Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
TORONTO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — New Commerce Split (“the Company”) announces that its semi-annual financial statements and management report of fund performance for the six months ended May 31, 2025 are now available on the Company’s website at www.commercesplit.com and at www.sedarplus.com.
For further information, please contact Investor Relations at 416-304-4443, toll free at 1-877-4-Quadra (1-877-478-2372), or visit www.commercesplit.com.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi 4th District)
Today, the House Natural Resources Committee passed legislation introduced by Representative Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) to reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) for five more fiscal years. The bill maintains the program’s funding level at $56 million annually, ensuring continued support for critical ocean and coastal monitoring efforts that benefit fisheries, maritime industries, and coastal communities nationwide.
Cosponsors of the legislation include Reps. Bonamici, Weber, Dingell, Radewaggen, Davis, Harder, Casten, Case, Rutherford, Smith, Webster, Haridopolos, Rokuda, Amo, Pallone, Pingree, Stevens, Castor, McBride, Begich, Elfreth, DelBene, Magaziner.
IOOS is a nationally coordinated network of regional observation systems that provides real-time data on ocean conditions, helping to safeguard economic activities, public safety, and environmental health. The reauthorization also includes updates to improve the program’s effectiveness and modernization efforts to meet evolving scientific and operational needs.
“IOOS is essential to keeping coastal economies strong and resilient, especially in Mississippi,” Ezell said. “This reauthorization ensures we maintain vital ocean monitoring resources while modernizing the program to maximize its impact. Enhanced ocean data collection also improves hurricane forecasting and severe weather preparedness, which can save lives and reduce costly storm damage. I’m proud to lead this legislation as it will support jobs, commerce, and our nation’s leadership in ocean science. I look forward to seeing it come to the House floor for a vote in the near future.”
“Congressman Ezell’s bill will reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act of 2009,” House Natural Resources Chairman Westerman said. “This will ensure that near real-time data is available to manage our nation’s coasts and marine waters. I applaud Rep. Ezell for his work on this legislation and look forward to working with him to help usher this bill through the legislative process.”
“As the Representative for Texas’ Gulf Coast, I know firsthand how critical reliable ocean monitoring is to protecting our coastal communities, supporting maritime jobs, and strengthening our national economy,” Weber said. “The IOOS Reauthorization bill helps us do just that, by improving weather forecasting and ensuring the safety of the hardworking men and women along our shores.”
“The Integrated Ocean Observing System provides vital weather data that supports fishermen and other hard working Americans who make their living from the ocean,” Magaziner said. “I am proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to reauthorize IOOS and ensure that this critical program continues to serve coastal communities across the country.”
Background on the IOOS Reauthorization Act of 2025:
Clarifying the nature of operational oceanographic data provided by IOOS.
Updating statutory references to align with current law, including replacing the National Ocean Research Leadership Council with the Ocean Policy Committee.
Enhancing the role of the Interagency Ocean Observation Committee to maximize IOOS’s integration and capabilities.
The bill’s passage out of committee marks a significant step toward continued federal support for ocean observation infrastructure that underpins economic, environmental, and public safety benefits across the nation.
Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)
Pearl River, NY – 7/18/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) issued the following statement celebrating the Trump Administration’s decision to release funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers. This follows Congressman Lawler’s direct advocacy to the Administration last week, urging the release of funds prior to the beginning of the school year.
“Today is a great day for students, families, and educators across New York and nationwide,” said Congressman Lawler. “The 21st Century Community Learning Centers program is a valuable investment with proven results, providing students with the academic tools they need to succeed.”
Congressman Lawler personally wrote to President Trump last week after concerns were raised by local educators and parents about potential disruptions to these essential services. He emphasized the need to release these funds to support communities that heavily rely on these programs.
“I would like to thank President Trump for responding promptly to our request, as well as recognizing the importance of these programs for our children’s futures. As always, I remain committed to ensuring students have every opportunity for success,” concluded Congressman Lawler.
Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.
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Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)
Washington, D.C. – 7/17/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa and House Financial Services Committee member, introduced the Syria Sanctions Accountability Act, legislation to modernize U.S. sanctions policy for a post-Assad Syria.
“This bill modernizes the existing sanctions regime on Syria, requires assessments on existing sanctions relief provisions, and sets out goals for the Syrian government to meet anti-money laundering and anti-corruption standards. As the Trump Administration is already reviewing sanctions policy, we must ensure they have the tools to do so that reflect the current security environment,” said Chairman Lawler.
The Syria Sanctions Accountability Act:
“The al-Sharaa Administration certainly has a lot of work to do to reintegrate Syria with the U.S. and our allies. While this job should be difficult given the circumstances, it shouldn’t be impossible,” concluded Chairman Lawler.
Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.
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Full text of the bill can be found HERE.
Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)
Washington, D.C. – 7/23/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) introduced the Measuring Adverse Market Disruption And National Impact (MAMDANI) Act, legislation that directs the Federal Trade Commission to conduct a comprehensive study into the competitive, economic, and supply chain impacts of government-owned grocery stores.
As municipalities across the country, including some in New York, entertain proposals to open public grocery stores, this legislation calls on the FTC to investigate potential consequences of using taxpayer dollars to compete against local, private-sector grocers.
The MAMDANI Act requires the FTC, in coordination with USDA agencies, to evaluate the downstream effects these government-run entities could have on food prices, consumer access, farmers, charitable food organizations, and the long-term health of the retail grocery market.
“Government-run grocery stores raise serious questions about market fairness and taxpayer accountability,” said Congressman Lawler. “The MAMDANI Act ensures we carefully assess the potential impacts of such proposals before public funds are committed, or they risk undermining local businesses and disrupting supply chains, ultimately leaving consumers worse off,” said Congressman Lawler.
By mandating an analysis of how public grocery stores might affect prices received by producers, purchasing power in food supply chains, and whether these initiatives actually address food deserts or simply create a new layer of government-run inefficiency, the bill aims to ensure that policymakers fully understand the potential consequences before embracing such proposals.
The FTC’s findings will be submitted in a public report to Congress and updated annually with recommendations for legislative or regulatory action.
“Zohran Mamdani’s push for government-owned grocery stores is straight out of the Marxist playbook, and history shows exactly how this experiment ends. New Yorkers deserve solutions, not socialist fantasies that have failed spectacularly every time they’ve been tried,” concluded Congressman Lawler.
Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.
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Full text of the bill can be found HERE.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)
July 23, 2025
Representatives Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Eugene Vindman (VA-07), and Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) have introduced the Charting My Path to Future Success Act, legislation to restore an abruptly discontinued federal program designed to help students with disabilities succeed in adulthood. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Edward Markey (D-MA) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate.
The bill directs the U.S. Department of Education to reissue the solicitation and award the contract for the “Charting My Path for Future Success Program,” a $45 million, ten-year initiative originally launched in 2019 during the first term of the Trump Administration. The program was abruptly canceled in February 2025 after more than $25 million had already been spent and just as participating students began receiving services.
Rep. Sara Jacobs said, “It’s a big step from high school to adulthood – whether that’s college, job training, or employment – and it’s an even bigger step for students with disabilities, who may need a little extra support. That’s why the Charting My Path for Future Success Program provided students with disabilities with support and resources during this crucial transition. But unfortunately, DOGE’s abrupt cancellation of this program has abandoned these students, stifling their opportunity and limiting their potential. I’m proud to support this bill to restore this program, initially created by the first Trump Administration, and help students with disabilities during one of the most important times in their lives.”
“Seeing your child grow up to thrive is the goal for every parent, and that takes on another level of significance when your child has a condition that makes learning more difficult. After years of recruiting families to participate and training teachers to be part of this program, the sudden cancellation abandoned students and families who rely on these services,” said Rep. Lucy McBath.
“The President and Secretary McMahon claimed that students with disabilities would not be negatively affected by their plans to gut the Department of Education, but they already are. Now, students and their families are being left behind and being forced to reckon with the possibility of a lifetime on disability assistance instead of a path to a stable job. I’m grateful to my House and Senate colleagues for joining me on this legislation. We won’t leave America’s students behind.”
“This program was created to better support teens with disabilities and help them plan for college, a career, and independence. Participating students reported feeling empowered and hopeful about their futures. Then, DOGE and Trump pulled the rug out from under these kids and families and cancelled the program with no warning in the middle of the school year,” said Rep. Juan Vargas. “The over 1,600 students enrolled in this program – including students in my district – deserve better. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Charting My Path for Future Success Act to restore this funding and support.”
“Students across Virginia’s Seventh District and our country deserve a real chance to thrive after high school. And yet, the Trump Administration just recklessly cut the ‘Charting My Path for Future Success’ program from Spotsylvania County Public Schools and I cannot let that stand,” said Rep. Eugene Vindman. “That’s why I am proud to introduce this bill – we owe it to students and families to re-start this program and prohibit the Administration from canceling it without Congressional approval.”
“As a staunch advocate for the disability community throughout my decades in public service and as a senior member of the Education Committee, I am proud to support this bill to bring back funding that the Department of Education recklessly eliminated for the Charting My Path for Future Success Program. The Administration’s ill-conceived contract cancellations brought needless uncertainty to school districts across the country, including Mt. Diablo Unified School District in the community I represent. This bill will help us to stand up for students with disabilities and their right to a quality education and the opportunity to reach their full potential,” said Rep. Mark DeSaulnier.
“Ripping away critical funding and resources for disabled students is cruel and hurts America’s future,” said Senator Kaine. “The Charting My Path for Future Success Program was established during Trump’s first term, but now Trump and DOGE have cancelled funding with no warning. Not only does this harm disabled students who are depending on this support, it also hurts the teachers and Spotsylvania schools whose jobs and school budgets depend on this funding. I’m proud to introduce the Charting My Path for Future Success Act to immediately reissue this funding and ensure all students are set up for success.”
“Yet again, the Trump administration has ripped away education funding that students, families, and communities were relying on. In Massachusetts and nationwide, students with disabilities and their families were thriving in the Charting My Path for Future Success program. Now, the Trump administration has abandoned those students,” said Senator Markey. “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Charting My Path for Future Success Act to ensure we provide students with disabilities the support they need to thrive.”
Designed to support students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) across a wide range of disabilities, the program provided one-on-one and small group sessions, mentoring, and year-round tutoring. Thirteen school districts in 11 states were participating in the pilot, which had enrolled over 1,600 high school juniors and seniors and their families.
Participating districts include school systems in Georgia, Utah, Virginia, Massachusetts, California, Alaska, and New York.
The bill is endorsed by a coalition of disability advocacy organizations, including the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities Education Task Force, the National Center for Learning Disabilities, The Arc of the United States, the Autism Society of America, the National Disability Rights Network, and the Council of Administrators of Special Education.
Full text of the legislation is available here.
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US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) released the following joint statement, welcoming President Donald Trump’s granting of a Major Disaster Declaration for Lincoln County, while renewing their call for President Trump to grant a Major Disaster Declaration for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties and authorize Public Assistance Categories C-G in the wake of severe flooding that took the lives of three people and damaged homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
“The loss of life and devastation in Ruidoso as a result of this catastrophic flooding is horrific and heartbreaking. After seeing the destruction firsthand and hearing from families who have lost everything, our thoughts remain with those mourning loved ones and the hundreds of New Mexicans forced to flee their homes or watch their businesses be destroyed. We are deeply grateful to the first responders, local leaders, medical providers, and rescue teams working tirelessly to help their communities recover.
“This Major Disaster Declaration for Lincoln County will unlock funding needed for disaster response, and we will continue to push President Trump to grant the State’s Major Disaster Declaration request for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties and authorize additional Public Assistance to make sure that all New Mexicans impacted by this disaster are provided with the federal support necessary to rebuild.”
On July 10, the N.M. Delegation welcomed an emergency declaration for Chaves, Lincoln, Otero, and Valencia Counties. The emergency declaration opened up access to specific FEMA funds for immediate disaster response, including support for search and rescue and incident management efforts. An emergency declaration does not preclude a subsequent Major Disaster Declaration. Therefore, the N.M. Delegation pushed President Trump to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Through a Major Disaster Declaration request, the State of New Mexico has requested Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State also requested Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan.
The N.M. Delegation will continue to push President Trump to authorize Public Assistance Categories C-G and approve a Major Disaster Declaration request for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Additionally, on July 15, the N.M. Delegation called on the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Acting Director David Richardson to disburse critical and overdue funds that would provide immediate assistance in response to the catastrophic flash flooding in and around Ruidoso.
In a letter to OMB Director Vought and FEMA Acting Director Richardson, the Delegation urged OMB to release reimbursement funds from a project undertaken in the wake of last year’s South Fork and Salt Fires — currently stalled in “Large Project Review” — so they can be redirected to Lincoln County after recent severe flooding. The project in question was completed last year, has been fully reviewed by FEMA, and has an estimated cost of $7.7 million. These funds could be deployed immediately to assist Lincoln County and impacted residents as they continue to assess and respond to the recent severe flooding. But with no timeline provided to Lincoln County or the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) for completing the “Large Project Review” by the Administration, the Delegations is demanding answers. Read the full letter here.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) released the following joint statement, welcoming President Donald Trump’s granting of a Major Disaster Declaration for Lincoln County, while renewing their call for President Trump to grant a Major Disaster Declaration for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties and authorize Public Assistance Categories C-G in the wake of severe flooding that took the lives of three people and damaged homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
“The loss of life and devastation in Ruidoso as a result of this catastrophic flooding is horrific and heartbreaking. After seeing the destruction firsthand and hearing from families who have lost everything, our thoughts remain with those mourning loved ones and the hundreds of New Mexicans forced to flee their homes or watch their businesses be destroyed. We are deeply grateful to the first responders, local leaders, medical providers, and rescue teams working tirelessly to help their communities recover.
“This Major Disaster Declaration for Lincoln County will unlock funding needed for disaster response, and we will continue to push President Trump to grant the State’s Major Disaster Declaration request for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties and authorize additional Public Assistance to make sure that all New Mexicans impacted by this disaster are provided with the federal support necessary to rebuild.”
On July 10, the N.M. Delegation welcomed an emergency declaration for Chaves, Lincoln, Otero, and Valencia Counties. The emergency declaration opened up access to specific FEMA funds for immediate disaster response, including support for search and rescue and incident management efforts. An emergency declaration does not preclude a subsequent Major Disaster Declaration. Therefore, the N.M. Delegation pushed President Trump to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Through a Major Disaster Declaration request, the State of New Mexico has requested Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State also requested Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan.
The N.M. Delegation will continue to push President Trump to authorize Public Assistance Categories C-G and approve a Major Disaster Declaration request for Chaves, Otero, and Valencia Counties from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Additionally, on July 15, the N.M. Delegation called on the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Acting Director David Richardson to disburse critical and overdue funds that would provide immediate assistance in response to the catastrophic flash flooding in and around Ruidoso.
In a letter to OMB Director Vought and FEMA Acting Director Richardson, the Delegation urged OMB to release reimbursement funds from a project undertaken in the wake of last year’s South Fork and Salt Fires — currently stalled in “Large Project Review” — so they can be redirected to Lincoln County after recent severe flooding. The project in question was completed last year, has been fully reviewed by FEMA, and has an estimated cost of $7.7 million. These funds could be deployed immediately to assist Lincoln County and impacted residents as they continue to assess and respond to the recent severe flooding. But with no timeline provided to Lincoln County or the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) for completing the “Large Project Review” by the Administration, the Delegations is demanding answers. Read the full letter here.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
An observational study published in PLOS Mental Health looks at mental health outcomes in teens who smoke or use e-cigarettes.
Prof Peter Hajek, Professor of Clinical Psychology, and Director of the Health and Lifestyle Research Unit, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), said:
“There is not much novelty in this study. The findings add to the well-established link between mental health issues or other sources of stress, especially in childhood, and the use of psychoactive substances including nicotine.”
Prof Stella Chan, Charlie Waller Chair in Evidence-Based Psychological Treatment, University of Reading, said:
“This well conducted study has helpfully established robust evidence for a link between the use of cigarettes and vapes and symptoms of depression and anxiety in adolescents in the US. As acknowledged by the authors, the cross-sectional nature of the data cannot point towards causal relationships. It is therefore impossible to determine from this study if the use of tobacco increases the risk for mental health problems; or that adolescents with mood difficulties use tobacco as a coping strategy; or if a bit of both. Future research can also investigate differences between gender groups, those with neural divergent conditions, those belonging to minority or vulnerable groups such as LGBT+ , in care system, or justice system, to understand the effects of tobacco use in further details in order to inform support and intervention.”
Dr Jasmine Khouja, Senior Research Associate in the Tobacco and Alcohol Research Group, University of Bristol, said:
“This study design is not appropriate to address the research question. The study measures whether adolescents who have ever tried a “tobacco product” (even just once) are more or less likely to have some symptoms of anxiety or depression. It does not measure whether regularly using e-cigarettes or smoking causes depression or anxiety. Although the number of young people who used e-cigarettes more than once or twice is not reported, the majority of this group is likely made up of young people who vaped once or twice to give it a try. Therefore, the study measures whether people with anxiety and depression symptoms are more likely to have experimented with potentially risky products. This is not discussed in the limitations, which is concerning because the authors should be aware that the measure is not appropriate for this question.
“The study does not adequately account for other factors that could be driving this link, and it is cross-sectional, meaning that the mental health symptoms could have preceded the vaping experimentation. The authors state that nicotine could be a mechanism by which vaping could cause depression and anxiety, but they did not ascertain whether the products contained nicotine or not.
“It is important to note that although the authors describe e-cigarettes as tobacco products, e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, and using e-cigarettes is not considered tobacco use.
“This study alone does not add much to our understanding of the relationship between vaping, smoking, and mental health. Much more research (with a more appropriate study design) is needed before we can determine whether vaping causes poor mental health.”
Dr Johnathan Livingstone-Banks, Lecturer & Senior Researcher in Evidence-Based Healthcare, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, said:
“This study finds a correlation between ever trying cigarettes or vapes and reporting depression or anxiety, but as the authors note, it doesn’t show that one causes the other. It could just as easily be that young people with poor mental health are more likely to experiment. However, that does not mean that this correlation shouldn’t be taken seriously, and there is evidence in adults that quitting smoking can improve mental health.
“In the US, vapes are classed as tobacco products. But it’s worth clarifying: while they usually contain nicotine, they don’t contain any tobacco. In the UK, they’re not classified as tobacco products.
“This survey counts anyone who has ever used a vape or cigarette, even just once, as a user. That’s potentially misleading, especially when it comes to ‘dual use’. Someone who tried a vape once and a cigarette once, perhaps years apart, would be counted as dual users. Without more detailed data, we can’t tell whether these young people were actual users or just experimenting. The sample probably includes a mix of both.”
Dr Lion Shahab, Chartered member of the British Psychological Society, said:
“This study analysed cross-sectional data from the US National Youth Tobacco Survey to investigate the association of cigarettes and e-cigarette use in youth with self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms. The results show that exclusive cigarette and exclusive e-cigarette use, as well as co-use of both products was associated with higher depression and anxiety levels than not using either. Tobacco use has a well-established bidirectional relationship with mental health such that mental health symptoms predict later smoking and smoking leads to deterioration in mental health symptoms. This study shows that a similar relationship may exist with e-cigarette use.
“However, there are several caveats that need to be considered when interpreting these findings. First, as all measurements were taken at the same time, it is not clear whether e-cigarette use preceded poorer mental health symptoms or whether poorer mental health symptoms preceded e-cigarettes use, or whether there is evidence of an effect in both directions. This can only be assessed in a longitudinal cohort study where timelines of what occurs first (e-cigarette use or deterioration in mental health symptoms) can be clearly established.
“Due to the cross-sectional nature of this study, it is therefore as likely that adolescents who have experienced psychological stress or mental health problems may be more likely to start vaping as it is that prior vaping leads to later poor mental health outcomes. Second, as for most epidemiological studies, there is a risk that important factors that influence both e-cigarette use and mental health symptoms were not controlled for. For instance, this study did not account for familial history of mental health problems, which may – in part – explain the observed association.
“Lastly, the study used a relatively crude measure of e-cigarette use, which was defined ‘ever e-cigarette only use’. This category lumps together adolescents who may have used an e-cigarette once or twice with youth who vape daily, which is unhelpful. It is unlikely that very occasional e-cigarette use will have lasting effects on mental health. Future work would benefit from investigating whether the frequency of vaping and nicotine content in vapes has a dose-response relationship with mental health symptoms. Notwithstanding these issues, this study highlights the need to examine the effects of vaping in youth, not only in terms of potential physical health but also mental health.”
‘Mental health outcomes associated with electronic cigarette use, combustible tobacco use, and dual use among U.S. adolescents: Insights from the National Youth Tobacco Survey’ by Abdulhay et al. was published in PLOS Mental Health at 19:00 UK time on Wednesday 23th July.
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmen.0000370
Declared interests
Dr Jasmine Khouja None
Prof Peter Hajek None
Prof Stella Chan None
Dr Jonathan Livingstone-Banks No financial conflicts – I’ve never received funding from industry. I’m a tobacco control researcher at the University of Oxford and I’m an author of numerous academic papers on smoking and e-cigarettes, including the Cochrane reviews on e-cigarettes for smoking cessation and interventions for vaping cessation.
Dr Lion Shahab None
For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.
Source: Government of Canada News (2)
July 23, 2025—Ottawa— Canada’s new government has a mandate to build a strong economy by attracting the best talent in the world and filling key labour shortages.
Today, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced more than $3.2 billion over three years across more than 520 organizations outside Quebec to improve the integration of newcomers, including into the job market and to reduce labour shortages.
Settlement services are essential to filling vacancies in high demand sectors such as health care and skilled trades. With increased economic integration, newcomers can apply their skills quickly, fill critical labour gaps, and boost productivity.
Funding will be provided to local organizations to deliver tailored services that recognize regional considerations and needs, instead of applying a one-size-fits-all approach. Services will include:
These services will help newcomers build successful lives in Canada by supporting their economic, social, and cultural integration into communities across the country.
With an outcomes focused approach, Canada will attract a strong workforce and build one Canadian economy – the strongest economy in the G7.
Source: Government of Canada News (2)
July 23, 2025 – Gatineau, Quebec
To protect human health and the environment for future generations, the federal government is taking decisive action. Recognizing the deep interconnection between Canadian health and the environment, these sustainable efforts will create a clean and safe environment for all.
The Government of Canada is now releasing:
These publications are key requirements under the modernized Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA).
The Implementation Framework sets out the meaning of the right to a healthy environment and provides guidance on how the Government of Canada considers this right in the administration of CEPA. The Framework provides a new lens for decision-making to support and encourage strong protection of both the environment and people who may be disproportionally impacted by pollution, now and in the future.
The Plan of Priorities outlines upcoming initiatives to address chemical substances in Canada. It includes a list of substances to be assessed and elaborates on activities that support the assessment, control, and management of risks posed by substances. This Plan builds on Canada’s existing strong foundation for chemicals management.
Linked to the Plan of Priorities, the Strategy to Replace, Reduce or Refine Vertebrate Animal Testing will help guide continued efforts toward the replacement, reduction, or refinement of vertebrate animal testing under CEPA.
These initiatives work together to help protect the environment and the health of all people in Canada.
Source: Government of Canada News
Recent amendments of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) required the Government of Canada to develop a framework for the right to a healthy environment under CEPA. They also required the Government to publish a plan to address chemical substances and to guide efforts to replace, reduce, or refine vertebrate animal testing. The Government delivered on these commitments by publishing the Implementation Framework for the Right to a Healthy Environment under CEPA; the Plan of Priorities; and the Strategy to Replace, Reduce, or Refine Vertebrate Animal Testing.
The Right to a Healthy Environment under CEPA
The Implementation Framework elaborates on the meaning of the Right to a Healthy Environment (the Right) under CEPA. It provides guidance for CEPA decision-makers on how to consider the Right in the administration of CEPA.
As per the Framework, the Right to a Healthy Environment under CEPA includes substantive and procedural elements. The substantive elements build on the definition of a healthy environment and include the right of every individual in Canada to live in an environment that is protected from harmful substances, pollutants, and waste; and where actions under CEPA contribute to clean and healthy air and water, a sustainable climate, and healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. The procedural elements of the Right include access to information and participation in decision-making.
The Framework elaborates on three new principles, namely environmental justice, intergenerational equity, and non-regression and describes how they will be considered in the administration of the Act to fulfil the duty to uphold these principles.
Additionally, the framework elaborates on how respect for Indigenous rights informs CEPA decision-making and recognizes the role of Indigenous knowledge in informing decisions about protecting the environment and human health. In collaboration with Indigenous peoples, guidance on bridging, braiding, and weaving Indigenous knowledge with western science will be developed to support CEPA decision-makers.
The Framework also describes five of the relevant factors—environmental, scientific, social, health, and economic—that can be considered in interpreting and applying the Right and in determining the reasonable limits to which it is subject.
In the administration of CEPA, the Government of Canada will aim to fulfill its duty of protecting the right to a healthy environment, as it relates to the substantive elements, through consideration of the procedural elements, CEPA principles, and relevant factors described above, recognizing the Right is subject to reasonable limits.
The Government of Canada engaged with the public, Indigenous peoples, non-governmental organizations, and industry stakeholders during consultations in the spring and fall of 2024 to help inform the development of the Implementation Framework.
A new web portal offers more information on actions and decisions made under CEPA and gives the public an opportunity to provide input.
A transition period for the implementation of the Framework is in place to continue to advance timely CEPA decisions and actions. This will prevent negative impacts on the environment and human health while the Right to a Healthy Environment is being fully integrated into the administration of the Act.
Plan of Priorities
The Plan of Priorities outlines upcoming priorities to address substances to protect the health of people in Canada and the environment. It includes a list of more than 30 substances and substance groups (comprising approximately 500 chemicals) prioritized for assessment and includes new or expanded activities to help assess, control, and manage risks posed by substances.
In selecting and prioritizing these substances, the Plan took into account key considerations, including:
The input and feedback received during the public consultation on the Proposed Plan of Priorities in the fall of 2024 was used to help refine the current Plan.
Moving forward, the Plan must be reviewed every eight years. The list of substances prioritized for assessment may also be amended from time to time, based on, for example, the emergence of new science, or through the new public request for assessment mechanism. Amendments to the Plan will be publicly communicated and consulted on.
Through implementation of the Plan of Priorities and the administration of chemicals management, the Government commits to upholding the principle of environmental justice and protecting the right to a healthy environment provided for in CEPA. Stakeholders and the public will be invited to participate in public consultations as the Plan is implemented.
Reducing reliance on vertebrate animal testing
The modernized CEPA recognizes the need to replace, reduce, or refine the use of vertebrate animal testing when assessing the potential harms that substances may pose to human health and the environment.
As part of the Plan of Priorities, Health Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada have developed a strategy to guide efforts to replace, reduce, or refine vertebrate animal toxicity testing. This strategy builds on:
This strategy considers input and feedback received during the public consultations on the related notice of intent, which closed in January 2024, and the draft strategy, which closed in November 2024.
The strategy is intended to be flexible. Its implementation will reflect and keep pace with emerging science and technology, including ongoing engagement with people living in Canada, Indigenous partners, stakeholders, and collaborations with national and international partners.
Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs
Media Contact 202-321-9747
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast delivered opening remarks at a full committee hearing titled, “FY26 State Department Posture: Bureau of Political Affairs.”
Watch Here
-Remarks-
Under the Biden administration, the State Department, in my opinion, operated without clear lines of command. I believe that it blurred responsibilities in many cases and had a culture that prioritized process over the outcomes that the State Department would produce.
I would use the DEI office as an example, where they were worried about what the bucket of applicants looked like, rather than the outcomes of those applicants and what they were delivering for the American taxpayer. That was a direct quote from the former DEI Secretary Abercrombie-Winstanley.
That has changed under President Trump and Secretary Rubio.
This Committee is working to restore real command and control at the State Department—something that the Pentagon has had for decades, and something that the State Department desperately needs.
We’re crafting the first comprehensive, standalone State Department Authorization bill in over twenty years—this is not meant as a gesture, it is meant as a serious institutional overhaul.
We’re not doing this for symbolism; we’re doing it because there needs to be common sense and logic within our diplomacy.
Our goal is simple: bring order, bring clarity, and bring effectiveness to a department that too often prioritized institutional interests above the American interest.
A perfect example is how members of Congress in too many cases are more concerned about somebody being fired from the State Department after 10-15 years of employment. When they should be asking how productive those employees were and what were the measurable outcomes that were provided by them approving transgender operas, or drag show tutorials, or DEI musicals, or LGBTQ comic books abroad.
Under President Biden, the Department suffered from a structural identity crisis. Maybe policy was developed by one group, altered by another, and implemented by a third, often with no clear authority or accountability. Turf wars between regional and functional bureaus slowed everything down.
The Under Secretary for Political Affairs is treated as “first among equals,” but that phrase itself reveals to me a problem: too many equals, not enough leadership. No mission succeeds without a chain of command, and I believe that diplomacy is no exception.
The State Department must operate like a strategic institution with a clear hierarchy, mission clarity, decisive leadership, and measurable outcomes. It should not be a think tank that looks at the world as an academic exercise with no measurable outcomes.
And our reforms aim to do just that.
Some will resist this. They’ll defend the status quo as if it’s sacred. But we’ve seen what that status quo produces: mission drift, strategic confusion, and a sprawling bureaucracy that’s often more focused on virtue signaling than actually projecting American strength abroad.
Let us be clear: this is not about copying the Pentagon—it’s about applying common sense. At DOD, policy is made at the top through a chain of command that is recognizable to everybody.
At the State Department, that discipline has been missing. We don’t expect the State Department to be soldiers in uniform, but we should expect it to have a command structure that is recognizable and followed.
We can’t afford what has happened to happen again — not when adversaries like China and Iran are using every tool at their disposal to undermine American power, we can’t have foreign service officers that free lance social experimentation.
Our vision is straightforward. Functional bureaus and undersecretaries should focus on developing policy, clear, coherent, and grounded in national interest. Regional bureaus, with their area expertise, should adapt and execute that policy on the ground. This creates a clear flow of authority, streamlines operations, and ensures accountability at every level.
What we have had are regional bureaus providing loose oversight of embassies that frequently operate like personal fiefdoms rather than the implementing arm of the State Department. Under President Biden, we had embassies funding gender inclusive leadership through ultimate frisbee in India for $100K or spending $425K to help Indonesian coffee companies be more gender and climate friendly.
This hearing is part of a broader effort to realign the State Department with the mission it was meant to serve: putting America First as the State Department of the United States of America. That requires more than tweaks—it requires structural change, cultural change, and a willingness to change the old order.
I want to thank our witness for appearing today, and we look forward to your insight as we take the first steps toward restoring command and control, discipline, and mission focus at the United States Department of State.
###
Source: United States Air Force
Headline: International Observer Program showcases interoperability, readiness for US partners, allies
The Pacific Air Forces’ International Affairs Division organized an International Observer Program (IOP) event during the exercise Resolute Force Pacific 2025, a four-day tour to provide insight into the exercise, at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, July 14-17, 2025.
Source: US FBI
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to fentanyl and cocaine trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
DeVaughn Faulk, 28, of the Bon Air neighborhood of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan to conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl and cocaine.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, between March 2024 and July 2024, Faulk participated in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, both Schedule II controlled substances, by functioning as a redistributor of street-level amounts of both substances.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for November 12, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, Faulk will remain in custody.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine C. Jordan and Kelly M. Locher are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Faulk.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Source: US FBI
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to fentanyl and cocaine trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
DeVaughn Faulk, 28, of the Bon Air neighborhood of Pittsburgh, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan to conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl and cocaine.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, between March 2024 and July 2024, Faulk participated in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, both Schedule II controlled substances, by functioning as a redistributor of street-level amounts of both substances.
Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for November 12, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, Faulk will remain in custody.
Assistant United States Attorneys Katherine C. Jordan and Kelly M. Locher are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Faulk.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
TORONTO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Financial 15 Split Corp. (“the Company”) announces that its semi-annual financial statements and management report of fund performance for the six months ended May 31, 2025 are now available on the Company’s website at www.financial15.com and at www.sedarplus.com.
For further information, please contact Investor Relations at 416-304-4443, toll free at 1-877-4-Quadra (1-877-478-2372), or visit www.financial15.com.
| Investor Relations: 1-877-478-2372 | Local: 416-304-4443 | www.financial15.com | info@quadravest.com |
Source: APO – Report:
RESPECT™ (https://Respect.World), a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Education, was announced today during the STEMtastic Adventures! Africa symposium. RESPECT was developed by the Spix Foundation to make it easy for Africa’s EdTech stakeholders to embrace AUDA NEPAD’s Africa EdTech 2030 Vision and Plan (https://apo-opa.co/4kYulLY), announced earlier this month. AUDA NEPAD’s Vision proposes that, by 2030, “every African student should have access to the world’s best interactive digital courseware—developed in Africa by Africans—on smartphones already present in their pockets, households, and/or schools”.
With today’s release of RESPECT Version 1, Africa has gained a multi-year head start over the rest of the world. The United Nations has only this year started talking seriously about the need for a DPI for Education (https://apo-opa.co/4m5Xm9h). Africa has already released it. Africa is already ahead. To accomplish the Vision, Africa need only leverage its new advantage to the hilt.
Speaking at the launch, John Kimotho, EdTech Consultant, Spix Foundation and Head of RESPECT Africa Office, said: “Much of EdTech is pilot-driven and disconnected from education systems, leaving developers without clear growth pathways and teachers with tools that don’t last. RESPECT makes it easy for policymakers, educators, and developers, to build solutions that align with real classroom needs and can grow and last.”
The launch coincides with AUDA-NEPAD’s release of sobering statistics (https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH): only 40% of African primary schools have internet access, an estimated 30 million primary-age children remain out of school, and the continent will need 17 million additional teachers by 2030 just to maintain universal access. Meanwhile, billions in education technology investment have resulted in fragmented, unsustainable pilot projects rather than scalable solutions.
“Africa has a unique opportunity to simultaneously drive access to free localised edtech solutions that can reach all parts of the education ecosystem, even those offline, while making it profitable and sustainable to develop the world’s best interactive digital courseware, right here in Africa;” said John Kimotho. “The system has been failing the innovators, not the other way around, and RESPECT makes it easy for those innovators to deliver the education technology solutions that Africa’s children need.”
The scale of market fragmentation
Recent analysis by the mEducation Alliance (https://apo-opa.co/46VaNEG) revealed that developers must navigate different rules, requirements, and procurement protocols in nearly every African country, resulting in what researchers term “small-batch deployment” – a Kenya pilot here, a Senegal district project there, with each requiring complete retooling.
The consequence is a paradox: whilst Africa has produced world-class educational technology – from Kenya’s classroom management systems to Senegal’s Wolof-language XamXam platform serving 1.2 million users – these innovations remain largely isolated within their countries of origin.
“Teachers are experiencing ‘tool fatigue’ from juggling multiple siloed applications with no central access or data integration,” notes the mEducation Alliance’s 2024 report on digital courseware in low- and middle-income countries. “This discourages adoption, even when individual apps are excellent.”
Key problems – and solutions
AUDA NEPAD’s Vision and Plan notes two key problems: (1) the lack of real-time, reliable data about what digital courseware works best for different learners, and (2) barriers to scale including policy, commercial, and technological obstacles.
“AUDA-NEPAD observes that if Africa solves these two problems—by making it easy for courseware to generate real-time data for ranking and research, and by lowering policy, technical, and commercial barriers—then market forces will do the rest,” according to the Vision and Plan.
All RESPECT Compatible™ apps send data on every learner-app interaction to the relevant authority – within the bounds of the jurisdiction’s data privacy, security, and sovereignty laws – enabling that authority to implement data-dependent techniques such as Teaching at the Right Level and Structured Pedagogy. This data, federated at the continental level, enables courseware ranking and research.
RESPECT lowers the aforementioned policy barriers by implementing AUDA-NEPAD’s new Policy Framework for Standards-Based, Vendor-Neutral EdTech, a draft of which was released for public comment today.
RESPECT lowers the technical barriers through the implementation of a range of on-device technologies from data compression, web caching, proxy servers, and mesh networking to make it easy for courseware app developers to write a single app that works online, offline, and intermittently online. Likewise, it has early support for systematic text localization and, eventually, curriculum standards mapping, that are expected to provide easy technological fixes for complex scaling problems. Also, RESPECT enforces interoperability through internationally-standardized APIs such as xAPI, OneRoster, and OAuth.
RESPECT lowers the commercial barriers by providing all RESPECT Compatible™ apps for free to all students and intermediaries, while paying the developers and localizers of said apps based on those apps’ usage (and later, impact). RESPECT’s revenue, derived from sponsorships, will go primarily to these developers and localizers. Think of it as “YouTube meets PBS Kids” (https://apo-opa.co/3IJTrAC) for EdTech apps.
Looking ahead
“The opportunity is historic, but time is short,” concluded Kimotho. “We need to stop lamenting the barriers and start dismantling them systematically.”
– on behalf of Africa Practice Ltd.
Note to editors:
RESPECT and RESPECT Compatible are trademarks of the Spix Foundation.
RESPECT: https://Respect.World
Full African EdTech 2030: Vision & Plan: https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH
mEducation Alliance Report – Leading Perspectives on the State of Digital Courseware in Low Resource Countries: https://apo-opa.co/4195XzU
For interviews, please contact:
Joslyne Muthoni
Africa Practice
jmuthoni@africapractice.com
Follow RESPECT:
Website: https://Respect.World
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4kQiD5N
About RESPECT:
RESPECT is an open source digital library for EdTech apps. It makes it easier for educators to discover and use high-quality apps in all settings, while giving developers the platform they need to grow their impact globally.
RESPECT sets strong interoperable technical standards, while enabling developers to monetise their tools through a simple sponsor supported revenue model.
What RESPECT offers:
By aligning incentives across policy, pedagogy, and technology, RESPECT makes it easier to access, build, scale and sustain resilient edtech innovations.
At its core, RESPECT connects the needs of developers and educators, supporting high quality, locally contextualised tools that reflect real classroom conditions and align with local languages and curriculum goals. It’s about building EdTech that lasts, where it matters most.
About AUDA-NEPAD:
The African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) is the continental development agency of the African Union, established to coordinate and execute priority regional and continental development projects to promote regional integration towards the accelerated achievement of Agenda 2063.
Full African EdTech 2030: Vision & Plan: https://apo-opa.co/3UfrwLH
About STEMtastic Adventures! Africa:
STEMtastic Adventures! Africa is hosted by the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) from July 22-25, 2025, bringing together leading thinkers, activists, and implementers to advance STEM education across the continent.
mEducation Alliance Report – Leading Perspectives on the State of Digital Courseware in Low Resource Countries: https://apo-opa.co/4195XzU
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Source: Government of Qatar
Cambridge, July 23, 2025
Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari participated in a panel discussion during the opening session of the Gulf Research Meeting, organized by the Gulf Research Center at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom.
During his remarks, Dr. Al Ansari emphasized that the region is facing unprecedented challenges resulting from irresponsible behavior that has extended beyond the borders of GCC states for the first time. This requires a unified stance and effective cooperation to protect the region’s security.
He indicated that the only way to address these challenges is to adhere to international law as a constant reference, noting that the GCC states are working in an integrated manner to ensure regional stability and support international efforts to achieve security in the region.
The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted the role played by the State of Qatar in mediation and conflict resolution around the world, pointing in this regard to the successes of Qatari diplomacy in recent days on a number of international issues. Qatar succeeded in reuniting a new batch of Ukrainian and Russian children with their families, and facilitating the return of a second group of Afghan citizens from Germany to their country, in addition to Qatar’s communication with all parties to reach a broader and more comprehensive nuclear agreement between Iran and the United States of America.
Regarding the Palestinian cause, Dr. Al Ansari stressed the importance of supporting the legitimate rights of the fraternal Palestinian people as a fundamental pillar of any lasting peace in the region.
Source: Government of South Africa
HSRC to host free training academy to equip researchers for AI
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), in collaboration with the University of Pretoria, the University of Zululand and Sol Plaatje University, will host the 6th Annual Emerging and Established African Researcher Training Academy from 28 July to 1 August 2025.
The event will be held virtually and will run daily from 8:30am to 4pm.
This year’s academy is themed, ‘Research excellence reimagined: Preparing tomorrow’s scholars today‘, reflecting the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on the research landscape.
“As AI increasingly transforms how research is designed, conducted, analysed, and communicated, the academy will explore how African scholars can engage with these changes while strengthening foundational research skills,” the statement read.
The key focus of the academy is to equip participants with essential competencies in research design, data analysis, and academic writing, while also introducing tools and techniques that integrate AI into the research process.
According to the HSRC, participants will examine important questions, such as how to preserve intellectual authenticity while harnessing AI’s transformative capabilities; where computational efficiency ends and human wisdom begins; and how to develop research skills that remain valuable as AI capabilities expand.
The academy was first launched as an in-person training programme in partnership with the University of Zululand.
However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it transitioned into a virtual format, allowing for broader participation and collaboration across institutions.
“Now celebrating its sixth year in this format, the academy continues to evolve by offering both foundational and advanced modules that respond to the changing demands of the research community.”
In line with its responsibilities to the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the HSRC said it supports capacity building in research and research management, and ensures inclusive access to training for marginalised groups.
This includes women and persons with disabilities and promotes a culture of lifelong learning among African scholars.
According to the chairperson of the academy’s organising committee, the HSRC’s Dr Bongiwe Mncwango, the academy aims to foster a collaborative and sustainable research environment, bringing together emerging and established scholars to share ideas, develop research skills, and pursue collaborative initiatives.
“The programme also supports career development for early-career researchers and raises awareness about the value of research in addressing Africa’s societal challenges.
“It is more than training – it’s a strategic investment in the future of African research. As AI revolutionises scholarship, African researchers must be equipped to lead with innovation, integrity, and impact,” said Mncwango.
Registration information and programme details are available on the HSRC’s website https://hsrc.ac.za/sixth-annual-emerging-and-established-african-researchers-training-academy-2025-2026/. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Through Budget 2025, Alberta’s government is investing an additional $3.2 million for a total of $11.2 million for the Family Justice Strategy to give more Albertans a streamlined and consistent process to access family justice services. The Family Justice Strategy helps families resolve matters outside the courts to reduce the stress on children and parents during an already difficult time.
“We’re making it easier for Albertans to resolve family matters by expanding access to pre-court services. This investment means more communities will benefit from simpler, faster supports that put families first.”
This additional funding will support an expansion of the strategy to Grande Prairie, Stony Plain, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Leduc and Fort Saskatchewan. The Family Justice Strategy directs Albertans to pre-court services that help people either avoid making a court appearance or better understand the process if they do go to court.
This includes:
These services are meant to help Albertans resolve their family law issues in a manner that emphasizes the best interests of the child, lessens the hardship between separating parents and promotes family wellness.
“The continued expansion of the Alberta Family Justice Strategy throughout the province represents a significant achievement in the collective efforts of justice sector partners. We look forward to continued innovations in our justice system, which will serve to improve court processes and advance access to justice for Alberta families.”
After launching in Edmonton and Calgary in December 2023, the Family Justice Strategy was implemented in Red Deer on March 17. Since the strategy was launched, more than 69,000 Albertans have accessed pre-court services helping them resolve their family law issues.
Recreational freshwater anglers will soon be able to buy B.C. freshwater fishing licences through the Wildlife Information and Licensing Data system (WILD), bringing fishing and hunting licensing into one convenient online platform.
Starting in fall 2025, people who are not already registered in the WILD system can create a profile and obtain a free Fish and Wildlife ID (FWID) in preparation for the 2026–27 licence year. An FWID will be needed to purchase a freshwater fishing licence when sales open in WILD in spring 2026.
Currently, people access WILD using a Basic BCeID. This fall, B.C. residents and people who reside in Canada outside of B.C. will also have the option to log in using their BC Services Card account. This secure and convenient new method automates identity and residency verification, helping reduce administrative workload, reduce wait times and enhance the user experience. People who do not reside in Canada will need to use or create a Basic BCeID to access and obtain an FWID online in WILD.
Since its launch in 2016, WILD has improved public access to hunting applications and authorizations and helped government process applications faster. Over the past five years, roughly 93% of all limited entry hunting applications and 30% of all hunting licences were purchased online through WILD.
B.C. is home to some of the world’s most renowned freshwater fishing destinations, attracting residents and visitors alike. Recreational fishing also supports local economies, particularly in rural and tourism-dependent communities.
Expanding WILD to include freshwater fishing licence sales will further streamline the licensing process for stakeholders and government, improve data collection, and support informed decision-making for fish and wildlife management.
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
To read details about WILD System Quick Reference Guides, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/sports-culture/recreation/fishing-hunting/hunting/wild-system/quick-reference-guides
Source: US State of Idaho
Home Newsroom Attorney General Labrador Commends Life Sentences for Bryan Kohberger
BOISE — Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador issued the following statement after Ada County District Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Bryan Kohberger to four consecutive fixed life sentences for the 2022 murders of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Kohberger also received an additional fixed ten-year sentence for burglary, stemming from his unlawful entry into the students’ home with the intent to kill. The four life sentences imposed by Judge Hippler are for fixed terms and will run consecutively.
The Office of the Attorney General supported Latah County’s prosecution for more than two years through a formal cooperation agreement. Under the agreement, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson retained full authority over the case, including plea negotiations, while the State provided legal resources that came in the form of pre-trial litigation conducted by three Deputy Attorneys General: Jeff Nye, Chief of the Criminal Law Division; Ingrid Batey, Lead Deputy Attorney General in the Special Prosecutions Unit; and Madison Gourley, the current Lead Deputy Attorney General who replaced Batey when she became the Senior Chief Deputy in the Canyon County Prosecutor’s office.
“Our hearts are with the victims and their families. While no sentence can bring full justice to this kind of evil, today’s sentence ensures that Bryan Kohberger will never see the outside of a prison and will never again harm innocent families,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Under Idaho law, the fixed prison sentences mean Kohberger will never be eligible for parole. I’m especially grateful to Prosecutor Bill Thompson and my Criminal Division Chief, Jeff Nye, whose leadership, judgment, and tireless efforts brought this case to a just conclusion. Their teams served the State of Idaho with distinction, and our families and the public are safer because of their hard work.”
The Attorney General’s attorneys focused on key legal briefing and arguments to give Latah County prosecutors the ability to concentrate on discovery and prepare for trial. The Deputy Attorneys General protected the grand jury indictment from dismissal, fended off more than a dozen motions challenging the death penalty, and defended law enforcement’s use of investigative genetic genealogy.
The use of investigative genetic genealogy helped first identify Kohberger as a suspect and was the first time it had been used in Idaho. After extensive briefing and argument, Judge Hippler ruled that law enforcement’s use of the technique did not violate Kohberger’s constitutional rights.
Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars and will be housed at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution in Kuna, Idaho.
Source: Washington State News
SEATTLE – Starting July 27, Washington will be the first state in the nation to require companies to file a premerger notification to the Washington Attorney General’s Office at the same time that they file a premerger notification to the federal government under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act, ensuring the state will have more lead time to analyze mergers for possible anticompetitive effects.
When companies plan acquisitions or mergers of a certain size, they’re required to file a premerger notification to the federal government under the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Act. Under a new state law, companies based in Washington, or that do a certain amount of relevant sales here, will be required to contemporaneously submit the same notification to the attorney general. There’s no fee for the state notification filing.
The Office of the Attorney General’s Antitrust Division is responsible for enforcing federal and state antitrust laws. Division attorneys and professional staff evaluate mergers to determine if they are likely to create or enhance market power. The Legislature passed SB 5122 earlier this year to make it easier for state antitrust enforcers to be notified in a timely way when companies in Washington are planning mergers or acquisitions that could impact consumers.
“Washington is a trailblazer for the rest of the nation in adopting a premerger notification law,” Attorney General Nick Brown said. “This will allow state antitrust enforcers to protect consumer interests in an even more effective way.”
The premerger notification requirement applies to companies or individuals that:
Since 2019, Washington has required premerger notification for acquisitions or mergers involving hospitals, hospital systems, and provider organizations, and that law remains in effect.
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Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties.
Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.
Media Contact:
Email: press@atg.wa.gov
Phone: (360) 753-2727
General contacts: Click here
Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ
Source: Washington State News 2
KING AND PIERCE COUNTIES – Another weekend of construction begins Friday night, July 25, and continues through Monday morning, July 28, as crews continue major preservation and maintenance work on multiple highways throughout the central Puget Sound region.
The Washington State Department of Transportation urges travelers to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and prepare for delays on key corridors between Seattle and south Pierce County.
In Seattle, northbound Interstate 5 is reduced to two lanes across the Ship Canal Bridge for preservation and repair work until 11:59 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15.
In Kent, southbound State Route 167 will close between State Route 516/Willis Street and South 277th Street from 11:59 p.m., Friday, July 25, to 4 a.m. Monday, July 28, while crews replace bridge joints and resurface the Green River bridge. The Willis Street on-ramp to southbound Interstate 405 and the southbound I-405 off-ramp to South 277th Street will be closed during this work. A signed detour route will be in place.
In Auburn, eastbound State Route 18 will close between C Street Southwest and Auburn Way South from 9 p.m., Friday, July 25, to 5 a.m. Monday, July 28, while crews perform paving work. Both the C Street Southwest on-ramp to SR 18 and the SR 18 off-ramp to Auburn Way South will be closed during this work.
In Pierce County, northbound I-5 approaching Dupont will close over two nights at Steilacoom-DuPont Road. Workers will remove temporary structures used to build the new overpass. Travelers will detour up and over the Steilacoom-DuPont Road off- and on-ramps from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. overnight Friday, July 25, and Saturday, July 26.
All work requires dry weather and may be rescheduled.
There is no “good weekend” for closures like these. With a limited season of warm, dry weather, WSDOT must coordinate and work efficiently to complete them.
These closures are part of WSDOT’s ongoing efforts to preserve and improve vital infrastructure. WSDOT coordinates work with its partners, while staff in the agency’s Emergency Operations Center will help keep traffic moving.
Travelers are encouraged to check travel times on the Travel Center map, WSDOT mobile app and following the agency’s social media accounts. In addition to planning ahead and allowing for extra travel time, people are encouraged to take transit, utilize park and rides, or sail aboard Washington State Ferries. WSDOT also recently published a blog with helpful resources and ways to “flip your trip.”
Source: US State of North Carolina
Headline: Governor Stein Announces More Than $2 Million for Great Trails State Program Projects in Eastern North Carolina
Governor Stein Announces More Than $2 Million for Great Trails State Program Projects in Eastern North Carolina
lsaito
Today, Governor Josh Stein announced that the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources has awarded more than $2.6 million to trail development and restoration projects in eastern North Carolina. These funds were authorized by the General Assembly as part of the Great Trails State Program.
“Eastern North Carolina and the Carolina coast are some of our state’s greatest assets – and a great draw to bring people to enjoy all that our beautiful state has to offer,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This funding will help eastern North Carolina increase tourism, improve quality of life, and introduce more people to our state’s natural beauty.”
“Trails bring incredible benefits to both urban and rural communities, boosting tourism and economic development,” said Pamela B. Cashwell, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. “This generous funding, made possible by the N.C. General Assembly, will help transform the state trails system in the Great Trails State.”
The Great Trails State Program was established through the General Assembly in 2023, representing a historic investment of $25 million in North Carolina trails. The program offers matching grants to North Carolina local governments, public authorities, NC Regional Councils of Government, and nonprofit organizations.
These awards include projects at more than 70 local trails throughout the state, helping to solidify North Carolina as the Great Trails State. In eastern North Carolina, 10 local trail projects will benefit from $2,634,785 in Great Trails State Program funding, including designing the South Croatan Highway, reconstruction at Greenfield Park in Wilmington, and enhancing and expanding trails and boardwalks throughout the region. Last week, Governor Stein announced $11 million in funding to create and restore western North Carolina trails.
“The 125 member organizations of the Great Trails State Coalition thank the North Carolina General Assembly for creating and funding the Great Trails State Program,” said Palmer McIntyre, director of the N.C. Great Trails State Coalition. “This visionary investment in all types of trails across the state will deliver transformative economic, health, and quality-of-life benefits for communities of all sizes. The Coalition will continue to work alongside N.C. State Parks to support this program.”
Local communities applied for grants to fund new trail development or to extend existing trails. This includes paved trails or greenways, natural surface trails, biking trails, equestrian trails, and any other type of trail the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources recognizes. Projects could include planning and feasibility studies, design and engineering, acquisition of lands for trail development, trail construction, and maintenance of existing trails. Applicants were required to provide matching funds, based on their county tier designation. The N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation received 89 applications requesting $28 million, and 79 projects were selected. More than $44.5 million was provided in matching funds for a total trail investment exceeding $69.3 million.
Eastern North Carolina grant recipients and amounts:
Source: US State of Rhode Island
Tonight, Wednesday, July 23, starting at 9 p.m., the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) will close Exit 10 (Route 146A) off Route 146 North in North Smithfield to set up a new traffic pattern. Effective Thursday morning, July 24, at 6 a.m., motorists will encounter a shift to the right in travel lanes on Route 146 North, close to its intersection with Route 146A. This is the final traffic shift for northbound traffic at this bridge, which is being rebuilt as part of the larger Route 146 project.
At the same time the traffic lanes are shifted, RIDOT will open a new ramp it has built to provide connection from Route 146A South to Route 146 North. This ramp provides a more direct and safer connection between these two roads compared to the old configuration.
RIDOT’s ongoing Route 146 project will replace multiple bridges, repave 8 miles of road and eliminate congestion at the intersection of Sayles Hill Road and Route 146 with the construction of a new flyover bridge. Approximately 171,000 vehicles use Route 146 daily.
All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings, and weather.
The Route 146 project is made possible by RhodeWorks. RIDOT is committed to bringing Rhode Island’s infrastructure into a state of good repair while respecting the environment and striving to improve it. Learn more at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA
On 19 June 2025, Japan provided the IAEA with a copy of a report on the discharge record and the seawater monitoring results at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station during December, which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent to all international Missions in Japan.
The report contains information on discharges from the subdrain and groundwater drain systems, as well as on groundwater bypassing conducted during the month of December. In both cases, in advance of the action, TEPCO analyzes the quality of the groundwater to be discharged and announces the results. These results confirm that the radiation level of sampled water are substantially below the operational targets set by TEPCO.
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA
On 19 June 2025, Japan provided the IAEA with a copy of a report on the discharge record and the seawater monitoring results at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station during December, which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent to all international Missions in Japan.
The report contains information on discharges from the subdrain and groundwater drain systems, as well as on groundwater bypassing conducted during the month of December. In both cases, in advance of the action, TEPCO analyzes the quality of the groundwater to be discharged and announces the results. These results confirm that the radiation level of sampled water are substantially below the operational targets set by TEPCO.
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA
On 19 June 2025, Japan provided the IAEA with a copy of a report on the discharge record and the seawater monitoring results at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station during February, which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sent to all international Missions in Japan.
The report contains information on discharges from the subdrain and groundwater drain systems, as well as on groundwater bypassing conducted during the month of February. In both cases, in advance of the action, TEPCO analyzes the quality of the groundwater to be discharged and announces the results. These results confirm that the radiation level of sampled water are substantially below the operational targets set by TEPCO.