Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
MISAWA AIR BASE, AOMORI, Japan — U.S. Air Force Capt. Ethan “Bantam” Smith slams the engine throttle to maximum, creating 29,000 lbs. of thrust that launches the F-16 Fighting Falcon down the runway at over 150 mph before lifting off and immediately banking hard into a figure eight turn. Low pressure air ripping away from the fuselage condenses the late Spring humidity into an iconic pair of white vapor cones engulfing the sides of the jet.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
At the 2025 Lijiang River Literary Award ceremony in south China’s Guilin City, Liu Chuxin, a research assistant at the Hubei Academy of Social Sciences, stood on stage, clutching the trophy for his novel “Ni Tan,” or literally “Mud Pit.” His voice cracked with emotion.
Han Song, Chinese journalist and famous sci-fi writer, speaks at the opening forum for 2014 Xingyun (Nebula) Award for Global Chinese Science Fiction in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 1, 2014. (Xinhua/Li Yibo)
As he recounted the personal tale of his 20-year literary journey, he spoke of his late girlfriend, who had died of cancer. She left him a final letter — an aching plea to turn his grief into a masterpiece. He shared something she had once said to him: “In life, we experience many pains, but when we look back, they are all legends.” Her memory and his words resonated with the audience.
The young writer’s emotional speech was not merely a celebration of a personal success born of pain, but perhaps also, unknowingly, a reflection of a profound shift underway in the world of creation. His story, rooted in grief and human experience, stood in quiet contrast to the emotionless output of artificial intelligence — a force that, despite feeling no joy, sorrow, or loss, is now seemingly beginning to out-write, out-create, and out-imagine human beings.
A month before this speech, another literary figure, the famed science fiction author Liu Cixin, shared his own disquiet at the pace of AI’s creative advancements.
Speaking at a reading promotion event in April 2025, Liu, whose “Three-Body Problem” trilogy has become a global sci-fi phenomenon, admitted that his creative spark had waned in recent years. He confessed, “The inspiration and drive to write that once surged within me are becoming increasingly rare.” For Liu, who has been lauded for his visionary worlds, this sense of creative stagnation was no abstract worry — it was profoundly felt. “The bottleneck I face now is a constant,” he said. “It’s like searching for meteorites in the vast, barren Gobi Desert — I simply can’t find the kind of inspiration that once excited and moved me.”
But perhaps the most disconcerting moment in Liu’s reflection came when he turned to the AI model DeepSeek to continue a chapter of a novel he had written. The result left him shaken: “What it produced was far better than what I could have written myself,” Liu confessed. The revelation left him with a deep sense of loss. As AI improved its capacity to mimic and even enhance human creativity, Liu was left to ponder whether his role as a writer, one of the most coveted in the literary world, might soon be usurped by a machine.
A conversation about the future of human creativity is taking place across China, not only among writers like Liu Cixin but also among artists, thinkers and scientists. Could AI, now advancing at breakneck speed, become the superior creative force, a challenge not just to the craftsmanship of individual writers, but to the very notion of creativity itself?
Han Song, another acclaimed science fiction author, offered his own perspective on the rise of AI in writing. “AI opens up new possibilities for collaboration,” Han told Xinhua. “It can provide insights, spark ideas, and even suggest solutions that may not occur to human minds. But at the same time, there are elements of human creativity — our lived experiences, our ability to intuit, to draw from the depths of emotion — that AI cannot replicate. Not yet.”
In Han’s view, creativity is tied to human consciousness and emotional fluctuation — something that remains far from being resolved in the field of computing. “AI operates within the boundaries of what algorithms can exhaust,” he explained, “but creativity often arises from the mysterious workings of human awareness.”
Rather than replacing writers, Han suggested that AI could serve as a creative partner — one that can augment, but not replace human creativity.
He pointed to the potential for AI to push the boundaries of science fiction and create ideas that challenge even the best minds. “AI models can analyze vast amounts of data and uncover connections that would take humans years to discover,” Han noted. “They can generate speculative ideas that are groundbreaking, bringing fresh approaches to old problems.” In the future, he added, writing science fiction without the assistance of AI models may simply no longer be viable.
However, some others are less sanguine about AI’s growing role in the world of creativity. Yu Baimei, a director and screenwriter, expressed concerns about the future of human art in the wake of AI’s advancements. At the 2025 Beijing International Film Festival, Yu argued that AI’s ability to digitally map creativity was both exhilarating and terrifying. He contended that AI would eventually learn and replicate not just technical skills but the very essence of human creativity, surpassing the limits of human imagination.
Yu highlighted the mathematical and algorithmic foundations of AI’s learning process. “AI can analyze, simulate and recreate the patterns in human creative works that we, as humans, might never even notice,” he said. “In the future, its creativity could overwhelm humanity, not in the sense of destroying us, but in the sense of rendering our artistic endeavors obsolete.”
Indeed, as AI models continue to evolve, they bring us closer to a future where human creativity is not only complemented by machines but, in some cases, overshadowed. Liu Cixin’s statement about feeling “displaced” by AI’s creations speaks to a deep existential fear that many artists now face: that the very nature of art — rooted in personal experience, imperfection and the mysterious processes of the human mind — could be lost in the march of technological progress.
But there is another side to this argument. Just as the advent of photography, cinema and digital media did not render traditional art forms obsolete, some believe that AI will not diminish the value of human creativity, but rather push it to evolve in unforeseen ways.
Whether AI will ever surpass human creativity entirely is still a matter of speculation. But one thing seems clear: the relationship between art and technology is entering new, uncharted territory. As AI’s capabilities continue to grow, writers, artists and creators of all kinds must grapple with the challenge of defining their place in a world where the boundaries between human and machine creativity are becoming increasingly blurred.
Liu Cixin, for one, remains hopeful. Despite his frustration with his own creative limitations, he expressed a curious sense of gratitude towards AI. “At first, I didn’t pay much attention to AI, but now I find myself emotionally connected to it,” he said. “Due to the biological nature of the human brain, there are certain cognitive limits that cannot be surpassed. However, AI may have the potential to break through those barriers.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
SFST promotes HK’s measures for integrating traditional and digital finance at Web Summit Vancouver
The Web Summit, a mega event for the tech sector, attracted over 10 000 tech investors, entrepreneurs and industry leaders across the world each time it is hosted. This is the first time the Summit has been held in Vancouver. Mr Hui engaged in a panel discussion session titled “Local to global: Strategies for tech success”, which was joined by the Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation of the Province of British Columbia, Canada, Ms Diana Gibson. They had an illuminating discussion on the various approaches taken in building dynamic fintech economies, ranging from developing talent, attracting investment to creating opportunities.
Mr Hui said that as one of the top three international financial centres and a leading international green finance hub, Hong Kong is pioneering the integration of traditional and digital finance with a view to strengthening its position as Asia’s gateway for financial innovation. The city is striving to accelerate green and sustainable finance and virtual asset development, with a view to making them key components of the diversified financial value chain. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has already commenced sandbox experimentation of Project Ensemble, which is a new wholesale central bank digital currency project to support the development of the tokenisation market in Hong Kong.
The fintech ecosystem is thriving in Hong Kong, with around 1 100 fintech companies and start-ups, including 10 licensed virtual asset trading platforms, eight digital banks and four virtual insurers. Pledged to continue playing a leading role in facilitating green and sustainable financing and investment for the global agenda of green transition, Hong Kong issued a policy statement last October to set out its policy stance and approach on the responsible application of artificial intelligence in the financial market. The Government also launched a roadmap last December to require publicly accountable entities (PAEs) to adopt the International Financial Reporting Standards – Sustainability Disclosure Standards (ISSB Standards) and to provide a well-defined pathway for large PAEs to fully adopt the ISSB Standards no later than 2028. This brings Hong Kong among the first jurisdictions to align its local requirements with ISSB Standards. As an initial step, the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited has already started to implement in phases new climate disclosure requirements to reflect the ISSB Standard No. 2: Climate-related Disclosures since this January.
Mr Hui also updated the Summit on the latest passage of legislation last week establishing a licensing regime for fiat-referenced stablecoins issuers in Hong Kong, as a way to further enhance Hong Kong’s regulatory framework on virtual asset activities for supporting the healthy, responsible and sustainable development of Hong Kong’s stablecoin and the broader digital asset ecosystem. Hong Kong is among the first batch of regions to have introduced stablecoin legislation and strives to fully implement the licensing regime within this year, with a view to approving the first batch of licences as soon as practicable.
Looking forward, Hong Kong will soon promulgate a second policy statement on the development of virtual assets to explore the convergence of traditional finance and virtual assets. A consultation on the licensing regimes for virtual asset over-the-counter trading services and custodian services will also be conducted within this year.
During his stay at the Summit, Mr Hui visited exhibition booths manned by Hong Kong delegates. He was pleased to learn that the Hong Kong delegates received encouraging feedback over the past few days, reflecting the world-class standard of Hong Kong fintech talent and their appeal to investors.
In the afternoon, Mr Hui paid a courtesy call to the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Vancouver, Mr Yang Shu. Mr Yang said Hong Kong has always been a window of the country to the world and will continue to be. He encouraged Hong Kong to keep up with its work in deepening international exchanges and co-operation.
Before concluding his visit to Canada, Mr Hui visited Bank of Montreal and met with the Senior Vice President & Head, Mid-Market, Commercial Bank, Mr Andrew Hung, and Senior Vice President & Head, BC & Yukon, Mr Greg Vriend. He told them that in a world full of geopolitical uncertainties, Hong Kong’s financial market is emerging as a risk-off haven for investors and attracting more investments owing to its connectivity with the Mainland and the world at large, bringing greater prospects for the banking sector and different financial areas.
Mr Hui will return to Hong Kong in the early hours of May 31 (Vancouver time).
Issued at HKT 9:40
NNNN
Source: Government of Canada News
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Canada’s national poultry sectors have been responding to detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Canada since December 2021. Industry has been highly supportive of the CFIA in its response to HPAI, working collaboratively to implement control measures and protect animal health.
The CFIA has acted to minimize the risk of the virus spreading within Canadian flocks and to other animals. All avian influenza viruses, particularly H5 and H7 viruses, have the potential to infect mammals, including humans. Our disease response aims to protect public and animal health, minimize impacts on the domestic poultry industry, and the Canadian economy.
The CFIA’s response to highly pathogenic avian influenza in domestic poultry is based on an approach known as “stamping-out”, as defined by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Terrestrial Animal Health Code. Stamping-out is the internationally recognized standard and is a primary tool to manage the spread of HPAI and mitigate risks to animal and human health as well as enable international trade. It includes steps to eliminate the virus from an infected premises, including the humane depopulation and disposal of infected animals, and disinfection of premises.
There are ongoing risks to animal and human health and Canada’s export market access
Allowing a domestic poultry flock known to be exposed to HPAI to remain alive means a potential source of the virus persists. It increases the risk of reassortment or mutation of the virus, particularly with birds raised in open pasture where there is ongoing exposure to wildlife.
CFIA’s National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease (NCFAD) identified that the current HPAI infection in these ostriches is a novel reassortment not seen elsewhere in Canada. This assortment includes the D1.3 genotype, which has been associated with a human infection in a poultry worker in Ohio.
A human case of H5N1 in BC earlier this year required critical care, and an extended hospital stay for the patient, and there have been a number of human cases in the United States, including a fatality.
Stamping-out and primary control zones enable international trade as it allows Canada to contain outbreaks within a specific area, meet the requirements of zoning arrangements with trading partners, and permit Canada’s poultry industry to export from disease-free regions. Continued export market access supports Canadian families and poultry farmers whose livelihoods depend on maintaining international market access for $1.75 billion in exports.
Current status of the infected premise at Universal Ostrich Farm
Universal Ostrich Farm has not cooperated with the requirements set out under the Health of Animals Act including failure to report the initial cases of illness and deaths to the CFIA and failure to adhere to quarantine orders. Universal Ostrich Farm was issued two notices of violations with penalty, totaling $20,000.
The farm also failed to undertake appropriate biosecurity risk mitigation measures such as limiting wild bird access to the ostriches, controlling water flow from the quarantine zone to other parts of the farm, or improving fencing. These actions significantly increase the risk of disease transmission and reflect a disregard for regulatory compliance and animal health standards.
Universal Ostrich Farm has not substantiated their claims of scientific research. CFIA has not received any evidence of scientific research being done at the infected premises.
Research documentation was not provided during the review of their request for exemption from the disposal order based on unique genetics or during the judicial review process. Further, the current physical facilities at their location are not suitable for controlled research activities or trials.
On May 13, 2025, the Federal court dismissed both of Universal Ostrich Farm’s applications for judicial review. The interlocutory injunction pausing the implementation of the disposal order was also vacated.
Following the May 13 court ruling, the farm owners and supporters have been at the farm in an apparent attempt to prevent the CFIA from carrying out its operations at the infected premises. This has delayed a timely and appropriate response to the HPAI infected premises, resulting in ongoing health risks to animals and humans.
CFIA’s next steps at the infected premises
Given that the flock has had multiple laboratory-confirmed cases of H5N1 and the ongoing serious risks for animal and human health, and trade, the CFIA continues planning for humane depopulation with veterinary oversight at the infected premises.
The CFIA takes the responsibility to protect the health of animals and Canadians extremely seriously as we conduct these necessary disease control measures to protect public health and minimize the economic impact on Canada’s poultry industry.
For more detailed information on the CFIA’s continued response to HPAI at this infected premises, please visit our website.
Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL0
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 350
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
455 PM EDT Fri May 30 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of
District Of Columbia
Delaware
Central and Eastern Maryland
Central and Southern New Jersey
Southeast Pennsylvania
Northern and Eastern Virginia
Coastal Waters
* Effective this Friday afternoon from 455 PM until Midnight EDT.
* Primary threats include…
A couple tornadoes possible
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible
Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…Scattered thunderstorms are forecast to continue to
develop late this afternoon and continue through the evening as
storms progress from west to east across the Watch. A few
supercells are forecast with an attendant risk for a couple of
tornadoes, damaging gusts, and isolated large hail. Additional
thunderstorm bands may also pose a risk for damaging gusts before
all of this activity moves east of the coast.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 90 statute miles
east and west of a line from 50 miles east of South Hill VA to 30
miles northwest of Philadelphia PA. For a complete depiction of the
watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 347…WW 348…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 55 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 400. Mean
storm motion vector 23025.
…Smith
SEL0
URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 350
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
455 PM EDT Fri May 30 2025
The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a
* Tornado Watch for portions of
District Of Columbia
Delaware
Central and Eastern Maryland
Central and Southern New Jersey
Southeast Pennsylvania
Northern and Eastern Virginia
Coastal Waters
* Effective this Friday afternoon from 455 PM until Midnight EDT.
* Primary threats include…
A couple tornadoes possible
Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible
Isolated large hail events to 1.5 inches in diameter possible
SUMMARY…Scattered thunderstorms are forecast to continue to
develop late this afternoon and continue through the evening as
storms progress from west to east across the Watch. A few
supercells are forecast with an attendant risk for a couple of
tornadoes, damaging gusts, and isolated large hail. Additional
thunderstorm bands may also pose a risk for damaging gusts before
all of this activity moves east of the coast.
The tornado watch area is approximately along and 90 statute miles
east and west of a line from 50 miles east of South Hill VA to 30
miles northwest of Philadelphia PA. For a complete depiction of the
watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU0).
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
and possible warnings.
&&
OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 347…WW 348…
AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 1.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 55 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 400. Mean
storm motion vector 23025.
…Smith
Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW0
WW 350 TORNADO DC DE MD NJ PA VA CW 302055Z – 310400Z
AXIS..90 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
50E AVC/SOUTH HILL VA/ – 30NW PHL/PHILADELPHIA PA/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 80NM E/W /47WSW ORF – 25S ETX/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 400. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 23025.
LAT…LON 36687876 40157736 40157394 36687551
THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU0.
Watch 350 Status Report Messages:
STATUS REPORT #3 ON WW 350
VALID 302340Z – 310040Z
SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES RIGHT OF A LINE FROM 5 SSW AVC TO
20 SW RIC TO 35 NNW RIC TO 40 SW DCA TO 20 SSE MRB.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SEE MESOSCALE DISCUSSION 1051
..WENDT..05/30/25
ATTN…WFO…LWX…PHI…AKQ…CTP…
&&
STATUS REPORT FOR WT 350
SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS
DEC001-003-005-310040-
DE
. DELAWARE COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
KENT NEW CASTLE SUSSEX
$$
DCC001-310040-
DC
. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
$$
MDC003-005-009-011-013-015-017-019-021-025-027-029-031-033-035-
037-039-041-043-045-047-510-310040-
MD
. MARYLAND COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ANNE ARUNDEL BALTIMORE CALVERT
CAROLINE CARROLL CECIL
CHARLES DORCHESTER FREDERICK
HARFORD HOWARD KENT
MONTGOMERY PRINCE GEORGES QUEEN ANNE’S
ST. MARYS SOMERSET TALBOT
WASHINGTON WICOMICO WORCESTER
MARYLAND INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE
BALTIMORE CITY
$$
NJC001-005-007-009-011-015-021-025-029-033-310040-
NJ
. NEW JERSEY COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ATLANTIC BURLINGTON CAMDEN
CAPE MAY CUMBERLAND GLOUCESTER
MERCER MONMOUTH OCEAN
SALEM
$$
PAC001-017-029-045-071-091-101-133-310040-
PA
. PENNSYLVANIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ADAMS BUCKS CHESTER
DELAWARE LANCASTER MONTGOMERY
PHILADELPHIA YORK
$$
VAC001-013-025-033-036-041-053-057-059-073-081-085-087-093-095-
097-099-101-103-107-115-119-127-131-133-149-153-159-175-179-181-
183-193-199-510-550-570-595-600-610-620-630-650-670-683-685-700-
710-730-735-740-760-800-810-830-310040-
VA
. VIRGINIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ACCOMACK ARLINGTON BRUNSWICK
CAROLINE CHARLES CITY CHESTERFIELD
DINWIDDIE ESSEX FAIRFAX
GLOUCESTER GREENSVILLE HANOVER
HENRICO ISLE OF WIGHT JAMES CITY
KING AND QUEEN KING GEORGE KING WILLIAM
LANCASTER LOUDOUN MATHEWS
MIDDLESEX NEW KENT NORTHAMPTON
NORTHUMBERLAND PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE WILLIAM
RICHMOND SOUTHAMPTON STAFFORD
SURRY SUSSEX WESTMORELAND
YORK
VIRGINIA INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE
ALEXANDRIA CHESAPEAKE COLONIAL HEIGHTS
EMPORIA FAIRFAX FALLS CHURCH
FRANKLIN FREDERICKSBURG HAMPTON
HOPEWELL MANASSAS MANASSAS PARK
NEWPORT NEWS NORFOLK PETERSBURG
POQUOSON PORTSMOUTH RICHMOND
SUFFOLK VIRGINIA BEACH WILLIAMSBURG
$$
ANZ430-431-450-451-452-453-454-455-530-531-532-533-534-535-536-
537-538-539-540-541-542-543-630-631-632-634-635-636-637-638-650-
652-654-656-310040-
CW
. ADJACENT COASTAL WATERS INCLUDED ARE
DELAWARE BAY WATERS NORTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE
DELAWARE BAY WATERS SOUTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE
COASTAL WATERS FROM SANDY HOOK TO MANASQUAN INLET NJ OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM MANASQUAN INLET TO LITTLE EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM LITTLE EGG INLET TO GREAT EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM GREAT EGG INLET TO CAPE MAY NJ OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE MAY NJ TO CAPE HENLOPEN DE OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE HENLOPEN TO FENWICK ISLAND DE OUT 20 NM
CHESAPEAKE BAY NORTH OF POOLES ISLAND MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM POOLES ISLAND TO SANDY POINT MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SANDY POINT TO NORTH BEACH MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NORTH BEACH TO DRUM POINT MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM DRUM POINT MD TO SMITH POINT VA
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM KEY BRIDGE TO INDIAN HEAD MD
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM INDIAN HEAD TO COBB ISLAND MD
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM COBB ISLAND MD TO SMITH POINT VA
PATAPSCO RIVER INCLUDING BALTIMORE HARBOR
CHESTER RIVER TO QUEENSTOWN MD
EASTERN BAY
CHOPTANK RIVER TO CAMBRIDGE MD AND THE LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER
PATUXENT RIVER TO BROOMES ISLAND MD
TANGIER SOUND AND THE INLAND WATERS SURROUNDING BLOODSWORTH
ISLAND
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SMITH POINT TO WINDMILL POINT VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM WINDMILL POINT TO NEW POINT COMFORT VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NEW POINT COMFORT TO LITTLE CREEK VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM LITTLE CREEK VA TO CAPE HENRY VA INCLUDING
THE CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE TUNNEL
RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER FROM URBANNA TO WINDMILL POINT
YORK RIVER
JAMES RIVER FROM JAMESTOWN TO THE JAMES RIVER BRIDGE
JAMES RIVER FROM JAMES RIVER BRIDGE TO HAMPTON ROADS
BRIDGE-TUNNEL
COASTAL WATERS FROM FENWICK ISLAND DE TO CHINCOTEAGUE VA OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CHINCOTEAGUE TO PARRAMORE ISLAND VA OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM PARRAMORE ISLAND TO CAPE CHARLES LIGHT VA OUT
20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE CHARLES LIGHT TO VIRGINIA-NORTH CAROLINA
BORDER OUT TO 20 NM
$$
THE WATCH STATUS MESSAGE IS FOR GUIDANCE PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE
REFER TO WATCH COUNTY NOTIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR OFFICIAL
INFORMATION ON COUNTIES…INDEPENDENT CITIES AND MARINE ZONES
CLEARED FROM SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AND TORNADO WATCHES.
$$
STATUS REPORT #2 ON WW 350
VALID 302255Z – 302340Z
SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES RIGHT OF A LINE FROM 30 ENE DAN
TO 35 N AVC TO 30 ESE CHO TO 25 NNE CHO.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SEE MESOSCALE DISCUSSION 1049
..WENDT..05/30/25
ATTN…WFO…LWX…PHI…AKQ…CTP…
&&
STATUS REPORT FOR WT 350
SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS
DEC001-003-005-302340-
DE
. DELAWARE COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
KENT NEW CASTLE SUSSEX
$$
DCC001-302340-
DC
. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
$$
MDC003-005-009-011-013-015-017-019-021-025-027-029-031-033-035-
037-039-041-043-045-047-510-302340-
MD
. MARYLAND COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ANNE ARUNDEL BALTIMORE CALVERT
CAROLINE CARROLL CECIL
CHARLES DORCHESTER FREDERICK
HARFORD HOWARD KENT
MONTGOMERY PRINCE GEORGES QUEEN ANNE’S
ST. MARYS SOMERSET TALBOT
WASHINGTON WICOMICO WORCESTER
MARYLAND INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE
BALTIMORE CITY
$$
NJC001-005-007-009-011-015-021-025-029-033-302340-
NJ
. NEW JERSEY COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ATLANTIC BURLINGTON CAMDEN
CAPE MAY CUMBERLAND GLOUCESTER
MERCER MONMOUTH OCEAN
SALEM
$$
PAC001-017-029-045-071-091-101-133-302340-
PA
. PENNSYLVANIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ADAMS BUCKS CHESTER
DELAWARE LANCASTER MONTGOMERY
PHILADELPHIA YORK
$$
VAC001-013-025-033-036-041-047-053-057-059-061-073-075-081-085-
087-093-095-097-099-101-103-107-109-115-117-119-127-131-133-135-
137-145-149-153-159-175-177-179-181-183-193-199-510-550-570-595-
600-610-620-630-650-670-683-685-700-710-730-735-740-760-800-810-
830-302340-
VA
. VIRGINIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ACCOMACK ARLINGTON BRUNSWICK
CAROLINE CHARLES CITY CHESTERFIELD
CULPEPER DINWIDDIE ESSEX
FAIRFAX FAUQUIER GLOUCESTER
GOOCHLAND GREENSVILLE HANOVER
HENRICO ISLE OF WIGHT JAMES CITY
KING AND QUEEN KING GEORGE KING WILLIAM
LANCASTER LOUDOUN LOUISA
MATHEWS MECKLENBURG MIDDLESEX
NEW KENT NORTHAMPTON NORTHUMBERLAND
NOTTOWAY ORANGE POWHATAN
PRINCE GEORGE PRINCE WILLIAM RICHMOND
SOUTHAMPTON SPOTSYLVANIA STAFFORD
SURRY SUSSEX WESTMORELAND
YORK
VIRGINIA INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE
ALEXANDRIA CHESAPEAKE COLONIAL HEIGHTS
EMPORIA FAIRFAX FALLS CHURCH
FRANKLIN FREDERICKSBURG HAMPTON
HOPEWELL MANASSAS MANASSAS PARK
NEWPORT NEWS NORFOLK PETERSBURG
POQUOSON PORTSMOUTH RICHMOND
SUFFOLK VIRGINIA BEACH WILLIAMSBURG
$$
ANZ430-431-450-451-452-453-454-455-530-531-532-533-534-535-536-
537-538-539-540-541-542-543-630-631-632-634-635-636-637-638-650-
652-654-656-302340-
CW
. ADJACENT COASTAL WATERS INCLUDED ARE
DELAWARE BAY WATERS NORTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE
DELAWARE BAY WATERS SOUTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE
COASTAL WATERS FROM SANDY HOOK TO MANASQUAN INLET NJ OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM MANASQUAN INLET TO LITTLE EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM LITTLE EGG INLET TO GREAT EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM GREAT EGG INLET TO CAPE MAY NJ OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE MAY NJ TO CAPE HENLOPEN DE OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE HENLOPEN TO FENWICK ISLAND DE OUT 20 NM
CHESAPEAKE BAY NORTH OF POOLES ISLAND MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM POOLES ISLAND TO SANDY POINT MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SANDY POINT TO NORTH BEACH MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NORTH BEACH TO DRUM POINT MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM DRUM POINT MD TO SMITH POINT VA
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM KEY BRIDGE TO INDIAN HEAD MD
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM INDIAN HEAD TO COBB ISLAND MD
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM COBB ISLAND MD TO SMITH POINT VA
PATAPSCO RIVER INCLUDING BALTIMORE HARBOR
CHESTER RIVER TO QUEENSTOWN MD
EASTERN BAY
CHOPTANK RIVER TO CAMBRIDGE MD AND THE LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER
PATUXENT RIVER TO BROOMES ISLAND MD
TANGIER SOUND AND THE INLAND WATERS SURROUNDING BLOODSWORTH
ISLAND
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SMITH POINT TO WINDMILL POINT VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM WINDMILL POINT TO NEW POINT COMFORT VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NEW POINT COMFORT TO LITTLE CREEK VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM LITTLE CREEK VA TO CAPE HENRY VA INCLUDING
THE CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE TUNNEL
RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER FROM URBANNA TO WINDMILL POINT
YORK RIVER
JAMES RIVER FROM JAMESTOWN TO THE JAMES RIVER BRIDGE
JAMES RIVER FROM JAMES RIVER BRIDGE TO HAMPTON ROADS
BRIDGE-TUNNEL
COASTAL WATERS FROM FENWICK ISLAND DE TO CHINCOTEAGUE VA OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CHINCOTEAGUE TO PARRAMORE ISLAND VA OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM PARRAMORE ISLAND TO CAPE CHARLES LIGHT VA OUT
20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE CHARLES LIGHT TO VIRGINIA-NORTH CAROLINA
BORDER OUT TO 20 NM
$$
THE WATCH STATUS MESSAGE IS FOR GUIDANCE PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE
REFER TO WATCH COUNTY NOTIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR OFFICIAL
INFORMATION ON COUNTIES…INDEPENDENT CITIES AND MARINE ZONES
CLEARED FROM SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AND TORNADO WATCHES.
$$
STATUS REPORT #1 ON WW 350
VALID 302140Z – 302240Z
THE SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES ACROSS THE ENTIRE WATCH AREA.
..WENDT..05/30/25
ATTN…WFO…LWX…PHI…AKQ…CTP…
&&
STATUS REPORT FOR WT 350
SEVERE WEATHER THREAT CONTINUES FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS
DEC001-003-005-302240-
DE
. DELAWARE COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
KENT NEW CASTLE SUSSEX
$$
DCC001-302240-
DC
. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
$$
MDC003-005-009-011-013-015-017-019-021-025-027-029-031-033-035-
037-039-041-043-045-047-510-302240-
MD
. MARYLAND COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ANNE ARUNDEL BALTIMORE CALVERT
CAROLINE CARROLL CECIL
CHARLES DORCHESTER FREDERICK
HARFORD HOWARD KENT
MONTGOMERY PRINCE GEORGES QUEEN ANNE’S
ST. MARYS SOMERSET TALBOT
WASHINGTON WICOMICO WORCESTER
MARYLAND INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE
BALTIMORE CITY
$$
NJC001-005-007-009-011-015-021-025-029-033-302240-
NJ
. NEW JERSEY COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ATLANTIC BURLINGTON CAMDEN
CAPE MAY CUMBERLAND GLOUCESTER
MERCER MONMOUTH OCEAN
SALEM
$$
PAC001-017-029-045-071-091-101-133-302240-
PA
. PENNSYLVANIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ADAMS BUCKS CHESTER
DELAWARE LANCASTER MONTGOMERY
PHILADELPHIA YORK
$$
VAC001-007-013-025-033-036-041-047-049-053-057-059-061-065-073-
075-081-085-087-093-095-097-099-101-103-107-109-111-115-117-119-
127-131-133-135-137-145-147-149-153-159-175-177-179-181-183-193-
199-510-550-570-595-600-610-620-630-650-670-683-685-700-710-730-
735-740-760-800-810-830-302240-
VA
. VIRGINIA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE
ACCOMACK AMELIA ARLINGTON
BRUNSWICK CAROLINE CHARLES CITY
CHESTERFIELD CULPEPER CUMBERLAND
DINWIDDIE ESSEX FAIRFAX
FAUQUIER FLUVANNA GLOUCESTER
GOOCHLAND GREENSVILLE HANOVER
HENRICO ISLE OF WIGHT JAMES CITY
KING AND QUEEN KING GEORGE KING WILLIAM
LANCASTER LOUDOUN LOUISA
LUNENBURG MATHEWS MECKLENBURG
MIDDLESEX NEW KENT NORTHAMPTON
NORTHUMBERLAND NOTTOWAY ORANGE
POWHATAN PRINCE EDWARD PRINCE GEORGE
PRINCE WILLIAM RICHMOND SOUTHAMPTON
SPOTSYLVANIA STAFFORD SURRY
SUSSEX WESTMORELAND YORK
VIRGINIA INDEPENDENT CITIES INCLUDED ARE
ALEXANDRIA CHESAPEAKE COLONIAL HEIGHTS
EMPORIA FAIRFAX FALLS CHURCH
FRANKLIN FREDERICKSBURG HAMPTON
HOPEWELL MANASSAS MANASSAS PARK
NEWPORT NEWS NORFOLK PETERSBURG
POQUOSON PORTSMOUTH RICHMOND
SUFFOLK VIRGINIA BEACH WILLIAMSBURG
$$
ANZ430-431-450-451-452-453-454-455-530-531-532-533-534-535-536-
537-538-539-540-541-542-543-630-631-632-634-635-636-637-638-650-
652-654-656-302240-
CW
. ADJACENT COASTAL WATERS INCLUDED ARE
DELAWARE BAY WATERS NORTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE
DELAWARE BAY WATERS SOUTH OF EAST POINT NJ TO SLAUGHTER BEACH DE
COASTAL WATERS FROM SANDY HOOK TO MANASQUAN INLET NJ OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM MANASQUAN INLET TO LITTLE EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM LITTLE EGG INLET TO GREAT EGG INLET NJ OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM GREAT EGG INLET TO CAPE MAY NJ OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE MAY NJ TO CAPE HENLOPEN DE OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE HENLOPEN TO FENWICK ISLAND DE OUT 20 NM
CHESAPEAKE BAY NORTH OF POOLES ISLAND MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM POOLES ISLAND TO SANDY POINT MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SANDY POINT TO NORTH BEACH MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NORTH BEACH TO DRUM POINT MD
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM DRUM POINT MD TO SMITH POINT VA
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM KEY BRIDGE TO INDIAN HEAD MD
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM INDIAN HEAD TO COBB ISLAND MD
TIDAL POTOMAC FROM COBB ISLAND MD TO SMITH POINT VA
PATAPSCO RIVER INCLUDING BALTIMORE HARBOR
CHESTER RIVER TO QUEENSTOWN MD
EASTERN BAY
CHOPTANK RIVER TO CAMBRIDGE MD AND THE LITTLE CHOPTANK RIVER
PATUXENT RIVER TO BROOMES ISLAND MD
TANGIER SOUND AND THE INLAND WATERS SURROUNDING BLOODSWORTH
ISLAND
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM SMITH POINT TO WINDMILL POINT VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM WINDMILL POINT TO NEW POINT COMFORT VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM NEW POINT COMFORT TO LITTLE CREEK VA
CHESAPEAKE BAY FROM LITTLE CREEK VA TO CAPE HENRY VA INCLUDING
THE CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE TUNNEL
RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER FROM URBANNA TO WINDMILL POINT
YORK RIVER
JAMES RIVER FROM JAMESTOWN TO THE JAMES RIVER BRIDGE
JAMES RIVER FROM JAMES RIVER BRIDGE TO HAMPTON ROADS
BRIDGE-TUNNEL
COASTAL WATERS FROM FENWICK ISLAND DE TO CHINCOTEAGUE VA OUT 20
NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CHINCOTEAGUE TO PARRAMORE ISLAND VA OUT 20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM PARRAMORE ISLAND TO CAPE CHARLES LIGHT VA OUT
20 NM
COASTAL WATERS FROM CAPE CHARLES LIGHT TO VIRGINIA-NORTH CAROLINA
BORDER OUT TO 20 NM
$$
THE WATCH STATUS MESSAGE IS FOR GUIDANCE PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE
REFER TO WATCH COUNTY NOTIFICATION STATEMENTS FOR OFFICIAL
INFORMATION ON COUNTIES…INDEPENDENT CITIES AND MARINE ZONES
CLEARED FROM SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AND TORNADO WATCHES.
$$
Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes
Probability of 2 or more tornadoes
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes
Low (20%)
Wind
Probability of 10 or more severe wind events
Mod (40%)
Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots
Low (20%)
Hail
Probability of 10 or more severe hail events
Low (20%)
Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches
Low (20%)
Combined Severe Hail/Wind
Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events
Mod (60%)
For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
VANCOUVER, BC, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eat & Beyond Global Holdings Inc. (CSE: EATS) (OTCPK: EATBF) (FSE: 988) (“Eat & Beyond” or the “Company”), is pleased to announce that it is proposing a name change and an expansion of its Investment Policy to reflect a change in strategic focus.
Proposed Name Change
Subject to shareholder approval, the Company intends to change its name from “Eat & Beyond Global Holdings Inc.” to “Digital Asset Technologies Inc.”. The proposed name change is intended to represent the Company’s forward-looking focus on emerging digital and blockchain technologies, while maintaining its core mission of investing in innovative and impactful businesses.
Concurrently with the completion of the proposed name change, the Company’s trading symbol on the Canadian Securities Exchange is expected to change to “DATT”. Further details regarding the name change – including the effective date, new CUSIP and ISIN numbers for the Company’s common shares, and the date on which trading will begin under the new ticker symbol – will be provided in a subsequent news release.
“The proposed name change marks a meaningful step in the Company’s continued evolution,” said Young Bann, CEO of Eat & Beyond. “The proposed transition to Digital Asset Technologies Inc. reflects our expanded focus on digital innovation, including blockchain technologies and responsible AI solutions. We believe this new identity better represents the direction of the Company and our broader investment objectives.“
The Company believes that the new name aligns with its updated Investment Policy and long-term strategy to build a diversified portfolio of companies operating at the forefront of emerging technologies. While the Company will continue to support its legacy investments in the food tech and sustainability sectors, it is now placing increased emphasis on opportunities in blockchain infrastructure, asset tokenization, and ethically grounded AI applications.
Updates to Investment Policy
The Company has historically focused on investments in the food technology and sustainability sectors. These investments form a key part of the Company’s foundation and will remain in place going forward.
To complement its existing portfolio, the Company pleased to announce that it has amended and updated its Investment Policy to include a focus on blockchain and related technologies. This includes investments in:
The Company’s updated investment strategy focuses on supporting ventures that advance innovation in AI, Blockchain, Web3, Fintech, and the broader Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sectors. It aims to invest in technologies that demonstrate solid technical foundations, adhere to ethical practices, incorporate user-focused design, and offer potential long-term societal benefits. The Company intends to support solutions that contribute to the development of digital infrastructure, financial systems, decentralized platforms, and intelligent technologies.
The Company is committed to identifying ventures that combine technological advancement with practical, real-world impact. The Company targets both early-stage and growth-stage investments and seeks to provide the capital and strategic support needed for these companies to succeed in a rapidly changing technology landscape.
To view the Company’s updated Investment Policy, please visit its website at www.eatandbeyond.com.
The proposed name change and amended Investment Policy are subject to approval by the Canadian Securities Exchange and the Company’s shareholders.
About Eat & Beyond
Eat & Beyond (CSE: EATS) is a publicly traded investment issuer that identifies and makes equity investments in global companies that are developing and commercializing innovative food tech, sustainability and technology. Led by a team of industry experts, Eat & Beyond provides retail investors with the unique opportunity to participate in the growth of a broad cross-section of opportunities in the alternative food, sustainability and technology sectors. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Liquidlink AI Corp., the Company has entered the blockchain technology sector with a focus on real-world asset tokenization, decentralized infrastructure, and advanced trading analytics.
Learn more: www.eatandbeyond.com
The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
For further information: For further information, please contact Young Bann, CEO, young@purposeesg.com.
Cautionary Note regarding Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as, “subject to”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s business strategy, current and future investments, the proposed name change, the updated Investment Policy, and the Company’s ability to obtain the necessary shareholder and regulatory approvals in connection with the proposed name change and updated Investment Policy. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, but the actual results may be materially different from any future expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements can be affected by known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, but not limited to, the equity markets generally and a failure to obtain the necessary approvals from the Canadian Securities Exchange. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Joined by Parliamentary Secretary Chantelle de Jonge, the delegation will showcase Alberta’s position as a leader in responsible energy development in Washington, D.C.
While in the U.S. capital from June 2-7, Alberta’s delegations will meet with industry leaders, technology innovators and American government officials to advance partnerships and lay the foundation for advancing North American energy dominance and alleviating global energy poverty.
They will leverage their attendance at the Energy Council’s 2025 Federal Energy and Environmental Matters Conference, the U.S. Energy Streams 10th Washington Energy Forum and the S&P Global Oil Sands Dialogue to support Alberta in becoming a major global energy supplier.
This mission comes at an important time in Alberta’s relationship with the U.S., as we work to broaden our trade partnerships globally and navigate complex geopolitical environments.
“While Alberta seeks to enter new global markets, we know that the U.S. remains our largest trading partner, and we believe that through advocacy – this important relationship can and will be maintained. Alberta’s energy future is unstoppable and has a key role to play in helping the U.S. meet its growing energy needs and global energy dominance ambition in a secure and reliable way unmatched by any other energy partner.”
“The world needs more of Alberta’s oil, gas and minerals to meet ever evolving energy needs and reduce reliance on products from conflict zones. Alberta can play a crucial role in advancing North American energy dominance and we will work on the partnerships that will lead to a secure energy future.”
“Alberta’s competitive electricity market and business-friendly environment make our province a destination of choice for investors and a leader in innovative technologies. I am proud to carry that message to our partners south of the border as we continue to build our energy future.”
“Alberta is a global leader in responsible energy development. I look forward to working with our U.S. partners to advance new opportunities in our energy sector that will reap benefits on both sides of the border.”
This mission builds on the success of CERAWeek in March and is part of Alberta’s continued efforts to promote our vast resource base and responsible energy sector and increase market access for the province’s ethically produced energy, both traditional and emerging.
Trip expenses for elected officials and staff will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.
Alberta’s government is committed to working with national and international partners to advance shared interests that can lead to new opportunities for people and businesses in Alberta and around the world. By working with industry, researchers and other governments, Alberta is implementing its Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan and offering a business-friendly environment primed for investment and growth.
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Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)
Washington, D.C. – 5/30/25… This week, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, concluded a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Jordan, where he and fellow House Foreign Affairs Committee members engaged with regional leaders to advance shared interests, address ongoing challenges, and reinforce America’s commitment to peace in the Middle East.
With Iran continuing to actively fund terror proxies and pursue a nuclear weapons program, the delegation placed a strong emphasis on deepening security coordination with key U.S. allies. In particular, the group explored emerging diplomatic opportunities in Syria and Lebanon, two countries where Iran’s malign influence has waned and where strategic engagement could help foster long-term stability.
Conversations also centered on defeating Hamas, securing the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, and ensuring humanitarian aid reaches Palestinian civilians directly, without interference from Hamas. The CODEL built on the momentum of President Trump’s recent visit to the region and explored new opportunities for economic cooperation and investment, especially in AI and emerging technologies across Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states.
Joining Congressman Lawler on the delegation were Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Ranking Member of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, and Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), Chairman Emeritus of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
In Saudi Arabia, the delegation held high-level meetings with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Adel Al-Jubeir, and engaged with leading U.S. defense and technology companies. They also met with Diriyah Gate Development Authority CEO Gerard “Jerry” J. Inzerillo and toured the UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif District in Diriyah, the historic capital of the first Saudi dynasty (1744-1818).
In Israel, the delegation met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, received briefings on U.S.-Israel missile defense coordination, and visited key religious and cultural sites, including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the City of David.
“Prime Minister Netanyahu’s determined leadership during this time of war has fundamentally shifted the security landscape of the Middle East and made it a safer place,” said Congressman Lawler. “The U.S.-Israel alliance remains ironclad as we pursue diplomatic solutions for lasting peace in the region.”
In Jordan, the delegation met with His Majesty King Abdullah II and senior cabinet officials to reinforce the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Jordan. Congressman Lawler also led a discussion with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Huneiti, as well as Jordan’s ministers of Economic Affairs, Investment, and Planning and International Cooperation.
The delegation also met with the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority to explore avenues for expansion in tourism, cultural preservation, and sustainable development.
“This CODEL served as a vital opportunity to strengthen our alliances, confront shared threats, and demonstrate bipartisan American leadership in support of our partners,” said Congressman Lawler. “As Chairman of the MENA Subcommittee, I remain committed to deepening U.S. engagement in the region and working with our partners to build a more secure, prosperous, and stable Middle East.”
“Amidst President Trump’s efforts to end the war in Gaza & secure normalization agreements, I was honored to visit several of our allies and partners in the Middle East. These nations will play pivotal roles in shaping the future of the region — a future defined by peace and prosperity. I am grateful to our friends in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the Kingdom of Jordan for welcoming us, and I look forward to our continued partnership with these regional leaders as we work toward greater peace and stability across the Middle East,” said Congressman McCaul.
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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Official Photos from the congressional delegation can be found HERE.
Source: US Whitehouse
AMERICAN JOBS, AMERICAN STEEL.
The landmark agreement comes alongside a host of companies from across industries that are onshoring their production and investing in American manufacturing as President Trump relentlessly pursues his America First trade policies.
Look no further than the automotive industry:
It’s not just the auto industry; scores of others are lining up to invest in America:
That doesn’t even include the U.S. investments planned by foreign countries:
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Previous news Next news
Dmitry Chernyshenko and Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov took part in the award ceremony for the finalists of the Professionals championship in Nizhny Novgorod
The final of the All-Russian Championship of Professional Skills “Professionals” in creative industries and information technology competencies has ended in Nizhny Novgorod. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov, and Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region Gleb Nikitin took part in the award ceremony.
Dmitry Chernyshenko read out a greeting from Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.
“Today, Nizhny Novgorod has become a center of attraction for talented young men and women from different Russian regions and foreign countries. At the unique site of the federal technology park, college, technical school and school students were able to demonstrate their skills and ability to solve problems of any complexity. Excellent preparation and strong character allowed you to get ahead of your rivals and prove that you are the best in your field. The all-Russian championship movement is growing in our country from year to year. Competitions give participants an impetus for personal and professional growth, help to reveal their abilities, implement bold plans and projects, and the performances are an example for many young people who want to work in the creative industries and information technology,” Mikhail Mishustin noted in his welcoming speech.
Dmitry Chernyshenko also congratulated the participants and wished them success in their endeavors and professional growth.
“Dear friends, I would like to send my personal wishes of happiness, goodness and gratitude to all participants. We had the opportunity to communicate with some of you in the wonderful space of the technology park, to see cool specialists, wonderful mentors, interested employers. Search, try, you will succeed, you are all definitely winners. The country is proud of you, you are the best, everyone will look up to you. Good luck!” – said the Deputy Prime Minister.
24 participants became winners in the main and junior standings, 48 participants became prize winners. In addition, winners and prize winners were announced in the international, industrial and team standings.
“Dear children, I would like to congratulate all the finalists and especially thank your parents, teachers and mentors. Today, thanks to them, you are in this room. Representatives of your future employers – large enterprises – are also present here. They watch and choose the best of the best. Today, secondary vocational education is developing, and it is in great demand. The President of Russia pays great attention to the training of workers. The “Professionality” project, organized on his instructions, has become a real driver of the development of our country’s economy,” said Sergey Kravtsov.
The head of the Ministry of Education emphasized that for the first time in Nizhny Novgorod the final of the Professionals championship is being held, he addressed words of gratitude to the team of the Nizhny Novgorod region for the brilliant organization of the event.
The final of the professional skills championship “Professionals” was held for a week in the Federal Technopark of Professional Education, created on the basis of the property complex “Nizhpoligraf” within the framework of the federal project “Professionalism” of the national project “Youth and Children”.
“I would like to express my admiration for the young people who have gathered in Nizhny Novgorod these days from all over the country. It is breathtaking what you can do in your fields at the age of fourteen, fifteen, sixteen. I wish you to dare, to conquer the whole world, to climb Everest with the flag of our state in your hands, to remain true Russians who love their country in any situation. Great achievements to you, interesting ideas, business startups! We will be rooting for you. A special source of pride for me is that Nizhny Novgorod is hosting the Professionals championship. This became possible thanks to the faith in our region on the part of the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation and Sergei Sergeevich Kravtsov. Many thanks to Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Nikolaevich Chernyshenko, whom I can rightfully call a friend of the Nizhny Novgorod Region. He oversees the Volga Federal District and actively promotes the development of our region,” said Gleb Nikitin.
In 2025, competitions were held in Nizhny Novgorod in 15 competencies, 10 of which were new for the final. The organizer of the championship is the Ministry of Education of Russia with the support of the Government of the Russian Federation.
In the main classification, college and technical school students (category “Main”), schoolchildren aged 14 and over (category “Juniors”) competed. Young specialists from specialized industries competed in the industrial classification, and representatives of foreign countries – in the international classification.
Among the 195 contestants are representatives of 46 regions of Russia and 6 friendly countries.
Over the course of three days, the competition was held in an individual format, and on the last day – for the first time in the history of the championship – in a team format.
More than 50 enterprises representing specialized industries became partners of the final.
The Professionals Championship is the largest event in the system of secondary vocational education, the list of competencies is formed in accordance with the demands of the real sector of the economy. In 2025, the championship final will be held in three cities. In Nizhny Novgorod – in creative industries and IT, in Kaluga – in industrial technology competencies, in St. Petersburg – in education and service competencies. Winners and prize-winners get the opportunity to undergo an internship with major employers in the industry with subsequent employment.
The championship final is held within the framework of the All-Russian championship movement in professional skills “Professionals”.
The events of the All-Russian Championship Movement for Professional Skills “Professionals” unite over 1 million people in all regions of the country. This is more than 300 thousand contestants, as well as expert mentors, chief experts, competency managers, industry representatives, participants in business and career guidance programs, volunteers. The championships serve as a platform for exchanging experience, broadcasting industry requests to the education system, and also a place for employers and young specialists to meet.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sergey Kravtsov and Gleb Nikitin also visited the Federal Technopark of Professional Education in Nizhny Novgorod, where the final of the All-Russian Championship in Professional Skills was held. The Technopark was created within the framework of the federal project “Professionalism” in accordance with the instructions of President Vladimir Putin. This is a joint project of the Ministry of Education and the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod Region.
The Deputy Prime Minister, the Minister and the Governor assessed the venues where the competitions are taking place, and they also talked to the finalists and experts of the championship. The guys shared their impressions of participating in the competitions, talked about their competencies and preparation for the finals.
It is planned that the Federal Technopark of Professional Education will become a center for advanced training of secondary vocational education teachers. As part of the creation of the technopark, premises for 21 laboratories have been prepared in three buildings (B1, B2 and D). In total, 43 equipped laboratories and workshops in more than 50 competencies in 9 priority industries are planned to be created on the territory of the Nizhpoligraf property complex.
In addition to the buildings of the Federal Technopark of Professional Education, the guests were presented with the general project of the Park of Masters “Nizhpoligraf”. In 2023, the property complex was transferred to regional ownership and gained a new life. The facades of the buildings, utilities and internal structures were updated, the territory was landscaped.
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.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Previous news Next news
Dmitry Chernyshenko’s working visit to Nizhny Novgorod. The Deputy Prime Minister spoke with students and teachers at the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School
During his working visit to the Nizhny Novgorod Region, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko visited a number of educational and scientific institutions.
In particular, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Education of Russia Sergey Kravtsov and Governor of Nizhny Novgorod Region Gleb Nikitin assessed the organization of the process of conducting the state final certification of schoolchildren. They visited one of the points where the Unified State Exam is held – at School No. 111 in Nizhny Novgorod, where the Russian language exam is being held for more than 200 children.
Dmitry Chernyshenko noted that the main stage of the Unified State Exam began on May 23 in all 89 regions of Russia and 55 foreign countries. Today, the Unified State Exam in Russian is taking place – this is the most massive exam, with more than 640 thousand people registered to take it on the main day.
During the trip, Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sergey Kravtsov and Gleb Nikitin assessed how the security point works and how security measures are organized at the exam point, and also watched the broadcast from other exam points in different regions. The school also demonstrated how work is organized at the headquarters of the exam point.
“The procedure for the Unified State Exam has been streamlined in our country over the years and is conducted at the highest level. All assignments are printed directly in the classroom and transmitted in encrypted form, which completely eliminates the possibility of leaks. This is a unique technology that has no analogues in any country in the world. It guarantees absolute transparency and objectivity of the exam, providing equal conditions for all graduates. This year, more than 700 thousand are taking the Unified State Exam. In general, the exam is held in the normal mode, we will do everything possible to ensure that schoolchildren receive their results as soon as possible,” said Sergey Kravtsov.
According to Gleb Nikitin, this year the region has organized 91 exam centers, which operate on the basis of educational organizations. The exam centers are equipped with video surveillance, metal detectors and mobile phone jammers. This is the most important condition for organizing high-quality and objective state final certification of school graduates.
In addition, Dmitry Chernyshenko, together with Governor Gleb Nikitin, visited the world-class IT campus “Neimark”, the Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N.I. Lobachevsky (NNSU) and the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School.
“A world-class inter-university campus is being created in Nizhny Novgorod, thanks to which new technologies will be developed. They will be aimed at achieving the national goal set by President Vladimir Putin – technological leadership, and will also be useful for the colleges of the federal project “Professionality”, – said Dmitry Chernyshenko.
The Deputy Prime Minister assessed the site where the first stage of the IT campus is currently being completed – 18 student hostels. The work is being carried out under the federal project “Creating a Network of Modern Campuses” of the national project “Youth and Children”. It is planned that the first guests of the new complex will be participants of the World Youth Festival, which will be held in Nizhny Novgorod from September 17 to 21, 2025 and will bring together young people from Russia and foreign countries. Students of the Neimark University will move into the buildings from October.
Dmitry Chernyshenko and Gleb Nikitin sealed time capsules with messages to future generations from the governments of the country and the region. In particular, they emphasized that the IT campus in Nizhny Novgorod is not just a complex of buildings or a university, but a growth point for new meanings and technologies. These capsules will be given to the builders, they will be laid in the foundation of one of the IT campus facilities under construction.
According to Gleb Nikitin, the Nizhny Novgorod Region is one of Russia’s IT centers. The region is home to offices of about 2,000 companies working in the field of information and information and communication technologies.
“The industry currently employs about 38 thousand people, and even taking into account such an impressive figure, there is a shortage of personnel. In this situation, the implementation of the Neimark IT campus project is of strategic importance to us. It is important that the Neimark University began its educational activities in advance, last year, under two programs. Starting this year, training will be conducted under five programs, which were developed jointly with leading universities of the Nizhny Novgorod Region,” said Gleb Nikitin.
At UNN, Dmitry Chernyshenko assessed the pilot production of ultra-pure materials for microelectronics. At Lobachevsky University in Nizhny Novgorod, they plan to implement a full production cycle for high-purity substances. The project “Development of technologies for obtaining ultra-pure substances for the needs of the microelectronic industry and low-tonnage chemistry” is being implemented within the framework of the Priority-2030 program. The university also continues to conduct developments within the framework of advanced engineering schools aimed at creating space communications systems, radar, as well as developing a new component base and materials for microelectronics.
The Deputy Prime Minister was told about the university’s advanced developments in the field of artificial intelligence, aimed at developing health-saving technologies, increasing life expectancy, improving cognitive health and active longevity, as well as about developments in the field of neuromorphic and quantum technologies of artificial and hybrid intelligence and their implementation in the real sector of the economy.
At the Nizhny Novgorod Automotive Technical School (NAMT), Dmitry Chernyshenko talked to students and teachers. In particular, the ambassadors of “Professionalitet” answered the questions of the Deputy Prime Minister and described how they help schoolchildren with career guidance. And student Violetta Chernutskaya spoke about her career choice and explained why girls should learn to work on a lathe.
Since 2022, NAMT has been the center of the educational and production cluster “Mechanical Engineering” within the framework of the federal project “Professionality” of the national project “Youth and Children”. Within the framework of the project, new educational laboratories in mechatronics and robotics, industrial automation, automated design of technological processes were created. In total, the cluster “Mechanical Engineering” covers over 1.3 thousand students of six educational institutions of the Nizhny Novgorod region. Students consolidate the knowledge gained in the workshops of “Professionality” at the production sites of the Gorky Automobile Plant under the guidance of experienced mentors during practice, master classes, and the preparation of real projects.
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.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
Published: May 30, 2025
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that eleven Maine airports will receive a total of $4,201,355 to support important infrastructure improvements. This funding comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Fiscal Year 2025 Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) program, made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Senator Collins was one of 10 senators who negotiated the IIJA, which provided $15 billion for airport improvements nationwide.
“Maine’s airports are vital pieces of our state’s transportation network that promote job creation and economic development. Throughout our state, airports play a critical role not only in carrying residents and visitors, but also in facilitating medical services for those in rural communities during emergencies when seconds count,” said Senator Collins. “These significant investments will allow airports across Maine to make much-needed improvements to their infrastructure, improving the safety and efficiency of their operations, while enhancing passengers’ overall experience.”
Specifically, the funding has been allocated as follows:
Auburn/Lewiston Municipal Airport (LEW) – $1,163,000 to support multiple improvements including construction of a new 11,800 square foot hangar for aircraft storage, a new general aviation apron, and a 900-foot hangar taxilane to improve airfield access and bring the airport in alignment with current aviation standards.
Eastern Slope Regional Airport (IZG) – $416,385 to update the airport’s master plan, which will guide future development.
Pittsfield Municipal Airport (2B7) – $268,294 to acquire a snowplow attachment and reseal 4,003 feet of runway pavement to extend its service life.
Dewitt Field/Old Town Municipal Airport (OLD) – $245,044 to reimburse the airport for construction of a portion of a new 9,000 square foot hangar completed in 2020 that is helping the airport generate additional revenue.
Sugarloaf Regional Airport (B21) – $237,500 to design rehabilitation plans for 2,797 feet of runway to extend its service life.
Augusta State Airport (AUG) – $213,750 to reconstruct airfield markings that have reached the end of their useful lives, improving safety for pilots and ground crews.
Princeton Municipal Airport (PNN) – $183,350 to design a new 4,225 square foot hangar that will support airport self-sufficiency through increased aviation activity.
Stephen A. Bean Municipal Airport (8B0) – $150,000 to reconstruct 3,444 square yards of existing terminal apron to extend its service life and construct new 750-foot taxilanes to improve airfield access.
Northern Aroostook Regional Airport (FVE) – $118,720 to acquire snow removal equipment, including a snow blower and plow blade, to improve winter operations.
Presque Isle International Airport (PQI) – $115,615 to acquire and install upgraded security equipment in accordance with federal regulations.
Lincoln Regional Airport (LRG) – $89,697 to acquire 0.7 acres of land, including an on-property building, for future development,
Since joining the Appropriations Committee in 2009, Senator Collins has helped to secure more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine.
Source: US State of Nebraska
. Pillen Signs Last of Bills to Protect Children Online
LINCOLN, NE – A package of bills aimed at protecting kids, and introduced on behalf of Governor Jim Pillen, are now law. He signed the last of the four bills, LB504, this morning. It helps protect the personal information of children who are online and gives parents the ability to monitor privacy and account settings. Three other bills were officially signed by the Governor last week. At today’s event, Gov. Pillen gave ceremonial copies of those bills to sponsoring senators and to Attorney General Mike Hilgers.
“We’re never going to give up on our kids. They are our future. Today marks a gigantic step in protecting our kids,” said Gov. Pillen. “Collectively all these bills have an incredible impact on helping our teachers and giving our schools the opportunity to teach our kids, instead of being disrupted in the classroom. They also provide parents with the tools they need to protect our kids from big tech online companies and predators.”
Senator Carolyn Bosn said the purpose of LB504 was not about moderating content, but rather, ensuring that design features were made less addictive to young users.
“We’re not going to wait for social media companies to do that anymore. We’re going to take matters into our own hands. Like the Governor said, we’re not going to give up on our kids and I think this piece of legislation really prioritizes kids and their experiences online.”
As part of the Age-Appropriate Online Design Code Act, online service providers can be assed civil penalties, if they commit a violation.
Senator Rita Sanders said similarly the intent of her bill (LB504), was not to ban phones outright, but limit their negative impact in the classroom. She cited success in the Bellevue School District after restrictions were implemented there. She said LB140 will do the same for other school systems across the state.
“It’s about giving local school districts the ability to limit distractions and create learning environments where students and teachers can thrive,” said Sen. Sanders. “The data is clear — according to PEW research, 72% of high school teachers say cell phones are a top distraction. Over half of school leaders report academic and mental health setbacks due to phone use. Studies show that cutting screen time can reduce anxiety and depression in teens by 40%.”
Under LB140, school boards are required to adopt policies regarding student use of smart phones. Exceptions can be made for emergencies, health situations, educational purposes, with permission by the school board or school employee and as part of an individualized education program. Requirements need to be implemented for the 2025-2026 school year.
LB383, sponsored on the Governor’s behalf by Senator Tanya Storer, creates the Parental Rights in Social Media Act. In part, that legislation requires that social media companies verify the age of users and minors must get parental consent before creating their accounts.
“I am honored to be a part of this transformational legislative reform package to protect the minds of our youth and empower parents with the tools to parent their children in the digital world the same way they are able to do in the physical world,” said Sen. Storer. “This is long overdue, and I am excited to see the positive impact this will have on the next generation. This is a major step in freeing our children from the claws of big tech and reversing the tragic trend of depression, anxiety and suicide we have seen in our youth.”
LB172, which was amended into LB383, tackles that issue of AI-generated pornography and creates criminal penalties for offenders. Bill introducer, Senator Brian Hardin, pointed to Nebraska’s leadership in creating protections – protections that have not yet been addressed at the federal level.
“Our grandparents and great-grandparents could never have envisioned the world that these leaders are bringing into locus. It takes forward leaning leadership to make this happen. We’re leading the way here in Nebraska.”
“The protections put into place with the passage of LB383 address the rapidly changing world which includes AI that can tragically be used to inflict harm on children through the production of generated child abuse material (CSAM),” added Attorney General Mike Hilgers. “I am grateful the Legislature recognized and addressed this threat with the passage of LB383.”
Noting that nothing was more important than putting kids first, Gov. Pillen offered his appreciation for the hard work undertaken by lawmakers to get all four bills passed in the current legislative session.
“These folks stood up to a lot of big tech companies coming in and saying, ‘we have this fixed, and we have that fixed,’ and nobody bought into that. I just can’t commend everyone enough for standing up and doing what’s right.”
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Demands Management’s Board Nominees John Medland and Emily Jameson Withdraw Immediately or Face Public Complicity in Ongoing Alleged Systemic Violations of Securities Laws
URGES SHAREHOLDERS TO VOTE THE GOLD PROXY CARD “FOR” APOLLO CAPITAL’S SIX DIRECTOR NOMINEES AND DISREGARD MEDIPHARM LABS’ GREEN PROXY CARD
TORONTO, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apollo Technology Capital Corporation (“Apollo Capital”), which together with its affiliates and associates collectively is one of the largest shareholders of MediPharm Labs Corp. (TSX: LABS) (OTCQB: MEDIF) (FSE: MLZ) (“MediPharm”, “MediPharm Labs”, or the “Company”), owning approximately 3% of the Company’s common stock, today condemned MediPharm Labs and its leadership team for their blatant failure and outright refusal to answer simple, direct, and highly serious questions concerning credible allegations of alleged extensive securities act disclosure violations committed by the MediPharm Labs’ Board of Directors (the “Board”) and management team.
In a deeply troubling display of evasion and obfuscation, MediPharm Labs’ senior management and current board—including Chairman Chris Taves (Managing Director and Head of Capital Markets for Asia at BMO), CEO David Pidduck (former CEO of OxyContin® Manufacturer Purdue Pharma), Shelley Potts, Chris Halyk, Keith Strachan, and recently resigned Audit Committee Chair Michael Bumby—have persistently refused to respond meaningfully to allegations of systemic and intentional securities fraud.
Apollo Capital asks incoming MediPharm Labs Board nominees John Medland and Emily Jameson: How long will you continue standing for election to a board that consistently refuses to answer basic questions about credible allegations of securities fraud? Are you prepared to potentially permanently stain your professional reputations by associating yourselves with an entity that has been accused of deliberately evading accountability and transparency?
Apollo Capital demands immediate, straightforward answers from MediPharm’s directors to the following questions:
Has MediPharm Labs changed its revenue recognition practices from those in place two years ago?
Is any purported growth simply a result of creative accounting designed to deceive shareholders?
Given the undeniable gravity and credible evidence surrounding these allegations, Apollo Capital reiterates its urgent call for an immediate, comprehensive investigation by regulatory authorities including the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC), the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Earlier this week, Apollo Capital raised broader concerns about the current Board’s commitment to ethical conduct, asking its fellow shareholders if they felt like Chairman Chris Taves properly fulfilled his fiduciary and moral duties and obligations to make them fully aware of David Pidduck’s history as CEO and VP of Marketing for OxyContin® Manufacturer Purdue Pharma, and whether they felt like details of Pidduck’s very recent past were MATERIAL facts that Chairman Taves should have made crystal clear before asking them on multiple occasions to vote in favour of Pidduck’s outrageous and off-market compensation package.
Apollo Capital’s nominees, experienced professionals known for corporate turnarounds, have clearly outlined their mission: to root out any corporate rot, restore credibility, and return value to shareholders.
MediPharm Labs shareholders deserve accountability, transparency and competent leadership—not empty claims, evasive tactics and an almost complete destruction of investor value.
Previous Apollo Capital press releases detailing allegations of fraudulent and unethical activities at MediPharm Labs can be accessed here:
MediPharm Labs Shareholders can visit www.CureMediPharm.com, to sign up for important campaign updates.
VOTE THE GOLD PROXY CARD “FOR” APOLLO CAPITAL’S SIX DIRECTOR NOMINEES AND DISREGARD MEDIPHARM LABS’ GREEN PROXY CARD
To access Apollo Capital’s Circular and related proxy materials, including a proxy or voting instruction form, visit SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.
Contacts
For Shareholders:
Carson Proxy
North American Toll-Free Phone: 1-800-530-5189
Local or Text Message: 416-751-2066 (collect calls accepted)
E: info@carsonproxy.com
For Media:
CureMediPharm@gasthalter.com
Legal Disclosures
Information in Support of Public Broadcast Exemption under Canadian Law
In connection with the Annual Meeting, Apollo Capital has filed an amended and restated dissident information circular (the “Circular”) in compliance with applicable corporate and securities laws. Apollo Capital has provided in, or incorporated by reference into, this press release the disclosure required under section 9.2(4) of NI 51-102 – Continuous Disclosure Obligations (“NI 51-102”) and the corresponding exemption under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario), and has filed the Circular, available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The Circular contains disclosure prescribed by applicable corporate law and disclosure required under section 9.2(6) of NI 51-102 in respect of Apollo Capital’s director nominees, in accordance with corporate and securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations. The Circular is hereby incorporated by reference into this press release and is available under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The registered office of the Company is 151 John Street, Barrie, Ontario, Canada L4N 2L1.
SHAREHOLDERS OF MEDIPHARM ARE URGED TO READ THE CIRCULAR CAREFULLY BECAUSE IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders are able to obtain free copies of the Circular and any amendments or supplements thereto and further proxy circulars at no charge under MediPharm’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. In addition, shareholders are also able to obtain free copies of the Circular and other relevant documents by contacting Apollo Capital’s proxy solicitor, Carson Proxy Advisors Ltd. (“Carson Proxy”) at 1-800-530-5189, local (collect outside North America): 416-751-2066 or by email at info@carsonproxy.com.
Proxies may be revoked in accordance with subsection 110(4) of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) by a registered shareholder of Company shares: (a) by completing and signing a valid proxy bearing a later date and returning it in accordance with the instructions contained in the accompanying form of proxy; (b) by depositing an instrument in writing executed by the shareholder or by the shareholder’s attorney authorized in writing; (c) by transmitting by telephonic or electronic means a revocation that is signed by electronic signature in accordance with applicable law, as the case may be: (i) at the registered office of the Company at any time up to and including the last business day preceding the day the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting is to be held, or (ii) with the chair of the Annual Meeting on the day of the Annual Meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the Annual Meeting; or (d) in any other manner permitted by law. In addition, proxies may be revoked by a non-registered holder of Company shares at any time by written notice to the intermediary in accordance with the instructions given to the non-registered holder by its intermediary. It should be noted that revocation of proxies or voting instructions by a non-registered holder can take several days or even longer to complete and, accordingly, any such revocation should be completed well in advance of the deadline prescribed in the form of proxy or voting instruction form to ensure it is given effect in respect of the Annual Meeting.
The costs incurred in the preparation and mailing of any circular or proxy solicitation by Apollo Capital and any other participants named herein will be borne directly and indirectly by Apollo Capital. However, to the extent permitted under applicable law, Apollo Capital intends to seek reimbursement from the Company of all expenses incurred in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the election of its director nominees at the Annual Meeting.
This press release and any solicitation made by Apollo Capital is, or will be, as applicable, made by such parties, and not by or on behalf of the management of the Company. Proxies may be solicited by proxy circular, mail, telephone, email or other electronic means, as well as by newspaper or other media advertising and in person by managers, directors, officers and employees of Apollo Capital who will not be specifically remunerated therefor. In addition, Apollo Capital may solicit proxies by way of public broadcast, including press release, speech or publication and any other manner permitted under applicable Canadian laws, and may engage the services of one or more agents and authorize other persons to assist it in soliciting proxies on their behalf.
Apollo Capital has entered into an agreement with Carson Proxy Advisors (“Carson Proxy”) for solicitation and advisory services in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the Meeting, for which Carson Proxy will receive a fee not to exceed $250,000, together with reimbursement for reasonable and out-of-pocket expenses. Apollo Capital has also engaged Gasthalter & Co. LP (“G&Co”) to act as communications consultant to provide Apollo Capital with certain communications, public relations and related services, for which G&Co will receive a minimum fee of US$75,000 in addition to a performance fee of US$250,000 in the event that Apollo Capital’s nominees make up a majority of the Board following the Annual Meeting, plus excess fees, related costs and expenses.
No member of Apollo Capital nor any of their associates or affiliates has or has had any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the beginning of the Company’s last completed financial year or in any proposed transaction that has materially affected or will or would materially affect the Company or any of the Company’s affiliates. No member of Apollo Capital nor any of their associates or affiliates has any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter to be acted upon at the Annual Meeting, other than setting the number of directors, the election of directors, the appointment of auditors and the approval of the ordinary resolution approving, among other things, the Company’s amended and restated equity incentive plan dated May 8, 2025 and the unallocated awards available thereunder.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward‐looking statements. All statements contained in this filing that are not clearly historical in nature or that necessarily depend on future events are forward‐looking, and the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “plan,” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward‐looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of Apollo Capital and currently available information. They are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. All forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof and Apollo Capital disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that subsequently occur, or of which Apollo Capital hereafter becomes aware, except as required by applicable law.
Hashtags: #ShareholderActivism #CorporateGovernance #InvestorProtection #Investor Alert #Investor Fraud #FinancialRegulation #CorporateCrime #FinancialCrime #HomelandSecurity #DHS #OpioidCrisis #OpioidEpidemic #OpioidLitigation #OpioidVictims #BMO #DEA #ONDCP
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
TORONTO, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red White & Bloom Brands Inc. (CSE: RWB) (“RWB” or the “Company”) is providing an update on the status of a management cease trade order granted on May 1, 2025 (the “MCTO”) by the British Columbia Securities Commission under National Policy 12-203 – Management Cease Trade Order (“NP 12-203”).
On May 1, 2025, the Company announced that, for reasons disclosed in the news release, there would be a delay in the filing of its financial statements and accompanying management’s discussion and analysis for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 (the “Annual Filings”) beyond the period prescribed under applicable Canadian securities laws.
The Company reports that the audit continues to progress, and it will provide a further update on the timing of its Annual Filings on or about June 13, 2025, if it has not filed by this date. The Company is also progressing on the completion of its interim financial statements and accompanying management’s discussion and analysis for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025 (the “2025-Q1 Filings”). The Company advises that the 2025-Q1 Filings will be filed within five business days from the date the Annual Filings are completed. Further updates on timing will be provided by the Company as necessary.
During the MCTO, the general investing public will continue to be able to trade in the Company’s listed common shares. However, the Company’s chief executive officer, president and chief financial officer will not be able to trade in the Company’s shares.
Other than as disclosed in this news release, there are no material changes to the information contained in the initial press release associated with the MCTO. The Company confirms that it intends to satisfy the provisions of NP 12- 203 and will continue to issue bi-weekly default status reports for so long as it remains in default of the Annual Filings requirement. These updates will include information regarding the progress of the Annual Filings and any material changes to the Company’s business, if any.
About Red White & Bloom Brands Inc.
Red White & Bloom Brands is a multi-jurisdictional cannabis operator and house of premium brands operating in the United States, Canada and select international jurisdictions. The Company is predominantly focusing its investments on major U.S. markets, including California, Florida, Missouri, Michigan, and Ohio in addition to Canadian and international markets.
Red White & Bloom Brands Inc.
Investor and Media Relations
Edoardo Mattei, CFO
IR@RedWhiteBloom.com
947-225-0503
Visit us on the web: https://www.redwhitebloom.com/.
Follow us on social media:
X @rwbbrands
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Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION
Certain information contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information is often identified by the use of words such as “plans,” “expects,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “will,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “forecasts,” or variations of such words and phrases, including the negative forms thereof, as well as terms such as “pro forma” and “scheduled,” and similar expressions that refer to future events or outcomes.
Forward-looking statements in this release include, without limitation, statements relating to the anticipated timing, review, completion, and filing of the Annual Filings and Q1 Filings; the expected duration of the MCTO; the Company’s ongoing operations; and the Company’s intention to issue bi-weekly default status updates.
Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks associated with audit completion processes; regulatory reviews and approvals; market conditions; the Company’s financial condition and liquidity; the ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of the debt restructuring; and the risk that the Company may not be able to complete its Annual Filings within the timeframe currently anticipated.
There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.
THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS NEWS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE COMPANY’S EXPECTATIONS AS OF THE DATE OF THIS NEWS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE THE COMPANY MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS.
Source: United Nations secretary general
Your Excellency Mr. Emomali Rahmon, President of the Republic of Tajikistan,
Your Excellency, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shehbaz Sharif,
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Government and the people of the Republic of Tajikistan for convening this High-Level International Conference and championing 2025 as the United Nations declared International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation.
Mr. President, I thank you for the opportunity to visit the Glaciers in the Pamir mountain range. This was a reality check to how fragile the ecosystem is and needs preservation.
Your commitment to glaciers – the water towers of the world, holding nearly 70% of Earth’s freshwater – stands as a beacon of hope, towards keeping global momentum, securing our planet’s vital water sources, and raising urgent climate ambition.
A decade has passed since the world embraced the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement, setting out a bold vision for a more just, resilient, and sustainable future.
In spite of the recent geopolitical tensions and the pushback on multilateralism, this Conference convenes at a pivotal moment—with a decisive call to turn commitments into action, and shape the trajectory of our planet, economies, and the well-being of generations to come.
The time for ambition is an imperative now, and the stakes have never been higher.
Allow me to recognize the invaluable contributions of the World Meteorological Organization, UNESCO, the Asian Development Bank, and all other dedicated partners whose collaboration has made this conference – and this growing momentum – possible.
Your steady dedication to glacier research and monitoring throughout the 2025-2034 Decade of Action on Cryosphere Sciences has been instrumental in raising awareness and advancing scientific knowledge to safeguard our planet’s equilibrium.
Excellencies, Friends,
Since 1975, over 9,000 billion tons of ice have disappeared – equivalent to a 25-meter-thick block covering all of Germany.
In the past six years, glaciers have been retreating at an unprecedented pace, marking the fastest loss in recorded history.
Between 2022 and 2024 alone, the world witnessed the largest three-year glacier mass loss ever observed – a staggering acceleration of ice melt.
At current rates, many glaciers may not survive this century, reshaping landscapes, ecosystems, livelihoods and water security on a global scale.
This is not just a mountain crisis – it is a slow-moving global catastrophe with far-reaching consequences for planet and people.
Glacier loss threatens water and food security, biodiversity loss, infrastructure, and the stability and health of communities worldwide.
Billions of people depend on glaciers for drinking water, irrigation, livelihoods, and energy production, making their preservation essential for human survival and sustainable development.
Yet those at the frontline of glacier loss – primarily in developing regions – face the greatest injustices.
With shrinking water resources, vulnerable communities endure worsening poverty, forced migration, and harsh living conditions all while relying on glacier-fed supplies that are rapidly disappearing.
Melting glaciers also drive sea-level rise, endangering coastal megacities and displacing millions downstream.
Each millimeter of rising seas puts hundreds of thousands at risk of annual flooding and much more.
In my own country Nigeria, I witness firsthand the impact of sea level rise in Lagos, which is threatened and in the Niger Delta which as seen unprecedented changes in its ecosystem. And we also see states once not affected by flooding are experiencing them at unprecedented levels.
Beyond the physical impacts, glacier loss is also an erosion of culture, of history, and identity.
Communities tied to mountain landscapes face the disappearance of ancestral lands, traditional knowledge, and linguistic heritage, severing connections that have existed for generations.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
With a third of mountain ice already lost due to climate change, these consequences will only intensify without immediate mitigation measures to keep global temperatures within the 1.5 degrees threshold.
Let me note at this time 83% of these emissions for this mitigation agenda, are within the hands of 35 countries.
Stepping up our ambition and scaling up action is imperative, before dwindling water resources destabilize ecosystems and economic disruptions become irreversible.
Strategies for glacier preservation must enable integrated, inclusive, data-driven and locally grounded adaptation responses that meet the needs of those most vulnerable.
Investing in adaptation should be recognized as a catalyst of sustainable growth and resilience.
Yet, adaptation and risk reduction tools cannot succeed without sustained, predictable financing to support resilience-building at every level.
The upcoming Financing for Development Conference in Seville is an opportunity to make the Clarion Call, for more investment in adaptation a reality.
This year’s Global Assessment Report on disaster risk reduction informs us that “Resilience Pays”.
Every dollar spent on resilience enhances early warning systems, safeguards infrastructure, and protects livelihoods from extreme climate events. It reinforces food and water security and strengthens economies against future shocks.
But we must significantly scale up financing and investments – integrating risk reduction into core policy decisions.
Failing to invest now, will result in exponentially higher costs – ranging from economic loss, development setbacks to humanitarian crisis.
As we embark on the Decade for Glaciers’ Preservation, I have three messages:
First, let us ensure that this conference signals an urgent call to action, uniting multilateral cooperation and strategic global partnerships.
These partnerships should be engines for the design and delivery of ambitious, economy-wide Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) – as we go to Belem in Brazil later this year. These should not only as climate pledges, but as investment of roadmaps that drive SDG implementation.
Second, ensure that your national climate plans set measurable adaptation targets across water, infrastructure, energy, and food systems to build resilience, secure financing, and protect livelihoods. These plans need to be linked to national budgets to optimize resource allocations, avert losses, and build institutional capacities to fill gaps in technical expertise but also to create an enabling environment for large scale and urgent investments.
Third, identify pipelines of market-ready investments, backed by high-quality data and evidence-based tools that forecast returns, demonstrate co-benefits for job creation and economic growth, and unlock new financial services.
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Together, we can galvanize impactful solutions to safeguard the cryosphere, polar regions, and mountain ecosystems.
Early warning systems could be strengthened with hydro-climatic experts to reinforce datasets that help anticipate water-related risks and ensuring a constant state of preparedness to enable early action.
Data-driven predicative analytics and AI could also complement skills, while generating baselines that help identify and anticipate fault lines, aligning with the Secretary General’s Early Warnings for All initiative.
This year’s Fourth Financing for Development Conference presents an opportunity to ensure that development funding is not just allocated, but strategically risk-informed – across all types of shocks-strengthening resilience and safeguarding development gains.
Let us use other global milestones including – COP30 in Brazil, the Third UN Ocean Conference in Nice, the UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and the Second World Summit on Sustainable Development in Doha, Qatar – to elevate political will and sharpen our focus on glaciers for people, planet and prosperity.
In conclusion, as we look forward to the 2026 UN Water Conference, co-hosted by Senegal and the United Arab Emirates, I also wish to recognize the co-hosts of the 2023 UN Water Conference – Tajikistan and the Netherlands – for their continued political commitment to the International Decade for Action on Water for Sustainable Development 2018–2028.
Let us act with the urgency that SDG 6 demands by protecting water-related ecosystems.
The UN – as always – stands ready to ensure that we meet this target. For our communities, for our economies, for our children’s future and those yet born.
Let our children not know thirst.
Thank you.
***
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
La Hulpe, Belgium – 30 May 2025, 10:30 p.m. CET – Banqup Group SA, formerly Unifiedpost Group SA, (Euronext: UPG) (Banqup, Company), a leading provider of integrated business communications solutions, today announced it has received approval from the Swedish Competition Authority for the sale of all shares in the 21 Grams Group to PostNord Strålfors AB.
The approval from the Swedish Competition Authority represents an important step toward completing the previously announced transaction. The Swedish Competition Authority has published its approval decision on its website.
Parties are planning to close in the first half of 2025.
Financial Calendar:
Contact
Alex Nicoll
Investor Relations
Banqup Group
alex.nicoll@unifiedpost.com
About Banqup Group
Banqup Group delivers integrated cloud-based SaaS solutions to streamline business transactions across the entire lifecycle, from e-invoicing and e-payments to tax reporting. Banqup, our solution for businesses, unifies purchase-to-pay, order-to-cash, e-invoicing compliance, and e-payments into one secure platform, removing the complexity of juggling disconnected tools. eFaktura World, our solution for governments, is a comprehensive digital platform designed for tax administrations to implement e-invoicing and streamline both B2G and B2B tax reporting flows. To learn more about Banqup Group and our solutions, please visit our website: Unifiedpost Group | Global leaders in digital solutions
Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements: The statements contained herein may include prospects, statements of future expectations, opinions, and other forward-looking statements in relation to the expected future performance of Banqup Group and the markets in which it is active. Such forward-looking statements are based on management’s current views and assumptions regarding future events. By nature, they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that appear justified at the time at which they are made but may not turn out to be accurate. Actual results, performance or events may, therefore, differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable law, Banqup Group does not undertake any obligation to update, clarify or correct any forward-looking statements contained in this press release in light of new information, future events or otherwise and disclaims any liability in respect hereto. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Attachment
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA)
Today, Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA), Bob Latta (R-OH), Haley Stevens (D-MI), and Jay Obernolte (R-CA) announce the re-launch of the Congressional Robotics Caucus. Representatives McGovern, Latta, Stevens, and Obernolte will serve as Co-Chairs of the Caucus.
The Congressional Robotics Caucus is a bipartisan effort to bring Members of Congress together to discuss issues related to robotics and affecting the robotics sector. Members will share cutting-edge information with one another, learn from experts in the field, and discuss efforts to improve the responsible, ethical, and robust deployment of robotics across many sectors. The Robotics Caucus seeks to develop thoughtful policy that weighs robots’ risks and benefits and share key insights with Members of Congress.
“Serving as Co-Chair of the Congressional Robotics Caucus for the past few years has opened my eyes to the promises and risks associated with the rise of robotics—whether enabled by artificial intelligence or not,” said Rep. McGovern. “I look forward to sharing innovative ideas with Members of the Caucus for the good of our educational institutions, manufacturers, and civil society partners nationally.”
“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Robotics Caucus, I remaincommitted to ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of robotics and automation,” Rep. Latta said. “By educating our colleagues, supporting research and development, and encouraging public-private partnerships, the Robotics Caucus will help to foster innovation and support a workforce ready to lead in a rapidly evolving global economy.”
“As someone who worked in a manufacturing research lab and has visited nearly 200 manufacturing businesses in Michigan, I’ve seen firsthand how advanced technologies—like robotics—are key to driving U.S. competitiveness. I look forward to working with my fellow Co-Chairs to advance bipartisan policies that support our workforce, strengthen American manufacturing, and secure our global leadership in robotics. At this critical inflection point, the Robotics Caucus is more important than ever to ensuring we win the race for the mid-21st century,” said Rep. Stevens.
“As a computer engineer who has spent decades working in technology, I believe robotics will be one of the most transformative forces of the 21st century,” said Rep. Obernolte. “From manufacturing and healthcare to agriculture and national defense, robotics—especially when paired with artificial intelligence—will reshape nearly every sector of our economy. The Congressional Robotics Caucus will ensure that Congress is equipped with the knowledge and tools to support innovation, safeguard our global leadership, and promote policies that reflect American values.”
The Robotics Caucus may explore topics such as education, international competitiveness, a national robotics strategy, employee protections, employer incentives, and ethics, among others. The Caucus will host briefings designed to educate their Congressional colleagues on the importance of paying attention to robotics domestically and internationally.
The Co-Chairs hope the Caucus will be a useful convening space for all Members to see how robots shape their constituents’ communities.
The Caucus will engage outside stakeholders in key policy developments. The Caucus recognizes the importance of public-private partnerships and looks forward to engaging industry on major issues affecting the robotics sector.
“The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) is excited about the establishment of a Congressional Robotics Caucus in the 119th Congress. We applaud the bipartisan leadership of Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA), Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH), Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI), and Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA), who represent constituencies across America from coast to coast. We believe that accelerated adoption of robotics, along with enabling technologies like artificial intelligence, machine vision, and motion control, will strengthen every US industry in the future. Robotics and automation are essential to bringing more manufacturing back to the US while creating better, safer and higher paying jobs for American workers. We look forward to working with the Robotics Caucus to raise awareness among policymakers and advance this critical technology area.”
Source: United Nations secretary general
The Peacebuilding Commission’s Country-Specific Configuration on Liberia held a meeting on 28 May 2025, chaired by the Permanent Representative of Sweden to the United Nations, with the participation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection of the Republic of Liberia, the Executive Director of the Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL), the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Support, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Liberia and other senior officials from Liberia and the United Nations.
The meeting focused on Liberia’s peacebuilding and sustaining peace priorities, in particular women, peace and security. During the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia, H.E. Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to sustaining the peace and continuing to build on the progress achieved. The Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection of Liberia, H.E. Mme. Gbeme Horace Kollie, briefed the Commission on the implementation of Liberia’s second National Action Plan for Women, Peace and Security, and on the efforts to develop a third National Action Plan.
The Peacebuilding Commission reiterated its commitment to supporting Liberia in building and sustaining peace. The Commission welcomed the recent adoption of the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), Liberia’s fourth post-conflict National Development Plan (2025– 2029).
The Commission welcomed Liberia’s efforts to implement its second National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security. Under the Plan, further steps have been taken to ensure the full, meaningful, and equal participation of women in peacebuilding and sustaining peace. The Commission commended the commitment by the Government of Liberia to develop and implement a third National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security.
The Commission also welcomed Liberia’s commitment to develop a first National Action Plan (NAP) on Youth, Peace and Security (YPS). In this regard, the Commission lauded the launch in June 2024, of the Youth, Peace and Security National Coalition in Liberia, which will coordinate efforts at the national and local levels on the development of the NAP. The Commission commended Liberia’s work on transitional justice and the firm commitment of the Government of Liberia to implement the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
The Commission commended Liberia for the peaceful by-election in Nimba county on 22 April 2025. The Commission underlined the need for the International Financial Institutions, the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) and other bilateral and multilateral donors to continue to support Liberia’s peacebuilding efforts.
Source: United Nations – Geneva
The Committee on the Rights of the Child this afternoon closed its ninety-ninth session after adopting its concluding observations on the reports of Brazil, Indonesia, Iraq, Norway, Qatar and Romania under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, as well as the report on Brazil’s efforts to implement the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography.
The concluding observations will be available on the webpage of the session on the website of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on Thursday, 5 June 2025.
Presenting the report of the session, Sophie Kiladze, Committee Chairperson, said there had been a lot of improvements regarding the realisation of child rights in certain countries. However, after more than 35 years of entry into force of the Convention, the child rights situation was still very alarming in many States parties. Millions of children were victims of armed conflicts in many different parts of the world. The armed conflicts were taking their lives or lives of their parents and family members, leaving them in unimaginable sorrow for the whole of their lives. Many who survived were living in camps under deteriorating conditions. Millions of children were living in poverty, without access to education, health and digital environment, among others. The list was very long and many hours would not be enough to express the suffering of these children.
Ms. Kiladze said the United Nations was undergoing a huge liquidity crisis, which was affecting the Committee on the Rights of the Child, which had to work without knowing whether next sessions would be held. She asked the Secretary-General
and all relevant States parties to ensure that the Committee on the Rights of the Child, as well as other treaty bodies, continued their work. She said the Committee regretted the cancellation of the pre-sessional working group, expected to be held during the week following the end of the session, because of the liquidity situation.
Under the Optional Protocol on a communication procedure, the Committee adopted decisions on eight individual communications on the following issues: children in the context of migration, access to school during the COVID pandemic, and parental contact with children.
The Committee found no violation of the Convention in one case against Switzerland. It found three communications inadmissible in a case against Italy and two cases against Switzerland. It also discontinued the consideration of four cases against Finland and Switzerland after they had become moot. The Committee was satisfied that these discontinuances followed the positive resolution of these four cases. The Committee also discussed inquiries under article 13 of the Optional Protocol. It was currently dealing with four inquiries.
Also during the session, the Committee discussed amendments to its rules of procedure and working methods. It continued its discussion on follow-up to the treaty body strengthening process in the context of the United Nations liquidity crisis. It also continued its work on the next general comment no. 27 on children’s rights to access to justice and to an effective remedy.
The Committee continued its work on trends of the modern world regarding child rights, including artificial intelligence, and discussed a draft joint statement on artificial intelligence and child rights. Nine international organizations were co-signatories of the statement, co-led by the International Telecommunication Union and the United Nations Children’s Fund.
The Committee then adopted the report of the session.
On the first day of the session, which was held from 12 to 30 May, Ms. Kiladze (Georgia) was elected as Chair and Cephas Lumina (Zambia), Thuwayba Al Barwani (Oman), Philip D. Jaffe (Switzerland), and Mary Beloff (Argentina) were elected as Vice-Chairs.
The Committee also welcomed four new members – Timothy. P.T. Ekesa (Kenya), Mariana Ianachevici (Republic of Moldova), Juliana Scerri Ferrante (Malta), and Zeinebou Taleb Moussa (Mauritania) – and welcomed back Mr. Lumina, who previously served as a member from 2017 to 2021. They made their solemn declaration.
Summaries of the public meetings of the Committee can be found here, and webcasts of the public meetings can be found here. The programme of work of the Committee’s ninety-ninth session and other documents related to the session can be found here.
The Committee is expected to hold its one hundredth session in September 2025. However, this session is currently pending confirmation because of the liquidity situation.
___________
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.
CRC25.016E
Source: US State of Hawaii
Posted on May 29, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom
STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI
JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA
DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM
KA ʻOIHANA HOʻOMOHALA PĀʻOIHANA, ʻIMI WAIWAI A HOʻOMĀKAʻIKAʻI
RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS DIVISION
JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA HOʻOKELE
CHIEF STATE ECONOMIST
VISITOR INDUSTRY GROWS AGAIN IN APRIL 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2025
HONOLULU – According to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), total visitor arrivals and total visitor spending in April 2025 increased compared to the same month last year. There were 833,219 visitors to the Hawaiian Islands in April 2025, up 7.9 percent from April 2024. Total visitor spending measured in nominal dollars was $1.69 billion, which was growth of 9.4 percent from April 2024. When compared to pre-pandemic 2019 levels, April 2025 total visitor arrivals represent a 98.1 percent recovery from April 2019 and total visitor spending was higher than April 2019 ($1.32 billion, +28.3%).
In April 2025, 810,276 visitors arrived by air service, mainly from the U.S. West and U.S. East. Additionally, 22,943 visitors came via out-of-state cruise ships. In comparison, 740,720 visitors (+9.4%) arrived by air and 31,695 visitors (-27.6%) came by cruise ships in April 2024, and 824,610 visitors (-1.7%) arrived by air and 24,787 visitors (-7.4%) came by cruise ships in April 2019. The average length of stay by all visitors in April 2025 was 8.36 days, compared to 8.28 days (+1.1%) in April 2024 and 8.25 days (+1.4%) in April 2019. The statewide average daily census was 232,323 visitors in April 2025, compared to 213,080 visitors (+9.0%) in April 2024 and 233,616 visitors (-0.6%) in April 2019.
In April 2025, 457,248 visitors arrived from the U.S. West, which was an increase compared to April 2024 (400,070 visitors, +14.3%) and April 2019 (388,573 visitors, +17.7%). U.S. West visitor spending of $855.0 million rose from April 2024 ($765.2 million, +11.7%), and was much higher than April 2019 ($547.0 million, +56.3%). Daily spending by U.S. West visitors in April 2025 ($234 per person) decreased slightly from April 2024 ($236 per person, -0.8%) but was up considerably from April 2019 ($171 per person, +36.7%).
In April 2025, arrivals from the U.S. East of 180,383 visitors increased from April 2024 (176,339 visitors, +2.3%) and April 2019 (159,115 visitors, +13.4%). U.S. East visitor spending of $449.1 million rose from April 2024 ($436.8 million, +2.8%) and was significantly more than April 2019 ($286.8 million, +56.6%). Daily spending by U.S. East visitors in April 2025 ($277 per person) increased from April 2024 ($273 per person, +1.4%) and was much more than April 2019 ($200 per person, +38.4%).
There were 52,358 visitors from Japan in April 2025, an increase from April 2024 (50,626 visitors, +3.4%) but continued to be much lower than April 2019 (119,487 visitors, -56.2%). Visitors from Japan spent $77.4 million in April 2025, compared to $75.1 million (+3.0%) in April 2024 and $164.0 million (-52.8%) in April 2019. Daily spending by Japanese visitors in April 2025 ($245 per person) was higher than April 2024 ($238 per person, +3.2%) and April 2019 ($234 per person, +5.0%).
In April 2025, 36,381 visitors arrived from Canada, down from April 2024 (38,936 visitors, -6.6%) and April 2019 (56,749 visitors, -35.9%). Visitors from Canada spent $91.0 million in April 2025 compared to $88.3 million (+3.0%) in April 2024 and $100.2 million (-9.2%) in April 2019. Daily spending by Canadian visitors in April 2025 ($224 per person) increased from April 2024 ($221 per person, +1.6%) and was much higher than April 2019 ($154 per person, +45.8%).
There were 83,905 visitors from all other international markets in April 2025, which included visitors from Oceania, Other Asia, Europe, Latin America, Guam, the Philippines, and the Pacific Islands. In comparison, there were 74,749 visitors (+12.2%) from all other international markets in April 2024 and 100,686 visitors (-16.7%) in April 2019.
In April 2025, a total of 4,885 transpacific flights with 1,085,113 seats serviced the Hawaiian Islands. Total air capacity was similar to April 2024 (4,890 flights, -0.1% with 1,080,344 seats +0.4%) but less than April 2019 (5,031 flights, -2.9% with 1,112,200 seats, -2.4%).
Year-to-Date 2025
A total of 3,288,966 visitors arrived in the first four months of 2025, up 3.2 percent from 3,186,223 visitors in the first four months of 2024. Total arrivals decreased 2.6 percent when compared to 3,376,675 visitors in the first four months of 2019.
In the first four months of 2025, total visitor spending was $7.30 billion, an increase compared to the first four months of 2024 ($6.82 billion, +7.2%) and the first four months of 2019 ($5.81 billion, +25.7%).
VIEW FULL NEWS RELEASE AND TABLES
Statement by DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka
April was a solid month for the visitor industry. The industry has performed well during the first four months of 2025, mainly driven by continued growth in the U.S. markets (U.S. West and U.S. East). U.S. arrivals grew by 5.5 percent, offsetting the decline in arrivals from international markets.
We expect a modest slowdown in tourism during the summer season caused by uncertainties in the political and economic environment both nationally and internationally. We believe the situation will be temporary and anticipate the state’s tourism industry to rebound in 2026.
# # #
Media Contacts:
Laci Goshi
Communications Officer
Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
Cell: 808-518-5480
Email: [email protected]
Jennifer Chun
Director of Tourism Research
Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
Phone: 808-973-9446
Email: [email protected]
Source: US State of Hawaii
Posted on May 29, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom
STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI
JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
ʻOIHANA MAHIʻAI
SHARON HURD
CHAIRPERSON
KA LUNA HOʻOKELE
DEAN M. MATSUKAWA
DEPUTY TO THE CHAIRPERSON
KA HOPE LUNA HOʻOKELE
HDOA SPECIALTY CROP GRANT PROGRAM ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Grant Funding Totals More than $500,000
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 29, 2025
NR25-12
HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture (HDOA), Market Development Branch (MDB), is accepting applications for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) for Fiscal Year 2025. The funding for this year’s program totals $512,663 and seeks project proposals that increase the competitiveness of Hawai‘i’s specialty crops. Award amounts range from $20,000 to $50,000.
Under the program, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) allocated funding to each state based on the value of the specialty crops produced. Specialty crops are defined by the USDA as fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Much of Hawai‘i’s diversified agriculture falls under this specialty crop designation.
Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, local, state and federal government entities, for-profit organizations, universities and individuals for projects that enhance the competitiveness of Hawai‘i’s specialty crops. Applicants must reside in, or their business or educational affiliation must be registered in Hawai‘i.
The primary goal of this grant program is to support projects that could provide the highest measurable benefits or return-on-investment to the specialty crop segment in Hawai‘i. Projects must enhance the competitiveness of Hawai‘i-grown specialty crops, in either domestic or foreign markets. Preference will be given to projects that measurably increase the production and/or consumption of specialty crops, and/or foster the development of fledging crops and organic operations.
Application information for the Request for Proposals (RFP25-03-MDB) is available on the State Procurement Office website at: https://hands.ehawaii.gov/hands/opportunities
The application deadline is noon on June 20, 2025.
To assist applicants, an instructional video will be posted on the SCBGP website at: https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/add/scbgp/
Inquiries may be addressed to 808-973-9594 or email: [email protected]
# # #
Media Contact:
Janelle Saneishi
Public Information Officer
Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture
Phone: 808-973-9560
Cell: 808-341-5528
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://hdoa.hawaii.gov
HDOA is committed to maintaining an environment free from discrimination, retaliation, or harassment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability, or any other class as protected under federal or state law, with respect to any program or activity.
For more information, including language accessibility and filing a complaint, please contact HDOA Non-Discrimination Coordinator at 808-973-9591, or visit HDOA’s website at http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/.
To request translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, or other auxiliary aids or services for this document, contact the HDOA at 808-973-9591 or email [email protected].
Aloha,
Janelle Saneishi
Public Information Officer
Hawai‘i Department of Agriculture
ph: (808) 973-9560
email: [email protected]
Website: https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/
Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and/or privileged information. Any review, use, disclosure, or distribution by unintended recipients is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient(s), please contact the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message.
Source: US State of California 2
What you need to know: CAL FIRE is awarding $72 million to projects across the state that help reduce catastrophic wildfire risk across California. Governor Newsom also announced 13 vegetation management projects spanning nearly 7,000 acres have already been approved for fast-tracking under his emergency proclamation.
SACRAMENTO – As the Trump administration cuts the U.S. Forest Service and creates rampant uncertainty ahead of peak wildfire season, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the state is continuing to ramp up its efforts to reduce wildfire risk and increase forest health.
CAL FIRE awarded nearly $72 million today to support large-scale, regionally based land management projects aimed at restoring forest health and resilience throughout California, while enhancing long-term carbon storage.
Additionally, Governor Newsom announced that under his wildfire prevention emergency proclamation, which became operational on April 17, the state has already fast-tracked approval for 13 projects totaling nearly 7,000 acres, on top of the 2 million acres treated in recent years. These projects involve tribes and other partners, natural resource managers and fire districts. This is part of statewide efforts to advance projects in key locations to help protect communities from catastrophic wildfires. One week after applications opened to fast-track critical wildfire safety projects in mid-April, the state began issuing fast-track approvals for wildfire safety projects.
“California is ‘raking the forests’ at a faster pace than ever before. Where’s the federal government?”
Governor Gavin Newsom
While 57% of California’s forests are federally managed, the state government manages only 3% of the forestland. The other 40% is privately owned and this work relies on partnership with private forestland owners.
More than 2,200 vegetation management projects are complete or underway, and in recent years, California has treated nearly 2 million acres – made possible by scaling up investments to 10 times the amount from when the Governor took office in 2019. California has funded over $350 million worth of projects on federal lands in the same time. CAL FIRE estimates that 83% of all tree mortality in California, which poses a significant wildfire risk, is on national forest lands.
Through its Forest Health Program, CAL FIRE is awarding 12 grants to local and regional partners carrying out projects on state, local, tribal, federal, and private lands. Designed to address critical forest health needs, these initiatives will reduce wildfire risk, improve ecosystem resilience, and enhance carbon sequestration across California’s diverse landscapes.
Forest health grant projects focus on large, landscape-scale forestlands – no less than 800 acres in size – that are composed of one or more landowners and may cover multiple jurisdictions.
“CAL FIRE is proud to award Forest Health grants that will increase the wildfire resilience of California’s landscapes and communities and help restore ecosystems following wildfire,” said Alan Talhelm, Assistant Deputy Director of Climate and Energy at CAL FIRE. “These grants will provide our partners around the state with funds to complete projects that support local economies, protect watersheds, increase public safety, and sequester carbon.”
The projects will employ a wide array of forest management strategies, with goals of wildfire resilience, watershed protection, habitat conservation for endangered species, recovery of fire-scarred and drought-impacted forests, and the reintroduction of fire as a natural ecological process. Projects include:
The majority of CAL FIRE’s Forest Health grants are funded through the Timber Regulation and Forest Restoration Fund (TRFRF), with additional support provided by California Climate Investments (CCI), a statewide initiative that directs billions of Cap-and-Invest dollars toward achieving the state’s climate goals.
The approved projects for fast-tracking are focused on removing flammable dead or dying trees, creating strategic fuel breaks, creating safe egress along roadways, manual and mechanical removal of ladder fuels and beneficial fire use. Some of the approved projects include:
To move faster without compromising important environmental protections, the state developed a new Statewide Fuels Reduction Environmental Protection Plan. State agencies will monitor and oversee these projects from initiation to completion to provide support and ensure environmental protections and best management practices are followed.
Following action by Governor Newsom and the Legislature last month, state conservancies are moving to deploy $170 million in voter-approved funding for wildfire resilience projects. The accelerated funding is part of the “early action” 2025 budget package. Governor Newsom signed the funding bill along with an executive order to ensure the wildfire safety projects benefit from the streamlining process created under the March 1 State of Emergency proclamation.
This builds on consecutive years of intensive and focused work by California to confront the severe ongoing risk of catastrophic wildfires, and Governor Newsom’s emergency proclamation signed in March to fast-track forest and vegetation management projects throughout the state. Additionally, to bolster the state’s ability to respond to fires, Governor Newsom announced last week that the state’s second C-130 Hercules airtanker is ready for firefighting operations, adding to the largest aerial firefighting fleet in the world.
New, bold moves to streamline state-level regulatory processes builds long-term efforts already underway in California to increase wildfire response and forest management in the face of a hotter, drier climate. A full list of California’s progress on wildfire resilience is available here.
Highlights of achievements to date include:
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
CAIRO, Egypt, May 30, 2025/APO Group/ —
The State of Libya has taken a critical step towards its full membership of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) with the acquisition of shares in the African multilateral Bank, making the country both a participating state and a shareholder of the Bank. The country submitted its payment for the acquisition of the Bank’s shares on 13 May 2025.
Libya acceded to Afreximbank’s Establishment Agreement in October 2024, becoming the 52nd African nation to do so, and marking an important step towards full continental coverage and advancement of the Bank’s continental integration agenda; through trade and investments.
The acquisition of Afreximbank’s shares by Libya further strengthens ties with the oil rich nation and enhances critical support to the Libyan economy. Target areas of intervention by Afreximbank include infrastructure and oil and gas, and export of manufactured goods to the rest of Africa, while also supporting regional integration projects targeting other countries in North Africa.
“Libya’s shareholding in Afreximbank puts the Bank in a strong position to support the government’s reconstruction efforts while also helping to deepen its regional connectivity through investments in critical projects such as the oil pipeline and road projects between Egypt and Libya, and the electricity transmission and linkage project covering Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria. It reaffirms the confidence of African governments in their Pan-African Multilateral Financial Institution,” said Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, of Afreximbank.
Prof. Oramah commended Libya for its investment in the Bank which demonstrates increased confidence in the organisation’s activities, primarily its mandate of transforming African Trade. He noted that the shareholding in the Bank will help to expand its services, reach and influence in the region, besides enhancing its capital base.
In acceding to the Establishment Agreement, His Excellency Dr. Khaled Al-Mabrouk Abdullah, Minister of Finance for the State of Libya, highlighted the importance of the partnership in supporting reconstruction and economic diversification efforts in his country and said that the nation’s accession was a milestone in its journey towards rebuilding its economy and re-establishing its role as a regional trading hub. He said: “Libya is grateful to His Excellency, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, of Afreximbank, for his persistent efforts in facilitating Libya’s full participation in the Bank’s foundational agreement. The acquisition of shares in Afreximbank solidifies Libya’s position as a full member state and shareholder in this esteemed multilateral African institution. This represents a historic achievement, following our accession to the Bank’s Establishment Agreement in October 2024.
“We regard this development as a critical step forward in Libya’s journey towards greater economic integration within the African continent. Our accession as the 52nd African nation to Afreximbank underscores our commitment to fostering robust trade and investment relationships across Africa.”
Dr. Abdullah noted that the partnership between Libya and Afreximbank would help unlock new avenues for economic growth, diversification, and development in his country. “We eagerly anticipate leveraging the Bank’s expertise and resources to support our national economic agenda and to contribute effectively to the advancement of intra-African trade and continental integration. We commend Afreximbank for its unwavering commitment to African economic advancement and look forward to a fruitful and mutually beneficial collaboration,” he added.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
Washington, D.C. – Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Commerce Committee Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), sent the following letter to Commerce Secretary Lutnick and President Trump demanding that the Commerce Department immediately release the $42 billion allocated for the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), along with Ranking Member of the Commerce Committee, Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), sent the following letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and President Trump demanding the immediate release the $42 billion allocated for the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program as part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This program was designed to help our country on its path to creating universal access to high-speed internet – vital for remote work, education, job training and applications, telehealth, emergency services, and more. With the endless delays to get the crucial funding out the door and into American communities, 25 million people across our country risk going without access to the internet.
“States have spent years developing implementation plans under the BEAD program to reach every American with high-speed internet access. These plans reflect local needs, technical realities, and the bipartisan intent of Congress,” the Senators wrote. “States are ready to put shovels in the ground and have been waiting for months to get started connecting communities and building networks that will support the industries of tomorrow. Additional delays and onerous changes to the program at this stage threaten to further stall urgently needed deployment and leave communities behind.”
The Senators also noted that beyond everyday applications of high-speed internet, this money is also essential to ensuring that America is able to maintain its competitive edge over countries such as China. Al systems – including data centers, chip manufacturing facilities and more – require access to power and internet. Without proper broadband networks in place, communities will not be able to house these job-creating facilities. Our government must work to ensure that all areas in our country – especially rural ones – are able to contribute to America’s innovative edge and technological dominance. Without BEAD funding getting out the door, these rural communities risk falling either further behind.
States have spent months developing plans to break ground and build high-speed, scalable, and reliable networks everywhere. The Trump administration should not throttle this process or delay it just to give more money to the world’s richest man. The Senators urge the immediate and swift release of all BEAD program funding.
BEAD Grant Allocations By State
| State | Amount |
| Texas | $3,312,616,455.45 |
| California | $1,864,136,508.93 |
| Missouri | $1,736,302,708.39 |
| Michigan | $1,559,362,479.29 |
| North Carolina | $1,532,999,481.15 |
| Virginia | $1,481,489,572.87 |
| Alabama | $1,401,221,901.77 |
| Louisiana | $1,355,554,552.94 |
| Georgia | $1,307,214,371.30 |
| Washington | $1,227,742,066.30 |
| West Virginia | $1,210,800,969.85 |
| Mississippi | $1,203,561,563.05 |
| Florida | $1,169,947,392.70 |
| Pennsylvania | $1,161,778,272.41 |
| Kentucky | $1,086,172,536.86 |
| Wisconsin | $1,055,823,573.71 |
| Illinois | $1,040,420,751.50 |
| Arkansas | $1,024,303,993.86 |
| Alaska | $1,017,139,672.42 |
| Arizona | $993,112,231.37 |
| Indiana | $868,109,929.79 |
| Colorado | $826,522,650.41 |
| Tennessee | $813,319,680.22 |
| Oklahoma | $797,435,691.25 |
| Ohio | $793,688,107.63 |
| Oregon | $688,914,932.17 |
| New Mexico | $675,372,311.86 |
| New York | $664,618,251.49 |
| Minnesota | $651,839,368.20 |
| Montana | $628,973,798.59 |
| Idaho | $583,256,249.88 |
| South Carolina | $551,535,983.05 |
| Kansas | $451,725,998.15 |
| Nevada | $416,666,229.74 |
| Iowa | $415,331,313.00 |
| Nebraska | $405,281,070.41 |
| Wyoming | $347,877,921.27 |
| Puerto Rico | $334,614,151.70 |
| Utah | $317,399,741.54 |
| Maine | $271,977,723.07 |
| Maryland | $267,738,400.71 |
| New Jersey | $263,689,548.65 |
| Vermont | $228,913,019.08 |
| South Dakota | $207,227,523.92 |
| New Hampshire | $196,560,278.97 |
| Guam | $156,831,733.59 |
| Hawaii | $149,484,493.57 |
| Massachusetts | $147,422,464.39 |
| Connecticut | $144,180,792.71 |
| North Dakota | $130,162,815.12 |
| Rhode Island | $108,718,820.75 |
| Delaware | $107,748,384.66 |
| District of Columbia | $100,694,786.93 |
| Northern Mariana Islands | $80,796,709.02 |
| American Samoa | $37,564,827.53 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | $27,103,240.86 |
The letter can be seen here and below.
Dear Sec. Lutnick and President Trump,
Congress created the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program as part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to finish the job of connecting everyone and building high-speed, scalable, and reliable networks everywhere. For six months, states have been waiting to break ground on scores of projects, held back only by the Commerce Department’s bureaucratic delays. If states are forced to redo or rework their plans, they will not only miss this year’s construction season but next year’s as well, delaying broadband deployment by years. That’s why we urge the Administration to move swiftly to approve state plans, and release the $42 billion allocated to the states by the BEAD Program.
Universal access to high-speed internet is essential for jobs, education, and telehealth—and also for the bandwidth-hungry innovation economy, from artificial intelligence and advanced robotics to smart manufacturing and semiconductor production. Further delay means 25 million Americans continue to wait for high-speed internet and the economic benefits it brings. It also means that we risk falling behind China, which is aggressively building out digital infrastructure to support its AI, advanced manufacturing, and semiconductor ambitions.
States have already developed plans to address these needs, and restarting or slowing down the process will only hold back progress. States must maintain the flexibility to choose the highest quality broadband options, rather than be forced by bureaucrats in Washington to funnel funds to Elon Musk’s Starlink, which lacks the scalability, reliability, and speed of fiber or other terrestrial broadband solutions.
High-speed, reliable, and scalable connectivity is essential for jobs, education, and telehealth. It’s also the backbone for the advanced industries of today and tomorrow. AI systems require massive volumes of data and low-latency networks to operate effectively. Data centers, smart warehouses, robotic assembly lines, and chip fabrication plants all depend on fast, stable, and scalable bandwidth. If we want these job-creating facilities built throughout the United States, including rural areas, we must ensure the infrastructure—including high-speed internet networks—is in place to support them. If we want AI developed and deployed in the United States, if we want to win the race for semiconductor dominance, if we want the next generation of manufacturing jobs to be created here, then we must act now—and we must build the high-speed, high-capacity networks those technologies demand.
States have spent years developing implementation plans under the BEAD program to reach every American with high-speed internet access. These plans reflect local needs, technical realities, and the bipartisan intent of Congress. States are ready to put shovels in the ground and have been waiting for months to get started connecting communities and building networks that will support the industries of tomorrow. Additional delays and onerous changes to the program at this stage threaten to further stall urgently needed deployment and leave communities behind.
We urge you to move forward with the submitted BEAD plans and deliver on the promise of the BEAD program without further delay. Every American and every community needs access to reliable, scalable, and high-speed internet if we are to remain the world’s innovation leader.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SYDNEY, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XenDex’s $XDX presale is entering its final 24 hours, with most tokens already sold and only a limited allocation remaining for last-minute participants. The timing aligns with growing momentum across the XRP ecosystem, driven by increased community engagement and anticipation surrounding the XRP Las Vegas 2025 Conference. As the first fully integrated decentralized exchange built on the XRP Ledger, XenDex offers a final opportunity to acquire $XDX tokens at presale rates before listings go live.
Once the presale ends, $XDX is expected to be listed on select centralized exchanges currently in discussion with the team—meaning any future purchases will occur at market rates, which may be higher than the current presale price.
What is XenDex on XRP Blockchain?
XenDex is a next-generation decentralized exchange built on the XRP Ledger, offering ultra-fast transactions, low fees, and all-in-one DeFi functionality.
Features and Problems XenDex Aims to Solve on XRP Ledger
XenDex brings key DeFi solutions to XRP, including:
Why Should I Buy $XDX?
Holding $XDX gives users:
Where Can I Trade $XDX?
Following the presale, $XDX is expected to become available on multiple centralized exchanges currently in discussion with the XenDex team.
Is XenDex a Legit Project on XRP?
Yes, XenDex is built by an experienced team from Cardano and SUI, is undergoing audits, and integrates with Xaman Wallet and XRP Toolkit.
How Do I Buy $XDX?
XenDex Presale Details
Join XenDex Community
Website: https://xendex.net
Presale: https://xendex.net/presale
Telegram: https://t.me/xendexcommunity
Twitter: https://x.com/xendex_xrp
Docs: https://xdxdocs.gitbook.io
Contact:
Frank Richards
Frank@xendex.net
Disclaimer: This is a paid post provided by XenDex. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.
Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility.Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d7c8ccc2-abf4-461b-a2ea-5a0316b1f201
Source: US State of North Carolina
Headline: High School Teams from Across North Carolina Amaze in Ready, Set, App! Competition
High School Teams from Across North Carolina Amaze in Ready, Set, App! Competition
lsaito
Today Governor Josh Stein announced the three winning North Carolina high school teams of the sixth annual Ready, Set, App! competition. Nine student teams from across the state attended the final event to pitch their original mobile apps to a panel of business and tech-industry professionals along with a live audience of family members, teachers, and peers.
“I am proud to recognize these competitors for their technical acumen and hard work to develop apps that will make a difference for their friends, family, and neighbors,” said Governor Josh Stein. “We must expand opportunity so that students can apply what they learn in the classroom to solve real problems. I look forward to seeing all that these students achieve in the future.”
The following teams were selected as the winners for this year’s competition:
The Ready, Set, App competition is hosted by the North Carolina Business Committee for Education (NCBCE), a business-led, education non-profit within the Governor’s Office, and sponsored by Lenovo. The contest challenges student teams to design and develop an original android mobile application to solve a problem in their school or community.
This year, Ready, Set, App! teams are comprised of three to five students along with an advisor. The competition set participation records this year, engaging 425 students with 107 teams from across 30 counties. From the registered teams, 51 submitted completed projects, including a full app demonstration accompanied by a compelling video pitch. Projects were then judged by Lenovo professionals, educators, business leaders, and government officials to determine the nine finalists. Teams then pitched their apps on stage at the Lenovo headquarters in Morrisville for the chance to win brand new Lenovo tech.
“We are incredibly proud to recognize the outstanding talent and innovation showcased by all the participants in this year’s Ready, Set, App! competition,” said Libby Richards, community engagement manager at Lenovo. “These high school students have demonstrated not only technical skill, but also a forward-thinking problem solving using technology. We congratulate the winners on their impressive achievements and applaud every student who took part in this inspiring competition.”
This year’s team was led by Kishan Rajeev Jagadeesh from Apex Friendship High and Wisdom Walker from Harper Middle College. New additions this year include Evan Kim from Weddington High School, Mariya Tinch from Nash-Rocky Mount Early College, Nachammai Annamalai from South Iredell High School, and Swayam Shah from Enloe Magnet High School.
Ready, Set, App! is open to all North Carolina high school students and will be held again next school year with a kickoff planned for fall 2025. Intern applications will open in September and team registration will open shortly after.
Click here or more information about the Ready, Set, App! Competition.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)
Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate TuSimple Holdings – a Chinese autonomous trucking company – for potential violations of U.S. export controls, unauthorized transfers of sensitive technology to the People’s Republic of China, and any associated breaches of national security.
In the letter, Senator Hawley wrote, “According to recent investigative reports, TuSimple systematically shared proprietary data, source code, and autonomous driving technologies with Chinese state-linked entities, in blatant disregard of a 2022 national security agreement with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). These reports also revealed communications from TuSimple personnel inside China requesting the shipment of sensitive Nvidia AI chips and detailed records showing ‘deep and longstanding ties’ with Chinese military-affiliated manufacturers. To date, TuSimple has not faced serious consequences for sharing American intellectual property with China.”
He continued, “If the reports about TuSimple are accurate, they represent not just a violation of export law, but a breach of national trust and a direct threat to American technological leadership. The American people deserve to know how and why a supposedly U.S.-based company was allowed to serve as a conduit for the transfer of sensitive innovations to the Chinese Communist Party.”
Senator Hawley concluded, “I urge the Department to act swiftly and without hesitation. Any individual or entity found to have violated our laws must be held fully accountable.”
Read the full letter here or below.
May 28, 2025
The Honorable Pam BondiAttorney GeneralU.S. Department of Justice950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NWWashington, DC 20530
Dear Attorney General Bondi,
I write to urge the Department of Justice to open a formal investigation into TuSimple Holdings Inc., a Chinese autonomous trucking company, for potential violations of U.S. export controls, unauthorized transfers of sensitive technology to the People’s Republic of China, and any associated breaches of national security.
According to recent investigative reports, TuSimple systematically shared proprietary data, source code, and autonomous driving technologies with Chinese state-linked entities, in blatant disregard of a 2022 national security agreement with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS)[1] These reports also revealed communications from TuSimple personnel inside China requesting the shipment of sensitive Nvidia AI chips and detailed records showing “deep and longstanding ties” with Chinese military-affiliated manufacturers. To date, TuSimple has not faced serious consequences for sharing American intellectual property with China.
If the reports about TuSimple are accurate, they represent not just a violation of export law, but a breach of national trust and a direct threat to American technological leadership. The American people deserve to know how and why a supposedly U.S.-based company was allowed to serve as a conduit for the transfer of sensitive innovations to the Chinese Communist Party. I urge the Department to act swiftly and without hesitation. Any individual or entity found to have violated our laws must be held fully accountable.
As you conduct your investigation, please consider the following questions:
1. Did TuSimple provide protected information to Hydron, Foton, BAIC Group, or any other affiliated Chinese entity?2. What steps has the Department of Justice taken to ensure that Bot Auto—a new, Texas-based self-driving truck company staffed with former TuSimple employees and backed by Chinese capital—does not engage in similar behavior?3. What activities were covered by TuSimple’s national security agreement with CFIUS?4. What were the infractions of this agreement for which TuSimple paid a $6 million settlement?5. Are “national security agreements” an adequate mechanism for controlling high-risk companies with known ties to the Chinese Communist Party?
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,Josh HawleyU.S. Senator
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SYDNEY, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — XenDex’s $XDX presale is entering its final 24 hours, with nearly all tokens allocated and only a small supply remaining for last-minute participants. This final window coincides with heightened activity across the XRP ecosystem, as anticipation builds around the upcoming Ripple Conference in Las Vegas 2025. With XRP’s growing institutional attention, XenDex is positioning itself as the first fully integrated decentralized exchange (DEX) built natively on the XRP Ledger.
Once the presale ends, $XDX is expected to be listed on select centralized exchanges currently in discussion with the team—meaning any future purchases will occur at market rates, which may be higher than the current presale price.
What is XenDex on XRP Blockchain?
XenDex is a next-generation decentralized exchange built natively on the XRP Ledger, designed for ultra-fast transactions, low fees, and powerful DeFi tools—all in one place.
Features and Problems XenDex Aims to Solve on XRP Ledger
XenDex solves XRP’s lack of DeFi options by providing:
Why Should I Buy $XDX?
Holding $XDX gives users:
Where Can I Trade $XDX?
Following the presale, $XDX is expected to become available on multiple centralized exchanges currently in discussion with the XenDex team.
Is XenDex a Legit Project on XRP?
Yes. XenDex is built by a team with experience in Cardano and SUI, has ongoing audits, and integrates with key XRP tools like Xaman and XRP Toolkit.
How Do I Buy $XDX?
For a full buying guide, visit: https://xdxdocs.gitbook.io/xendex/buy-usdxdx-token-presale
XenDex Presale Details
Join XenDex Community
Website: https://xendex.net
Presale: https://xendex.net/presale
Telegram: https://t.me/xendexcommunity
Twitter/X: https://x.com/xendex_xrp
Docs: https://xdxdocs.gitbook.io
Contact:
Frank Richards
Frank@xendex.net
Disclaimer: This is a paid post provided by XenDex. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. GlobeNewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/59df5f04-fcbf-45f5-8119-1f7977ffa608
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
SILICON VALLEY, Calif., May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Meriwest Credit Union, a leading financial institution serving the Greater San Francisco Bay Area and Pima County, Arizona, was recently featured in the Silicon Valley Business Journal’s Table of Experts discussion. The conversation, moderated by Tom Zahiralis, SVBJ Market President and Publisher, highlighted Meriwest’s “People Helping People” philosophy and its ability to innovate while maintaining a lean, community-focused organization.
Meriwest’s leadership team, including President and CEO Lisa Pesta, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Chad Maze, Vice President and Chief Treasury Officer Jihong Huang, Vice President of Business Services Charles Giuliano, and Vice President of Digital Strategy and Engagement Gene Fichtenholz, shared insights on fostering a strong workplace culture, supporting small businesses, and addressing economic challenges. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise underscored Meriwest’s commitment to personalized financial services and community empowerment.
Key Highlights from the Discussion:
“At Meriwest, our mission is centered on empowering individuals to realize their financial aspirations,” said Lisa Pesta, President and CEO. “Our involvement in the Table of Experts discussion underscores our commitment to innovation, community engagement, and cultivating an inclusive environment for both our members and employees.”
About Meriwest Credit Union
Founded in San Jose, California in 1961, Meriwest Credit Union, ($2.1B in assets) is one of Silicon Valley’s most established financial institutions. Dedicated to delivering advice-based, personal, convenient, and innovative financial services to over 80,000 families and businesses throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Pima County, Arizona, Meriwest offers a wide array of personal banking, business services, and wealth advisory services. Meriwest has been voted one of the ‘Best Credit Unions in Silicon Valley’ in the Mercury News’ Annual ‘Readers’ Choice Awards’ and a “Best Place to Work” by the Silicon Valley Business Journal 2020 through 2025. More information can be found at www.meriwest.com.
Media Contact:
Jeffrey Zane
Meriwest Credit Union
Public Relations
408-612-1484
jzane@meriwest.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/545f10b1-cdc5-4390-8451-bfccc4dd7619