartheid in Afghanistan.  United Nations Member States, regional bodies, and international institutions had a collective responsibility to ensure that the Taliban were held accountable for ongoing violations, especially those targeting the rights and freedoms of women and girls.  The Committee should call on Member States to support the International Criminal Court’s efforts to hold the Taliban accountable, and States’ efforts to bring Afghanistan before the International Court of Justice for rights violations, including under the Convention.  States should provide support to the ongoing investigation by the International Criminal Court, the establishment of an independent accountability mechanism, and the codification of gender apartheid as a crime under international law. 

    The Committee was urged to call on the de facto authorities to immediately repeal all decrees restricting freedom of expression, appearance, education and employment, including the mandatory hijab and mahram requirements; end women’s banishment from public spaces; end arbitrary imprisonment and torture, including sexual violence, against women human rights defenders; and demand the release of all women imprisoned for protest, speech or identity.  The de facto authorities in Afghanistan must dismantle systemic gender-based oppression by repealing all discriminatory edicts and fully implementing recommendations from United Nations human rights mechanisms. 

    Statements by Non-Governmental Organizations on Chad

    In the discussion on Chad, speakers among other things, commended the Government of Chad for the progress made in eliminating discrimination against women despite a very difficult environment.  The effective implementation of the Convention continued to be hampered by the consequences of decades of conflict, the persistence of armed violence in the east and south-east of the country, the massive movements of internally displaced persons and refugees, and the continuing humanitarian crisis.

    Following the recommendations made by the Committee to the Chadian State in 2011, several advances had been made through the adoption of laws, strategies and programmes aimed at protecting and promoting women’s rights, including the national gender policy of December 2011, law no. 003/PR/2025 on the prevention and punishment of violence against women and girls, and the adoption of a national action plan for the implementation of Security Council resolution 1325  (2000) by Chad.

    However, the percentage of women participating in public life, politics and the peace process remained low.  The Government of Chad was urged to review relevant legislation to ensure the full and effective participation of women in political and public life; secure the greater inclusion of women in the processes of consultation, national dialogue and reconciliation; and eliminate gender stereotypes and biases.

    Chadian women faced various obstacles such as gender stereotypes, discriminatory cultural norms, harmful religious doctrines, and lack of economic autonomy.  The perception of women’s economic activity by men as a potential source of dowry for a future co-wife was very common.  It was recommended that the Government strengthen the legal and institutional framework for the protection of the rights of women and girls by ratifying the Maputo Protocol.  The Government should also adopt a specific law against female genital mutilation, with effective implementation and monitoring mechanisms.

    According to the 2023 activity report of the Ministry of Women and Early Childhood, there were 241 cases of female genital mutilation, 500 cases of rape, 537 cases of sexual assault, 469 cases of sexual exploitation and 780 cases of early and forced marriage.  Female genital mutilation was still widely practised despite recommendations.  It was important for the Chadian Government to accelerate the adoption, promulgation and popularisation of the Code of the Family and its implementing decree.

    Statement by a Non-Governmental Organization on Botswana

    The speaker on Botswana said Botswana’s history as a peaceful democratic republic post-independence continued to shield its regressions in the respect and fulfilment of human rights.  Unequal distribution of income, electricity cuts, water shortages, and prohibitive connection of utilities for freehold land tenures continued to aggravate poverty. All the while, Botswana was characterised by femicide, technology assisted gender-based violence through social media, the criminalisation of sex workers, narrow legal provisions for abortion, unavailability of safe sex commodities in prisons, corruption, marital rape, and the lack of justiciability of socioeconomic rights despite ratifying the Maputo Protocol.

    Survivors of gender-based violence continued to be ignored and erased whilst also enduring police harassment and brutality at roadblocks despite some protections in law for gender diverse people.  Despite employment laws protecting termination from specific grounds of discrimination, no law protected the worker during probationary periods. Social protection gaps remained for women who were not poor enough for State provisions but were too poor to sustain any dignified life.  There needed to be better conditions, including ensuring that the Committee’s recommendations were accelerated, socialised with grassroots communities, and entrenched within the national gender machinery.

    Questions by Committee Experts

    A Committee Expert asked representatives from Afghanistan for critical analysis regarding the positive decrees, including the ban on forced marriages.  What kind of threats did women in exile face? 

    What obstacles were there to fighting female genital mutilation and child marriage in Chad? How were women’s inheritance rights impacted in Chad? 

    Another Expert asked about the status of the draft Code of the Family in Chad?  How was the plurality of laws playing out with a new Government?  What was the evaluation of the women, peace and security plan? 

    Regarding Botswana, what did the criminalisation of prostitution look like on the ground? Was there any information regarding the trafficking of women and girls?

    A Committee Expert asked if women in Afghanistan could own any property?  With the new law on guardians, how were women engaging with economic institutions? What was the level of participation of women in exports and trade? 

    For Chad, how was gender captured in the macro-economic policies of the country? Were there gender-formative actions, including for procurement and taxation?

    What was the status of the national human rights institution in Botswana?  Had the institution been able to register and become fully compliant with the Paris Principles?  What services did women receive from this institution? 

    Another Expert asked if women in Botswana could transfer cases from the customary court to the magistrate’s court, as per the amended act?

    Responses from Non-Governmental Organizations from Afghanistan

    Speakers from Afghanistan said for women human rights defenders in exile, the Taliban used their families and friends in the country as a weapon against them.  Those who lobbied for the Taliban in Europe also participated in acts of sexual violence and harassment.  The ban of forced marriages was an announcement and not true; the Taliban themselves forced girls into early marriage. 

    Women who had participated in the business sector were facing high taxation costs, and had a limited ability to attend trade events within and outside the country.  In Afghanistan, the sector was predominately operated by male business owners, meaning there was a lack of opportunities for women business owners.  Many women with disabilities now lacked access to the market and livelihood support. 

    Responses from Non-Governmental Organizations from Chad

    Speakers from Chad said women and girls continued to be victims of discrimination inside the family. The Persons and Families Code still had not been adopted.  It had been returned to the administration by the parliament for a rereading.  There were factors, including religious beliefs, which were oppressive; these remained obstacles to adopting this legislation. 

    Family matters were governed by a mix of local customs and civil codes inherited from the colonial period, exposing women and children to discriminatory practices.  Women were generally excluded from decision-making when it came to the peace process and typically participated only as figureheads. Just one woman had participated in peace negotiations.  If women participated in the economy, their savings were used as a dowry and men used this to acquire another woman.   

    There were legal texts in Chad but it was their application which was the issue. Impunity was an everyday issue, including for cases of gender-based violence.  The reform of the Family Code was still a big challenge.  The issue of gender was not understood as a concept in Chad and a lack of political commitment meant gender was not addressed in Chadian society.  There were obstacles and challenges when it came to female genital mutilation and child marriage.  While texts and laws set out punishments, in many communities these practices continued. Customary law trumped Government law. 

    Responses from a Non-Governmental Organization from Botswana

    The speaker from Botswana said petty crimes and other laws were used to detain sex workers. There had been documented evidence of sex workers experiencing sex harassment.  Discrimination against transgender and gender diverse sex workers was compounded.

    Botswana was a transit country, and it was easy to be mobile across border countries, where there was a limited tracking of movement.  The Office of the Ombudsman had been expanded to include a human rights mandate, but it was believed it was not fully compliant with the Paris Principles. Women human rights defenders were not explicitly covered, especially in terms of reports covered by the Ombudsman. Community knowledge remained low regarding certain legislation, and systemic data remained unavailable.

    ___________

    Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media; 
    not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

     

     

    CEDAW.25.016E

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Application Period Open for 2025 Carey Gabay Fellowship

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Executive Chamber is now accepting applications for the 2025 Carey Gabay Fellowship Program. Carey Gabay, an attorney and public servant who formerly worked in the Counsel’s Office for the Governor, was tragically killed in 2015, an innocent victim of gun violence. This Fellowship honors his legacy of service to his fellow New Yorkers, particularly those living in the disadvantaged communities he fervently sought to uplift.

    “Carey Gabay’s life and work continues to inspire us all,” Governor Hochul said. “His unwavering dedication to justice, equity, and public service embodied the best of what it means to serve New Yorkers. Through this fellowship, we continue to honor his legacy and invest in the next generation of public servants who share his passion for ensuring government is a force for good.”

    New York State Department of Civil Service Commissioner and Civil Service President Timothy R. Hogues said, “Carey Gabay was a special person who was tragically taken from us too soon. We’re looking for a dedicated individual who is passionate about continuing his legacy of servant-leadership while engaging in the inner workings of government and policy topics that directly impact and help communities across the state. I encourage all attorneys who seek to make a difference in the lives of others to apply for this Fellowship.”

    The Carey Gabay Fellowship is a paid two-year legal Fellowship program that appoints an attorney every two years to a placement in the Governor’s Office. The selected Fellow works directly with the Counsel to the Governor and their staff on issues such as violence prevention, economic equality and community development — policy areas that Mr. Gabay championed throughout his career.

    The incoming Carey Gabay Fellow will serve from January 2026 to January 2028 (specific dates dependent on selection timeline and completion of background check) and will earn a salary of $90,000 per year plus a generous benefits package. The Fellow also participates in an educational program with participants in the Empire State Fellows program throughout the first year of their fellowship, including bi-weekly evening classes and other career development sessions.

    Carey Gabay was raised in public housing and attended public school in the Bronx. He graduated from Harvard University and Harvard Law School. After law school, Mr. Gabay worked tirelessly in public service, beginning in 2011 as assistant counsel to the former governor and continuing as first deputy counsel for the Empire State Development Corporation.

    The successful applicant should be a bar-admitted attorney who, like Mr. Gabay, is committed to public service, and most importantly, embodies the integrity and kind-heartedness that distinguished Mr. Gabay personally.

    Applications will be accepted through July 16. More information on the program and instructions on how to apply are available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Charged for Stabbing Visitor at the Wounded Knee Memorial Site in the Pine Ridge Reservation

    Source: US FBI

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that the United States Attorney’s Office has charged 18-year-old Raymond Eagle Hawk, Jr., of Wounded Knee, South Dakota, with Assault with Intent to Commit Murder.

    On June 12, 2025, Eagle Hawk was intoxicated and panhandling at the Wounded Knee cemetery parking lot. The victim, a 71-year-old man, and his wife had traveled to the Pine Ridge Reservation from their home in Texas to visit the Wounded Knee Memorial site, near Wounded Knee village, within the Pine Ridge Reservation.

    At the memorial site, Eagle Hawk asked the victim for money. The victim gave Eagle Hawk a small sum of cash, but Eagle Hawk continued to demand money. When the victim did not give Eagle Hawk more money, Eagle Hawk stabbed him in the throat with a knife. The victim sustained a grievous injury to his neck and attempted to return to his vehicle. Eagle Hawk continued to advance on the victim, but then fled the cemetery. The victim was transported to the Pine Ridge hospital and later flown by air ambulance to Monument Health Hospital in Rapid City, where he underwent emergency surgery to repair the wound to his neck.

    Eagle Hawk appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 18, 2025, and pleaded not guilty to the criminal complaint. Eagle Hawk was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending a preliminary hearing and a detention hearing, scheduled for June 27, 2025.

    The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in custody in a federal prison.

    The charge is merely an accusation and Eagle Hawk is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

    This matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.

    The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant United States Attorney Heather Knox is prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Wellnee Knee Brace 2025: The Wellnee Knee Brace Sets a New Standard in Day-to-Day Knee Support for Aging and Active Populations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As knee discomfort continues to affect millions globally—particularly among aging adults and active individuals—the search for effective, non-invasive support solutions has reached new heights. In 2025, the Wellnee Knee Brace has emerged as a widely discussed option for daily mobility, rehabilitation, and active lifestyles, drawing interest from wellness professionals and orthopedic communities alike.

    Reports suggest that this lightweight, easy-to-wear brace is redefining how people manage knee stability, inflammation, and range of motion—without sacrificing comfort or movement.

    Why the Wellnee Knee Brace Is Gaining National Attention

    With rising demand for supportive wearables that enhance joint function and reduce the risk of strain or injury, the Wellnee Knee Brace offers a promising approach for both chronic users and preventative wearers.

    What makes this brace different?

    • Anatomically engineered compression
    • Adjustable ergonomic straps
    • Flexible yet firm lateral stabilizers
    • Breathable, sweat-resistant material for long wear
    • Lightweight, discreet design that fits under most clothing

    From seniors managing arthritis to athletes recovering from minor ligament stress, the brace is designed to serve a wide audience seeking practical relief and functional stability.

    The Engineering Behind Wellnee: Designed for Movement, Built for Support

    According to official website, the Wellnee Knee Brace underwent several iterations to perfect the balance between rigidity and flexibility. Its dual-spring support system works in tandem with compression zones that surround the patella and ligaments—offering both lift and alignment without impeding circulation.

    “People don’t want bulky braces anymore—they want dynamic stability without losing mobility,” said a representative familiar with the product. “The Wellnee design was built to respond to movement while protecting sensitive areas.”

    Who Is the Wellnee Knee Brace For?

    The target demographic spans multiple categories:

    • Seniors with age-related joint discomfort
    • Office workers and remote professionals experiencing stiffness from sedentary routines
    • Hikers, runners, and gym-goers seeking joint protection during active use
    • Individuals in physical therapy or post-operative recovery
    • Those living with arthritis, meniscus tears, or ligament strain

    Whether for temporary strain or long-term support, Wellnee offers a modular solution suited to everyday routines—without the commitment of prescriptions or surgeries.

    How the Wellnee Knee Brace Aligns with Modern Joint Care Trends

    The Wellnee product launch follows a larger industry trend focused on non-invasive, wearable recovery tools. As more consumers seek alternatives to pharmaceuticals and complex medical devices, the demand for affordable, at-home mobility aids is rising.

    Healthcare professionals are increasingly recommending compression and stabilization techniques to slow down degeneration and improve proprioception—both of which the Wellnee Knee Brace aims to support.

    Visit Official Website To get More Information

    How Does the Wellnee Knee Brace Work?

    As per official website, Unlike conventional knee braces that simply restrict motion, the Wellnee Knee Brace uses a dynamic stabilization system engineered to support movement—not limit it. This targeted design integrates dual-spring lateral stabilizers that work in harmony with a compression fabric matrix, gently guiding the joint into proper alignment during both motion and rest.

    The central patella ring relieves direct kneecap pressure, while the surrounding structure reduces load-bearing strain on surrounding ligaments. This not only eases discomfort from conditions like arthritis or runner’s knee but also enhances joint awareness, helping users walk or move more confidently.

    What sets Wellnee apart is its adaptive support—it offers reinforcement when needed most, such as during walking, climbing stairs, or exercising, but flexes enough to stay comfortable throughout the day.

    Key Features of the Wellnee Knee Brace

    As attention grows toward smart, wearable wellness, the Wellnee Knee Brace stands out with several well-researched features designed around functionality and comfort:

    • 360° Stabilizing Support
      Built-in steel springs provide resistance and structure without restricting movement.
    • Open-Patella Design
      Reduces kneecap pressure while improving tracking during activity.
    • Custom-Fit Compression Zones
      Engineered for graduated support, reducing inflammation and swelling.
    • Breathable, Moisture-Wicking Fabric
      Ideal for long hours of wear—even under clothing or in warm environments.
    • Fully Adjustable Hook-and-Loop Straps
      One-size-fits-most system with secure tension settings for both casual and athletic use.
    • Low-Profile Silhouette
      Sleek enough to wear during everyday errands, long commutes, or light workouts.

    Whether supporting injury recovery or easing long-standing discomfort, these features combine to offer stability without stiffness, and support without sacrifice.

    How to Use the Wellnee Knee Brace

    Part of what’s fueling the buzz around the Wellnee Knee Brace in 2025 is how accessible and simple it is to use—even for those unfamiliar with orthopedic gear.

    To get started:

    1. Unfold and slide the brace onto the leg, positioning the open patella ring directly over the kneecap.
    2. Adjust the compression straps using the built-in hook-and-loop fasteners until you feel balanced support—tight, but not restrictive.
    3. Ensure even pressure distribution, with no pinching at the thigh or calf.
    4. Wear throughout the day, whether for mobility support, injury prevention, or during periods of prolonged standing or activity.

    Most users report adapting to the brace within minutes, and because the material is breathable, it can be comfortably worn for extended periods—whether under clothing at work or during moderate exercise routines.

    No complicated setup. No batteries. No prescriptions. Just intuitive, immediate support—whenever and wherever your knees need it most.

    Where to Buy the Wellnee Knee Brace

    The Wellnee Knee Brace is currently available through the official website. 

    Buyers can access:

    • Single or dual-knee packs
    • Adjustable size options
    • 30-day satisfaction guarantee

    What Experts Are Saying

    Orthopedic advisors and fitness trainers are beginning to take note of the design. While the brace is not a replacement for medical-grade orthotics, its everyday wearability has drawn praise.

    “Support like this can help people become more active with less pain, especially when paired with stretching and strength routines,” said one physiotherapist based in New York.

    Why 2025 May Be the Year of Wearable Joint Solutions

    With the average adult spending more than 8 hours a day sitting and millions reporting musculoskeletal pain, wearable joint support is entering the spotlight.

    Wellnee’s rise reflects a shift in public interest—where people want results without restrictions, and prevention without prescriptions.

    Can the Wellnee Knee Brace Help with Arthritis? Here’s What Users Say

    While the Wellnee Knee Brace is not a cure for arthritis, many wearers dealing with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid symptoms have found relief in its compression-based joint unloading. By offering lateral reinforcement and reducing strain on inflamed areas, users often report:

    • Better walking confidence
    • Reduced swelling after movement
    • Decreased reliance on over-the-counter pain relief

    For arthritis patients, even slight improvements in day-to-day comfort can translate to greater independence and long-term wellness.

    Visit Wellnee Knee Brace Official Website To Read More..

    The Rise of Non-Prescription Mobility Aids: A 2025 Trend

    A growing number of Americans are now looking beyond pharmaceuticals and surgeries to support joint health. According to recent market trends, non-invasive mobility devices—like the Wellnee Knee Brace—are experiencing a sharp rise in demand.

    Why?

    • Lower cost
    • Fewer risks than injections or surgeries
    • Accessibility for aging populations
    • Compatibility with daily life and work schedules

    This shift signals a larger movement: consumers want natural, supportive solutions that fit their lives, not interrupt them.

    Wellnee’s Appeal Across Age Groups: From Office Workers to Weekend Warriors

    Though knee support products have long been associated with aging, the demographic profile of users is changing. Younger professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and manual laborers are now prioritizing preventative joint care—long before serious problems arise.

    The Wellnee Knee Brace is built to accommodate both:

    • Younger users who need light, all-day support during high mobility
    • Older adults who want comfort without the bulk or stiffness of medical-grade braces

    With universal sizing and a lightweight design, Wellnee bridges the gap between clinical function and everyday wearability.

    What to Expect in the First Week of Wearing Wellnee

    According to official website, Most first-time users experience immediate support, but full adaptation typically takes a few days. During the initial adjustment period, users often notice:

    • A subtle sense of lift or offloading in the joint
    • Decreased fatigue after standing or walking
    • Improved alignment during activities like stair climbing or squatting

    Unlike rigid braces that cause muscle compensation or stiffness, Wellnee works with the body—not against it—resulting in a natural, supported motion pattern.

    What Makes Wellnee Different? A Brand Rooted in Movement, Not Limitations

    Behind the rise of the Wellnee Knee Brace is a mission that resonates with millions: mobility should be supported, not restricted. In a crowded market of rigid braces, one-size-fits-all sleeves, and clinical-looking supports, Wellnee took a different approach—one that puts user experience, real-world function, and wearability at the core of its design philosophy.

    Founded by a team of engineers, wellness advocates, and movement therapists, the Wellnee brand was born from a simple observation: people are living longer, working harder, and staying active well into later stages of life—but joint health tools haven’t kept up.

    “We weren’t satisfied with what was available. Most braces were either too bulky to wear all day or too flimsy to offer any real support. We set out to build something in between—something supportive, sleek, and wearable for real people,” said a Wellnee spokesperson.

    The result? A knee brace that doesn’t look or feel medical—but performs when it counts.

    From Concept to Confidence: A People-First Design Journey

    What makes Wellnee different isn’t just what it does—it’s how it was developed. Unlike mass-produced sleeves or cookie-cutter designs, the Wellnee Knee Brace underwent months of prototyping and field testing. Early feedback came from:

    • Rehabilitation patients in physical therapy programs
    • Aging adults dealing with early-stage arthritis
    • Athletes and personal trainers who needed support without stiffness
    • Long-hour workers in warehouse, retail, and healthcare roles

    Their insight shaped everything from the brace’s compression zones to its strap system and material choices.

    Instead of prioritizing mass appeal, Wellnee focused on one metric: will people want to wear this daily?

    Visit Official Website To get More Information

    Designing for Real Life, Not Just Recovery

    While many braces are designed for temporary use after injury, Wellnee supports consistent, everyday function. It’s not just a recovery tool—it’s a companion for movement. Whether navigating grocery aisles, walking to the train, or stretching before a hike, Wellnee blends into daily routines without slowing users down.

    This holistic focus on real-life wearability has positioned Wellnee as more than a medical device—it’s a lifestyle product rooted in movement, prevention, and independence.

    A Community-Driven Brand Built on Trust

    Beyond the product itself, the Wellnee brand has grown through word-of-mouth—from physical therapists to grandparents to fitness instructors. Social media groups and online forums have become platforms for users to share how the brace has helped them walk farther, move easier, and feel more confident on their feet.

    Wellnee’s commitment to transparency, user feedback, and accessible support has only strengthened its reputation among consumers looking for practical, long-lasting solutions.

    In a space saturated with short-term fixes, Wellnee stands out as a long-term ally—a brand that’s less about restriction and more about restoring confidence, one step at a time.

    Final Thoughts: Wellnee’s Place in the Evolving World of Joint Care

    As 2025 continues to see innovation across personal health, the Wellnee Knee Brace positions itself as more than a brace—it’s a day-to-day companion for knees that carry us through work, workouts, and everything in between.

    From joint relief to post-injury confidence, Wellnee appears to be paving a new path in joint care—one that prioritizes practicality, portability, and personal independence.

    For more information, educational content, and direct purchasing, visit the official Wellnee Knee Brace website.

    Media Contact:

    ADDRESS: 67-04 Myrtle Ave #500, 

    Glendale, NY

    USA 11385

    Email: support@trywellnee.com

    Phone – +1(844)961-3766

    Website – https://trywellnee.com/

    Disclaimer The information provided in this review is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or another qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement, dietary change, or health program—especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have existing health conditions, or are taking medications. Results may vary among individuals.
    The statements made regarding Wellnee Knee Brace have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Wellnee Knee Brace is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Any claims made within this article about symptom relief, hearing improvement, or related health benefits are based on the product’s formulation and individual testimonials and not on conclusive clinical evidence. 
    This content does not constitute professional health or medical advice and should not be interpreted as such. Readers should always perform their own due diligence and consult medical professionals before making decisions related to health products.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Existing Home Sales Forecast Revised Lower in Latest Outlook

    Source: Fannie Mae

    WASHINGTON, DC – Existing single-family home sales are forecast at 4.14 million units for 2025, down slightly from last month’s forecast of 4.24 million units, according to the June 2025 Economic and Housing Outlook from the Fannie Mae (FNMA/OTCQB) Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group. Revisions to the home sales forecast were driven in part by the ESR Group’s higher expectations for mortgage rates, which are now predicted to end 2025 and 2026 at 6.5% and 6.1%, respectively. The latest outlook also projects real gross domestic product growing at 1.4% in 2025 and 2.2% in 2026 on a Q4/Q4 basis.

    Visit the Economic and Strategic Research site at fanniemae.com to read the full June 2025 Economic and Housing Outlook, including the Economic Developments Commentary, Economic Forecast, and Housing Forecast. To receive email updates with other housing market research from Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research Group, please click here.

    Opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views of Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group included in these materials should not be construed as indicating Fannie Mae’s business prospects or expected results, are based on a number of assumptions, and are subject to change without notice. How this information affects Fannie Mae will depend on many factors. Although the ESR Group bases its opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views on information it considers reliable, it does not guarantee that the information provided in these materials is accurate, current, or suitable for any particular purpose. Changes in the assumptions or the information underlying these views could produce materially different results. The analyses, opinions, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views published by the ESR Group represent the views of that group as of the date indicated and do not necessarily represent the views of Fannie Mae or its management.

    About the ESR Group
    Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research Group, led by Chief Economist Mark Palim, studies current data, analyzes historical and emerging trends, and conducts surveys of consumer and mortgage lenders to inform forecasts and analyses on the economy, housing, and mortgage markets.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Gulf States want no winner in the conflict between Israel and Iran

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Mira Al Hussein, Research Fellow at the Alwaleed Centre for the Study of Islam in the Contemporary World, University of Edinburgh

    When Israel assassinated a number of senior Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists on June 13, there was an initial euphoria among some ruling elites in the Gulf. They saw it as a sign of Iran’s diminishing regional threat.

    Relations between Gulf states and Iran have been fraught since 1979 when Iran’s former supreme leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, vowed to export the revolution that had brought him to power that same year. This set off decades of ideologically charged proxy conflicts, with Gulf states viewing Iran as the principal destabilising force in the Middle East.

    But the recent euphoria has given way to unease as the push by Israel – and now the US – for regime change in Tehran has become clear. Following US strikes against Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend, US president Donald Trump has floated the idea of overthrowing the government to “make Iran great again”.

    Retaliatory attacks by Iran on American forces at bases in Qatar and Iraq have now brought the conflict closer to home. The strikes have prompted Gulf states to close their airspaces, while Qatar has warned of its right to respond directly “in a manner equivalent with the nature and scale” of Iran’s attack. What effect the attacks will have on the involvement of Gulf countries in the conflict will soon become clear.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    The Gulf states have long worked to keep Iran’s influence in check without attempting to topple its leadership. They have sought rapprochement, with Saudi Arabia and Iran reestablishing diplomatic ties in 2023 and reopening embassies in each other’s countries.

    Gulf leaders view the alternative to warmer relations – be it a chaotic regime change or a globally interconnected or expansionist Iran – as possibly even more destabilising for the Gulf region and its economic ambitions.

    Iran, for all its regional adventurism, is still regarded in the Gulf as an organic part of the Middle East. It is a civilisation with deep, ancient roots and an uninterrupted history of co-existence and cultural co-creation within the Islamic world.

    This stands in contrast to how Israel is perceived. Some Gulf states have established diplomatic relations with Israel since 2020, under the framework of the Abraham Accords. But there remains a wider perception – particularly among citizens of these countries – that Israel is an imposed colonial presence whose threat to regional stability is growing.

    Iran has hardly been a benign actor. Its government has played a destabilising role across the Arab world, from propping up the ruthless regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria to supporting armed groups in Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen. And now it has attacked the sovereign territory of two Gulf countries.

    It also continues to occupy three islands that are claimed by the United Arab Emirates: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb and Abu Musa. Iran’s interventions have left behind a trail of sectarianism, militarisation and humanitarian crises.

    Yet Gulf leaders separate the actions of the Iranian regime from the people of Iran. Repeated waves of protests within Iran, particularly the women-led uprisings of recent years, have reinforced the sense that ordinary Iranians are themselves victims of a repressive regime.

    There’s empathy within the Gulf for Iranian society, coupled with recognition of the historic and cultural ties that bind the region and its people. Saudi Arabia’s crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, described Iran as a “neighbour forever” in 2022, and with this neighbourliness comes a preference for stability over collapse.

    Gulf states would rather not see Iran plunge into chaos. This could unleash humanitarian crises and refugee flows that would be morally troubling and economically disastrous for the region.

    No decisive winner

    While there is no appetite within the Gulf for regime change in Tehran, views expressed in government-controlled media suggest there is interest in seeing a political transformation in Israel. It seems to me that the Gulf states would prefer neither Iran nor Israel to emerge as a decisive winner in this military confrontation. A prolonged war of attrition weakens both, reducing the threats they pose to Arab sovereignty and regional stability.

    Such a conflict could result in political change in Israel that sees the end of oppressive policies against Palestinians and curbs to regional aggression. This would ease the political cost of normalising relations with Israel. Current efforts to integrate Israel into the regional order place Gulf leaders in an awkward position, appearing to side with a state that routinely violates Arab rights.

    A regime change in Iran, particularly one that produces a nationalist, pro-western government, would present new complications for the Gulf. A more internationally connected and economically ambitious Iran could overshadow Gulf economies and revive old territorial disputes.

    A prolonged conflict would, of course, raise the prospect of the Strait of Hormuz emerging as a flashpoint. A closure, which Iran is reportedly discussing as a possibility, would disrupt one-fifth of the world’s oil supply and plunge global markets into turmoil.

    Neither side may actively seek this, but the risk of miscalculation is high. For Gulf economies, whose futures are tied to global energy markets and diversification projects, such an outcome would be catastrophic.

    However, at least for now, Gulf countries seem relatively calm about the prospects of a closure. They issued a series of statements on June 22, expressing concern over the US strikes on Iran and calling for restraint. But the tone of their statements was rather measured.

    The mood in the Middle East appears to be shifting. As one Emirati analyst, Mohammed Baharoon, recently warned: “Israel risks seeing itself as Thor, the mythical deity whose real status as a god is related to his hammer. This is dangerous for Israel’s future in the region and the world.”

    Baharoon added on social media: “Hammer-wielding Israel will have very limited space in a region that seeks economic partnerships over security alliances.” In other words, the region’s priorities are shifting, and Israel’s overreliance on military power is increasingly at odds with the future that the Gulf leaders are trying to shape.

    They wish to make the region an economic magnet for investment, not a cinematic backdrop for perpetual conflict.

    Mira Al Hussein is a non-resident fellow with DAWN MENA and Gulf International Forum.

    – ref. Gulf States want no winner in the conflict between Israel and Iran – https://theconversation.com/gulf-states-want-no-winner-in-the-conflict-between-israel-and-iran-259471

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –