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Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Inmate Sentenced To Federal Prison For Mailing Threats To Prosecutor And Judge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis today sentenced Taylor Ryan Hill (27, Jacksonville) to 30 months in federal prison for mailing threatening communications. The court also ordered Hill to serve the sentence consecutive to a state prison sentence imposed in 2021 for first degree murder (two counts), attempted murder, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Hill pleaded guilty in this latest case on December 3, 2024.

    According to court documents, Hill was an inmate serving his state sentence at Hardee Correctional Institution in Bowling Green. On February 12, 2024, Hill mailed a threatening letter to the Assistant State Attorney in Clay County who had prosecuted Hill for his underlying murder convictions. The letter threatened to have that prosecutor, as well as the judge who sentenced him, killed. The letter was signed “Taylor Ryan Hill” and was mailed in an envelope with a return address of Taylor Hill, his inmate number, and an address at Hardee Correctional.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in cooperation with the Office of the State Attorney for the Fourth Judicial Circuit. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachel Lasry and Michael J. Coolican.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strickland Announces 2025 Congressional Art Competition Winner Grace Kim 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)

    Lakewood, WA – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) announced Grace Ye Kim as the 2025 Congressional Art Competition winner for the district. “Moments as We Wait” was selected by a panel of jurors and will be displayed in the United States Capitol for one year. 

    The theme of this year’s competition was “Freedom” and high school students submitted artwork expressing what Freedom means to them.  

    “This piece is based on a photo I took of my four siblings while we waited for the fireworks show on the Fourth of July. Despite the countless videos of the light show that day, what remains most memorable is everything beforehand – The gathering of family and friends as we celebrated alongside so many others in our community at the waterfront. This painting is my way of recapturing that joyful moment to share with others,” said competition winner, Grace Kim.  

    “These talented and creative student submissions depict freedom in so many ways: the freedom to be themselves, to exercise guaranteed rights, to be happy and secure in the community, and the sacred obligation to defend these ideals,” said Strickland. “I’d like to thank all the students, teachers, and jurors who supported the program.” 

    “Several artists responded with images related to identity such as self-portraits to express the pursuit of life, others used traditional symbols including the bald eagle, American flag, and Statue of Liberty to represent the pursuit of liberty, and some represented scenes from their daily lives to show the pursuit of happiness. This competition highlights the excellence of the art teachers who educate and guide their students and it provides a valuable practical experience for students in the district.” said Dr. Jennifer Olson, competition juror. 

    “There were several pieces in the final round of consideration each demonstrating characteristics and qualities worthy of top spot. I particularly enjoyed the winning works use of depth effects along with the works playful use of color to portray a moment in young adulthood when we are our freest whether we understand it in the moment or looking back on it when we’re older,” said PḰȺELWEȽTEN, Charles Bloomfield, competition juror. 

    This year’s panel of jurors for Washington’s 10th Congressional District included Indigenous documentary filmmaker, activist and Coast Salish artist PḰȺELWEȽTEN (English name Charles W Bloomfield); Pierce College and Tacoma Community College (TCC) professor Dr. Jennifer Olson; Head of Evergreen State College Instructional Photography and multimedia artist Carrie Chema; and Head of Pierce College Arts Department Dave Roholt. 

    The Congressional Art Competition was launched in 1982 to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of young constituents from across the country with the chance to display their art in the U.S. Capitol. 

    Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is Whip of the New Democrat Coalition, Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus, and is one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: 18-Year-Old Man Who Led Law Enforcement on Dangerous High-Speed Chase Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Yakima, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that United States District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Angel Omar Zuniga-Soriano, age 18, to 144 months in prison on one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Judge Dimke also imposed 3 years of supervised release.

    According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on June 29, 2024, Zuniga-Soriano, who is involved with the Sureno street gang, was driving a vehicle matching the description of a vehicle used in a robbery earlier that same day in Wapato, Washington. When a police officer in Toppenish, Washington, spotted the vehicle, he activated his overhead lights and attempted to stop the vehicle. Instead, Zuniga-Soriano sped-off and led police on a high-speed chase. Zuniga-Soriano drove on the busy interstate between Toppenish, Sunnyside, and Zillah at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour. During the pursuit, Zuniga-Soriano fired one bullet out of the driver’s side window.

    Ultimately, Zuniga-Soriano pulled into a convenience store parking lot in Zillah, attempting to drive thru the lot.  In an effort to reduce risk to the public, a law enforcement officer then rammed his police vehicle into the vehicle Zuniga-Soriano was driving. As a result, the sergeant driving the police vehicle was injured.

    Even still, Zuniga-Soriano was undeterred.  He took off running, throwing a Glock pistol into a nearby yard.  After a lengthy foot pursuit, law enforcement tackled Zuniga-Soriano in a nearby field.  When the Glock pistol was recovered, law enforcement observed that the gun had a “Glock switch,” which is a modification that attaches to the rear of a Glock handgun and is designed to convert it from semi-automatic firearm into an automatic machine gun.

    Zuniga-Soriano subsequently provided a recorded statement to law enforcement.  Zuniga-Soriano stated that he used to be a “demonic demon” and explained that he used to try to drown puppies in his toilet.  He further advised that he tries to stay away from certain people; otherwise, he ends up falling back to his old ways and “my demonic self comes into me.” Zuniga-Soriano explained that he was not actual a gang member, but was a gang associate.  When asked about the instant case, Zuniga-Soriano stated he had ingested marijuana, blacked out, and could only recall part of what had happened.

    In that same interview, Zuniga-Soriano attempted to claim that he was not actually firing at law enforcement.  Rather, according to Zuniga-Soriano, he was going to commit suicide during the pursuit.  He claimed that he put the gun to his head, but dropped it, which caused the gun to discharge.  When the detective advised Zuniga-Soriano that a Glock firearm does not discharge when you drop it, Zuniga-Soriano recanted and then claimed that he tried to take the gun apart during the pursuit, which caused it to discharge.

    Ultimately, an extended firearm magazine was recovered from inside the vehicle Zuniga-Soriano was driving.  Law enforcement subsequently test-fired the Glock firearm and discovered that it was capable of firing multiple rounds by a single trigger press.

    At the sentencing hearing, Judge Dimke pointed out that despite Zuniga-Soriano only being 18 years of age this was his third firearm conviction.  Judge Dimke also explained that she took into account the dangerousness of the instant offense in pronouncing the twelve-year sentence.

    “The seriousness and nature of this offense cannot be understated,” Acting U.S. Attorney Rich Barker said.  “I am grateful for the courage of the brave law enforcement officers, who ensured Mr. Zuniga-Soriano would not escape apprehension that day.  Obviously firing a gun from a vehicle is extremely dangerous.  However, attempting to elude police officers at such high rates of speed on public roadways presents an equally dangerous risk to our citizens.  Had it not been for a sergeant with the Toppenish Police Department, who put his own life at risk to immediately stop the pursuit, innocent lives of motorists and their families could have been tragically lost.  I also am grateful for Assistant United States Attorney Tom Hanlon’s excellent work on this case. For decades, AUSA Hanlon has dedicated his career to seeking justice and handling many of the most challenging and significant cases within our Yakima office.” 

    “It is amazing that more people were not injured, or worse, by Mr. Zuniga-Soriano’s reckless actions.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “It is clear from his blatant disregard for the welfare of innocent people that the community will be safer with him behind bars. I commend the brave actions of our partners who were able to bring him into custody despite his irresponsible and dangerous attempts to evade accountability.”

    Based on severity of the Zuniga-Soriano’s actions, and due to the nature of the type of firearm utilized in the offense, the Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force was contacted.  The Southeast Washington Safe Streets Task Force consists of law enforcement officers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Border Patrol, the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, and the Toppenish Police Department.  Along with the Safe Streets Task Force, the case was investigated by the Toppenish Police Department, the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, the Yakama Nation Police Department, the Granger Police Department, the Wapato Police Department, the Washington State Patrol, the Zillah Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney and Yakima Branch Manager Thomas J. Hanlon.

    Case 1:24-cr-02069-MKD

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Defence Secretary Statement to the House of Commons

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Oral statement to Parliament

    Defence Secretary Statement to the House of Commons

    Ukraine Update

    Thank you Mr Speaker. Today, HMS Prince of Wales set sail from Portsmouth and I trust the whole House will join me in wishing the entire carrier strike group a safe and successful global deployment.

    Mr Speaker, I wish to make a statement on the ongoing war in Ukraine.

    Today, parliament returns from its Easter break.

    But during the last two weeks Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine has continued. Drones strikes. Missile attacks. Fierce fighting on the frontline.

    On Palm Sunday, men, women and children in Sumy, on their way to church were hit by Putin’s deadliest attack on Ukrainian civilians so far this year, killing 35 people – including young children – and injuring over 100 more.

    We are united in condemnation at this brutal attack and Putin’s illegal actions.

    At this critical moment for Ukraine and for European security, we have stepped up the Government’s efforts for Ukraine and we will step up further, both to increase military support for the fight today and to secure peace for tomorrow.

    Mr Speaker, we cannot jeopardise the peace by forgetting about the war.

    So, ten days ago in Brussels, the UK convened and I co-chaired the 27th meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, alongside my good friend, the German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius.

    51 nations and partners – from Europe from the Indo Pacific, from South America – came together at NATO HQ, including Ukrainian President Zelensky, US Defence Secretary Hegseth and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

    We came together to step up our support for Ukraine in the fight. Together we pledged a record 21 billion euros of military support to put Ukraine in strongest possible position and to increase pressure on Putin to negotiate.

    Mr Speaker this year, the UK is providing £4.5 billion in military support to Ukraine, more than ever before.

    And in Brussels, I announced £200 million of support will be surged to the front line, with supplies starting to reach Ukraine’s fighters within the next month including radar systems, anti-tank mines and hundreds of thousands of drones.

    I also announced £160 million worth to help the repair and maintenance essential battlefield vehicles and equipment.

    This support will strengthen Ukrainian troops in the close fight now and strengthen our industrial links with Ukraine to boost UK businesses.

    When President Trump talks about peace through strength, it’s the commitments made through this Contact Group that provide the strength to secure that peace.

    Despite President Putin’s promise of a 30-hour pause in fighting, I can confirm that Defence Intelligence have found, and I quote “no indication that a ceasefire on the frontline was observed over the Easter period”.

    And 10,000 missiles and drones have been fired into Ukraine during this year alone, including from the Black Sea.

    So, while Putin has said he declared an Easter truce – he broke it.

    While Putin says he wants peace – he rejected a full ceasefire.

    And while Putin says he wants to put an end to the fighting – he continues to play for time in negotiations.

    And the military, the Russian military continue to press on a number of fronts.

    Mr Speaker, I can confirm Russian military progress is slowing.

    Putin gained less territory in March then he did in February and less territory in February than he did in January.

    Ukrainian towns which Russia have been targeting since before Christmas have still not been captured.

    Ukrainian troops have still not been ejected from Russian territory in Kursk.

    Whatever ground Putin is taking comes at enormous human cost. Over 940,00 Russians have likely been killed or injured in the war so far – including over 150,000 killed and injured this year alone.

    Last month, the average daily casualty rate on the Russian side was 1,300 – almost double the rate of this time last year.

    While at home, Putin faces crippling interest rates at 21 per cent, inflation running at over 10 per cent and the Russian government is spending nearly 40 per cent of its total budget on this military campaign.

    I have to say Mr Speaker, in the days ahead, it is likely that Russia will keep up attacks on the Sumy oblast to help it fully reclaim nearby contested areas of Kursk.

    In central Donetsk oblast, Russia is targeting urban strongholds such as Toretsk, Povrosk and Chasiv Yar. 

    And in Kharkiv, Russia is continuing to make assaults towards the rail and logistics hub of Kupiansk.

    We do expect more ground to be taken, and more Russian missiles fired into Ukraine.

    And that is why we must remain united for Ukraine across this House, across this country, and across those nations standing alongside Ukraine.

    And we will step up support for Ukraine and pressure on Putin to force him to recognise that now is the time for peace, and continuing the war will prove much worse in the long run for Russia.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 April 2025

    Invasion of Ukraine

    • UK visa support for Ukrainian nationals
    • Move to the UK if you’re coming from Ukraine
    • Homes for Ukraine: record your interest
    • Find out about the UK’s response

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Severance: what the hit show can teach us about cyber security and human risk

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Oli Buckley, Professor in Cyber Security, Loughborough University

    What if your work self didn’t know about your personal life, and your home self had no idea what you did for a living? In Apple TV’s Severance, that’s exactly the deal: a surgical procedure splits the memories of employees into “innies” (who only exist at work) and “outies” (who never recall what they do from nine to five).

    On the surface, it sounds like an ideal solution to a growing cyber security problem of insider threats, such as leaks or sabotage by employees. After all, if an employee can’t remember what they accessed at work, how can they leak it, sabotage it, or sell it?

    As someone who has researched insider threats for the last decade I can’t help but see Severance as a cautionary tale of what happens when we try to eliminate threats without understanding people.

    The threat from within

    Insider threats really hit prominence in the wake of high-profile incidents like Chelsea Manning and Edward Snowden, who both leaked top secret government information. These threats are one of the most persistent challenges in security because unlike “traditional” hackers, insiders already have access to sensitive systems and information.

    They might act maliciously, stealing trade secrets or exposing data, or accidentally, through phishing links or lost devices. Either way, the consequences can be more serious because of the unprecedented levels of access someone has while working within an organisation.

    While we often think of the high-profile cases in the first instance, the reality of most insider incidents is far less dramatic. Think of the disgruntled employee who downloads a client database before leaving, or the well-meaning staff member who shares a sensitive file via the wrong link.

    In fact, one of the most iconic examples of an insider threat in fiction is Jurassic Park. The entire catastrophe begins, not with a dinosaur, but with a software engineer, Dennis Nedry, who disables the park’s security in an attempt to steal trade secrets. It’s a reminder that even the most sophisticated systems can be undone by a single rogue employee.

    Organisations try to manage this through access controls, behaviour monitoring and training. But people are unpredictable. Insider threats sit at the messy intersection of human behaviour, organisational culture and digital systems.

    This is where Severance strikes a chord. What if you could eliminate the human risk altogether, by turning employees into separate, tightly compartmentalised selves? In the show, workers at the shadowy Lumon Corporation have no memory of their job outside the office and vice versa.

    In a sense, it’s the ultimate form of “need to know.” An “innie” can’t tell anyone what they do because they don’t know anything beyond their desk. It’s a very elegant, although ethically problematic, solution for someone working in security. However, as the series unfolds, it becomes clear that the levels of control on offer through the process of severance come with a terrible cost.

    The problem with control

    The innies in Severance are trapped in an endless workday, unable to understand the meaning or value of their tasks. They form bonds, question authority and ultimately rebel. Ironically, it is the severed employees, the ones who are most closely controlled in the company, who become the greatest insider threat to Lumon.

    This mirrors something we know from real organisations: excessive surveillance, control and secrecy often backfires. For instance, Amazon has faced repeated criticism over its use of tracking technologies to monitor warehouse workers’ movements and productivity, with reports suggesting this has contributed to high stress, burnout and even rule-breaking as workers try to “game” the system.

    A 2022 study published in Harvard Business Review found that employees who feel overly monitored are significantly more likely to break rules or engage in counterproductive behaviour – undermining the very goals of workplace surveillance. If people feel undervalued or mistreated, they’re more likely to become disengaged or actively hostile. Security systems that ignore culture and trust are therefore often brittle.

    What Severance gets right is that insider threats are emotional and ethical problems as much as technical ones. They stem from how people feel about their role, their autonomy and their identity within a system. This is something that we can’t simply patch within a piece of software.

    Lessons from fiction

    Thankfully, no company in the real world is proposing surgical memory separation, at least not yet. But in an age of algorithmic management, increasing surveillance, and growing concerns about privacy, Severance resonates. It forces us to ask just how far should we go in the name of security?

    The answer isn’t to separate people from their work, but to build systems that are secure and respectful of the people within them; something increasingly backed by research.

    That means better design, clearer boundaries and a workplace culture that values openness, not just compliance. For example, implementing clear expectations around work hours and communication norms can help prevent burnout and promote wellbeing.

    Encouraging open communication channels, such as anonymous feedback systems, empowers employees to voice concerns without fear, fostering a culture of trust. Additionally, designing physical workspaces that promote collaboration, like open-plan areas and communal lounges, can enhance team cohesion and reflect organisational values.

    If we follow the example set by Lumon and try to remove all risk then we lose something far more essential – the humanity at the centre of our systems and organisations. Ultimately, removing that human focus could be the most significant vulnerability of all.

    Oli Buckley receives funding from Jason R.C. Nurse receives funding from The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and Responsible AI UK.

    – ref. Severance: what the hit show can teach us about cyber security and human risk – https://theconversation.com/severance-what-the-hit-show-can-teach-us-about-cyber-security-and-human-risk-255024

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Chicago Announces Increased Reward for Information Leading to Arrest & Conviction of Joseph “Troubles” Matos

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    CHICAGO—Douglas S. DePodesta, special agent-in-charge of the Chicago Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), announced today a reward increase for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Joseph “Troubles” Matos.

    Matos is wanted in connection with the shooting death of National Guard member Chrys Carvajal. On July 3, 2021, it is alleged that Matos and a fellow gang member shot and killed Carvajal when he was walking to his car following a party. Matos is believed to be a member of the Milwaukee Kings street gang, a criminal organization whose members and associates have engaged in narcotics trafficking and committed acts of violence, including murder and assault, to acquire and preserve the gang’s perceived territory on the North Side of Chicago, Illinois.

    On May 14, 2024, an arrest warrant was issued for Matos in the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, Chicago, Illinois, after he was charged with murder-in-aid of racketeering and murder through the use of a firearm. Previously, the FBI Chicago Field Office offered a reward of up to $10,000 for information from the public. The FBI is now offering a reward of up to $25,000 for tips leading to the arrest and conviction of Matos.

    Matos should be considered armed and dangerous, and members of the public are asked not to approach him directly.

    Anyone with information, even anonymously, is strongly encouraged to call 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip at tips.fbi.gov.

    Additional resources:

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Ecobat’s Seculene Sets New Flame-Retardant Standards for Recycled Polypropylene

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ecobat, a global leader in sustainable energy solutions, today announced that its proprietary Seculene line of high-performance recycled polypropylene (PP) compounds was named a finalist in the prestigious Plastics Recycling Awards Europe (PRAE). The recognition marks a major milestone for Seculene, affirming its role as a trailblazing solution in the circular economy and in advanced polymer engineering.

    Developed in-house by Ecobat and produced entirely from 100% post-consumer waste, Seculene represents a leap forward in recycled plastic technology. With over a decade of expertise behind its development, Seculene has been engineered to rival, and in many cases exceed, the performance of virgin polypropylene—delivering both environmental and functional excellence across demanding industrial applications.

    “Our Seculene polypropylene, derived entirely from post-consumer recycled materials, is a high-quality alternative to virgin polymers,” said Erich Esser, Vice President of Global Polypropylene and Managing Director for Ecobat Resources Germany/Austria. “This achievement reflects years of investment in innovation, resulting in materials that meet the highest industry standards for safety, reliability, and sustainability. Our flame-retardant grades, in particular, represent a new frontier in circular materials technology.”

    Flame-Retardant Innovation That Raises the Bar

    At the heart of Seculene’s PRAE recognition is its flame-retardant variant—the only recycled polypropylene compound certified to UL 94 V0 (Yellow Card) standards. In fire exposure scenarios, this grade forms a protective foam layer that insulates and protects internal components, making it ideal for high-risk environments such as e-bike battery housings and electrical enclosures.

    This advanced fire safety performance, combined with Seculene’s virgin-like density, impact strength, and processability, positions Ecobat at the intersection of circular economy leadership and technical material excellence.

    Automotive-Grade Materials Backed by Industry Validation

    In another major milestone, Ecobat recently secured DBL 1000 approval for its glass-fiber-reinforced Seculene (with 35% glass fiber content), certifying the compound for automotive interior use. A leading German automotive supplier has already adopted this grade for precision control unit housings—validating Seculene’s consistency and structural integrity under real-world manufacturing conditions.

    This recognition underscores the growing demand for high-performance, sustainable alternatives in the automotive sector, where lightweighting, durability, and environmental accountability are increasingly essential.

    Built for Versatility and Circularity

    Seculene is available in over 30 specialized grades tailored to a wide range of use cases—from UV-stabilized components for outdoor applications to mineral-filled variants designed for increased rigidity. Engineered for injection molding, extrusion, and other processing techniques, Seculene enables seamless integration into modern manufacturing environments.

    Use cases span automotive parts (wheel arch liners, cable conduits), electrical components, industrial systems, and consumer goods—making it one of the most versatile recycled polypropylene lines available on the market today.

    Every Seculene batch is manufactured at Ecobat’s recycling facilities, where closed-loop systems minimize waste and reduce energy use. These plants employ rigorous sorting, cleaning, and compounding processes to ensure material purity, consistent melt flow rates, and mechanical properties that meet or exceed industry benchmarks.

    Driving Toward a Circular Future

    The recognition by PRAE not only affirms the quality and innovation of Seculene, but also highlights Ecobat’s broader mission to lead the global transition to a circular economy. By replacing virgin polymers with 100% recycled alternatives, Seculene significantly reduces the environmental footprint of plastic-intensive industries while enabling compliance with rising regulatory and sustainability demands.

    About Ecobat
    With operations throughout Europe and the United States, Ecobat is a leader in the collection, recycling, production and distribution of energy storage solutions, lead and polypropylene products. Ecobat is now applying its global capability, infrastructure, and market knowledge towards recycling lithium-ion battery materials. For more information on how we are transforming energy storage, visit www.ecobat.com.

    Media Contact:
    Chelsey Berend
    Press@Ecobat.com  
    1-888-317-4687 ext. 703

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4e61f4d9-c65c-48e8-98e2-fbec8c0acdf2

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe4dfdec-0ee5-42b7-8f6a-64d8d2eefa31

    The MIL Network –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Urges HHS Secretary to Bring Back NIOSH Employees to Support Coal Industry

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, penned a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. regarding the recent layoffs at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in Morgantown, W.Va. Specifically, Senator Capito highlighted the important role NIOSH plays in the health and wellbeing of West Virginia coal miners and requested that the administration bring back these critical programs and employees that allow them to function properly.
    “I believe in the President’s vision to right size our government, but I do not think eliminating the NIOSH coal programs and research will accomplish that goal. The mission and work conducted by the specially trained NIOSH employees is not duplicative of any other government program. I am concerned that the RIFs at NIOSH will undermine the vital health programs important to so many West Virginians. I urge you to bring back the NIOSH employees immediately so they can continue to support our nation’s coal industry,” Senator Capito wrote.
    The full letter can be found HERE or below:
    Dear Secretary Kennedy,
    Thank you for taking the time to talk with me regarding the important work CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) does to improve and monitor the health care of our coal miners in West Virginia. During our discussion, I was pleased you agreed with me that the work happening at NIOSH is unique across the federal government. Now, I ask that the Department bring back not only the functions of the NIOSH coal offices and programs, but also some of the specialized employees impacted by the April 1 HHS-wide Reduction in Force (RIF) who do this important work in Morgantown, West Virginia.
    The NIOSH facility in Morgantown is known for its research aimed at preventing work-related injuries and illnesses, particularly in coal miners. The NIOSH Mining Program works to eliminate mining fatalities and injuries. Research on rock dust has resulted in safety changes to prevent explosions in underground mines. NIOSH research has also resulted in industry standards for pillar design and roof support programs to prevent collapses in underground mines. NIOSH’s Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program (CWHSP) studies respiratory disease and provides black lung screenings to coal miners. It is my understanding that the RIF impacted every employee in these important programs.
    There are specialized labs at the NIOSH facilities in Morgantown where dedicated scientists with years of training had been researching coal and silica dust along with black mold. This research stands not just to make the mining industry safer but also to benefit workers exposed to silica dust at construction sites and residents in West Virginia and North Carolina impacted by the devastating flooding from Hurricane Helene. With all the scientists and employees that work in theses labs impacted by the RIF, the CDC will be starting the process to decommission the Morgantown labs in the coming days. Decommissioning the labs will cost millions of taxpayer dollars. If the labs were to later be brought back online, additional taxpayer dollars would be spent to re-comply with numerous regulations and inspections.
    Earlier this month, I was honored to join President Trump, along with miners from West Virginia, at the White House as he signed Executive Orders to support the coal industry and unleash American energy. The President’s Executive Orders are welcome news for our miners and will help ensure all Americans have access to affordable and reliable energy resources like coal. As the President recognizes the importance of coal, we must also recognize the health of our miners and I encourage you to bring back the NIOSH coal programs and researchers that will help ensure the President’s vision to unleash American energy can be done safely.
    I believe in the President’s vision to right size our government, but I do not think eliminating the NIOSH coal programs and research will accomplish that goal. The mission and work conducted by the specially trained NIOSH employees is not duplicative of any other government program. I am concerned that the RIFs at NIOSH will undermine the vital health programs important to so many West Virginians. I urge you to bring back the NIOSH employees immediately so they can continue to support our nation’s coal industry.
    Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to Make American Healthy Again.
    Sincere regards,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson joins 26-state coalition backing federal Second Amendment Task ForceRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced today he has joined a 26-state coalition of attorneys general in sending a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi in strong support of the newly created Second Amendment Enforcement Task Force. 

    The letter, led by West Virginia Attorney General John McCuskey, applauds the Trump Administration and AG Bondi for launching the Task Force as a powerful new tool to protect and enforce Americans’ constitutional right to keep and bear arms. 

    “The Biden administration spent four years trying to punish gun owners and dismantle Second Amendment protections,” said Attorney General Wilson. “This Task Force marks a major course correction. It shows that under President Trump, we’re back to defending the Constitution, not bypassing it.” 

    In the letter, the 26 attorneys general commit to partnering with the U.S. Department of Justice to support litigation, share regulatory expertise, and assist in law enforcement efforts to uphold Second Amendment rights. The coalition described the Task Force as a crucial reset from the prior administration’s anti-gun agenda and a vital step toward restoring the Second Amendment as a first-class liberty. 

    “My office is ready to assist however we can, whether that’s in court, with policy reform, or alongside law enforcement,” Attorney General Wilson added. “South Carolina will always defend our citizens’ right to bear arms, and we’re proud to stand with AG Bondi and President Trump in this fight.” 

    The attorneys general also cited recent actions in their own states to protect firearm freedoms and combat discrimination against the firearms industry. 

    Read a copy of the letter here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: 250th Anniversary of the Shot Heard Round the World

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    State of Wyoming A Proclamation By the Governor of Wyoming WHEREAS, 250 years ago, on April 19, 1775, the fires of the American Revolutionary War were ignited at Lexington and Concord, where “the shot heard round the world” symbolized the courageous fight for independence and heralded the establishment of a nation built on the principles of liberty and self-rule; and WHEREAS, the gallant individuals known as the Patriots, who stood valiant against oppression, sacrificed their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor in their quest for liberty, thereby laying the cornerstone for what would become the United States of America; and WHEREAS, it is appropriate and just to reflect upon and rejoice in the liberties won through their valor, to educate our youth about the virtues of resilience and unity, and to renew our pledge to maintain these fundamental ideals; and WHEREAS, the citizens of Wyoming, heirs to both a pioneering spirit and a commitment to freedom, observe this day as a chance to honor the legacies of those early American Patriots and express gratitude for the enduring freedoms we enjoy; and WHEREAS, the Wyoming National Guard and other military units in Wyoming, embracing the ethos “Ride for the Brand,” serve as both the Sword and Shield of our State and Nation, with our brave Airmen and Soldiers currently deployed around the world, upholding these traditions and our commitment to global peace and security; NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mark Gordon, Governor of the State of Wyoming, do hereby proclaim April 19, 2025, to be, PATRIOTS’ DAY And urge all citizens of Wyoming to join in commemorating the American Patriots and the brave members of our Wyoming military forces who valiantly fight for our independence and freedoms. Given at the Wyoming State Capitol in Cheyenne, this nineteenth day of April, in the year two thousand and twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the two hundred and forty-ninth. By the Governor, Mark Gordon Governor of the State of Wyoming   State of Wyoming Proclamation Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the ‘Shot Heard Round the World’ WHEREAS, 250 years ago, on April 19, 1775, the American Revolutionary War began with clashes in Massachusetts at Lexington and Concord, where “the shot heard round the world” marked the first stand in the fight for independence and the birth of a nation founded on liberty and self-governance; and WHEREAS, the brave men and women who stood against tyranny, known as the Patriots, risked their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor in the pursuit of freedom, laying the foundation for the United States of America; and WHEREAS, it is fitting to reflect upon and celebrate the freedoms secured through their struggle, to educate future generations about the values of perseverance and unity, and to reaffirm our commitment to upholding these ideals; and WHEREAS, the citizens of Wyoming cherish the freedoms and rights established by our nation’s founders, and Patriots’ Day serves as an opportunity to express gratitude for the blessings of liberty; WHEREAS, the Wyoming National Guard, serving as both the Sword and Shield of our State and Nation, embodies the spirit of those early American Patriots, maintaining readiness to defend our freedoms and actively participating in community and state functions, thereby fostering a continuous link to our foundational values of liberty and service; WHEREAS, the motto “Ride for the Brand” encapsulates the loyalty, dedication, and sense of duty that our Wyoming military personnel bring to their service, committing to the defense and well-being of our community and country; and WHEREAS, our Airmen and Soldiers, deployed around the world, continue to uphold these principles, ensuring our state and nation remain a beacon of freedom and security in the global community; NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mark Gordon, Governor of the State of Wyoming, do hereby proclaim April 19, 2025, as Patriots’ Day in Wyoming and encourage all residents to join in honoring the legacy of the American Patriots and our own Wyoming military forces, both at home and abroad, who valiantly fight for our independence and freedoms. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the State of Wyoming to be affixed this nineteenth of April 2025. Mark Gordon Governor of Wyoming

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Rapid aging of world population will transform global property & casualty insurance industry by 2050

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Fahd Pasha
    Tel.: +1 647 860 3777
    E-mail: Fahd.Pasha@capgemini.com

    Rapid aging of world population will transform global property & casualty insurance industry by 2050

    • Global dependency ratio set to rise by 2050 there will be 26 seniors for every 100 working-age people, up from 16 today
    • Aging population is a key trend in forecasted 4.4% CAGR for global commercial insurance lines, 3.3% for personal insurance lines
    • 88% of insurers recognize the importance of more tech-enabled underwriting, but only 17% say they have the right capabilities

    Paris, April 22, 2025 – The Capgemini Research Institute’s World Property and Casualty Insurance Report, published today, shows how the aging of the world’s population will transform the industry globally by 2050. The report details how a shift in the ratio of seniors- to-working age adults will play a critical role in changing habits around consumption, transportation, and use of technology, with major implications for both commercial and personal P&C insurance. These trends will drive the industry towards a more prevention-focused, modular approach with real-time risk monitoring, as well as more technology-enabled underwriting models.

    The global population is aging, transforming consumer behavior
    The aging of the world population in the coming decades implies a major transformation in the workforce, with fewer working-age adults per retired senior. By 2050, it is expected that the global dependency ratio will rise to 26%, compared with 16% in 2024, meaning that for every 100 working-age people, there will be 26 seniors to support, up from today’s 16. Excluding the population of Africa, which is relatively young, the dependency ratio will reach 31%, up from 18%.

    This transition has profound implications for consumer behavior and the structure of the broader economy. As the global population grows older, consumer spending habits are expected to shift, with a greater focus on spending on experiences rather than large, fixed purchases. The report found 45% of consumers expect to increase their spending on lifestyle enhancements such as travel, luxury goods and home renovations while 70% do not plan to buy an additional house or upgrade their current house to a bigger one.

    This move in spending habits, combined with trends towards greater urbanization and automation of technology, will have a significant impact on how P&C insurers serve their customers. For example, auto insurers are expected to transition towards commercial insurance and shared mobility coverage, as seniors drive less and rely more on rideshares. Equally, personal property insurance will have to evolve towards preventive, age-friendly options that address smaller, multi-generational homes. In the workplace, commercial lines will need to account for demographic-driven automation and altered risk profiles.

    “Monumental demographic shifts are set to have a major and direct impact on P&C insurers in the coming decades. Today, insurers should be analyzing their portfolios to understand these sensitivities and to ascertain their exposure in mature and transitioning markets. This will support them in developing service models that are optimized and future-proofed,” said Adam Denninger, Global Insurance Industry Leader at Capgemini. “Finally, having an edge on customer experience, made possible through AI, will also help protect insurers against a competitive race to the bottom on prices.”

    Interconnected risks could drive loss potential
    In addition, insurers will have to grapple with the implications of climate change, and its effect on an aging work force. According to research from Oxford Economics prepared for Capgemini, 98.5% of the world’s population will be at risk from drought and 80% will be at risk from excessive rainfall. With such climate volatility, coupled with urban risk concentration, insurers will see the rise of interconnected risks that drive loss potential. To assess these risks and develop more climate-minded strategies, insurers will need to further integrate climate risk data and predictive analytics to correlate risks and improve underwriting, cites the report.

    Rising to the P&C challenge –with data and AI
    A key feature of these new approaches will be the use of predictive insights and real-time intelligence in underwriting. The report found 88% of insurers recognize the critical future importance of advanced underwriting, yet only 17% have mature capabilities.

    To prepare for and adapt to the changing demographics, the report recommends that P&C insurers embrace novel approaches including:

    • Placing focus on changing customer behavior: recalibrating geographic footprints and developing age-sensitive service models
    • Operating model transformation: modernizing data architectures and leveraging AI and automation to build resilient systems and drive efficiency
    • Risk governance: implementing predictive underwriting insights and dynamic portfolio management

    All these approaches require a process of continuous evolution, with executives delivering on medium-term actions while boards address long-term strategic questions.

    Read the full report: https://www.capgemini.com/insights/research-library/world-property-and-casualty-insurance-report//

    Report Methodology
    For this report, the Capgemini Research Institute surveyed three primary sources: the 2025 Global Voice of the Customer Survey (which polled 5,016 P&C insurance customers in 13 countries), the 2025 Global Insurance Executives’ Survey (which included interviews with 274 senior insurance executives of leading P&C insurance companies across 15 markets), and the 2025 Global Macroeconomic Forecasts created in collaboration with a leading macro forecaster (which includes insights across 11 markets representing all three regions of the globe).

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.

    Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

    About the Capgemini Research Institute
    The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It was ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts for six consecutive times – an industry first.
    Visit us at www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute

    Attachment

    • 04_22_WPCR Press Release

    The MIL Network –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Initial Applications Being Accepted for new Infrastructure Funding Program

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 22, 2025

    Starting today, eligible Saskatchewan communities are invited to submit applications for funding through the Provincial-Territorial stream of the Canadian Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF), with applications due by May 20.

    “Under the Canadian Housing Infrastructure Fund, communities will be able to invest in the vital municipal infrastructure that grows our economy, allows for new home construction and improves our overall quality of life,” Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said. “With our government’s contribution of more than $155 million, a total of over $340 million will be made available to enhance municipal infrastructure in Saskatchewan and I encourage all communities to start preparing for the significant intake planned for September.”

    CHIF will provide funding for communities to build or improve critical infrastructure related to drinking water, wastewater, stormwater and solid waste, supporting more homes throughout the province. 

    The agreement between Canada and Saskatchewan requires that a set amount of funding be committed by June 30, 2025. The Government of Saskatchewan’s initial intake is prioritizing those projects that have committed to housing outcomes, with additional intakes opening this fall. 

    During this initial intake, more than $23 million will be allocated through the competitive intake to Saskatchewan communities that have been approved for the federal Housing Accelerator Funding (HAF) and communities with at least 30,000 residents. At this time, Government Relations will be accepting applications from Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Moosomin, La Ronge, Radisson, Outlook and Humboldt. This ensures that the submitted projects meet the housing requirements under this CHIF cost-share requirement.

    The next intake for CHIF funding applications will begin in mid-September for all eligible Saskatchewan municipalities. Approval of the federal HAF program will not be required for the September intake.

    Under CHIF, the federal government will provide $187.9 million and the provincial government will provide more than $155 million to address housing-enabling infrastructure priorities.

    For complete eligibility requirements, the online application process and additional information, please visit: Government of Saskatchewan CHIF page.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Testing continues at Blairgowrie Recreation Centre

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    The £36 million leisure centre will replace the existing Blairgowrie Recreation Centre which is now over 40-years-old. The new centre was due to open earlier this year but this was postponed after a leak was discovered in the pool.

    The new centre will be Scotland’s first leisure centre built to environmentally-friendly Passivhaus standards, providing state-of-the-art, low-energy facilities for community and school use.

    It has a six-lane 25m swimming pool; a four-court sports hall; two-court sports hall/gymnasium; fitness suite; dance studio; several different changing facilities; office; a PE classroom as well as a floodlit synthetic outdoor pitch.

    Construction on the long-awaited new centre began in June 2023.

    After the initial leak was repaired, further testing was carried out which revealed a second, minor, leak in the pool. Contractors are working to resolve this issue before an opening date for the new centre is announced.

    Council leader Councillor Grant Laing has now written to independent councillor Colin Stewart, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Scrutiny and Performance Committee, to undertake a review of the issues that have led to the delays.

    Councillor Laing said: “We are all looking forward to Blairgowrie Recreation Centre opening.

    “However, it is extremely frustrating that we have had to keep pushing back the opening date while contractors resolve these issues with the pool.

    “Although this is not incurring any cost to the Council and we will not accept handover of the building until we are satisfied everything is working properly, we owe it to our residents to learn exactly what caused these issues and if they can be prevented on any future construction projects, here in Perth and Kinross or elsewhere.”

    The leak had been traced to an area around the movable floor equipment in the pool.

    The pool has been drained to allow all fixing and seals to be tested and to carry out repairs before the Council accepts handover of the building.

    Stephen Crawford, Perth and Kinross Council’s Strategic Lead for Property Services, said: “Blairgowrie Recreation Centre is a hugely important facility for our residents in Eastern Perthshire and we want the building to be in perfect condition before it opens.

    “We are all disappointed at this additional delay. Our contractors are working hard to ensure there are no faults in the building before it is handed over to Perth and Kinross Council and we can make preparations for opening day.”

    Paul Carle, Construction Director with BAM UK and Ireland, said: “The new Blairgowrie Recreation Centre will be fantastic facility for the whole community and we’re disappointed that we have not yet been able to hand over the keys to Perth and Kinross Council.

    “The pool is a complex design, and we have been working with specialist contractors to deliver it. Unfortunately, there have been technical issues and it’s right that we take time to correct these before it opens to the public. We are sorry for the delay and remain fully focussed of getting the repairs undertaken as early as possible.”

    The existing Recreation Centre remains open and will be used as the venue for this year’s SQA exams.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: XploraDEX Kicks Off Token Distribution—Presale Still Open for 7 More Days as Early Access Phase Expands

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a major milestone for the XploraDEX ecosystem, the $XPL Token distribution has officially begun. Early backers are now receiving their tokens as part of the initial wave of the platform’s rollout, marking the start of a highly anticipated shift from fundraising to activation. This token distribution phase will span the next 7 days, during which new investors still have a final opportunity to participate in the presale round at the original entry price.

    XploraDEX, the first AI-powered decentralized exchange native to the XRP Ledger, has taken the crypto world by storm over the past month, as Xploradex project has gained a strong reputation as the most innovative DeFi platform preparing to launch on XRPL.

    Purchase $XPL Token

    The distribution of $XPL tokens signals more than just delivery—it marks the beginning of real utility. Holders of $XPL will gain early access to a series of features rolling out in phases, including AI-enhanced trading dashboards, staking protocols, and advanced liquidity tools.

    Key highlights of the 7-day distribution and extended presale phase include:

    • Real-Time Token Distribution: Wallets are already being funded with $XPL tokens in batches, with full distribution expected to conclude within 7 days.
    • Presale Still Open: New investors can still join the presale before it officially ends, but only during this final 7-day window.
    • Upcoming Staking Pools: XploraDEX will launch staking options shortly after distribution concludes, rewarding early holders who commit to the ecosystem.
    • Governance Activation: $XPL holders will have the opportunity to vote on ecosystem upgrades and protocol proposals.
    • AI Dashboard Preview: A select group of early participants will be invited to test beta versions of the AI trading tools.

    Join $XPL Presale Now

    The $XPL presale has already drawn in thousands of wallets and notable XRP whales. The token’s unique position as the first AI-driven utility asset on XRPL has attracted traders, DeFi enthusiasts, and long-term ecosystem believers.

    “This next 7-day window is the final onboarding phase for the earliest supporters of the XploraDEX revolution,” said a spokesperson from the team. “Those who secure $XPL during this window will be part of the protocol from the beginning—not just as users, but as stakeholders.”

    Participate in $XPL Presale

    For those who believe in AI-driven DeFi, high-speed trading infrastructure, and community-first development, this is the final call to be part of XploraDEX’s foundational round.

    Secure Your $XPL Tokens Before the Presale Closes: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Live Updates on Launch: Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. 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.

    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/3d359138-3d74-497f-a7d4-b3319531a664

    The MIL Network –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Delivers Keynote Speech at Concord 250 Celebration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

    Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) delivered a keynote speech at the Concord 250 celebrations marking the semiquincentennial of the start of the Revolutionary War in Concord, Massachusetts.
    “What began here in Concord became ‘the shot heard round the world.’ It was more than the start of a war – it was the beginning of an idea. That liberty is worth defending. That government derives its just powers from the consent of the governed. That even the smallest towns in the smallest colonies could stir the conscience of a world,” said Congresswoman Trahan.
    CLICK HERE to view the full speech. A transcript is embedded below.

    The Concord 250 ceremony was hosted at the Old North Bridge in Minute Man National Historical Park, home to the first serious battle of the Revolutionary War. The shots fired in the Battle of Concord were later described by American author Ralph Waldo Emerson as the “shot heard round the world.”
    “In every generation, there have been bridges like this one in Concord and like the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, where brave Americans marched for civil rights and faced down brutality in the name of justice. Moments that demand to know who we are and what we stand for,” Congresswoman Trahan continued. “So let us meet our moment today. Let us be citizens worthy of this history, and ancestors worthy of remembrance. And let us ensure that two hundred and fifty years from now, when future generations gather at this bridge, they won’t just hear the echo of that first shot – they’ll hear the echo of our voices, rising to say: we carried the promise of a stronger America forward.”
    ————————————
    Congresswoman Lori Trahan
    Remarks as Delivered
    Concord 250 Ceremony
    April 19, 2025

    Good morning.
    Two hundred and fifty years ago, right here at the Old North Bridge, ordinary people faced an extraordinary choice: monarchy or democracy. They could remain subjects of a distant crown, or risk everything for the idea of self-government.
    They chose freedom.
    Farmers and blacksmiths, shopkeepers and ministers, teachers and mothers, everyday citizens who had no guarantee of success stood their ground. And when the smoke cleared on that April morning, the first shots of a revolution had been fired.
    What began here in Concord became “the shot heard round the world.” It was more than the start of a war – it was the beginning of an idea. That liberty is worth defending. That government derives its just powers from the consent of the governed. That even the smallest towns in the smallest colonies could stir the conscience of a world.
    But it was never inevitable. The men and women who gathered here were not professional soldiers or political elites. They were neighbors and parents. Workers and worshippers. People with families to protect, farms to tend, and lives to live. And yet, when the moment came, they answered history’s call.
    Today, as we mark the 250th anniversary of that defining moment, we gather not just to honor their courage, but to reckon with the responsibility they left us. Because we are the stewards now. Every generation inherits the promise made here in Concord. And every generation must choose what echoes we will send forward.
    Will we echo courage or complacency? Unity or division? Will we, like those early patriots, rise together to meet the challenges of our time?
    Even our founders knew that the greatest threat to this fragile experiment wouldn’t come from abroad – it would come from within. In fact, when George Washington agreed to attend the Constitutional Convention in 1787, he explained why in a letter to a friend. He warned of “some aspiring demagogue who will not consult the interest of his country so much as his own ambitious views.”
    Washington wasn’t worried about the jeweled crowns of foreign kings – he was worried about the domestic ones, those who drape themselves in flags while declaring themselves above the Constitution. That remains our charge today. To ensure that in America, no one, no matter how loud, how wealthy, or how powerful, stands above the law. Because in a democracy, the law, not a single man, is sovereign.
    Our union is still imperfect. Our freedoms still tested. But the story of America has always been one of progress – not because the path was easy, but because courage found its way into common hands.
    In every generation, there have been bridges like this one in Concord, like the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma where brave Americans marched for civil rights and faced down brutality in the name of justice. Moments that demand to know who we are and what we stand for.
    So let us meet our moment today. Let us be citizens worthy of this history, and ancestors worthy of remembrance. And let us ensure that two hundred and fifty years from now, when future generations gather at this bridge, they won’t just hear the echo of that first shot – they’ll hear the echo of our voices rising to say: we carried the promise of a stronger America forward.
    Thank you.
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lawrencetown — RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment investigates fatal collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment is investigating a fatal collision that occurred in Lawrencetown.

    On April 21, at approximately 12:10 p.m., RCMP officers, fire, and EHS responded to a report of a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Lawrencetown Rd. and Gammon Lake Dr.

    The investigation indicates an Econoline van was travelling south on Gammon Lake Dr. and a Yamaha motorcycle was travelling west on Lawrencetown Rd. when they collided.

    The driver and sole rider of the motorcycle, a 65-year-old man from Three Fathom Harbour, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver and sole occupant of the van, a 59-year-old man from Westphal, was not injured.

    A collision reconstructionist attended the scene; the investigation remains ongoing.

    Lawrencetown Rd. was closed for several hours.

    Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones at this difficult time.

    File #: 25-55022

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Premier’s, minister’s statements on Earth Day

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Premier David Eby has issued the following statement marking Earth Day:

    “On Earth Day, people in British Columbia join other Canadians and people around the world in celebrating our planet as we rededicate our efforts to protect it.

    “British Columbia is lucky to have so many marvelous natural wonders, from snowcapped mountains to verdant valleys to spectacular coastlines. Our government is working in partnership with more than 60 First Nations on stewardship projects embracing local and Indigenous knowledge to protect nature. Our unique biospheres are our inheritance. We have an obligation to preserve them as our legacy for future generations.

    “For 55 years, Earth Day has been raising awareness and encouraging action on critically important environmental issues. This year’s Earth Day theme is Our Planet, Our Power. It is a call for the world to harness renewable energy to build a healthy, equitable and prosperous future. A transition to renewable energy is driving innovation in industry, transportation and agriculture, and spurring technological advancements, while creating millions of new jobs around the world, including here in British Columbia.

    “The urgency has never been clearer. Our climate is changing. British Columbians have endured record-breaking wildfire seasons, as well as floods, droughts and heat waves. That is why we are building our province’s capacity to produce clean fuels, such as biofuels, hydrogen and hydroelectricity, as well as wind and solar power.

    “Our province is already a clean-energy superpower. To build a clean economy and support growing communities, we need to expand our clean-energy capacity. BC Hydro’s $36-billion, 10-year capital plan is critical to our efforts to build a clean economy, powered by electricity, that works for everyone.

    “First Nations have long been leaders in the clean-energy sector, and we will advance reconciliation by working in collaboration and partnership with First Nations to advance projects on their territories – including eight new wind-energy projects that have majority First Nations equity ownership.

    “Our plan, called Powering Our Future: B.C.’s Clean Energy Strategy, also shows how investment in energy efficiency saves people and businesses on their energy bills, reduces energy waste and cuts down on harmful pollution, while creating jobs and economic opportunities.

    “By working together, we will ensure our province remains a place where our children and our children’s children can continue to enjoy clean air, water and land.”

    Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks, said:

    “People throughout British Columbia are blessed to be able to celebrate Earth Day where the beauty of nature is ever-present. We all cherish the natural wonders this province provides for us and we take this time to renew our efforts to protect it.

    “Since 1970, Earth Day has stood as a time for all of us to reflect on how we can continue to care for our planet so it will continue to take care of us. With the ongoing effects of climate change being felt annually in the form of worsening drought, wildfires, heat waves and other weather events, now is the time to ramp up our efforts to work with our environment, not against it, for the betterment of all.

    “The theme of this 55th Earth Day is Our Power, Our Planet, an idea we are passionate about. That’s why the Province is exempting wind-farm projects from environmental assessments and working on expediting reviews of projects such as solar farms. Producing clean energy to meet the electricity needs of people and the economy is pivotal to our future. We want to make it easier for investors to create this energy and, at the same time, fuel our economy.

    “The people of British Columbia continue to show how much they cherish the beauty of this land by visiting provincial parks and recreation sites in high numbers year after year. As a vital part of our physical and mental well-being, our world-renowned parks and protected areas are more important than ever. They play a critical role in preserving unique species and ecosystems, along with cultural and historical values, and contribute to local economies through tourism.

    “Since 2017, we’ve added more than 2,000 new campsites to BC Parks and recreation sites, with more to come. Accessibility upgrades continue to be made in parks throughout the province to ensure these natural treasures can be enjoyed by everyone.

    “Earth Day allows us to reflect on where we are and where we need to go to build a cleaner, sustainable future. I am committed to do my part in stewarding our environment for future generations to benefit from, care and enjoy.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: JEFFRIES LEADS CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO THE UNITED KINGDOM, DENMARK, ISRAEL AND JORDAN 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement:

    “Our bipartisan Congressional delegation has departed for a trip to visit important allies and partners throughout Europe and the Middle East. While in the United Kingdom, we will meet with high level government and private sector leaders, reinforcing the close economic and security partnership that exists between our two countries during a time of global uncertainty. Our delegation will also travel to Denmark, where we look forward to discussing the continued importance of the NATO alliance and the geopolitical status of Greenland. 

    During our time in the Middle East, we will visit with senior officials in Israel and Jordan to discuss the challenges that exist with Iran and its proxies, as well as the opportunity to secure a durable ceasefire in Gaza that brings home the hostages, surges humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians in harm’s way and sets the stage for a just and lasting peace in the region. While in Israel, we will also participate in a Yom HaShoah observance.

    It is an honor to lead this delegation, and we look forward to an enlightening and productive trip.”

    The Members of the delegation are:

    • Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-08), Democratic Leader, U.S. House of Representatives
    • Rep. Ann Wagner (R-MO-02), Member, Committee on Financial Services; Member, Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence 
    • Rep. Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY-05), Ranking Member, Foreign Affairs Committee; Member, Committee on Financial Services
    • Rep. Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-American Samoa), Vice-Chairman, Committee on Veterans’ Affairs; Member, Natural Resources Committee; Member, Foreign Affairs Committee
    • Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Member, Committee on Appropriations; Member, Foreign Affairs Committee
    • Rep. Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), Member, Committee on Armed Services; Member, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
    • Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Member, Committee on Energy and Commerce
    • Rep. Laura Friedman (D-CA-30), Member, Committee on Science, Space and Technology; Member, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lilydale — Lunenburg District RCMP investigates fatal crash in Lilydale

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Lunenburg District RCMP is investigating a fatal crash that occurred in Lilydale.

    On April 20, at approximately 11:15 a.m., Lunenburg District RCMP, fire, and EHS responded to a report of a single motor vehicle crash on Hwy. 324.

    Responders located a Jeep Compass on its roof alongside the highway. The initial investigation indicates the SUV was travelling southbound when it left the roadway and struck a tree before overturning onto its roof.

    The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a 31-year-old woman from Lunenburg, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

    An RCMP collision reconstructionist attended the location of the crash; the investigation is ongoing.

    A section of Hwy. 324 was closed for several hours.

    Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones at this difficult time.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Man Sentenced to 9 Years for Involvement in Cross-Country Drug Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – An Arizona man was sentenced today to 9 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl pills in the Eastern District of North Carolina. Dakota Henderson, 26, pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Forty Grams or More of a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl and Distribution of Forty grams or more of a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl on October 10, 2024.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, law enforcement determined that Henderson was part of a group that obtained fentanyl pills from California and Arizona and then transported them to the Raleigh area for distribution.

    In March 2024, law enforcement searched a hotel room rented in Henderson’s name and found approximately 5,912 fentanyl pills, a drum magazine loaded with 32 rounds of ammunition, and over $1,000 in U.S. currency. Several weeks later, Henderson was observed by law enforcement, armed with a firearm, collecting money from a drug debt and delivering an additional 2,000 suspected fentanyl pills to a confidential informant.

    This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Raleigh Police Department, the Cary Police Department, and the United States Postal Inspection Service investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey L. Peaden prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-200-D-004. 

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    MIL Security OSI –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Somerset County Man Convicted of Drug Trafficking, Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Illegal Possession of Firearms

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    TRENTON, N.J. – A Somerset County, New Jersey, man was convicted of drug trafficking, possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and illegal possession of firearms, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Malachi A. Muhammad, 50, of Somerset, was convicted of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin, and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Muhammad was also convicted of one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of unlawful possession of firearms by a convicted felon. Muhammad was convicted following a one-week trial before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner in Trenton federal court. The jury deliberated less than two hours before returning the guilty verdicts.

    “This verdict underscores our commitment to keeping guns out of the hands of drug traffickers and dangerous drugs like methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin and cocaine out of our communities. My message is clear: if you jeopardize the safety and security of New Jerseyans, we will hold you accountable. Our office and our law enforcement partners won’t rest until we do.”

    – U.S. Attorney Alina Habba

    “This conviction is an example of ATF’s dedication to working with our state and local partners in identifying, investigating, and apprehending criminals who prey upon innocent citizens and lessen the quality of life in our neighborhoods through the trafficking of narcotics and the illegal possession and use of firearms, said Newark ATF Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr. “This is a reminder that there is no safe haven for those that wreak havoc or contribute to crime in our communities. ATF will never waver in our commitment to protecting the people we serve and public safety.”

    According to documents filed in this case and the evidence at trial:

    On August 19, 2021, officers from the Lawrence Township Police Department responded to the southbound lanes of Route 1 near the Quaker Bridge Mall in response to calls from concerned citizens about a car stopped in the middle of the highway. Officers found Muhammad, the only occupant and driver of the car, initially unresponsive and believed him to be asleep or experiencing a medical emergency. After officers were able to arouse Muhammad, they noticed the handle of a handgun in between his legs. Officers removed Muhammad from the vehicle, and he was placed under arrest. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed 91 pills of methamphetamine, 468 wax folds of fentanyl and heroin, 5 bags of cocaine, and five additional firearms, including two semi-automatic rifles, and over 150 rounds of ammunition.

    The drug trafficking charges each carry maximum penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $1,000,000. The firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment, which must be served consecutively to any other term of imprisonment, a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, and a fine of up to $250,000. The unlawful possession of a firearm charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr., the Lawrence Township Police Department, under the direction of Interim Chief Kevin Reading, the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, with the investigation leading to the guilty verdict.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey A. Agnew and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Garelick of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.

                                                                                                                     ###

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree, Heinrich Lead Charge to Reach Net-Zero Emissions, Boost Profitability in US Agriculture

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    In honor of Earth Day, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) reintroduced the Agriculture Resilience Act (ARA), comprehensive legislation that aims to help the U.S. reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector by 2040—while giving America’s farmers more tools and resources to increase their profitability. 

    “From historic droughts and wildfires to devastating floods and extreme weather, America’s farmers are directly impacted by the climate crisis,” said Pingree, a longtime organic farmer and senior member of the House Agriculture Committee. “With the Farm Bill in limbo and the Trump Administration actively undermining farmers’ interests, bold legislation like the Agriculture Resilience Act is more urgent than ever. These goals are ambitious—but they’re achievable. By helping farmers adopt practices that boost resilience and profitability, this bill charts a path to not only create a more sustainable future for America’s agriculture sector, but ensure greater economic viability for our farmers as well.”

    “New Mexico’s agricultural producers and rural communities rely on the health of our land and water to sustain their families and communities. They are also the first to feel the impacts of climate change. That is why we need to provide our farmers and ranchers with new tools to not only protect their land and way of life, but also be part of the climate solution,” said Heinrich. “I’m pleased to reintroduce the Agriculture Resilience Act, which sets a national goal of achieving net-zero emissions in agriculture by 2040 through farmer-led, science-based initiatives. I’ll continue working to bring our communities the tools they need to improve soil health, expand conservation programs, increase research into climate-friendly agricultural practices, and support on-farm renewable energy projects.”

    To reach net-zero agricultural emissions within the next 15 years, the ARA focuses on six concrete policy areas—and solutions that are rooted in science.

    These goals include:

    1. Increasing Research: The ARA would ensure existing agriculture research programs prioritize climate change research, increase funding for USDA’s Regional Climate Hubs, support public breed and cultivar research, and create a new SARE Agricultural and Food System Resilience Initiative for farmer and rancher research and demonstration grants.
    2. Improving Soil Health: The ARA would create a new soil health grant program for state and tribal governments, authorize USDA to offer performance-based crop insurance discounts for practices that reduce climate risk, expand the National Agroforestry Center by authorizing three additional regional centers, and provide more technical assistance and flexibility in USDA conservation programs to support climate-smart practices.
    3. Protecting existing farmland and supporting farm viability: ARA would increase funding for the Local Agriculture Market Program to help keep local farms profitable and create a new subprogram for farm viability and local climate resilience centers to help farmers reach new markets. The bill would also increase funding for the Agriculture Conservation Easement Program to make farmland affordable for the next generation. 
    4. Supporting pasture-based livestock systems: The ARA would create a new alternative manure management program to support an array of livestock methane management strategies and establish a new grant program to help small meat processors cover the costs associated with meeting federal inspection guidelines.
    5. Boosting investments in on-farm energy initiatives: The ARA would increase funding for the Rural Energy for America Program to prioritize low-emissions electrification projects and direct USDA to study dual-use renewable energy and cropping or livestock systems.
    6. Reducing food waste: The ARA would standardize food date labels to reduce consumer confusion about the shelf life of foods, create a new USDA program to reduce food waste in schools, and increase federal support for food waste research and outreach, composting, and anaerobic digestion food waste-to-energy projects.

    The ARA is supported by dozens of national and local organizations including American Farmland Trust, the World Wildlife Fund, and Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, as well companies like Stonyfield and Organic Valley. Click here for a full list of endorsers. 

    READ WHAT ORGANIZATIONS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE ARA. 

    An organic farmer since the 1970s, Pingree has been recognized as a national policy leader on sustainable food and farming. Pingree is the founder of Congress’s first-ever Bipartisan Food Recovery Caucus and is Vice Chair of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Climate and Agriculture Task Force. In addition to serving on the House Agriculture Committee, Pingree is a member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, where she serves as Ranking Member on the Interior and Environment Subcommittee and on the Agriculture Subcommittee.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Orion180 Teams Up with Jewelers Mutual® to Offer Homeowners Comprehensive Jewelry Insurance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELBOURNE, Fla., April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orion180, a leading provider of innovative homeowners and flood insurance solutions, has announced a collaboration with Jewelers Mutual, the only insurer dedicated to jewelry and jewelry businesses with over a century of expertise, to provide homeowners with specialized jewelry insurance coverage beyond the typical limits of a standard homeowners policy.

    Through a seamless integration with Orion180’s homeowner’s quoting process, customers can obtain comprehensive protection against risks specific to high-value items, including theft, loss, and accidental damage.

    “By working with Jewelers Mutual, Orion180 is addressing an underserved need among clients who require comprehensive jewelry coverage that goes beyond standard offerings,” said Ken Gregg, CEO and founder of Orion180. “We believe this collaboration adds a valuable layer to our insureds’ insurance experience because they can protect both their home and adequately protect their high-value items all in one place.”

    Jewelers Mutual provides customers with specialized expertise and options such as flexible deductibles and the ability to choose their own preferred jeweler for repairs or replacements, offering policyholders a level of coverage not typically included in standard homeowners insurance policies.

    “This new relationship with Orion180 allows us to leverage technology in new ways to make insurance more accessible to more jewelry consumers,” said Mike Alexander, Chief Operating Officer. “We’re able to meet customers where they want to be met and give them the freedom to wear their jewelry confidently knowing each piece has the expert protection it deserves.”

    This collaboration represents a milestone in Orion180’s mission to provide value-added, technology-driven insurance solutions that cater to specific client needs. Independent insurance agents and homeowners can learn more about this jewelry insurance option by visiting Orion180.com or contacting Orion180 directly.

    About Orion180
    Orion180 is a technology-driven and customer-centric insurance brand that combines proprietary technology, real-time data, and straightforward underwriting practices to provide a seamless and premier insurance experience. Orion180 operates through Orion180 Insurance Co., a surplus lines insurance company serving Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Colorado (Flood only), Tennessee (Flood only), Illinois (Flood only) and Arizona, and Orion180 Select Insurance Co., an admitted insurance company offering coverage in Alabama, Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Ohio. With its proprietary MY180 platform and third-party integrations, Orion180 offers unmatched efficiency and innovation, fulfilling its vision of becoming the global leader in insurance solutions while maintaining its mission to deliver superior customer experiences and a comprehensive suite of products. Connect with Orion180 on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TruthSocial, and YouTube. For more information, visit www.Orion180.com.

    Media Contacts
    Ross Blume
    Fusion Public Relations
    orion180@fusionpr.com

    Yiguang Qiu
    Orion180
    +1 321 222 6242
    yqiu@orion180.com

    About Jewelers Mutual

    Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual’s powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers’ strong financial position is reflected in their 38 consecutive “A+ Superior” ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2024. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas and Miami, Florida. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.

    The MIL Network –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: MATSUI, HOULAHAN, BACON INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO BLOCK AMERICORPS CUTS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

    The bipartisan Protect National Service Act would block federal funds from being used to cut the national service agency

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06) and Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE-02) introduced the Protect National Service Act, which would prohibit federal dollars from being used to carry out AmeriCorps cuts and damaging the agency’s core functions. 

    This follows on the heels of a bipartisan letter that the three members and Republican Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) sent to the White House on April 11 demanding that President Trump work with Congress on any proposed AmeriCorps reforms rather than pursue unilateral executive actions.  

    This legislation is in response to reporting that the Trump Administration is attempting to fire large swaths of the Agency’s workforce, beginning with its disaster relief efforts. Earlier this week, AmeriCorps members who had been working in North Carolina rebuilding from the effects of Hurricane Helene were recalled from their project sites ahead of termination on April 30. 

    “Let me be clear: dismantling AmeriCorps is an indefensible attack on some of our most patriotic and selfless young Americans. For 30 years, AmeriCorps has opened the door for people across this country to step up and serve,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “AmeriCorps members are on the front lines of public service: rebuilding after disasters, helping families file taxes, and tutoring children in struggling schools. Time and again, they’ve proven their power to bridge divides and drive meaningful progress across the country. Now, Donald Trump and Elon Musk want to tear down three decades of progress — without justification and without a plan. But here’s the truth: for every $1 Congress invests in AmeriCorps, our country gets back over $17 in economic and community benefits. That’s not just service — that’s impact. The American spirit of service runs deep. It’s in our DNA. We will fight for every piece of this program, because national service will endure.” 

    “I am horrified that the Trump Administration is attempting to gut AmeriCorps,” said Congresswoman Houlahan. “National service brings together Americans across political divides, uplifts communities, and is a terrific return on investment for the federal government. To target AmeriCorps, especially at a time when Members are still working to repair hurricane damage in North Carolina and elsewhere, is wrong.” 

    “While I am supportive of President Trump’s mission of cutting the size and cost of the federal government, I am deeply troubled that once again, they are using a sledgehammer approach on vital programs such as Americorps, which gives young people an opportunity to serve their country through programs such as disaster relief efforts and food banks,” said Congressman Bacon. “Not only do these young Americans lose the opportunity to make a difference, but programs connecting elderly volunteers with people in their age group who need help are being shut down because there is no one to run them. It seems that no thought goes into what gets cut, and DOGE is just slashing to meet some number goal.”  

    See bill text here. 

     

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: I-81 Viaduct Project Reaches Major Milestone

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the award of the fifth and final construction contract of phase one of the transformative Interstate 81 Viaduct Project in the City of Syracuse. The award of the nearly $251 million contract to Salt City Constructors marks a significant milestone in this historic project to reunite the long-divided communities of Syracuse’s Southside and modernize the entire transportation landscape of Central New York. It is the first contract to include removal of portions of the viaduct and signals the transition of the project away from its initial stages — which focused largely on improvements needed to redesignate Interstate 481 as the new I-81 — and toward the later phase of eliminating the viaduct and establishing the Community Grid. Work on the fifth contract is set to begin imminently.

    “Across the State, we are reimagining and reshaping our infrastructure to reconnect communities and address the misguided planning decisions of the past,” Governor Hochul said. “The award of the I-81 Viaduct Project’s latest contract is proof of the advancements we are making to reunite the Southside neighborhoods that were wrongly divided by this highway’s construction and is an indicator of the progress that is yet to come for all of Central New York.”

    The generational I-81 Viaduct Project is the largest project ever undertaken by the New York State Department of Transportation and is part of Governor Hochul’s unprecedented commitment to modernize New York State’s infrastructure and invest in projects that promote equity, connectivity, and multi-modal transportation opportunities for communities across the state. The project will remove a 1.4-mile stretch of elevated highway that has divided the City of Syracuse for decades and implement a Community Grid that will reconnect neighborhoods, modernize infrastructure, give motorists additional ways to safely access downtown Syracuse and improve mobility for pedestrians and bicyclists.

    Comprised of eight separate contracts, construction on the project began in the spring of 2023 and with the award of the fifth contract, New York State has now reached the major milestone of having all five phase one contracts in construction. The $33 billion NYSDOT Capital Plan adopted in 2022 helps fulfill the Governor’s vision for a modern transportation system that serves New Yorkers across the State. The project is being funded with a mix of federal and State resources.

    New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Under Governor Kathy Hochul’s leadership, New York State is doing more to invest in infrastructure projects that are fundamentally transforming communities across the state – creating jobs and providing economic opportunities for generations of New Yorkers to come. The I-81 Viaduct project is an outstanding example of working with the community to develop and progress a project that truly reflects the transportation needs of the community. Today’s announcement is further proof that we are moving full speed ahead on this transformative project in the City of Syracuse, which will promote connectivity in all its forms, for communities across Central New York, leading to a brighter path forward for the thousands of residents – many of whom were negatively impacted by the viaduct’s construction over seventy five years ago.”

    As part of contract five, construction will begin in earnest on the southside of Syracuse, with the transformation of the southern end of Almond Street and I-81 into future Business Loop 81. Work includes reconstructing and converting I-81 to Business Loop 81 from just north of Colvin Street to Burt Street, gradually bringing the highway down to street grade, while introducing several traffic calming measures, including curved roadways and narrower lanes and shoulders. Plans also call for a grassy median, decorative lighting, and trees as traffic approaches Martin Luther King East.  View an aerial rendering.

    Contract five also includes the construction of a roundabout at Business Loop 81 and Van Buren Street, which will help slow northbound traffic as it approaches Martin Luther King East and downtown Syracuse. The roundabout was initially planned for a location at Martin Luther King East, near the STEAM at Dr. King Elementary School, but was relocated after community members expressed concerns about its proximity to the school. View a rendering of the roundabout at the intersection of Business Loop 81 and Van Buren Street looking west.

    As construction on contract five proceeds, two thirds of the way through completion, the viaduct will officially close to traffic south of Harrison Street and approximately seven spans of the viaduct will be removed. Southbound traffic destined for Exit 18 to Adams and Harrison Streets, and northbound traffic that enters using the on-ramp to I-81 at Harrison Street will remain on the viaduct. Temporary improvements will be made to Almond Street to allow for all traffic destined to or from Business Loop 81 to access the central business district.

    Additionally, a new railroad bridge will be constructed between Martin Luther King East and the new roundabout to carry the New York Susquehanna and Western Railway tracks over Business Loop 81. The new bridge will include blue painted steel and lighting to create a new gateway entrance into the City of Syracuse.

    Additional contract five components include:

    • An off-ramp from Business Loop 81 northbound to Colvin Street to enhance connectivity to the downtown areas, Syracuse University, and the university’s south campus. View a rendering of the new Colvin Street exit.
    • Improvements to the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County’s storm water runoff and sewage systems.
    • Pedestrian and cyclist amenities, including designated bike lanes, shared use paths, new sidewalks and crosswalks with enhanced pedestrian activated signals.
    • New traffic signals with video detection on mast arm poles to enhance safety and traffic flow.
    • Noise barriers along Business Loop 81 southbound between Martin Luther King East and along the off-ramp to South State Street, South Salina Street, and Brighton Avenue, in the northbound direction between a half mile south of the I-81 bridge over Colvin Street to just north of the I-81 bridge over Colvin Street.

    As part of NYSDOT’s ongoing commitment to engage with the community at every step of the process, several outreach events will be scheduled to keep stakeholders informed about the project, including an open house for southside residents to learn more about contract five construction.

    Senator Charles Schumer said, “With the fifth and final contract now awarded for Phase 1 of I-81’s transformation we have never been closer to realizing the dream of a reconnected Syracuse with green space and modern transportation for all. This contract will remove portions of the viaduct and signals that wheels are in motion to realize the city’s vision for a community grid to better connect Syracuse to a brighter future. When I led the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to passage, I did so with projects like Syracuse’s I-81 transformation as my north star. I am proud this significant over $250 million contract will be invested in Syracuse to reconnect the community and create good-paying construction jobs. I’m grateful for Governor Hochul and Mayor Walsh’s partnership in putting this federal funding to good use building the better, brighter future that Syracuse deserves.”

    Representative John W. Mannion said, “Today marks another visible step forward in removing the outdated I-81 viaduct and constructing a better, more connected Syracuse and Central New York. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and commitment to bold infrastructure investments, we are creating a safer, smarter road system that will deliver smoother drives, stronger neighborhoods, cleaner air, and a brighter future for the region.”

    State Senator Rachel May said, “The I-81 project is transforming Central New York, and it’s exciting to see the next phase begin. As the final contract is awarded, we must continue reinvesting in the Syracuse area, ensuring the high-quality construction jobs go to workers in our community. This once-in-a-lifetime project aims not only to improve our infrastructure but also to unite Syracuse and guide us toward a brighter future. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her leadership, NYSDOT for keeping the project on track, and my Senate Majority colleagues for their continued support.”

    State Senator Christopher Ryan said, “This milestone is about more than just one phase of concrete and construction — it’s part of a major step forward in reconnecting neighborhoods, restoring opportunity, and renewing a sense of unity across our community. For too long, infrastructure decisions have divided communities and limited potential across Central New York. With this next phase of the I-81 Project, we move closer to a future where every neighborhood in Syracuse and the surrounding area is part of the progress. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for her partnership and her commitment to building a more connected and equitable CNY.”

    Assemblymember William Magnarelli said, “I am pleased to see the final Phase I contract of the I-81 Viaduct Project awarded. This marks an important step in the construction of the project. I look forward to its timely completion.”

    Assemblymember Pamela Hunter said, “This investment not only addresses decades of infrastructure inequity, but also sets the foundation for a more connected, accessible, and unified community. The removal of the viaduct and the creation of the Community Grid will help restore neighborhoods that have been divided for far too long, and I commend Governor Hochul and the Department of Transportation for their continued commitment to making this vision a reality.”

    Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “The award of Contract Five means Syracuse continues to be all systems go for the positive transformation of Interstate 81. Work has already been occurring within the City of Syracuse, and with these next stages we will see even more progress toward the Community Grid. I thank Governor Hochul, Commissioner Dominguez and the entire New York State Department of Transportation I-81 project team for advancing this critically important public infrastructure project.”

    Follow the I-81 Viaduct Project on Facebook, Instagram, and X or visit our website.

    About the Department of Transportation
    It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable, and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment and supports the economic well-being of New York State.

    Lives are on the line; slow down and move over for highway workers!

    For more information, find us on Facebook, follow us on X or Instagram, or visit our website. For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org or download the free 511NY mobile app.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine war: path to peace looks increasingly narrow as Kyiv’s western backers scramble to focus on their own interests

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    After more than three years of war, the prospects of peace for Ukraine remain slim. There is no obvious credible pathway even to a ceasefire, given Russia’s refusal to extend a brief and shaky truce over Easter. This, despite the US, UK and Ukraine all signalling their support for this idea.

    And even if the considerable hurdles impeding a ceasefire deal could be overcome, a more fundamental problem would remain. None of the key players in the conflict appear to have a plan for an agreement that is likely to be acceptable to Kyiv and Moscow.

    Previous plans, such as a joint proposal by China and Brazil in May last year which was supported by a Chinese-led “Friends of Peace” group were primarily focused on a ceasefire as a stepping stone to negotiations about an actual peace agreement.

    This and other plans were all light on detail of what a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine would entail but were nonetheless roundly rejected by Ukraine and its western allies as favouring Russia. Given that a ceasefire would simply freeze the front lines and very likely make them permanent with or without a subsequent peace agreement, this was not an unreasonable position.

    What Ukraine proposed instead, however – and what its western allies backed, at least rhetorically – was hardly more viable. The peace plan proposed by Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in December 2022 was already on life support at the time of the first “Summit on Peace in Ukraine” in Switzerland in June 2024.

    Only 84 of the 100 delegations attending the summit (out of 160 invited) supported a watered-down version of Zelensky’s plan in their final communique – and there was no agreement on a follow-up meeting. Ukraine’s peace plan was clearly dead in the water.

    Ukraine then proposed an “internal resilience plan”. With its its focus on ensuring that the country can survive a long war of attrition with Russia, this is anything but a peace plan.

    But it serves Kyiv’s needs to avoid an unconditional surrender to Moscow. This is also high on the agenda for Ukraine’s European allies who remain committed to supporting Kyiv.

    For the emerging European coalition of the willing, it is important to keep Ukraine in the fight while they build up their own defences. They face the possibility of a new international order in which the world might well be carved up into US, Russian and Chinese spheres of influence.

    Where the White House stands

    Such a carve-up is at the heart of efforts by the US president, Donald Trump. Trump is trying to secure a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as well as a deal that would give the US privileged access to Ukrainian resources.

    Having initially fallen apart during an extraordinarily acrimonious press conference in the White House on February 28, this deal now appears to be relatively close to conclusion.

    The ceasefire deal Trump appears to envisage would divide Ukraine itself into spheres of influence according to a plan recently suggested by Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg. Yet even such a pro-Moscow arrangement that would offer Putin control of 20% of Ukraine continues to elude negotiators.

    At present, the Russian president has few incentives to settle for less than his maximum demands and stop a war that he thinks he is still able to win on the battlefield – particularly given Trump’s unwillingness to exert any meaningful pressure on Russia.

    At times, it now appears more likely that Trump will simply abandon his efforts to end the fighting in Ukraine. From a Russian perspective, this would be preferable to a ceasefire that freezes the conflict but doesn’t lead to a peace deal reflecting Moscow’s demands.

    The likely calculation in the Kremlin is that even if the 2026 mid-term elections in the US water down Trump’s power, that still leaves two more years to conquer more Ukrainian territory. Should Washington then make another push for a ceasefire, Moscow could claim any additional conquests as a price for Ukraine to pay for a settlement.

    Even if Trump does not walk away from the negotiations now, and even if his special envoy Steve Witkoff ultimately manages to cobble together a deal, this will more likely look like a ceasefire than like a peace agreement.

    Gulf remains between Russia and Ukraine

    The simple reason for this is that Russia’s and Ukraine’s positions on an acceptable outcome have not shifted. Putin remains committed to the full annexation of four complete Ukrainian regions as well as retaining Crimea. Zelensky has repeatedly ruled out territorial concessions and is broadly supported by Ukrainians in this stance.

    For the west, the reality that a peace agreement is close to impossible on terms satisfying all sides has become a self-fulfilling prophecy. To the extent that there are any joint efforts by Ukraine, the US and the European coalition of the willing, they are completely centred on a workable ceasefire.

    At a meeting of foreign ministers and high-level officials in Paris on April 17, discussions were focused on making such a ceasefire sustainable.

    While details of how this can be achieved remain unclear, the fact that there now appears to be a more inclusive negotiations track signals progress, at least on the process of negotiations. Whether this will lead to an actual breakthrough towards a sustainable ceasefire, however, will depend on their substance and whether Ukraine and Russia can ultimately agree on terms about disengagement of forces, monitoring, and guarantees and enforcement mechanisms.

    This is an already incredibly high bar, and the bar for a subsequent peace agreement is higher yet. In the current stage of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, a ceasefire is clearly a precondition for a peace agreement. But the sole focus on the former will not make the latter any more likely.

    What’s more, given Russia’s track record of reneging on the Minsk ceasefire agreements of September 2014 and February 2015, investing everything in a ceasefire deal might turn out not just a self-fulfilling but a self-defeating prophecy for Ukraine and its supporters.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

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

    – ref. Ukraine war: path to peace looks increasingly narrow as Kyiv’s western backers scramble to focus on their own interests – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-war-path-to-peace-looks-increasingly-narrow-as-kyivs-western-backers-scramble-to-focus-on-their-own-interests-254864

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council launches consultation on extending city’s Smoke Control Area

    Source: City of York

    Residents and businesses are being invited to share their views on a proposal to expand York’s existing Smoke Control Area to cover all areas within council boundaries.

    In a Smoke Control Area, it is an offence to emit smoke from a chimney of a building. Correctly seasoned wood, timber or logs should only be burnt in a Defra approved appliance and authorised ‘smokeless’ fuels must be used in any other appliances that are not Defra approved.

    Most residential areas within York’s outer ring road and Haxby and Wigginton, are already included within York’s Smoke Control Area. 

    The new proposal to expand the area across York will not ban people from burning solid fuel. Instead, it will require all residents and businesses to take responsibility for the fuel they burn – to minimise smoke and air pollution and improve health and wellbeing.

    Houseboats are not covered by the existing Smoke Control Areas and are not proposed to be covered by the expanded area. Garden bonfires, outdoor barbecues, chimineas and firepits are also not covered by Smoke Control Area rules.

    The Council has previously consulted on measures to improve local air quality and reduce the impact of burning solid fuels such as wood (AQAP4). Burning of wood contributes to a type of pollution called fine particulate matter (PM2.5) both inside and outside the home. Around a third of PM2.5 emissions in York are caused by burning wood for heating. 

    Cllr Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, said:

    “Everyone can be affected by air pollution, but children, older people and those with heart and lung conditions are especially at risk.

    “We are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the local community and improving local air quality is one way in which we are working to achieve this.

    Cllr Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Public Health, said:

    “Emissions of fine particulate matter present in smoke are particularly harmful to health as their size means they can get deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream to be transported around the body.

    “Expanding the Smoke Control Area will provide cleaner air for all and provide a level playing field across the city.”

    Any complaints of chimney smoke will be investigated in line with the Council’s current enforcement policy, which initially requires the Council to provide advice on the use of suitable appliances and fuels. Residents struggling with the cost of heating will be signposted to advice on accessing financial and practical help on heating their homes.

    Following advice, Council officers can issue penalties of up to £300 where they witness the emission of smoke from a chimney in a Smoke Control Area. Those found to be selling or buying unauthorised fuel for use in an appliance that’s not approved by Defra can also face fines of up to £1,000.

    Stakeholders have until 3 June to submit their views on the proposals 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Children’s military sports camps to open in the capital for the 80th anniversary of Victory — Sobyanin

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In honor of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, children’s military-sports tent camps will open in the capital. Sergei Sobyanin announced this in his telegram channel.

    “A project unique to the capital’s education system will start on June 1. The camps will be named after outstanding marshals of the Soviet Union: “Zhukov” will be located on the territory of the “Alabino” training ground, “Rokossovsky” – in the “Patriot” park, “Vasilevsky” – in the Noginsk rescue center of the Russian Emergencies Ministry,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin 

    Over 4.5 thousand students of grades 7–10 will attend specialized shifts during the summer — winners of city, all-Russian and international competitions and contests in sports, tourism and military-patriotic areas. A total of six two-week shifts will be organized during the summer.

    The guys will undergo tactical, engineering and fire training, learn the basics of topography, fire and rescue operations and field medicine, learn to operate unmanned aerial vehicles and navigate the terrain.

    The programs were developed by the capital Department of Education and Science together with the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation and the Ministry of the Russian Federation for Civil Defence, Emergencies and Elimination of Consequences of Natural Disasters (EMERCOM of Russia). Participation is free. You can submit an application in the web version of the electronic diary of the Moscow Electronic School project in in the “School” section, indicating your achievements in competitions and contests.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/mayor/tkhemes/12648050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Leaders trade barbs and well-worn lines in unspectacular third election debate

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Visitor, School of History, Australian National University

    Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton have met for the third leaders’ debate of this election campaign, this time on the Nine network. And while the debate traversed much of the same ground as the first two, the quick-fire set up of the debate allowed for some more animated exchanges less than two weeks from election day.

    Three expert authors give their analysis of how the two leaders performed.

    Joshua Black, Australian National University

    Tonight’s leaders’ debate was a marked improvement on the appalling spectacle Nine hosted three years ago. Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton had clearly taken advantage of the reduced campaign activity in recent days to prepare themselves for this contest.

    The problem? There was nothing new worth saying. Viewers were treated instead to the greatest hits of an election campaign that has so far not been especially great. Dutton once again paid homage to Howard and Costello’s liberalism (read: “I’m not Trump”), while Albanese repeated his hardly seamless mantra: “no-one held back and no-one left behind” (read: “I’m not Dutton”).

    For all of the lofty soundbites, the debate hinged on pedantry. The semantic argument from the first debate about the 2014 budget and health and education spending came up again. (Were there cuts, or did these “line items” simply not grow as fast as promised?)

    Both leaders repeated banal explanations about why they were best placed to deal with the Trump White House. There was plenty of tired campaign rhetoric about looming recessions and “talking Australia down”. Even an exchange from last week between Albanese and the ABC’s moderator David Speers seemed to be repeated tonight: why isn’t the government’s energy relief for households means-tested?

    At times, this debate was self-indulgent on the part of Nine Entertainment. Ally Langdon (who opened the debate by welcoming “a bit of theatre”) routinely cast her own judgement, condemning Albanese and Dutton for merely “patching cracks” and not proving their “fiscal responsibility” sufficiently.

    Interestingly, media policy was one of the few things on which the two leaders could agree. Nine’s political editor Charles Croucher asked the leaders to state their attitude toward the News Media Bargaining Code, which prompts global tech giants to pay Australian news providers for access to their content. Both leaders tripped over themselves to assure the panel they were on a “unity ticket” to protect local media companies (including Nine Entertainment) from being “cannibalised” by multinational tech giants. (Of course, a fair playing field for local media providers is clearly in the national interest.)

    This was Dutton’s best debate showing so far. That’s hardly a win. The prime minister managed to reel off a list of his government’s more popular policies, subtly compare his compassionate approach to leadership with Dutton’s darker obsession with order and the threat of disorder, and remind people of the opposition leader’s history of unpopular statements and policies. A modest win for Albanese, if not grounds for inspiration.

    Andrea Carson, La Trobe University

    Coinciding with the first day of early voting, the third leaders’ debate was more like a game of speed chess – with 60 seconds for leaders’ answers, and 30 seconds for rebuttals. The result was too often a word salad.

    While voters may be feeling debate fatigue — and little wonder with a fourth showdown looming on Channel 7 on Sunday — this one could have mattered. With about half of Australians casting their votes early, these televised match-ups represent a potential last chance to shape opinions before May 3.

    Instead, questions often focused on personal qualities: trust and lies, and less on policy – poorly serving viewers as answers became a tit-for-tat affair. The countdown of the clock only re-enforced leaders’ rehearsed answers to well-worn topics of cost of living, energy prices, Medicare bulk billing rates, immigration, housing crisis and tax cuts, barely exposing key policy differences for undecided voters. Even their matching blue suits and pale ties made them look less like opponents and more like political twins.

    Dutton seemed more assured than Albanese from the start.

    Typically, campaign messages get more negative as we move closer to polling day. Studies have shown fear campaigns can “work”, but they can also turn off voters, particularly women. So, unsurprisingly, Dutton’s emphasis was on law and order framed in the language of fear, promising to “keep people safe in their home and communities […] in very uncertain times”. He also promised to cut migration, couched as bringing down housing prices.

    The former policeman seeking to be prime minister kept with the law and order theme to sway voters offering a $A750 million package to stamp out illegal drugs and tobacco.

    In a similar vein, the Labor leader Anthony Albanese used every chance he had to pivot questions back to Labor’s policy home ground advantage: health, education (free TAFE and reduced HECS debt) and low-cost childcare.

    Asked by journalist Deborah Knight if he was “too soft” as a leader, Albanese strove to offer voters hope over fear, replying: “kindness isn’t weakness […] we raise our children to be compassionate”, arguing he can still hold firm when dealing with autocratic leaders to protect Australia’s national interest.

    As Dutton listed his top legislative priorities if elected, promising a 25% fuel levy tax, Albanese scored a zinger, pointing out that that policy expires in a year, chortling “you better do it quickly before it disappears”. Overall, it was a flat event, lacking atmosphere and detailed information.

    Zareh Ghazarian, Monash University

    The “Great Debate”, as it was called by the broadcaster, started on a solemn tone as both leaders mourned the passing of Pope Francis. The format of the debate was geared towards a quick-fire approach. Time limits of one minute per response to questions ensured the debate covered a lot of ground. Policies from cost of living to international affairs were discussed.

    The leaders played their roles effectively. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton demonstrated a laser-like focus on critiquing the government, while highlighting the Coalition’s policies. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the track record of his government while also taking opportunities to criticise the previous Morrison government. Both leaders stayed true to advancing the core messages of their campaign.

    Cost of living was central to the debate and provided ample opportunity for Dutton and Albanese to put forward their views on the measures they believe would address the issues. Energy policy, and the divide between nuclear and renewable energy sources, also emerged. There was also a moment of unity as both leaders took pride that Australia had implemented a social media ban for under-16s.

    After the only break of the night, the host gave both leaders the opportunity to spell out the values that underpinned their policy approach. Dutton focused on restating policy goals, such as a reduction in fuel excise. Albanese returned to “no one left behind, but no one held back” as his key message, a concept he had also mentioned in his victory speech in 2022.

    On the whole, and considering the stakes, the debate was a model of civility. Both leaders presented as being in command of the details regarding their policies. Gaffes about figures, costings, and promises were virtually non-existent. Whether it added anything new about the leaders or their policy platforms, however, is debatable.

    Joshua Black is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at The Australia Institute.

    Andrea Carson and Zareh Ghazarian do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Leaders trade barbs and well-worn lines in unspectacular third election debate – https://theconversation.com/leaders-trade-barbs-and-well-worn-lines-in-unspectacular-third-election-debate-254941

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    April 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Stripping federal protection for clean water harms just about everyone, especially already vulnerable communities

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeremy Orr, Adjunct Professor of Law, Michigan State University

    A Des Moines Water Works employee takes samples from a nearby river for analysis. The regional water utility delivers drinking water to more than 500,000 Iowans. AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall

    Before Congress passed the Clean Water Act in 1972, U.S. factories and cities could pipe their pollution directly into waterways. Rivers, including the Potomac in Washington, smelled of raw sewage and contained toxic chemicals. Ohio’s Cuyahoga River was so contaminated, its oil slicks erupted in flames.

    That unchecked pollution didn’t just harm the rivers and their ecosystems; it harmed the humans who relied on their water.

    The Clean Water Act established a federal framework “to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation’s waters.”

    As an attorney and law professor, I’ve spent my career upholding these protections and teaching students about their legal and historical significance. That’s why I’m deeply concerned about the federal government’s new efforts to roll back those safeguards and the impact they’ll have on human lives.

    A fire of an oil slick on the Cuyahoga River swept through docks at the Great Lakes Towing Company site in Cleveland in 1952, one of several times that pollution in the river caught fire.
    Bettman/Getty Images

    Amid all the changes out of Washington, it can be easy to lose sight of not only which environmental policies and regulations are being rolled back, but also of who is affected. The reality is that communities already facing pollution and failing infrastructure can become even more vulnerable when federal protections are stripped away. Those laws are ultimately meant to protect the quality of the tap water people drink and the rivers they fish in, and in the long-term health of their neighborhoods.

    A few of the most pressing concerns in my view include the government’s moves to narrow federal water protections, pause water infrastructure investments and retreat from environmental enforcement.

    Diminishing protection for US wetlands

    In 2023, the Supreme Court narrowed the definition of “waters of the United States.” In its decision in Sackett vs. Environmental Protection Agency, the court determined that only wetlands that maintained a physical surface connection to other federally protected waters qualified for protection under the Clean Water Act.

    Wetlands are important for water quality in many areas. They naturally filter pollution from water, reduce flooding in communities and help ensure that millions of Americans enjoy cleaner drinking water. The Clean Water Act limits what industries and farms can discharge or dump into those waterways considered “waters of the U.S.” However, mapping by the Natural Resources Defense Council found that upward of 84%, or 70 million acres, of the nation’s wetlands lacked protection after the ruling.

    The Sackett ruling also called into question the definition of “waters of the U.S.”

    The Trump EPA, in announcing its plans to rewrite the definition in 2025, said it would make accelerating economic opportunity a priority by reducing “red tape” and costs for businesses. Statements from the administration suggest that officials want to loosen restrictions on industries discharging pollution and construction debris into wetlands.

    Toxic algae blooms fueled by farm, urban and industrial runoff can trigger fish kills and shut down beaches for days, harming tourism businesses.
    Joe Raedle/Getty Images

    Pollution already harms wetlands along Florida’s Gulf Coast, leading to fewer fish and degraded water quality. It also affects people whose jobs depend on healthy waterways for fishing, recreation and tourism.

    This marks a shift away from the federal government protecting wetlands for the role they play in public health and resilience. Instead, it prioritizes development and industry – even if that means more pollution.

    Pausing investment for rebuilding crumbling infrastructure

    Public water systems are also at risk. The Trump administration on its first full day in office froze at least US$10 billion in federal water infrastructure funding. That included money for replacing lead pipes and building new water treatment plants, allocated under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021 and the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.

    Public water systems across the country have been falling into disrepair in recent decades due to aging and sometimes dangerous infrastructure, as cities with lead water pipes have discovered.

    The American Society of Civil Engineers gave the nation’s drinking water, stormwater and wastewater infrastructure grades of a C-minus, D and D-plus, respectively, in its 2025 Infrastructure Report Card. The group estimates that America’s drinking water systems alone need more than $625 billion in investment over the next 20 years to reach a state of good repair.

    Jackson, Miss., volunteers distributed bottled water to residents in 2022 after the aging water system failed.
    AP Photo/Steve Helber

    Congress passed the Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act to help pay for updating drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems. That included replacing lead pipes and tackling water contamination, especially in the most vulnerable communities. Many of the same communities also have high poverty and unemployment rates and histories of racial segregation rooted in government discrimination.

    Where I live in Detroit, this need is especially clear. We have the fourth-highest number of lead service lines, connecting water mains to buildings, of any city in the country, and these pipes continue to put people at risk every day. Just an hour up the road, the Flint water crisis left a predominantly Black, working-class community to suffer the consequences of lead-contaminated water.

    These aren’t abstract problems; they’re happening right now, in real communities, to real people.

    Dropping lawsuits meant to stop pollution

    The Trump administration’s decision to drop from some environmental enforcement lawsuits filed by previous administrations is adding to the risks that communities face.

    The administration argues that these decisions are about reducing regulatory burdens – dropping these lawsuits reduces costs for companies.

    However, stepping back from these lawsuits leaves the communities without a meaningful way to put an end to the long-standing harms of environmental pollution. Few communities have the resources to litigate against private polluters and must rely on regulatory agencies to sue on their behalf.

    Real lives are affected by these changes

    What America is seeing now is more than a change in regulatory approach. It’s a step back from decades of progress that made the nation’s water safer and communities healthier.

    President Donald Trump talked repeatedly on the campaign trail about wanting clean air and clean water. However, the administration’s moves to reduce protection for wetlands, freeze infrastructure investments and abandon environmental enforcement can have real consequences for both.

    At a time when so many systems are already under strain, it raises the question: What kind of commitment is the federal government really making to the future of clean water in America?

    Jeremy Orr works for Michigan State University College of Law and Earthjustice.

    – ref. Stripping federal protection for clean water harms just about everyone, especially already vulnerable communities – https://theconversation.com/stripping-federal-protection-for-clean-water-harms-just-about-everyone-especially-already-vulnerable-communities-252267

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 23, 2025
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