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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Great British Energy to lead the field in ethical supply chains

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Great British Energy to lead the field in ethical supply chains

    An amendment to the Great British Energy Bill will enable the company to ensure forced labour is not used in its supply chains.

    Great British Energy will act to secure supply chains that are free of forced labour, under an amendment brought forward by the government today.

    Owned by and for the British public, Great British Energy will be a sector leader in building new energy infrastructure using ethical supply chains.

    A new measure set out in the Great British Energy Bill will enable the company to ensure that forced labour does not take place in its business or its supply chains.

    The amendment is the latest move in the government’s work to tackle the issue of forced labour as it becomes a global leader in clean energy. Great British Energy is already able to bar suppliers that use illegal and immoral practices from bidding for its contracts.

    Energy Minister Michael Shanks said:

    Great British Energy will be an industry-leader in developing supply chains free of forced labour as it propels us in our clean energy superpower mission.

    Owned by and for the British public, Great British Energy will be an institution we can all be proud of as we build our clean energy future here in the UK.

    The government has already:

    • brought the Procurement Act 2023 into force, so public bodies can reject bids and terminate contracts with suppliers that are known to use forced labour
    • committed that Great British Energy’s strategic priorities will include an overarching expectation to tackle forced labour, becoming a sector leader in this space, as expected from any company owned by the British public
    • set out that Great British Energy will appoint a senior leader on ethical supply chains and modern slavery
    • relaunched the Solar Taskforce, to develop supply chains that are resilient, sustainable and free from forced labour
    • encouraged renewable developers accessing its flagship Contracts for Difference scheme to grow the supply chain through the Supply Chain Plan process
    • published updated guidance on producing modern slavery statements, providing all businesses and public bodies with practical advice on how to tackle modern slavery in their supply chains

    And the Solar Roadmap will set out how government will work with industry to triple the UK’s solar capacity by 2030. It is set to be published later this year.

    Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of the trade association Solar Energy UK said:

    Solar Energy UK welcomes the government’s amendment to the GB Energy Bill.

    The Solar Stewardship Initiative (SSI), which we developed with SolarPower Europe, is already having a real impact on the global supply chain. By the end of this year, SSI-certified manufacturing facilities will be able to produce 100 gigawatts of solar panels per year from independently-assessed sites that are not complicit in forced labour. That is around five times more than all of the UK’s existing solar panels put together, more than enough to meet both UK and EU demand. This number will continue to grow.

    Given progress in ensuring that the UK supply chain is free from solar panels produced with raw materials tainted by human rights abuses, we are confident that there will be no slowdown in solar deployment. The amendment poses no threat to the attainment of clean power by 2030, nor to reaching net zero by 2050.

    This latest commitment will support growth in the UK and plans to deliver clean power by 2030, by using domestic suppliers, alongside those across the world, who have safe supply chain practices.

    The solar industry is confident that the government can meet its clean power ambitions whilst also tackling forced labour in supply chains, and the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan sets out the supply chain requirements to deliver on this ambition.  

    Notes to editors

    The proposed amendment, to Clause 3 of the GBE Bill, will be voted on by MPs and Peers.

    This clause sets Great British Energy’s activities as: facilitating, encouraging and participating in clean energy projects; reducing greenhouse gas emissions; improving energy efficiency; ensuring energy security; and now, measures to ensure that slavery and human trafficking is not taking place in its business or supply chains.

    The amendment text is available in full here:

    • Great British Energy Bill: Lords amendment

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    Published 23 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: History in numbers: how statistics help us understand the stability of Soviet society

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    On April 16, as part of XXV April International Scientific Conference of the National Research University Higher School of Economics a round table discussion entitled “Historical Statistics for Studying Mechanisms of Social Stability in the USSR” was held. The event was supported by Interdisciplinary group on historical statistics of the National Center for Humanities and Social Sciences “Center for Interdisciplinary Research of Human Potential”.

    The opening speech was given by the Vice-Rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Liliya Ovcharova. She emphasized the importance of studying the socio-economic legacy of the USSR not only for understanding the past, but also for analyzing modern trends: “The Soviet past contains the reasons for those long-term trends that are still in effect today. We see them in science and scientific schools, in education, in demography, as well as in the development features of Russian regions. Without attention from the Russian research community, important components may be missed in this history, which I include the connecting, civilizational role of the Soviet Union and Russia, as an institution for the development of union republics – future independent states in the post-Soviet space, as well as adjacent territories.”

    Round table chaired by the director Expert Institute And Center for Productivity Research The HSE Ilya Voskoboinikov conference brought together not only HSE experts, but also representatives of the Presidential Academy (RANEPA), Rosstat, Moscow State University, and the Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The discussion focused on rethinking Soviet official statistics and the availability of archival data, as well as the need for an interdisciplinary approach to studying the socio-economic development of the USSR and Russia using modern quantitative methods. Participants discussed the complexity of interpreting Soviet data, the comparability of sources, and the institutional barriers facing researchers.

    Vladimir Sokolin, Chairman of the Federal State Statistics Service (1999-2008) and the Interstate Statistical Committee of the Commonwealth of Independent States (2009-2022), devoted his speech to the importance of revising and refining official Soviet statistics based on modern scientific principles. He emphasized the uneven quality of Soviet data — high in terms of physical indicators of industrial production and transport, but questionable in agriculture. He also pointed out the almost complete lack of data in terms of price statistics and mentioned the influence of ideology on decisions to publish data and even statistical developments in certain areas — for example, in cross-country comparisons of living standards. The expert paid special attention to the importance of restoring long dynamic series of statistical indicators and preserving expert knowledge in the field of Soviet statistics as long as its bearers are alive.

    A presentation of the results of a project to analyze wage inequality in the USSR was given by Professor Leonid Borodkin of Lomonosov Moscow State University and Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences. His research showed how the degree of differentiation of wages between workers and engineering and technical workers changed in different periods, from the NEP to the late Soviet era. The professor emphasized that data on actual accruals in the archives of enterprises often contradict official statistics. For example, under the conditions of equalization in the post-war period, responsible engineering and technical workers (ITW) were supposed to receive salaries comparable to or even lower than those of workers. This did not correspond to the role of IWW in production and could lead to a shortage of specialists. The solution was incentive funds, which made it possible to create material incentives for responsible and qualified engineers.

    Roman Konchakov, Dean of the Faculty of History and Philology at the Institute of Social Sciences of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, spoke about institutional and methodological obstacles to the use of Soviet statistics. He presented statistics not only as a source of data, but also as an element of state building. Konchakov emphasized the importance of the 1920s as a key period for the formation of the Soviet statistical school and pointed out the need to create an infrastructure for combining various historical datasets.

    Speech by Ekaterina Boltunova, Director Institute of Regional Historical Research HSE, was devoted to the study of financial and time budgets of households in the context of late Soviet domestic tourism (late 1950s – 1960s). She paid special attention to how the prism of tourism can be used to study the availability of infrastructure, the perception of territories and the everyday economy of Soviet citizens.

    Mikhail Denisenko, director Institute of Demography HSE named after A.G. Vishnevsky, in his report examined the dynamics of the age structure of the population of Russia in the 20th century. In his speech, the expert emphasized the importance of demographic data for the analysis of social sustainability, and also spoke about the challenges that researchers face when reconstructing this data, especially in the absence of continuous data for a number of years.

    The discussion was summed up by the moderator of the round table, Ilya Voskoboinikov: “When a modern statistician submits a report, the document goes into the archive – but this is not the end of the work. In ten, twenty, fifty years, a historian will come to this archive. Statistics are not only numbers, but also a long-term contribution to our understanding of the past and the present. Soviet historical statistics are very important for modern research, since the Soviet experience touches on a big issue of the modern economy – finding a balance between economic efficiency and social sustainability.”

    The second part of the round table included a discussion with representatives of the scientific community, including Maria Drobysheva, Deputy Head of the Department of Living Standards Statistics and Household Surveys of Rosstat, Vyacheslav Stepanov, Leading Researcher at the Center for Ethnopolitical Studies at the Institute of Economics and Economics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and Researcher Laboratories for institutional analysis of economic reforms HSE University Alexey Popov. The latter noted that many statistical funds still remain classified and this greatly complicates working with data.

    The discussion confirmed the high interest in the topic and emphasized the need for further development of the historical data infrastructure. Deputy Vice-Rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Maria Nagernyak noted the often fragmented and unsystematic nature of a large part of the statistical data collected over a long period of time: “These data on various areas of the socio-economic development of our country are of interest not only to the scientific community, but also to the general public. The activities of the Interdisciplinary Group on Historical Statistics are aimed at uniting the efforts of scientists from various fields of science for the joint study of historical statistical data on the development of human potential both in our country and in the post-Soviet space, as well as in friendly foreign countries.”

    The group plans to create working groups to discuss statistics in various areas and to formulate an official position of Rosstat on unofficial data, as well as to organize regular conferences to discuss issues of access to archival data and cooperation between historians, economists and statisticians with the involvement of specialists from the faculties of social and economic sciences, as well as schools of historical research National Research University Higher School of Economics.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C. supports advanced manufacturing of forestry products

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    New support for forestry-sector manufacturers in the province is creating sustainable jobs, strengthening local supply chains, establishing new made-in-B.C. products and reinforcing B.C.’s position as a leader in mass-timber innovation.

    “These timely investments into our province’s manufacturing and forestry value-added sectors will help strengthen homegrown B.C. companies, which in turn creates stronger local economies and sustainable jobs,” said Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “We’re working alongside industry to build a stronger, more resilient economy that works better for people and communities.”

    Through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund (BCMJF), the Government of B.C. is contributing as much as $11 million toward four forestry-sector capital projects in the province. The projects are helping B.C.-based forestry-product manufacturers grow their businesses by constructing new production facilities, purchasing new equipment and adding new high-value product lines, while creating and protecting hundreds of jobs.

    Spearhead Timberworks Inc., near Nelson, specializes in the design and fabrication of highly advanced timber architecture. Spearhead is strengthening its capabilities, backed by as much as $7.5 million from the B.C. government to drive its expansion. This includes construction of a new purpose-built facility and implementation of advanced technology that will increase its competitiveness on the international stage, adding state-of-the-art production lines for specialized curved and double-curved glulam. The project will strengthen Spearhead’s capacity to fabricate high-complexity, high-value timber projects using B.C. wood, while creating more than 60 skilled jobs in the Nelson area.

    Spearhead’s cutting-edge technology and high-value products demonstrate how B.C.’s fibre can be used to generate significant economic benefits and highly skilled jobs in a high-demand sector. The Kootenay region is quickly establishing itself as a hub for British Columbia’s growing mass-timber economy, uniting a network of local sawmills. The network includes but is not limited to Harrop-Procter Community Cooperative and J.H. Huscroft Ltd., value-added wood manufacturers, such as Kalesnikoff Mass Timber Inc., and progressive training in wood design, digital fabrication and sustainable construction delivered through Selkirk College.

    “Over the past 35 years, we’ve honed our craft in advanced timber fabrication, completing over 450 projects worldwide and building a reputation as trailblazers in our field,” said Josh Hall, partner at Spearhead Timberworks Inc. “This investment from the Province will help us showcase B.C.’s remarkable wood resources globally, while creating long-term jobs at home. We’re honoured by the trust placed in us and excited to continue contributing meaningfully to our community and timber industry.”

    More forestry-sector manufacturers receiving funds from the BCMJF include:

    • Langley – Westlam Industries Ltd. is a wood-product manufacturer that specializes in construction-grade plywood. Westlam’s products play an important role in the housing and commercial building sector in B.C. and Canada, ensuring a strong local supply of key building materials. It will receive as much as $1.5 million to construct a new production facility and install new automated equipment that will introduce automation, improve fibre utilization, and increase output and productivity, while creating 46 jobs.
    • Castlegar – Mercer Celgar Limited Partnership is a kraft pulp mill and biorefinery that produces premium pulp and generates bioenergy for the BC Hydro power grid. The company will receive as much as $1.75 million to modernize its small-log line and install equipment capable of processing smaller-diameter logs and a wider range of low-grade fibre. This investment will help maximize the value of fibre inputs and secure more than 400 jobs at the facility, making it one of the largest employers in the region.
    • Penticton – Greyback Construction Ltd. is a commercial, residential and industrial construction contractor that is diversifying into prefabricated housing construction. It will receive as much as $235,000 to renovate a former mill site and purchase equipment that will vertically integrate and streamline production of prefabricated exterior walls and floors while creating 12 jobs, helping to create more homes quicker in B.C.

    “British Columbia’s forestry companies and workers show what innovation, craftsmanship and hard work looks like,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests. “Spearhead, Westlam, Mercer Celgar, Greyback Construction, and many, many more across the province are stepping up and investing in their workers and their communities, and we’re right there with them. The Manufacturing Jobs Fund creates jobs, strengthens supply chains and supports people in their incredible work around this province.”

    The BCMJF is helping manufacturers throughout the province scale and grow their operations to make more made-in-B.C. products that create good jobs and strengthen the economy. BCMJF has also accelerated transition within the forestry-product sector to high-value manufacturing. The program has incentivized more than $680 million flowing into forestry-product manufacturing, leading to the direct creation and protection of more than 3,500 forestry-sector jobs, many in regional, remote and Indigenous communities. Nearly one-quarter of all wood-product manufacturers in B.C have applied to the program, demonstrating that producers are investing in the future of forestry in the province.

    BCMJF has also led to increased production of mass timber, engineered wood and bioproducts, with B.C.-based companies leading the way in innovative uses of waste wood, residuals and available fibre for high-value, high-demand products and exports. The Province has partnered with 73 forestry-product manufacturers with more to come, dedicating more than $97 million to the industry in collaboration toward a stable, sustainable forestry sector in B.C.

    Quick Facts:

    • The BCMJF supports high-value industrial and manufacturing capital projects in all sectors that create and protect well-paying jobs.
    • The BCMJF has committed $146 million toward 132 projects to date, unlocking more than $1 billion in private-sector and other public investment.
      • Every million dollars invested results in $7 million in total direct capital investments in B.C., $590,000 in tax revenue to the Province and $5.3 million in provincial gross domestic product (GDP) during the capital construction phase alone.
    • Funded projects will create and protect more than 4,700 jobs throughout B.C. 

    Learn More:

    To learn about the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, including a list of recipients and updated application deadline information, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/ManufacturingJobsFund     

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Construction of New, Larger Yarmouth Emergency Department to Begin

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Construction of the new emergency department at Yarmouth Regional Hospital will start next week, a project that will provide better access to emergency healthcare for people in Yarmouth, Shelburne and Digby counties.

    The new facility will have twice the capacity of the current department – able to care for 30 people at a time, up from the current 14. It will also have space for four ambulances, up from two.

    “Investing in healthcare infrastructure is how we support the healthcare needs of our growing population and recruit and retain the best and brightest healthcare professionals to our communities,” said Nick Hilton, MLA for Yarmouth, on behalf of Public Works Minister Fred Tilley. “A new, modern and larger emergency department will improve care for Nova Scotians in Yarmouth, Shelburne and Digby counties.”

    Some of the other features of the new emergency department will include:

    • two triage spaces
    • a resuscitation/trauma area
    • two virtual-care exam rooms and a dedicated kids’ waiting area
    • mental health facilities
    • a dedicated ear-nose-throat exam room.

    The new facility is scheduled to open in 2027.

    Quotes:

    “Our emergency department team, our patients and our community have been looking forward to work getting started on the Yarmouth Regional Hospital emergency department redevelopment. We will be excited to see boots on the ground and work happening. We are confident it will ultimately allow for better care in a more spacious, modern environment, resulting in an enhanced patient and provider experience. Bring it on.”
    — Dr. Joe Gillis, site medical lead, Yarmouth Regional Hospital

    Quick Facts:

    • during construction, patients will be able to access all hospital services as usual; as work proceeds, there will be some adjustments to things such as parking and patient drop-offs/pickups, but any disruptions will be minimized
    • PCL Constructors Canada Inc. was awarded the construction tender through a competitive process; it is valued at $77.8 million
    • the total cost of the project will be released once it is complete

    Additional Resources:

    News release – Yarmouth Emergency Department Expansion Update: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/02/23/yarmouth-emergency-department-expansion-update

    More, Faster: The Action for Health Build: https://buildns.ca/healthcare/more-faster-the-action-for-health-build/

    Department of Public Works on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NS_PublicWorks

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Larsen Statement on Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Rep. Larsen Statement on Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks

    Washington, April 23, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement on ongoing peace talks between Ukraine and Russia:

    “In word and in action, the U.S. must continue to stand up for the young democracy in Ukraine. I don’t care what President Trump says – Putin started this war and the crisis is not over until Ukraine’s borders are restored and Ukrainians have the freedom to choose their own leaders and future. I will continue to advocate for aid to Ukraine in its fight against Putin’s war of aggression, and continue to welcome and support Ukrainian families in Northwest Washington and across the U.S.

    “The Trump administration’s offer to recognize Crimea as Russian territory is just the latest example of Trump rolling over for Putin. Rewarding Russia for invading a neighbor by providing formal recognition and sanctions relief invites further aggression.

    “I commend President Zelenskyy for standing up against Russian aggression and continuing to fight for a free Ukraine. American interests are clear – standing with our allies and partners, not with Russia.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Linking tidal-creek sediment fluxes to vertical sediment accretion in a restored salt marsh

    Source: US Geological Survey

    We investigate mechanisms of sediment transport, resuspension dynamics in shoals, wave evolution in the shallows, wave attenuation in marshes, and transport of sediment between mudflats and marshes. We produce data sets for calibration of and comparison with sediment transport models, including wave parameters, suspended sediment concentration, and sediment flux.

    Learn More

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: HP Announces 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator Cohort

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    News Highlights:

    • Eight nonprofit organizations in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain selected for the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator.
    • Organizations are serving disconnected adolescents and adults through digital skills training, education access, and other community-driven initiatives.
    • Each nonprofit will receive $100,000 of HP technology and solutions, capacity-building cash grants, and six–months of training and programming to support scale.
    • In its first three years, the Accelerator helped 27 participating organizations expand their reach by more than 9 million people.
    • The Digital Equity Accelerator, a joint initiative of HP Inc. and the HP Foundation, helps power the future of work by improving access to technology, digital literacy, and AI-driven skills development.

    PALO ALTO, Calif., April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) and the HP Foundation announced the selection of 8 nonprofit organizations in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain for the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator (Accelerator). The Accelerator will provide the 2025 cohort with a USD $100,000 grant, HP technology (~USD $100,000 value), and six months of virtual training to strengthen capacity and drive digital inclusion.

    “The future of work depends on equitable access to technology, digital skills, and opportunity,” said Michele Malejki, Global Head of Social Impact, HP Inc. and Executive Director, HP Foundation. “Through the Digital Equity Accelerator, HP is empowering nonprofits to bridge the digital divide, ensuring disconnected adolescents and adults have the tools and training needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. By investing in these organizations, we are not just expanding access—we are powering the future of work.”

    A $1 trillion-plus digital divide is limiting billions from achieving equal access to education and economic opportunities. Through the Accelerator, HP collaborates with a network of partners to help nonprofit organizations scale digital equity solutions.

    “We are fortunate to work with inspiring innovators to amplify their impact through a six-month learning journey for the Accelerator,” said Hala Hanna, Executive Director, MIT Solve. “Our capacity-building workshops are designed to meet nonprofit leaders where they are – providing executive coaching, peer-to-peer collaboration, and a library of in-kind resources to help them fully benefit from the program.”

    Accelerating Digital Equity in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain
    The Accelerator helps nonprofits scale digital equity programs for disconnected adults and adolescents to power the future of work. Meet the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator cohort:

    Greece:

    • Socialinnov (Social Impact and Innovation) – Leveraging technology to drive social change, Socialinnov has equipped more than 40,000 people in underrepresented communities in Greece with digital skills training that expands access to the digital economy.
    • The Smile of the Child (TSoC) – Founded in 1995 by 10-year-old Andreas Yannopoulos, The Smile of the Child (TSoC) is a non-profit organization supporting more than 2.2 million adults and adolescents with tools, technology and other resources.

    Indonesia:

    • Solve Education Foundation – Focusing on empowering Indonesian youth with 21st century skills through its AI-powered learning platform, edbot.ai, an innovative enrichment program, helping students succeed in school and beyond.
    • Markoding (Daya Kreasi Anak Bangsa Foundation) – Helps equip underprivileged youth with 21st-century skills to foster a generation of innovators. Its flagship program, Perempuan Inovasi, has empowered over 35,000 women with STEM training, mentorship, and access to job opportunities.

    Nigeria:

    • She-Code Africa Women Tech Initiative (She Code Africa) – Provides participants across Africa with in-demand digital and technical skills. Since 2016, its training, mentorship, scholarships, and career programs have helped more than 62,000 people receive the digital skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
    • The Slum to School Initiative (Slum2School Africa) – Addressing Africa’s education crisis, this volunteer-driven organization provides quality education, skills development, and psychosocial support to underserved children and youth, empowering them to drive sustainable development.

    Spain:

    • AlmaNatura Foundation – Founded in a small village in Southern Spain, AlmaNatura designs and implements projects that revitalize rural areas through employment, education, health, and sustainability, fostering opportunities for local communities to thrive.
    • Fundación Esplai Ciudadanía Comprometida (Committed Citizenship Esplai Foundation) – Focuses on promoting citizen empowerment through inclusive, rights-based projects and programs. It collaborates with local, national, and international organizations to support socio-educational initiatives in information and communication technologies (ICT).

    Since 2022, the Accelerator has helped expand the reach of 27 nonprofit organizations in Brazil, Canada, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Poland, South Africa, and the U.S. by more than 9 million people.

    HP’s Commitment to Digital Equity and Sustainable Impact
    As nearly half of the world’s population remains offline, equipping youth and adults with critical skills reflects HP’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and supporting economic inclusion. The Digital Equity Accelerator is one way HP is delivering progress toward its goal to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030.

    For more information on the Digital Equity Accelerator, please visit the website.

    About HP
    HP Inc. is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Operating in more than 170 countries, HP delivers a wide range of innovative and sustainable devices, services and subscriptions for personal computing, printing, 3D printing, hybrid work, gaming, and more. For more information, please visit http://www.hp.com.

    The MIL Network –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: BenchPrep Launches ExamSim to Help Credentialing Bodies & Associations Reduce Certification Exam Anxiety, Increase Success Rates, and Differentiate Prep Offerings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BenchPrep, an award-winning learning management system, today announced the launch of ExamSim, an advanced practice exam tool designed to help credentialing bodies and associations better prepare their learners for high-stakes certification and licensure exams.

    ExamSim offers a configurable exam-day experience that reflects the interfaces used by leading testing providers, helping learners get comfortable with the format before test day. By removing the stress of the unfamiliar, organizations can address one of the biggest barriers to success—anxiety caused by exam-day uncertainty. A prominent credentialing body in business education reported that 96% of candidates felt prepared after using its prep program, highlighting the powerful role realistic practice plays in building confidence and improving outcomes.

    “At BenchPrep, we believe that lifelong learning requires removing barriers that prevent individuals from achieving their professional goals,” said Ashish Rangnekar, CEO of BenchPrep. “With ExamSim, we’re tackling exam anxiety head-on by creating an environment where practice mimics the real exam experience. When exam day feels like practice, learners can focus on demonstrating their knowledge and competency rather than navigating unfamiliar interfaces.”

    ExamSim is layered over BenchPrep’s industry-leading learning platform, which supports professional development from exam preparation to continuing education and microcredentialing. ExamSim further strengthens BenchPrep’s position as the go-to solution for organizations supporting learners across their career journey.

    For associations and credentialing bodies, the learner experience plays a critical role in satisfaction, outcomes, and overall brand trust. ExamSim helps mitigate the risk of poor performance and disengagement by giving learners a realistic, low-stakes environment to practice first. ExamSim key features include:

    • Realistic exam interface – Familiar layout to reduce stress and build confidence
    • Authentic timers and navigation – Mimics real pacing and flow
    • Support for a wide variety of question types – Reflects actual exam formats
    • Actionable performance analytics – Highlights strengths, gaps, and readiness

    ExamSim is now available as a premium offering for any organization looking to deliver a more effective, exam-day-style preparation experience—reinforcing BenchPrep’s commitment to supporting the complete learning journey.

    To see how ExamSim improves learner outcomes and drives program success, visit www.benchprep.com to schedule a demo.

    About BenchPrep

    BenchPrep is an award-winning learning platform that helps associations and credentialing bodies grow their education programs and support learners across the entire lifelong learning journey. With a focus on certification training, exam preparation, and continuing education, BenchPrep delivers an interactive, personalized experience that drives engagement and results. Trusted by many of the world’s leading credentialing organizations, BenchPrep has helped over 12 million learners achieve academic and professional success. Learn more at www.benchprep.com.

    The MIL Network –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo Lambasts Trump Trade War and Republican Budget Cuts That Are Raising Costs on Rhode Islanders

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    PROVIDENCE – Today, Congressman Gabe Amo (RI-01) visited the West End Community Center in Providence to highlight how Trump’s chaotic trade war and the Republican plan to gut food assistance programs is jacking up the cost of living in Rhode Island. During the visit, the Congressman toured the food pantry, early education programs, and community facility and met with staff. As the Center celebrates its 50th year in operation, the staff have noted an increase in food assistance need from the approximately 100 local families it serves each day.

    “Every day, the West End Community Center food pantry helps approximately 100 Rhode Island families put food on their table,” said Congressman Amo. “Yet Trump and congressional Republicans are threatening this assistance by pursuing a chaotic trade war and budget cuts that are jacking up the cost of energy, groceries, and gas while stripping working Rhode Islanders of critical support that helps them afford food. The West End Community Center is a lifeline for families in Rhode Island, and I’ll continue to fight to protect them from harmful cuts and unnecessary tariffs.”

    “I want to thank Congressman Amo for visiting our facility and volunteering with our staff,” said Denise Greene, Executive Director of West End Community Center. “With so much uncertainty in the news, and with so many policies being pursued that raise the cost of living and threaten the wellbeing of the families in Rhode Island, it’s reassuring to know that we have a prominent voice in Congress advocating for us.”

    “The West End Community Center is an anchor for the Providence community—providing vital food assistance, early education, and supportive services to hundreds of residents every week,” said Alyssa McDermott, Director of Housing and Community Development, City of Providence. “Through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, the City proudly supports their work to fight food insecurity. At a time when national policies threaten to unravel the safety net so many depend on, our investment in local organizations like the West End Community Center is more important than ever.”

     

    BACKGROUND

    On April 9, 2025, Congressman Amo spoke on the House floor to slam the Republican budget resolution and share the story of a Rhode Islander who would be hurt by Republican cuts.

    On February 25, 2025, Congressman Amo took to the House Floor to slam the Republican budget resolution that threatens devastating cuts to critical programs. The day before, Congressman Amo submitted two amendments to the House Committee on Rules to protect SNAP and affirm that Medicaid is a critical program for more than 306,000 Rhode Island residents. The Republican-controlled House Committee on Rules refused to consider Congressman Amo’s amendments.    

    During the House Budget Committee markup on February 13, 2025, Congressman Amo offered two amendments to support protecting and extending Medicare’s solvency as well as protect SNAP, the Community Eligibility Provision, the School Breakfast Program, and the National School Lunch Program.

    The Republican budget resolution directs specific committees to achieve spending cuts or increases. Republicans leaked menu of options includes:

    • At least $880 billion in cuts for the Energy and Commerce Committee, which could target Medicaid, Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium assistance, and repeal Inflation Reduction Act policies.
    • At least $230 billion in cuts for the Agriculture Committee, which could target SNAP.
    • Up to $4.5 trillion in new spending for the Ways and Means Committee, which could include tax cuts for the top one percent, repeal of Inflation Reduction Act policies, cuts to Temporary Assistance to Needy Families and Social Services Block Grant, cuts in Medicare payments to providers, and cuts to ACA premium assistance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: DRC: UN Officials Raise Alarm at the Dramatic Impact of Prolonged Conflict on Women and Children, Including Increased Risk of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence on Displaced People

    Source: United Nations Population Fund

    New York/Geneva, 23 April 2025 – The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for  Children and Armed Conflict, Ms. Virginia Gamba, the Special Representative of the Secretary General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Ms. Pramila Patten, UNFPA Deputy Executive Director (Management), Mr. Andrew Saberton, and the Assistant High Commissioner for Refugees for Protection, Ms. Ruvendrini Menikdiwela, raise the alarm over the devastating impact of the prolonged conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly on women and children, expressing grave concern over the rising risks of conflict-related sexual violence.  

    Recent offensives with heightened attacks by non-state armed groups in South and North Kivu  provinces since the beginning of 2025, have contributed to dramatically increasing conflict-related  sexual violence. Sites where internally displaced people (IDP) had been living have been destroyed, and civilians have been forcibly displaced to areas without adequate protection or support, upping  their risks of violence. The looting of supplies and the restriction of humanitarian access have  worsened the condition of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, while insecurity is expanding to neighboring countries, with Congolese refugees reported in urgent need of  humanitarian aid, including health and psychological support. 

    The DRC has a record number of more than 7.8 million IDP, while an additional 1.1 million Congolese people, who fled years of ongoing violence, are hosted by neighboring countries.  

    The UN Officials warn that sexual violence is widespread and systematically used by parties to  the conflict, including against women and children, as a tactic of war to terrorize and punish the  civilian populations. Incidents of sexual violence remain highly underreported due to fear of  stigma, risks of retaliation, and limited humanitarian services and support. This horrific trend is  also part of a broader pattern of grave violations against children, including recruitment and use,  abduction, and other forms of violence. “In the context of this unprecedented security and humanitarian crisis, the conditions of women and children continue to deteriorate. Their lives are hanging on the countless days awaiting stronger actions by the international community,” the UN  Officials said. 

    More than half of the refugees who fled the DRC to neighboring countries are children; many of them are likely to have endured severe violence, including sexual violence. Their plight is exacerbated by challenging reception conditions in asylum countries, largely due to the impact of  reduced humanitarian funding. The UN Officials call on all parties to implement Security Council Resolution 2773 (2025) and take urgent steps to cease and prevent any form of conflict-related sexual violence, while ensuring protection and timely access to services for survivors, maintain open-door policies for forcibly displaced people from the DRC, and abide by their obligations under international law.  

    Survivors face limited access to essential services, including medical care, sexual and reproductive health services, case management, mental health services, and vital protection services. Ongoing hostilities further hinder service delivery with direct attacks on hospitals and shortages of medical supplies such as life-saving Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) kits. “We urge all parties to guarantee safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to those in need, particularly children and  survivors of sexual violence. We further call for urgent action to strengthen accountability, implement gender-sensitive and child-centered responses, reestablish vital aid and support to the humanitarian plan to help survivors of conflict-related sexual violence regain their health and dignity,” the UN Officials concluded.  

    For media inquiries related to the Office of the Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, please contact Ms. Géraldine Boezio (+1 917 367 3306 / geraldine.boezio@un.org) 

    For media inquiries related to the Office of the Special Representative on Children and Armed Conflict, please contact Ms. Fabienne Vinet (+1 646-537-5066 / vinet@un.org) 

    For media inquiries related to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), please contact Ms. Eujin Byun (+41 79 747 8719 / byun@unhcr.org) 

    For media inquiries related to the United Nations Population Fund, (UNFPA), please contact Ms. Selinde Dulckeit (+1 646 410 3963 dulckeit@unfpa.org) 

    Background info: Before the recent hostilities erupted, the country was already on track to have record levels of grave violations against children, including sexual violence. For at least five years  now, the DRC has been the country with the highest level of verified incidents of sexual violence in conflict of all the situations on the children and armed conflict agenda. DRC has been covered in the annual reports of the Secretary-General on conflict-related sexual violence, which have been compiled by the Office of the SRSG on Sexual Violence in Conflict since 2012. The DRC also remains the country situation with the highest number of UN-verified conflict-related sexual violence cases recorded year by year.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marathon County Woman Sentenced to Six Years for Conspiring to Traffic Methamphetamine

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Mercadys A. Perkins is the first defendant sentenced from trafficking organization

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Mercadys A. Perkins, 32, Weston, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 6 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The prison term will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Perkins pleaded guilty to this charge on January 21, 2025.

    In early 2024, investigators with the Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force began investigating a group of individuals who were distributing large quantities of methamphetamine in the Marathon County area. Perkins was identified as a distributor for the group.

    In March and April of 2024, Perkins sold methamphetamine three times to an informant, the largest sale being 230 grams. On April 16, 2024, task force officers executed a search warrant at Perkins’s residence in Weston. Officers found over 300 grams of methamphetamine, over $2,000 in cash, drug ledgers, and other drug trafficking paraphernalia during the search. Perkins later admitted to trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine.

    Further investigation revealed that between February 18, 2024, and April 12, 2024, a co-conspirator provided Perkins and another individual approximately 16 pounds of methamphetamine and 6 ounces of cocaine intended for further distribution.

    At the time of these events, Perkins was serving a term of state probation for a methamphetamine possession conviction and was out on bond on four open state cases, three of which involved methamphetamine trafficking. Her state probation was revoked, and she was sentenced to 2 years in state prison, which she is currently serving. Judge Conley ordered the federal sentence to run concurrently with the remainder of Perkins’ state prison sentence.

    At sentencing, Judge Conley said Perkins participated with her co-defendants to distribute significant quantities of methamphetamine in an around Marathon County. He said he weighed this serious conduct against some mitigating factors including her profound drug addiction.

    Three others were charged in connection with this drug trafficking conspiracy. Co-defendants Joshua Lake, Jessica Colby, and Dustin Brunker have all pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced in the coming weeks.

    The charge against Perkins was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Central Wisconsin Narcotics Task Force comprised of investigators from the FBI, Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigation, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Marathon County Sheriff’s Office, Portage County Sheriff’s Office, Mountain Bay Police Department, Wausau Police Department and the Wisconsin National Guard Counter Drug Program. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also assisted with the case. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. The Marathon County District Attorney’s Office also assisted with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Anderson prosecuted this case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: CISA, DHS S&T, INL, LSU Help Energy Industry Partners Strengthen Incident Response and OT Cybersecurity

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) and the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) hosted Louisiana State University (LSU) and several energy industry and critical infrastructure partners to train against simulated, high-impact cyberattacks on operational technology (OT) and traditional information technology (IT) at CISA’s Control Environment Laboratory Resource (CELR) in Idaho Falls, Idaho, last week. LSU is the first university in the U.S. invited to participate in the CELR exercise, as part of CISA and INL’s efforts to strengthen cyber talent development and research partnerships.

    Cybersecurity threats exploit the increased complexity and connectivity of critical infrastructure systems. The potential incapacitation or destruction of assets, systems and networks, whether physical or virtual, could have a debilitating effect on national security, economic security and on public health and safety. As the nation’s cyber defense agency, CISA is committed to growing operational and strategic partnerships to increase collaboration across the OT and industrial control systems (ICS) community.

    On April 15-17, energy industry partners and the CISA-INL-LSU team used the CELR chemical processing platform, located at and operated by INL on behalf of CISA. CELR platforms are benchtop models of critical infrastructure with integrated industrial processes to represent how real-world components and facilities might be compromised through cyber-physical attacks. The participants were positioned in a live environment with IT and OT traffic and attacked by a technical team posing as a sophisticated adversary. The training participants’ mission was to detect and respond to kinetic cyberattacks through ICS elements, including supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, human-machine interfaces (HMIs), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), OT and IT systems and other key components widely used in industrial facilities.

    “Collaborating with LSU and industry partners is extremely beneficial in strengthening the nation’s cybersecurity knowledge and ability to respond to threats. This training is another step in our shared vision to expand the opportunity for critical infrastructure entities to strengthen their cybersecurity using CELR,” said Matt Hartman, CISA Deputy Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity. “Malicious cyber actors and nation-state adversaries are a persistent, highly capable threat to critical infrastructure operations, functionality and safety. CELR is a valuable resource for critical infrastructure owners and operators seeking to improve the security of their ICS/OT networks.”

    “INL’s Controls Laboratory hosts five CISA-sponsored ICS testbeds, offering immersive environments for partners to experience realistic cyberattack scenarios against critical infrastructure,” said Tim Huddleston, INL’s Cybersecurity Program Manager. “We were proud to host industry partners and academia in this exercise, helping them improve their skills in cyber hunting and incident response, which reduces the risk from malicious cyber actors.”

    INL leverages scientific expertise and unique controls environments to support the departments of Energy, Defense and Homeland Security in national security challenges, including critical infrastructure protection. Last week’s training is part of an ongoing collaborative effort by CISA, DHS S&T, INL and LSU to equip energy industry cyber defenders to protect ICS environments and develop deeply technical cyber talent for critical infrastructure. Under CISA and S&T oversight, INL is currently developing the first university-based CELR platform. DHS S&T and CISA plan to deliver an Oil and Natural Gas CELR platform to LSU by fall of this year.

    Through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement, LSU will operate and maintain the Oil and Natural Gas platform and host similar trainings for energy sector partners, state cyber defenders, and LSU faculty, staff and students. This agreement will provide government and industry security professionals in the Louisiana gulf region an extremely valuable, local opportunity to hone their OT/ICS cybersecurity skills.

    “This partnership is a wonderful example of DHS S&T’s role in enabling effective, efficient, and secure operations by applying scientific, engineering, analytic, and innovative approaches to deliver timely solutions. The CELR platforms help ensure critical infrastructure is better positioned to detect, mitigate, or prevent cyber-attacks in the real world. By positioning a platform in close proximity to critical infrastructure owners and operators, as well as making it accessible to the next generation of oil refinery workforce through the university, DHS S&T and CISA are ensuring our nation’s oil supply remains secure and available to consumers,” said Jonathan McEntee,Acting Executive Director for S&T Office of Mission and Capability Support.

    “As a leading energy and chemical manufacturing state, Louisiana’s cybersecurity posture around its critical infrastructure has national implications,” said Greg Trahan, director of economic development at LSU and special advisor to LSU President William F. Tate IV on cyber initiatives. “The invitation by CISA and INL to participate in this exercise underscores what we know: LSU has emerged as one of the most important and consequential cybersecurity schools in the country. The opportunity to be joined by our close industry partners means we can bring these skills and agency relationships home to support and protect Louisiana—that is the LSU Scholarship First Agenda and flagship mission in action.”

    Another outcome from this collaborative effort, LSU and Battelle Energy Alliance, the company that manages INL, recently signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize their partnership in areas of mutual interest, including cybersecurity and advanced nuclear technology. Over the past year, INL has hosted six LSU cybersecurity interns and successfully hired two LSU graduates. This collaboration exemplifies INL’s commitment to expanding partnerships with other industry and academic entities, fostering an environment to develop cyber resilience skills.

    For more information on ICS security, visit the CISA Industrial Control Systems webpage.

    Control Environment Laboratory Exercise (CELR) Exersice

    Government, industry and academia partners gather to view Control Environment Laboratory Resource (CELR) exercise

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Northern Community Shuttle Program approves services

    People in the northern rural communities of the province will have access to reliable, safe and affordable regional transportation options with eight community shuttles.

    “People with limited transportation options rely on the Northern Community Shuttle Program to get them around and connect to their friends and family,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This program ensures people in communities can continue to access the services they need and when they need them in small northern communities.”  

    The Northern Community Shuttle Program enables local governments, First Nations communities and not-for-profit organizations to develop small-scale transportation solutions that connect to services, amenities and long-haul transportation services, such as BC Bus North. Shuttle services in and between communities support the mobility of people who live and work in northern B.C., allowing them to visit family and friends and access the services they need.

    “Having eight organizations support their communities through the operation of inter-community shuttle services is an important piece of supporting the social fabric of northern B.C.,” said Ben Campbell, CEO, Northern Development. “Reliable, affordable and safe transportation options between rural communities is crucial to the well-being of individuals for social, economic and health reasons. The continuation of seven services and addition of Yekooche First Nation as a shuttle operator demonstrates the value of this work for residents and visitors of northern B.C.”

    Northern Development Initiative Trust manages the Northern Community Shuttle Program, which provides grants to communities and organizations to operate community shuttles. This program will ensure the continuation of services provided by seven organizations and the addition of one new service provider. Funding of more than $1.3 million is allocated to the eight approved shuttles for a two-year operating term until 2027.

    Learn More:

    For a backgrounder about the eight community shuttles, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Northern_Community_Shuttle_Backgrounder.pdf

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Alert issued over fare scheme fraud

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Transport Department today alerted citizens to fraudulent websites claiming to be those of the Public Transport Fare Subsidy Scheme which seek to deceive AlipayHK users under the scheme into providing personal data, including mobile phone numbers and credit card accounts.

    The addresses of such websites are http[:]//alipaiyhk[.]online/hk/Login.html, and https[:]//fet-woxx[.]online/hk.

    The department clarified that the fraudulent websites are in no way affiliated with the scheme. The case has been referred to Police for follow-up.

    It also reminded the public that AlipayHK’s mobile app is the only channel for checking and collecting the transport subsidy under AlipayHK. Moreover, enquiry services about the Public Transport Fare Subsidy Scheme in relation to AlipayHK are only provided via the AlipayHK mobile app and the designated hotline 3002 0905.

    The department further advised members of the public to stay alert when receiving unidentified messages and not visit suspicious websites or disclose any personal information.

    Anyone who has provided personal data to the websites concerned should contact Police.

    Call 3002 0905 for enquiries.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: NIH study reveals how inflammation makes touch painful

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    News Release
    Wednesday, April 23, 2025

    Researchers uncover the cellular and molecular basis for sensing heat and inflammatory pain.
    Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have discovered clues as to how our bodies turn sensations such as heat and touch into signals sent to the brain — and how these signals can be altered by inflammation to drive pain. The research focuses on the nerve cells in the skin that help us detect the location, intensity, and emotional quality of touch, known as somatosensory neurons. By combining advanced imaging techniques with detailed molecular analysis, the researchers explored how heat and touch activate different types of receptor cells in mice.
    “To develop better treatments for pain, it’s critical that we deepen our understanding of the biology behind how sensory signals are received, transmitted, and ultimately perceived by the brain,” said Alex Chesler, Ph.D., co-author of the study and senior investigator at NIH. “Over the past few years, we developed a platform for watching sensation in action, revealing new details about the cells and molecules required and, in this study, how inflammation triggers pain.”
    The research revealed how different types of cells were “called into action” depending on whether the stimulus was innocuous, such as gentle warmth or touch, or noxious, meaning a stimulus strong enough to potentially cause damage to normal tissue. For example, heat and gentle touch were transmitted by entirely different types of cells. When the stimulus was more intense, the nerve cells began to overlap in their roles for transmitting the sensations of heat and pressure, providing an explanation for how cells detect and distinguish between innocuous and noxious stimuli.
    Inflammation is well known to be linked to pain, but the understanding of what is happening on the cellular and molecular levels is less clear. In their experiments, researchers injected prostaglandin E2 into the skin, a molecule that causes inflammation and drives pain. With the inflammatory response set into motion, researchers found that certain neurons used for signaling pain (nociceptors) became active and sensitized to heat for a long duration, demonstrating the cellular processes at play.
    “This explains how inflammation drives ongoing pain and why heat becomes more painful,” said Nick Ryba, Ph.D., co-author and senior investigator at NIH. “However, what was unexpected was that touch detection remained unchanged.”
    The study found that inflammation-related hypersensitivity to touch, known as tactile allodynia, was caused by the ongoing nociceptor activity induced by inflammation superimposed on the normal sensation of touch. This finding is consistent with previous research at NIH showing that the ion channel PIEZO2 plays a crucial role in this type of pain.
    The research is part of a long-term collaboration between the groups headed by Drs. Chesler and Ryba. Together these labs conduct basic research focusing on how sensory input is detected and processed by the brain to evoke specific behaviors. According to Dr. Chesler, even though this study is in mice, the similarities to humans in the neural pathways far outweigh the differences, so the findings hold important implications for people.
    “By learning more about how touch and heat are signaled in the body, we’re identifying new clues for treating pain,” said Dr. Chesler. “Our study shows how different types of pain may benefit from different types of treatments. In short, by identifying exactly which cells and molecules ‘turn up the volume’ of different types of pain, we may be able to identify the ‘switches’ that can turn the volume down.”
    The research was led by investigators in the Sensory Cells and Circuits Lab at NIH’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health and the Taste and Smell Section at NIH’s National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
    About the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): NCCIH’s mission is to define, through rigorous scientific investigation, the usefulness and safety of complementary and integrative health approaches and their roles in improving health and health care. To learn more about NCCIH and its programs, visit https://www.nccih.nih.gov.
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    Reference
    Ghitani N, von Buchholtz LJ, MacDonald DI, Falgairolle M, Nguyen MQ, Licholai JA, Ryba NJP, Chesler AT. A distributed code across nociceptor classes for thermosensation and inflammatory pain. Nature. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-025-08875-6.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Revitalizing Historic Landmarks in Western New York

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of the Historic Post Office at One East Avenue in the City of Lockport after a comprehensive historic rehabilitation and renovation as part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative. The $9.7 million project included a rehabilitation of the interior and exterior historic fabric of the building together with renovations to improve the facility for modern use. Before and after photos of the project are available here.

    “I’m working to revitalize historic landmarks and the communities that they define, and the revitalization of the Historic Post Office will allow Lockport’s rich history to live on through generations to come,” Governor Hochul said. “As the first Governor from Western New York in over 100 years, I’m committed to providing resources and investment so that all of our extraordinary communities can live up to their full potential.”

    The One East Avenue Historic Post Office was opened in 1902. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. The three-story, red brick and terra cotta building combines Beaux Arts massing with sculptural detail inspired by classical and Renaissance design. The historic rehabilitation and renovation undertaken by Iskalo Development Corp. included meticulous restoration of the building’s historic features and modernization improvements including new electrical, plumbing, mechanical and sprinkler systems and elevator installation. Iskalo purchased the building in 2015 and served as the Architect and Construction Manager for the project.

    The 31,600-square-foot building offers “move-in ready” boutique retail and office suites for lease and is anchored by Big Ditch Brewing which recently opened a Tap Room and Innovation Brewery. The Grigg Lewis Foundation was the first tenant to occupy space in the building.

    New York State Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “As a round three winner of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, Lockport is really harnessing its Canal history and heritage as a catalyst for future growth and rejuvenation. The completion of the renovated Historic Post Office continues the City’s momentum toward becoming a world-class destination for residents to live, work and play, and for visitors from all over to enjoy.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Governor Hochul’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative projects are strengthening city centers throughout the state. Seeing new life breathed into the century-old Historic Post Office as part of Lockport’s reenergization is a testament to investing in our downtowns.”

    New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “As we reflect on 200 years of the Erie Canal, we continue to contemplate ways to elevate the communities that have risen along its banks over these last two centuries. The completion of the Lockport post office, made possible in large measure by Governor Hochul’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative, is the perfect illustration of how this program works to bring positive change to downtown centers throughout the state. It is just one of many examples of how the DRI program is bringing positive change to communities from across the Erie Canal.”

    City of Lockport Mayor John Lombardi III said, “What an exciting time for the City of Lockport. I sincerely thank the New York Department of State for being in our great city today and for creating a much-needed initiative for the Revitalization of our Downtown Corridor. The Historic rehabilitation and renovation of the ‘Historic Post Office,’ the former Niagara County Courthouse, and the establishment of the anchor tenant ‘Big Ditch Brewing,’ has created a much-needed catalyst for our city. And has provided a destination point for many new visitors, hopefully generating some interest in the gifts Lockport has to offer. What better place for the Big Ditch than within a hundred yards of The Big Ditch? Thank you, Paul Iskalo and Matt Kahn, for creating another reason to love Lockport.”

    Founder and President of Iskalo Development Paul B. Iskalo said, “The historic rehabilitation and renovation of the Historic Post Office is a great accomplishment for Iskalo Development and downtown Lockport. And its completion would not have been possible without assistance from the State of New York, City of Lockport, Five Star Bank and Niagara County Industrial Development Agency.”

    The City of Lockport was named the Western New York Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Round 3 winner in October 2018. The Historic Post Office received $1.795 million from the DRI, as well as state and federal historic preservation tax credits. In addition to the Historic Post Office, other projects awarded DRI funding include $2.2 million to create rooftop and outdoor event space at the Spalding Mill; $1.35 million to redevelop the F&M Building to house a mix of residential and commercial uses; $955,000 to support the development of commercial space as part of the Harrison Lofts project; $865,000 to enhance connectivity on Pine Street; $800,000 for the renovation of the Tuscarora Club including a boutique hotel; $600,00 for the renovation of the Historic Palace Theatre; $275,000 for additional sculptures as part of the Lock Tenders Tribute; $230,000 for reconstruction of South Street; and $630,000 for a Small Project Grant Fund to support smaller, commercial and mixed-use projects.

    The City of Lockport has been chosen as a featured field visit during the World Canals Conference in Buffalo in September. The Department of State will be presenting a panel at the Conference on the ways that the Downtown Revitalization Initiative has helped spark a renaissance in downtown revitalization in over 20 Canal corridor communities. In advance of the conference, DOS produced a case study on the subject entitled, “Downtown Revitalization Along the Erie Canal.”

    Downtown Revitalization Initiative
    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through eight rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 89 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Serhat Gumrukcu Convicted of Murder-for-Hire

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that earlier today, after a five-week trial before Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss, a federal jury convicted Serhat Gumrukcu, 42, of Los Angeles, California, of murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Gumrukcu remains in jail pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. Gumrukcu has been held in custody since his arrest in May of 2022.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Gumrukcu solicited the murder of Gregory Davis due to Davis’s threats of legal action related to Gumrukcu’s role in a failed oil commodities transaction.  Gumrukcu’s conviction for wire fraud stemmed from his fraudulent activities in relation to this failed oil deal.  Gumrukcu was particularly motivated to silence Davis due to his negotiations of a multi-million-dollar biotech merger involving Gumrukcu’s alleged discovery of a cure for HIV.  Gumrukcu relied on his close friend, Berk Eratay, to arrange through a second intermediary, Aaron Ethridge, the hiring of a hitman to kill Davis.  Ethridge recruited Jerry Banks for the hitman role, who on January 6, 2018, posed as a Deputy U.S. Marshal, and abducted Davis from his Danville, Vermont home.  On January 7, 2018, Davis’s deceased body was located in a snowbank a short distance from his home.  Investigators quickly discovered emails and messaging indicating the tension between Gumrukcu and Davis over the failed oil deal, resulting in Gumrukcu being interviewed twice by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Gumrukcu made false statements during each interview.  Cellphone location information, purchase records, banking documentation, emails, and messaging discovered during the investigation led to the identification of the four conspirators who caused the kidnapping and death of Davis.
      
    Based on the jury’s verdict, Gumrukcu faces a statutorily mandated sentence of life imprisonment.
     
    “Serhat Gumrukcu tried to hide his role in the murder of Greg Davis by paying one man to pay another man to pay the hitman, who shot and killed Greg Davis on a January night in Vermont. Uncovering Gumrukcu’s responsibility for this murder involved years of determined investigation by the men and women of Vermont’s United States Attorney’s Office, working closely with the FBI and the Vermont State Police,” stated Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher. “Holding Gumrukcu responsible for this murder also required the work of an extraordinarily talented trial team, consisting of Assistant United States Attorneys Paul Van de Graaf and Zachary Stendig, with tremendous courtroom support from Erin Thompson-Moran and Karen Arena-Leene.” Drescher also thanked the numerous law enforcement entities across the country who worked to identify Banks as the hired hitman, Ethridge and Eratay as middlemen, and Gumrukcu as the financier and benefactor of the murder scheme.

    FBI Special Agent in Charge, Craig L. Tremaroli stated, “Serhat Gumrukcu is a ruthless criminal whose greed drove him to order the death of his own business partner. Today, our thoughts are with Gregory Davis’s family. We are proud to have brought them justice and are incredibly grateful to our partners at the United States Attorney’s Office, and all our law enforcement partners across the country who assisted with this complex investigation.”

    “We join our federal partners in thanking the members of the jury for their careful deliberations and verdict convicting Serhat Gumrukcu of all charges,” said Col. Matthew T. Birmingham, director of the Vermont State Police. “The jury’s determination of guilt reflects the diligent police work and the copious evidence collected during what would become one of the most sweeping, comprehensive and complex investigations in Vermont State Police history. Starting on the day more than seven years ago that Gregory Davis’s body was discovered on a snowy, remote road in Barnet, the state police, along with our investigative partners including the FBI, focused on identifying those responsible for his senseless killing and bringing them to justice. We hope that with today’s verdict, Mr. Davis’s family may be able to find a small measure of comfort knowing the person who bore ultimate responsibility has been held accountable.”

    At trial, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul J. Van de Graaf and Zachary Stendig represented the government, with supported from Karen Arena-Leene and Erin Thompson-Moran.  Gumrukcu was represented by Susan K. Marcus, Esq., and Ethan A. Balogh, Esq. 

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ellwood City Resident Sentenced to 21 Years in Prison for Coercing Minor to Produce and Send Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on April 22, 2025, to 252 months of incarceration, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release, on his conviction of coercion and enticement of a minor, and production and receipt of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentence on Shayne A. Clapper, 31.

    According to information presented to the Court, in January 2023 through February 2023, Clapper initiated a sexual relationship with a minor known to him. Clapper provided the minor with a cell phone that he used to communicate with the minor, including requesting and receiving nude images from the minor. Clapper also induced the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct.

    Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Ellwood City Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Clapper.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Prison for Possessing Fentanyl and Cocaine with Intent to Distribute

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Officers called to investigate possible break-in instead found drugs with a street value of more than $30K

    CLEVELAND – Jamill H. McDonald, 43, of Mayfield Heights, Ohio, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison by U.S. District Judge John R. Adams, after a federal jury found him guilty of possessing distribution quantities of fentanyl and cocaine.

    According to court documents, on Oct. 18, 2023, McDonald contacted law enforcement to report that someone was breaking into his apartment. When officers arrived, McDonald granted them entry into his residence. The defendant showed officers his cellphone to view the video footage from his external security camera. The videos showed a male attempting to break into McDonald’s apartment. Officers did not find any other occupants inside the defendant’s apartment. However, as officers continued to check the apartment for signs of intrusion, they found a package in one of the bedrooms which they suspected contained narcotics. The defendant was shown the package in question, and he then informed officers that he had never seen the package before and did not know what they contained. The defendant was subsequently detained by the officers.

    During a search warrant execution of the defendant’s residence, authorities confiscated a number of suspicious items from the kitchen. They found baggies filled with various amounts of either marijuana or white powder, and a scale with residue. In the defendant’s bedroom, officers recovered three cellphones, a box with two large packages containing white powder, and two men’s jackets. In one jacket, investigators found three additional baggies that contained suspected narcotic pills. In the other jacket investigators found $10,200 cash.

    Laboratory tests conducted on the suspected narcotics found in McDonald’s residence were confirmed to be fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin. Collectively, the seized drugs weighed in at approximately 1 kilogram of cocaine, and 310 grams of fentanyl and heroin and calculated to have a street value of more than $30,000.

    During the investigation, authorities discovered that McDonald had at least two prior felony convictions of either a crime of violence or controlled substance offenses. Because of the defendant’s significant criminal history, Judge Adams designated him as a career offender, therefore making him eligible to receive an enhanced penalty at sentencing.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and the Mayfield Heights Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine Makridis for the Northern District of Ohio.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Union County Teacher Admits to Producing Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Union County, New Jersey, man who was employed as a New Jersey high school teacher, admitted to producing child pornography, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Michael Hamilton, 53, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Christine P. O’Hearn in Camden federal court to one count of producing child pornography.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    Hamilton admitted to meeting a minor victim and engaging in sexual conduct with that victim, which Hamilton recorded on video. Law enforcement seized a copy of that video during the search of his home in October 2023. Hamilton also admitted to receiving and possessing sexually explicit messages, pictures, and videos of two other minor victims.

    The charge of production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  Sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited FBI Newark’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly, with the investigation.  U.S. Attorney Habba also thanked the Springfield Police Department and the Union County Prosecutor’s Office.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    The government is represented by Rebecca Sussman and Robert Taj Moore of the Narcotics/OCDETF Unit in Newark.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel: Randy Davenport, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Dreams delayed’ no longer: Report identifies key changes needed around Black students’ education

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Tanitiã Munroe, PhD candidate (ABD) and researcher, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto

    As Langston Hughes, the influential Harlem Renaissance poet, playwright and social activist, once wrote: “What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?”

    This poignant question is echoed in the title of the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s recently released Dreams Delayed report, which shines a spotlight on how systemic racism has continued to derail the educational aspirations of Black students across Ontario.

    Laying out a clear and urgent roadmap, Dreams Delayed: Addressing Systemic Anti-Black Racism and Discrimination in Ontario’s Public Education System captures both institutional responsibilities — for example, what the provincial government, school boards, faculties of education and educators must do — and the long-standing demands of Black families, students and communities who have been calling for meaningful change for decades.

    Call for important benchmarks

    The report’s title reflects a painful truth: the dreams of Black students have too often been deferred by persistent barriers in classrooms, hallways and boardrooms.

    For generations, Black families, students and community advocates have chronicled these injustices. By weaving their testimonies with data and legal analysis (including 83 reports), Dreams Delayed brings their struggle into sharp focus and translates it into a concrete policy blueprint.

    Its benchmarks are for measurable improvement in graduation rates, fewer suspensions, an elimination of biased academic streaming and an increase in Black teacher representation within four years.

    I am a doctoral researcher specializing in the kindergarten to Grade 12 experiences of Black students and their families. I also serve as senior research co-ordinator at the the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement (CEBSA) with the Toronto District School Board.

    I’ve seen the very principles this report highlights in action at CEBSA. By grounding our work in evidence and partnering closely with students, families and communities, sustained effort can transform long‑deferred dreams into meaningful, lasting change. In this process, students’ voices and agency must be at the heart of every decision.

    Turning commitments into action

    Over multiple generations, parents and activists have pushed schools to treat Black students fairly.

    In 1992, provincial adviser and former politician Stephen Lewis reported that Black students felt unwelcome and overlooked in their schools. Unfortunately, many of the same issues kept appearing in study after study over the next 30 years.

    Researchers found that Black students were often treated differently by teachers and administrators, leading to feelings of not belonging at school. They noted a lack of Black teachers and lessons that did not include Black history or contributions, which made it hard for Black youth to see themselves reflected in their education.



    Read more:
    Black History: How racism in Ontario schools today is connected to a history of segregation

    Black students and their families have consistently described varied unfair treatment. Discipline is one major example. For a long time, Black children have been punished more harshly at school. One Toronto study found that between 2006 and 2011, 42 per cent of Black high school students were suspended at least once, compared to 18 per cent of white students. This huge disparity showed that Black youth were far more likely to be removed from class for what educators judged as misbehaviour.

    Anti-Black racism, alienation in schools

    In daily school life, many Black students across Ontario have faced anti-Black racism and bias.

    They’ve endured racial slurs like the “n-word” from peers (and occasionally staff), and too often these incidents were not taken seriously by schools. Being one of the few Black students in a classroom, or studying a curriculum focused almost entirely on European or white perspectives, can make school feel alienating.



    Read more:
    Anti-Black racism is not a ‘consensual schoolyard fight’

    These conditions — disproportionate suspensions, low expectations, not enough Black representation among staff and repeated racist incidents — have undermined Black students’ well‑being and achievement for years. Awareness of these systemic problems is growing.

    Despite the slow pace of change, community advocacy has led to important victories. In 2017, the Toronto District School Board ended the School Resource Officer (SRO) program.

    This decision came after Black students, families and advocacy groups like Black Lives Matter, Education Not Incarceration and Policing-Free Schools voiced concerns about the program’s harmful and criminalizing impact on Black and racialized youth.

    This decision underscored the power of organized resistance and the importance of listening to students’ lived experiences.

    However, to address anti-Black racism in schools meaningfully, we need sustained action, transparent accountability and continued school, family and community involvement. Every day, Black students should learn in an environment where they are safe, respected and empowered to succeed.

    Recommendations for systemic change

    Dreams Delayed outlines specific recommendations across three main areas: accountability, data monitoring and student well-being.

    Accountability and transparency: Under accountability, the report emphasizes openly recognizing anti-Black racism. It recommends creating human rights offices in school boards to handle discrimination complaints effectively. Schools and teachers’ unions must hire more Black educators and address workplace racism to create representative and supportive environments. The Ministry of Education must establish clear anti-racism frameworks and hold schools accountable for human rights standards.

    Monitoring and evaluation: Monitoring data is crucial because we can’t fix what isn’t measured. The OHRC recommends standardized data collection across all school boards, tracking suspensions, academic outcomes and incidents of discrimination. Publicly available data allows communities to hold schools accountable and track progress transparently. An innovative recommendation is implementing early intervention systems to identify and address patterns of racial harassment proactively.

    Student well-being is central. Ultimately, the goal is for Black students to feel fully supported and able to succeed. The Dreams Delayed plan calls for expanding initiatives that directly support Black youth, including the graduation coach for Black Students. This program places dedicated coaches (often Black mentors) in schools to help Black students with academics and career planning, and has shown promise in improving graduation rates.

    Another recommendation is to grow student and family advocate programs so that more Black families have access to advocacy when dealing with schools, and creating affirming education spaces for Black students. Such spaces and important resources are offered through CEBSA, such as programs to connect Black students with STEM opportunties and post-secondary pathway planning.

    Turning advocacy into action

    By acting on the report’s key recommendations — building accountability, collecting race‑based data, transforming curriculum and expanding student supports — those long‑deferred dreams can finally begin to materialize.

    Meaningful progress, however, will demand collective resolve and sustained action. Educators, policymakers and communities must move beyond acknowledging the problem and dedicate themselves to reshaping the system so every Black student is seen, heard, valued and afforded an equal chance to succeed.

    The next few years will be critical. The measure of success will be simple: when Black students across Ontario no longer have to fight for the basics — dignity, safety, respect — but can focus fully on learning, growing and pursuing their futures with confidence.

    Dreams Delayed offers a pivotal opportunity to transform Ontario’s schools into spaces of belonging and possibility.

    Embracing its recommendations with urgency and sincerity would honour generations of advocacy and finally create an education system where every student, especially every Black student, is empowered to thrive.

    Tanitiã Munroe is a Senior Research Coordinator at the Toronto District School Board.

    – ref. ‘Dreams delayed’ no longer: Report identifies key changes needed around Black students’ education – https://theconversation.com/dreams-delayed-no-longer-report-identifies-key-changes-needed-around-black-students-education-254439

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: This Ain’t Our First Hike: National Park Week in the Heart of Texas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    National Park Week is here—April 19 through April 26—and it’s the perfect time to step back and appreciate the natural heritage that makes the Lone Star State so extraordinary. This year, the National Park Service (NPS) is celebrating with the theme “National Park Playlist,” highlighting the connections between music and nature from songs about nature to heavy metal.

    With Earth Day falling right in the middle of National Park Week, it’s also a time to honor both the planet and the great outdoors—two birds, one stone. National Park Week also includes National Junior Ranger Day, a special opportunity for young Texans to connect with nature through the NPS Junior Ranger Program. With games, hands-on activities, and guided learning offered at more than 400 national parks across the country, it’s a fun and family-friendly way to plant the seeds of environmental stewardship early.

    You don’t have to travel far to experience the great outdoors. Texas is home to numerous parks, offering everything from piney woods and desert plains to sweeping mountain ranges. Among its most treasured gems are Guadalupe Mountains and Big Bend National Parks, two stunning landscapes that exemplify the natural beauty and vibrant wildlife of the Lone Star State.

    Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to Texas’ highest peak and a rugged beauty that draws hikers and nature lovers year-round. Established as a national park in 1966, it shares a geological history with nearby Carlsbad Caverns National Park, where over 119 caves were formed through the dissolution of limestone over millions of years. These mountains carry the stories of ancient hunter-gatherers and the Mescalero Apache, whose presence is still honored today.

    In the northern reaches of the Chihuahuan Desert, Big Bend stretches more than 800,000 acres. It offers dramatic canyons, desert solitude, and some of the best stargazing in the world. The park is a haven for wildlife, hosting approximately 31 species of snakes, 22 species of lizards, and more than 450 species of birds. Despite scorching summer temperatures that can exceed 115 degrees, the desert blooms with ocotillo, yucca, lechuguilla, bluebonnets, and desert marigolds. In fact, Big Bend contains more species of cacti than any other national park in the country.

    Humans have called this region home for millennia, with archaeological sites within the park that date back nearly 10,000 years. The Comanche were the last indigenous people to inhabit the area before American settlers in the late 1800s. And in a little-known chapter of Texas history, camels once roamed this land, having been brought in for military purposes in the 1850s. Through several expeditions, these camels marched over rough, rocky terrain with little to no water or vegetation. They were eventually sold off to ranchers and circuses after the expeditions.

    This year, Big Bend is at the heart of an exciting conservation effort. I introduced the Big Bend National Park Boundary Adjustment Act, which would allow the NPS to acquire approximately 6,100 acres along the park’s western edge and help protect the land that makes this region, rich in ecological and culture meaning, so special. If passed, the legislation would be a step forward in preserving Texas’ natural wonders not just for us, but for generations to come.

    Here in Texas, National Park Week is a celebration of our land and our communities. The Lone Star State has never done things halfway, and our approach to public lands is no exception. Because in Texas, we know the land isn’t just ours to enjoy—it’s ours to protect for those who will walk it next.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Botswana Vice President Lauds African Development Bank’s 60-Year Legacy, Urges Economic Resilient Africa

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    GABORONE, Botswana, April 23, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Botswana’s Vice President and Finance Minister Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe has urged African leaders to build an economically viable and resilient continent amid global funding challenges, geopolitical tensions, and increased tariff regimes.

    Speaking at an event marking the African Development Bank Group’s 60 years of transformative impact across Africa and 53 years of its operations in Botswana,  Gaolathe envisioned a new Africa as a “value definer” rather than a “price taker” in finance, energy, minerals, and technology.

    He highlighted the African Development Bank Group’s development impact, noting it has remained the continent’s partner of choice not merely as an institution but “a beacon of Africa’s own dream.”

    “We have seen the Bank not only as a builder of roads and dams, but also as a partner in thinking, reforming, and reimagining. Whether through technical assistance in procurement reforms, lines of credit to our development institutions, or policy advisory during our most difficult transitions, the African Development Bank has walked quietly, consistently, and strategically with us,” Gaolathe stated.

    “From the construction of the Lobatse-Kanye Road in the 1970s to the Nata-Maun Road, the Gaborone-Lobatse Water Supply, and the Morupule B Power Plant, this Bank’s footprint is woven into the story of our progress,” he said. “As we celebrate these past six decades, I am especially inspired by the bold and courageous conversations that the African Development Bank is leading today, which challenge the world to rethink Africa, not as a continent of scarcity, but as the richest cradle of life on earth.”

    Gaolathe expressed concern about the “systematic undervaluation of Africa’s natural resources.” “When African carbon credits are traded for a fraction of their true value, that is not commerce; it is quiet violence,” he stated, echoing African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina’s call to stop “carbon grabs” across the continent.

    Since 1972, the Bank Group has supported transformative projects in Botswana across multiple sectors, including agriculture, finance, power, transport, and industry, with investments exceeding $2.6 billion across 67 projects.

    Gaolathe praised a proposal by the Bank for a Critical Minerals-Backed African Currency, and its push to include natural capital in national balance sheets as “unapologetically African, innovative, and sovereign” leadership. “Africa holds over 30% of the world’s critical minerals. From lithium to cobalt, we power the world’s batteries, yet all too often, we are still exporting dust while importing debt. That must end,” he emphasized.

    Leila Mokaddem, the Bank’s Director General for Southern Africa, highlighted the impact of the Bank’s work in Southern Africa, including the Kazungula Bridge connecting Botswana and Zambia, which she described as “a gateway of integration across SADC.” She also cited the Pandamatenga Agriculture Infrastructure Project that transformed 40,000 hectares of farmland and increased cereal production by 46%.

    “As we mark this Diamond Jubilee, we do so to honor the past and embrace the future. Let us build the next decade of partnership with purpose, optimism, and shared commitment,” she said.

    Angola’s Ambassador to Botswana and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Beatriz Morais, took the audience on a memory lane to September 1964, when 25 countries converged in Khartoum with a singular vision—to create a financial institution by Africans for Africans. “Today, 61 years later, we take pride in what that vision has become.”

    Mothobi Matila, a retiree who joined the Bank from Botswana’s Ministry of Finance in 2005, delivered an emotional speech. He described the Bank as an “equal opportunity place” that became his employer and second home.

    Moono Mupotola, the Bank’s Country Manager for Botswana and Deputy Director General for Southern Africa emphasized its five-decade partnership with Botswana, which began in 1972 with the first loan extended in November 1973 to support telecommunications infrastructure.

    She outlined the Bank’s 2022-2026 strategy for Botswana, which focuses on building economic resilience through improved economic governance, private sector development, and infrastructure development to enhance competitiveness and productivity.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) Hydrocarbons Minister to Speak at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Amid Renewed Exploration Drive

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, April 23, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) Minister of Hydrocarbons, Aimé Sakombi Molendo, is confirmed to speak at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 in Paris next month. His participation underscores the DRC’s commitment to revitalizing its hydrocarbons sector through strategic reforms, regional partnerships and renewed investor engagement, following recent exploration breakthroughs and cross-border agreements.

    With an estimated 5 to 22 billion barrels of oil reserves, the DRC is advancing a pro-investment agenda focused on enhancing transparency, improving operational efficiency and accelerating upstream activity – efforts that are already yielding results. In May 2024, Perenco’s subsidiary, Muanda International Oil Company, achieved the DRC’s first offshore oil discovery in nearly three decades with the Moke-East well in the Coastal Basin. To fast-track exploration and strengthen national participation, the government also recently approved a decree granting state-owned Société Nationale des Hydrocarbures du Congo the rights to Blocks 1 and 2 in the Albertine Basin, one of the country’s most promising zones for oil exploration.

    IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4cHC9it) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    In a key regional development, the DRC and Angola signed new terms for the co-development of offshore Block 14 during the Angola Oil & Gas 2024 conference. Straddling the maritime border between the two nations, Block 14 boasts a production capacity of 3.29 million barrels per year and is operated by Chevron’s local subsidiary, Cabinda Gulf Oil Company, alongside partners Eni, etu energias and Sonangol. The agreement, formalizing nearly two decades of negotiations, is poised to encourage further investment and strengthen cross-border petroleum trade.

    Minister Molendo’s presence at IAE 2025 will offer delegates valuable insights into the DRC’s evolving energy landscape – spanning hydrocarbons, energy and mining – and the government’s integrated approach to sustainable resource development. As the DRC strengthens linkages across its extractive industries, the Minister is expected to outline emerging opportunities in exploration, infrastructure and local content development. He joins a high-level lineup of African energy leaders, including ministers from Nigeria, the Republic of the Congo, Mauritania, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau and Liberia, underscoring the summit’s role as a premier platform for pan-African energy dialogue and investment.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Recruitment starts for Independent Climate Council members23 April 2025 Recruitment has started for the appointment of members of​ Jersey’s newly established Independent Climate Council, which will be funded through the Climate Emergency Fund. The Independent Climate Council… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    23 April 2025

    Recruitment has started for the appointment of members of​ Jersey’s newly established Independent Climate Council, which will be funded through the Climate Emergency Fund. 

    The Independent Climate Council will play a vital role in ensuring oversight and accountability of the Government of Jersey’s climate actions, as outlined in the Carbon Neutral Roadmap, CNR. The Council will report on progress every four years, aligned with the electoral cycle, and provide independent, science-based analysis on greenhouse gas, GHG, emission reductions and the delivery of climate policy initiatives. 

    Final appointments to the Council will be confirmed jointly by the Minister for the Environment and the Chair of the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure, EHI, Scrutiny Panel, in line with the proposal approved by the States Assembly.

    The recruitment process will be overseen by Jersey Appointments Commission. 

    Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce, said: “Recruitment for the Independent Climate Council comes at a crucial time, when global climate action is under scrutiny. The Council will provide robust scientific analysis and essential transparency. It will review how effectively the Government of Jersey is delivering the measures set out in the Carbon Neutral Roadmap and progress made towards the Island’s emission reduction targets under the Paris Agreement. In holding the Government to account, the Council will play a vital role in supporting a renewed focus on delivering Jersey’s net zero commitment.

    “Appointment to Jersey’s first Climate Council offers an exceptional opportunity to review our actions and achievements since the Carbon Neutral Roadmap was approved in 2022. The Council’s report and recommendations will be published early next year before final agreement of the priorities for the Roadmap’s second delivery plan running from 2027 to 2030. We welcome applications from suitably qualified and experienced Islanders as well as candidates from further afield. I look forward to supporting the Council’s work when it convenes later this year.” 

    Deputy Hilary Jeune, Chair of the EHI Scrutiny Panel, said: “This initiative stems from an amendment by the EHI Scrutiny Panel to the Carbon Neutral Roadmap, following the recognition that independent oversight was missing. The establishment of this Council is fundamental to maintaining good governance and ensuring Jersey remains on track to meet its climate goals. The four-yearly reports will offer transparent, evidence-based insight to the public, who are central to our collective progress towards becoming a net-zero Island. I’m proud that Scrutiny will continue its role as a constructive and critical friend to Government throughout this process.” 

    The States Assembly declared a climate emergency in May 2019, acknowledging its likely profound effects on Jersey. In response, the Carbon Neutral Roadmap was approved on 29 April 2022, setting out the initial policies to reduce GHG emissions during the 2022–2025 Delivery Plan period.

    The Council’s primary responsibility will be to produce a comprehensive report at the end of each governmental term, assessing Jersey’s progress on GHG emissions reductions and evaluating how effectively the CNR is being delivered. The first report is due to be presented to the States Assembly by the end of Q1 2026. 

    The Independent Climate Council will comprise up to five members, including a Chair elected from within the membership. At least one member must be a full-time Jersey resident. Appointed members will serve a single fixed term and will primarily conduct their work during the final quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026. 

    Council members will bring independent expertise and strategic insight to help guide Jersey’s transition to net zero, evaluating implementation of current policies and advising on how best to apply resources to meet climate objectives. 

    Further details on the recruitment process can be found here: Leading our Island and the candidate brief.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Walk Leicester Festival is back!

    Source: City of Leicester

    FREE group walks and events are taking place throughout May as the Walk Leicester festival returns.

    Now in its seventh year, Walk Leicester is a month-long celebration of walking and its benefits for our health, happiness and the environment. It’s a chance to explore and discover the city on foot, with themed walks encompassing local history and archaeology, wildlife and ecology – as well as providing lots of chances to simply walk in a group for pleasure.

    The festival kicks off on 1 May with a friendly group walk from the city centre to the café at Gorse Hill City Farm, taking a two-mile scenic route through the pleasant green spaces of the Rally and Stokeswood parks, via the Orchards local nature reserve.

    From 6-9 May, De Montfort University will be hosting Medieval Campus walks. Starting at Leicester Castle, these will be packed with fascinating historical facts courtesy of DMU Museum. They will explore the medieval history surrounding the campus, encompassing the castle motte and Great Hall, the exterior of St Mary de Castro, Turret Gate, Trinity Hospital, Chantry House and the Church of the Annunciation, with a chance to enter buildings usually inaccessible to the public.

    On 15 May, a wildlife guide will lead a Walk on the Wild Side at Watermead Park to talk about seasonal plants and animals found there, while on 16 and again on 27 May, the Canal & River Trust will host a waterside Dragonfly Safari along the River Soar, with the chance to spot lots of local insect life.

    The last journeys of King Richard III will form the basis of two walks hosted by the Council for British Archaeology on 17 May, taking in the routes of the King’s fateful last journeys in and out of central Leicester in 1485. A local historian will also provide an insight into the behind-the-scenes work that went on in preparation for the King’s reinterment in 2015. 

    And during half term at the end of the month, Funky Feet and Wacky Wheels (pictured) will return to Abbey Park. This fun, free event for families includes lots of activity trails, and the chance to decorate your shoes, bike or scooter. It runs from 11am-2pm on 28 May and there’s no need to book, you can just turn up.

    Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor responsible for public health, parks, trees and woodlands, said: “The Walk Leicester festival offers people the chance to make new friends, discover new routes and learn more about the fascinating history of our city.

    “We’re also very lucky in Leicester to have so many parks and open spaces for people to walk through, many of which have tree trails you can follow to find out more about our vast range of specimen trees. Walking in such environments is proven to boost your mood and help with mental wellbeing, so I hope that lots of people will enjoy our tree trails, park routes and wildlife walks as part of the Walk Leicester festival.”

    Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “Leicester is a great place to explore on foot. We’ve invested in dedicated walking and cycling routes that make it safe and easy to get around. The Walk Leicester Festival is the perfect opportunity to try them out.”

    May is National Walking Month, aimed at helping people to discover how walking can improve your physical fitness and mental wellbeing. Last year, research conducted by Living Streets, the charity behind National Walking Month, showed that 54% of people in Britain said they walk to improve their mental health and happiness. Other reasons for walking included to get fresh air, move more and connect with nature.

    Find out more about the Walk Leicester festival at https://www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk/walkleicester/

    Find out more about National Walking Month at https://www.livingstreets.org.uk/get-involved/national-walking-month/

    ENDS

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Op-Ed by Ambassador Brian Aggeler on current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Op-Ed by Ambassador Brian Aggeler on current situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Ambassador Brian Aggeler, Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (OSCE) Photo details

    Today Bosnia and Herzegovina is facing the most serious constitutional crisis since the end of the war nearly thirty years ago. The Dayton Peace Agreement that ended that devastating war entrusted the OSCE with a vital role: to help secure lasting peace, protect human rights, and support building a stable, democratic state.
    In fulfilling this mandate the OSCE not only has the responsibility, but the duty to speak up – clearly and consistently – when the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina is at risk.
    And that means condemning efforts to undermine the country’s constitutional structures through the establishment of parallel structures and banning of the work of State-level institutions, undermining the territorial integrity of BiH.  The legal effect of such laws was temporarily suspended by Constitutional Court of BiH, but these actions are continuing to threaten the sovereignty and territorial integrity of BiH by undermining State competencies, and diminish the scope of legal protections for individuals and business in Republika Srpska. 
    Although the Constitutional Court of BiH has temporarily suspended the legal effect of some of these laws, the intent behind them remains deeply troubling. Justifications that invoke a return to the so-called “original” Dayton agreement are misleading. State institutions established with the explicit consent of the Entities – as stipulated by the BiH Constitution – are very much necessary for the functioning of the State. Once these institutions have been established at the State level, their competences cannot be simply revoked or terminated unilaterally. Neither the BiH Constitution nor the transfer agreements include provisions for their expiration or one-sided withdrawal. Under the current constitutional framework, such unilateral moves are simply not legally permissible.
    The dedicated public servants who continue to carry out their duties in this difficult environment are helping to keep the State functioning for the benefit of all citizens. Their courage and integrity deserve strong and vocal support from all of us.
    Secessionist and anti-Dayton rhetoric and actions strike at the very core of the country’s institutional integrity. They create deepening uncertainty, the consequences of which are hard to predict. In this context, it is not the role of the international community to impose solutions. Responsibility lies with BiH’s political leaders – to uphold the integrity of State institutions, to respect the Constitution, and to support the authority and independence of the judiciary. 
    The OSCE’s position is clear. During her recent visit to Sarajevo, the OSCE Chair-in-Office, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, renewed the Organization’s unwavering commitment to the Dayton Peace Agreement, the BiH Constitution, and to State-level institutions, including the judiciary. She also called for a de-escalation of tensions. Her strong message echoed statements made by the OSCE Mission, the Chair-in Office and the Secretary General, jointly and unequivocally condemning secessionist actions, and re-affirming our support for the rule of law.
    The people of BiH deserve better. They deserve quality education, a transparent and independent judiciary, reconciliation, and a stable, secure, environment where everyone can thrive. These are the areas the OSCE focuses on, and these should also be the priorities for responsible political leaders. 
    Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of immense potential. Despite the complexity of the current situation, the OSCE remains committed to navigating it together and supporting the country’s success. We will continue to engage with all those working in good faith to help the this wonderfully diverse country move forward.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Kindcard, Inc. Launches Payments Marketplace

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOCA RATON, Fla., April 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kindcard, Inc. (OTC Markets: KCRD) (“Kindcard” and the “Company”), an innovative FinTech and PayTech company which provides alternative payments solutions to businesses across a wide variety of merchant verticals through its wholly owned subsidiary, Deb, Inc. (“DEB”) (www.debpayments.com), today announced that the Company through its strategic partnership with Bloxcross, Inc. (www.blox.global) (“Blox”) has onboarded its initial merchant accounts utilizing the Blox worldwide digital technology platform.

    Michael Rosen, CEO of Kindcard, stated, “Our Deb platform in combination with Blox has actively been introducing our all-in-one Payments Marketplace to industry resellers, referral partners and end user clients.” Mr. Rosen continued, “We have experienced an enthusiastic response to our ‘Deb powered by Blox’ approach to provisioning a platform that encompasses traditional card processing with the ability to offer digital payments online and in-store, business and consumer wallets, currency conversion, and payouts worldwide.”

    Diego Baez, CEO of Blox, stated, “Having focused our efforts on the buildout of our Blox digital payments platform with a focus on B2B transactions worldwide, our launch of this strategic partnership with Deb, including Deb’s introductions to its payments industry partners and clients under Deb’s all-in-one Payments Marketplace, has been exciting for our organization, and we look forward to continued mutual growth as strategic partners.”

    To learn more about DEB, please visit: www.debpayments.com

    About Kindcard, Inc.:

    Kindcard, Inc. (OTC Markets: KCRD) (“Kindcard” and the “Company”) is engaged in designing, partnering and taking to market safer, faster, and more competitive and secure ways for businesses and consumers to transact business in the ever-growing world economy. www.kindcard.com

    Kindcard is subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and, in accordance with the Exchange Act, the Company files periodic reports, documents, and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) relating to our business, financial statements, and other matters. These filings are available to the public on the Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

    About Bloxcross, Inc.:

    Bloxcross, Inc. (www.blox.global) (“Blox”) is a fintech innovator redefining cross-border payments through a blockchain-integrated network that prioritizes speed, security, and accessibility. With operations spanning over 32 countries and more than $350 million in total payment volume processed to date, Blox delivers robust solutions including Blox Pay and Blox Trade Finance. These services empower businesses and institutions with real-time settlement capabilities and seamless international trade.

    Safe Harbor Provision

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created thereby. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” or “believes” or the negative thereof or any variation thereon or similar terminology or expressions. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from results proposed in such statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can provide no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2024 and its other filings and submissions with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. This press release includes forward-looking statements concerning the future performance of our business, its operations and its financial performance and condition, and also includes selected operating results presented without the context of accompanying financial results.

    These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to our objectives and strategies to achieve those objectives, as well as statements with respect to our beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates or intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations. We caution that all forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from the assumptions, estimates or expectations reflected or contained in the forward-looking information, and that actual future performance will be affected by a number of factors, including economic conditions, technological change, regulatory change and competitive factors, many of which are beyond our control. Therefore, future events and results may vary significantly from what we currently foresee. We are under no obligation (and we expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter the forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact: Kindcard, Inc. (888) 888-0708

    Info@kindcard.com

    Investor Relations:

    Info@kindcard.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: How will a new pope be chosen? An expert explains the conclave

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University

    Following the death of Pope Francis, we’ll soon be seeing a new leader in the Vatican. The conclave – a strictly confidential gathering of Roman Catholic cardinals – is due to meet in a matter of weeks to elect a new earthly head.

    The word conclave is derived from the Latin con (together) and clāvis (key). It means “a locked room” or “chamber”, reflecting its historical use to describe the locked gathering of cardinals to elect a pope.

    Held in the Sistine Chapel, the meeting follows a centuries-old process designed to ensure secrecy and prayerful deliberation. A two-thirds majority vote will be needed to successfully elect the 267th pope.

    History of the conclave

    The formalised papal conclave dates back centuries. And various popes have shaped the process in response to the church’s needs.

    In the 13th century, for example, Pope Gregory X introduced strict regulations to prevent unduly long elections.

    Pope Gregory X brought in the rules to prevent a repeat of his own experience. The conclave that elected him in September 1271 (following the death of Pope Clement IV in 1268) lasted almost three years.

    Further adjustments were made to streamline the process and emphasise secrecy, culminating in Pope John Paul II’s 1996 constitution, Universi Dominici gregis (The Lord’s whole flock). This document set the modern framework for the conclave.

    In 2007 and 2013, Benedict XVI reiterated that a two-thirds majority of written votes would be required to elect a new pope. He also reaffirmed penalties for breaches of secrecy.

    The secrecy surrounding the conclave ensures the casting of ballots remains confidential, and without any external interference.

    The last known attempt at external interference in a papal conclave occurred in 1903 when Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria sought to prevent the election of Cardinal Mariano Rampolla. However, the assembled cardinals rejected this intervention, asserting the independence of the electoral process.

    How does voting work?

    The conclave formally begins between 15 and 20 days after the papal vacancy, but can start earlier if all cardinals eligible to vote have arrived. Logistical details, such as the funeral rites for the deceased pope, can also influence the overall timeline.

    Historically, the exact number of votes required to elect a new pope has fluctuated. Under current rules, a minimum two-thirds majority is needed. If multiple rounds of balloting fail to yield a result, the process can continue for days, or even weeks.

    After every few inconclusive rounds, cardinals pause for prayer and reflection. This process continues until one candidate receives the two-thirds majority required to win. The final candidates do not vote for themselves in the decisive round.

    The ballot paper formerly used in the conclave, with ‘I elect as Supreme Pontiff’ written in Latin.
    Wikimedia Commons

    How is voting kept secret?

    The papal conclave is entirely closed to the public. Voting is conducted by secret ballot within the Sistine Chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the pope’s official residence.

    During the conclave, the Sistine Chapel is sealed off from outside communication. No cameras are allowed, and there is no live broadcast.

    The cardinals involved swear an oath of absolute secrecy, and face the threat of excommunication if it is violated. This ensures all discussions and voting remain strictly confidential.

    The iconic white smoke, produced by burning ballots once a pope has been chosen, is the only public signal that the election has concluded.

    Who can be elected?

    Only cardinals who are under 80 years of age at the time of conclave’s commencement can vote. Older cardinals are free to attend preparatory meetings, but can not cast ballots.

    While the total number of electors is intended to not exceed 120, the fluctuating nature of cardinal appointments, as well as age restrictions, make it difficult to predict the exact number of eligible voters at any given conclave.

    Technically, any baptised Catholic man can be elected pope. In practice, however, the College of Cardinals traditionally chooses one of its own members. Electing an “outsider” is extremely rare, and has not occurred in modern times.

    What makes a good candidate?

    When faced with criticism from a member of the public about his weight, John XXIII (who was pope from 1958-1963) retorted the papal conclave was “not a exactly beauty contest”.

    Merit, theological understanding, administrative skill and global perspective matter greatly. But there is also a collegial element – something of a “popularity” factor. It is an election, after all.

    Cardinals discuss the church’s current priorities – be they evangelisation strategies, administrative reforms or pastoral concerns – before settling on the individual they believe is best suited to lead.

    The cardinal electors seek someone who can unify the faithful, navigate modern challenges and maintain doctrinal continuity.

    Controversies and criticisms

    The conclave process has faced criticism for its strict secrecy, which can foster speculation about potential “politicking”.

    Critics argue a tightly controlled environment might not reflect the broader concerns of the global church.

    Some have also questioned whether age limits on voting cardinals limit the wisdom and experience found among older members.

    Nonetheless, defenders maintain that secrecy encourages free and sincere deliberation, minimising external pressure and allowing cardinals to choose the best leader without fear of reprisal, or of public opinion swaying the vote.

    Challenges facing the new pope

    The next pope will inherit a mixed situation: a church that has grown stronger in certain areas under Francis, yet which grapples with internal divisions and external challenges.

    Like other religions, the church faces secularisation, issues with financial transparency and a waning following in some parts of the globe.

    One of the earliest trials faced by the new pope will be unifying the global Catholic community around a shared vision – an obstacle almost every pope has faced. Striking the right balance between doctrine and pastoral sensitivity remains crucial.

    Addressing sexual abuse scandals and their aftermath will require decisive action, transparency and continued pastoral care for survivors.

    Practical concerns also loom large. The new pope will have to manage the Vatican bureaucracy and interfaith relations, while maintaining the church’s stance on global crises such as migration and poverty – two issues on which Francis insisted mercy could not be optional.

    The cardinal electors have a tough decision ahead of them. The Catholic community can only pray that, through their deliberations, they identify a shepherd who can guide the church through the complexities of the modern world.

    Darius von Guttner Sporzynski 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. How will a new pope be chosen? An expert explains the conclave – https://theconversation.com/how-will-a-new-pope-be-chosen-an-expert-explains-the-conclave-250506

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Scottish Government on road to climate chaos by scrapping car journey targets

    Source: Scottish Greens

    23 Apr 2025 Transport

    We badly need to cut the cost of public transport if we are to reduce the number of cars on our roads.

    More in Transport

    If we are to reduce car use we need to make public transport affordable, accessible and available for all, says Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell.

    Mr Ruskell’s comments come as the Scottish government has dropped a nationwide target to cut the number of car journeys taken in Scotland by 20 per cent by 2030.

    Transport is Scotland’s largest carbon emitter, accounting for 29% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2022.

    Scottish Greens Transport Spokesperson Mark Ruskell MSP said:

    “The lack of ambition from the Scottish Government is disappointing. Dropping this target won’t change the fact that, since the target was set, there has been a serious lack of action from SNP ministers to meet it.

    “Emissions from transport remain the largest source of pollution in Scotland, and private car use makes up a huge share of that. We’ve known for decades that to tackle the climate emergency, we need to cut car use, and while the Scottish Government has been strong with words, their actions have been lacking.

    “We are on the road to climate chaos. We need to make public transport affordable, accessible and available to all if we are to start cutting emissions.

    “The action we need to be taking is exactly what the Scottish Greens have been pushing to introduce for years: cheaper trains and buses, better connections for rural communities and an end to spending on new unnecessary road building schemes.

    “Making public transport cheaper and more accessible makes the choice to leave the car at home easier for many people. Many commuters want to play their part in reducing our carbon emissions but the cost is simply too high for some. It’s time to make trains and buses cheaper across Scotland.”

    Mr Ruskell added:

    “Whilst in Government, the Scottish Greens introduced the free bus pass for young people, which has been used over 200 million times, we scrapped peak rail fares for a period, which led to 10 million more commuter journeys, and we delivered record investment in active travel infrastructure allowing more people than ever to walk, wheel or cycle.

    “This is the kind of ambition needed to reduce carbon emissions in Scotland, but we need to go further. With more Scottish Green MSPs in Holyrood, we can push for real change to tackle the climate emergency and save commuters money, such as a permanent removal of peak rail fares, a nationwide bus fare cap, and radical investment in Scotland’s railways.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 24, 2025
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