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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI: Houston American Energy Corp. Secures $100 Million Equity Line of Credit to Fuel Growth and Support Strategic Acquisitions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, TX, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (“HUSA” or the “Company”) today announced it has secured a Common Stock Purchase Agreement with an institutional investor, establishing an equity line of credit of up to $100 million. The Company intends to use the proceeds to accelerate its growth strategy, including strategic acquisitions, scaling operations, and expanding its presence in the low-carbon fuels and chemicals sector.

    “This capital commitment is a significant milestone for Houston American Energy and a validation of our long-term vision,” said Ed Gillespie, CEO of the Company. “It provides us with enhanced flexibility to execute our growth strategy and advance our project pipeline.”

    Under the terms of the 24-month agreement, HUSA has the right to sell up to $100 million of its common stock to an institutional investor. The timing and amount of sales will be at the Company’s discretion, subject to a $2 million cap per drawdown, trading and volume limitations and other conditions. Shares will be sold at a 4% discount to the volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the Company’s stock over a specified period.

    “This agreement provides us with the financial agility to expand our operations, pursue strategic growth opportunities, and scale our business to meet the evolving needs of the energy sector,” added Gillespie.

    The Company will file a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) to register the resale of shares. The agreement was structured as a committed equity facility under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and Rule 506(b) of Regulation D. Additional details regarding the agreement will be available in a Form 8-K to be filed by the company with the SEC.

    About Houston American Energy Corp.

    Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) is an independent energy company with a growing and diversified portfolio across both conventional and renewable sectors. Historically focused on the exploration and production of oil and natural gas, the Company is actively expanding into high-growth segments of the energy industry. In July 2025, HUSA acquired Abundia Global Impact Group, a technology-driven platform specializing in the conversion of waste plastics into low-carbon fuels and chemical feedstocks. This strategic acquisition reflects HUSA’s broader commitment to meeting global energy demands through a balanced mix of traditional and alternative energy solutions and positions the Company to capitalize on emerging opportunities in sustainable fuels and energy transition technologies.

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking information generally is accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements about the future growth of the Company in the low-carbon fuels and chemicals sector as well as plans for strategic acquisitions and scaling operations. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including, but not limited to: (i) risks and uncertainties impacting the Company’s business including, risks related to its current liquidity position and the need to obtain additional financing to support ongoing operations, the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, the Company’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on NYSE American, the Company’s ability to predict its rate of growth, the Company’s ability to hire, retain and motivate employees, the effects of competition on the Company’s business, including price competition, technological, regulatory and legal developments, developments in the economy and financial markets, risks related to whether the Company is able to sell any shares under the Common Stock Purchase Agreement, the timing of filing a registration statement with respect to the resale of such shares, and (iii) other risks as set forth from time to time in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of the Company.

    With respect to the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, market and social uncertainties and contingencies. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. A complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company’s business is disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC on www.sec.gov.

    All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law.

    For additional information, view the company’s website at www.houstonamerican.com or contact Houston American Energy Corp. at (713) 222-6966.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Houston American Energy Secures $5 Million in Strategic Financing to Acquire Texas Gulf Coast Development Site

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Proceeds to Fund Portion of Acquisition of 25-Acre Location at Cedar Port Industrial Park, Future Site of Plastics-to-Low-Carbon Fuels Hub

    HOUSTON, TX, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) (“HUSA” or the “Company”) today announced it has secured a Convertible Note from an institutional investor for $5 million. The Company intends to use the proceeds to fund a portion of the acquisition and development of a 25-acre site at the Cedar Port Industrial Park located in Baytown, Texas.

    “The site at Cedar Port is in the largest rail and barge served industrial park in the United States with direct access to the Houston Ship Channel and the Port of Houston. It provides robust logistical advantages for the transportation of both feedstock and our low-carbon drop-in fuels and chemical products,” said Ed Gillespie, CEO of the Company.

    The Senior Secured Convertible Note carries an 8% Original Issue Discount (“OID”) for a face amount of approximately $5.4 million and bears 7% interest with a maturity date of July 10, 2026. The Note includes standard rights for the institutional investor, including instalment payments, optional conversion, and certain default provisions. HUSA retains the right to prepay the Note at a premium prior to its maturity. The Note is convertible into common shares of HUSA at a price representing a 10% premium to a look-back price. The look-back price is defined as the lower of: (i) the closing price on the day prior to signing $11.00 on July 10, 2025, or (ii) the five-day average closing price prior to signing.

    HUSA expects to close on the acquisition of the site in July 2025 for approximately $8.5 million. The site will support the foundational buildout of a plastics to fuels development hub, including research and development facilities, storage, roads and other related infrastructure.

    About Houston American Energy Corp.

    Houston American Energy Corp. (NYSE American: HUSA) is an independent energy company with a growing and diversified portfolio across both conventional and renewable sectors. Historically focused on the exploration and production of oil and natural gas, the Company is actively expanding into high-growth segments of the energy industry. In July 2025, HUSA acquired Abundia Global Impact Group, a technology-driven platform specializing in the conversion of waste plastics into low-carbon fuels and chemical feedstocks. This strategic acquisition reflects HUSA’s broader commitment to meeting global energy demands through a balanced mix of traditional and alternative energy solutions and positions the Company to capitalize on emerging opportunities in sustainable fuels and energy transition technologies.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking information generally is accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “predict,” “potential,” “seem,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements about the future growth of the Company in the low-carbon fuels and chemicals sector as well as plans for transportation of feedstock and drop-in fuels and chemical products. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including, but not limited to: (i) risks and uncertainties impacting the Company’s business including, risks related to its current liquidity position and the need to obtain additional financing to support ongoing operations, the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, the Company’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on NYSE American, the Company’s ability to predict its rate of growth, the Company’s ability to hire, retain and motivate employees, the effects of competition on the Company’s business, including price competition, technological, regulatory and legal developments, developments in the economy and financial markets, risks related to the Company’s ability to repay the Senior Secured Convertible Note, the Company’s ability to complete the acquisition and development of the site at Cedar Port Industrial Park, and (iii) other risks as set forth from time to time in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of the Company.

    With respect to the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made numerous assumptions. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, market and social uncertainties and contingencies. Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. A complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company’s business is disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC on www.sec.gov.

    All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law.

    For additional information, view the company’s website at www.houstonamerican.com or contact Houston American Energy Corp. at (713) 222-6966.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bel Fuse Schedules Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEST ORANGE, N.J., July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bel Fuse Inc. (Nasdaq: BELFA and BELFB), a designer, manufacturer, and provider of products that power, protect and connect electronic circuits, today announced plans to release preliminary financial results for the second quarter after market close on Thursday, July 24, 2025. An earnings conference call has been scheduled as follows:

    When: Friday, July 25, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. ET
       
    Dial in: 877.407.0784, or international: 201.689.8560
       
    Online: https://ir.belfuse.com/events-and-presentations
       
    How: Live over the internet – Simply log on to the web at the address above
       
    Replay: 844.512.2921, or international: 412.317.6671
       
      Conference ID: 13754675
     

    A replay will be available after 12:30 p.m. ET for 30 days following the call.

    About Bel
    Bel (www.belfuse.com) designs, manufactures and markets a broad array of products that power, protect and connect electronic circuits. These products are primarily used in the defense, commercial aerospace, networking, telecommunications, computing, general industrial, high-speed data transmission, transportation and eMobility industries. Bel’s product groups include Power Solutions and Protection (front-end, board-mount and industrial power products, module products and circuit protection), Connectivity Solutions (expanded beam fiber optic, copper-based, RF and RJ connectors and cable assemblies), and Magnetic Solutions (integrated connector modules, power transformers, power inductors and discrete components). The Company operates facilities around the world.

    Contacts:

    Bel Fuse Inc.

    Lynn Hutkin, CFO
    ir@belf.com

    Three Part Advisors
    Jean Marie Young, Managing Director
    Steven Hooser, Partner
    jyoung@threepa.com
    shooser@threepa.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CSW Industrials Declares Quarterly Dividend of $0.27 Per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Directors of CSW Industrials, Inc. (NYSE: CSW) today declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.27 per share. The dividend is payable on August 8, 2025, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on July 25, 2025.

    Details
    Dividend Amount: $0.27
    Record Date: July 25, 2025
    Payable Date: August 8, 2025
       

    About CSW Industrials
    CSW Industrials is a diversified industrial growth company with industry-leading operations in three segments: Contractor Solutions, Specialized Reliability Solutions, and Engineered Building Solutions. CSW provides niche, value-added products with two essential commonalities: performance and reliability. The primary end markets we serve with our well-known brands include: HVAC/R, plumbing, electrical, general industrial, architecturally-specified building products, energy, mining, and rail transportation. For more information, please visit www.cswindustrials.com.

    Investor Relations
    Alexa Huerta
    Vice President of Investor Relations and Treasurer
    214-489-7113
    Alexa.Huerta@cswi.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Why do so many American workers feel guilty about taking the vacation they’ve earned?

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Karen Tan, Assistant Professor of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Middle Tennessee State University

    The U.S. is the only advanced economy that doesn’t legally mandate a minimum number of vacation days. Comstock Images/Stockbyte via Getty Images

    “My dedication was questioned.”

    “Managers or upper management have looked down upon taking time off.”

    “People think that maybe you’re not as invested in the job, that you’re shirking your duties or something.”

    These are just a few of the responses to questions I asked during a study I conducted on vacation guilt among American workers.

    More than 88% of full-time, private sector workers in the U.S. receive paid time off. This benefit is ostensibly in place to improve employee morale and well-being.

    Yet a 2024 Pew Research Center survey found that nearly half of American workers don’t take all the vacation days they’ve been allotted. And many of them feel as if they’re discouraged from using their time off. Ironically, what’s supposed to be a source of relaxation and restoration morphs into a stressor: As vacations approach, feelings of doubt and guilt creep in.

    I’m from Singapore. Upon moving to the U.S. in 2016, I was surprised at how pervasive vacation guilt appeared to be.

    Compared with many of the other countries where I’ve lived or worked, American culture seems to prioritize mental health and wellness. I assumed these attitudes extended to the American workplace.

    Surprisingly, though, I noticed that many of my American friends felt guilty about taking time off that they’d earned. So as a scholar of tourism and hospitality, I wanted to understand how and why this happened.

    Vacation guilt

    To carry out the study, I collaborated with tourism scholar Robert Li. We interviewed 15 workers who had experienced feelings of guilt over taking time off. We also administered an online survey to 860 full-time employees who received paid time off from their employers.

    We wanted to know whether employees felt less respected or believed that their bosses and colleagues saw them in a worse light for taking time off. Maybe they feared being seen as slackers or, worse, replaceable.

    We found that 1 in 5 respondents to our survey experienced vacation guilt, and these concerns made them think twice about following through with their vacation plans. For those who eventually did take a vacation, they often tried to ease their guilt by going for fewer days. They might also apologize for taking a vacation or avoid talking about their vacation plans at work.

    Some of the people we interviewed had pushed through their hesitation and taken their vacation as planned. Yet all of these employees believed that they’d been penalized for taking time off and that it led to poor performance reviews, despite the fact that their paid vacation days had been a clearly articulated, earned benefit.

    The US is an outlier

    The U.S. is the only advanced economy that doesn’t legally mandate a minimum number of vacation days. On top of that, only a handful of states require workers to be compensated for their unused vacation days.

    Meanwhile, the law in other advanced economies entitles employees to a minimum amount of annual paid leave. The EU, for example, mandates at least 20 days per year on top of paid public holidays, such as Christmas and New Year’s Day, with a number of EU member countries requiring more than 20 days of paid vacation for full-time employees. Even in Japan, which is notorious for its workaholic culture, employees are entitled to a minimum of 10 days of paid leave every year.

    Throughout much of the U.S., whether paid vacation time is offered at all depends on an employer’s generosity, while many employees face a “use-it-or-lose-it” situation, meaning unused vacation days don’t roll over from one year to the next.

    Of course, not all workers experience vacation guilt. Nonetheless, the guilt that so many workers do feel may be symbolic of broader issues: an unhealthy workplace culture, a toxic boss or a weak social safety net.

    For paid time off to serve its purpose, I think employers need to provide more than vacation days. They also need to have a supportive culture that readily encourages employees to use this benefit without having to worry about repercussions.

    The journal publication on which this article was based was supported by the inaugural Seed Funding Forum, Fox
    School of Business, Temple University, USA.

    – ref. Why do so many American workers feel guilty about taking the vacation they’ve earned? – https://theconversation.com/why-do-so-many-american-workers-feel-guilty-about-taking-the-vacation-theyve-earned-254913

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Inequality has risen from 1970 to Trump − that has 3 hidden costs that undermine democracy

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Nathan Meyers, Ph.D. candidate in sociology (September 2025 degree conferral), UMass Amherst

    Demonstrators march outside the U.S. Capitol during the Poor People’s Campaign rally at the National Mall in Washington on June 23, 2018. AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana

    America has never been richer. But the gains are so lopsided that the top 10% controls 69% of all wealth in the country, while the bottom half controls just 3%. Meanwhile, surging corporate profits have mostly benefited investors, not the broader public.

    This divide is expected to widen after President Donald Trump’s sweeping new spending bill drastically cuts Medicaid and food aid, programs that stabilize the economy and subsidize low-wage employers.

    Moreover, the tax cuts at the heart of the bill will deliver tens of billions of dollars in benefits to the wealthiest households while disproportionately burdening low-income households, according to analyses by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office and Joint Committee on Taxation. By 2033, the bottom 20% will pay more in taxes while the top 0.1% receive $43 billion in cuts.

    I am a sociologist who studies economic inequality, and my research demonstrates that the class-based inequalities exacerbated by the Trump bill are not new. Rather, they are part of a 50-year trend linked to social cleavages, political corruption and a declining belief in the common good.

    The roots of class-based inequality

    The decades following World War II were broadly prosperous, but conditions began changing in the 1970s. Class inequality has increased enormously since then, according to government data, while income inequality has risen for five decades at the expense of workers.

    Economists usually gauge a country’s economic health by looking at its gross domestic product as measured through total spending on everything from groceries to patents.

    But another way to view GDP is by looking at whether the money goes to workers or business owners. This second method – the income approach – offers a clearer picture of who really benefits from economic growth.

    The money that goes to labor’s share of GDP, or workers, is represented by employee compensation, including wages, salaries and benefits. The money left over for businesses after paying for work and materials is called gross operating surplus, or business surplus.

    The share of GDP going to workers rose 12% from 1947 to 1970, then fell 14% between 1970 and 2023. The opposite happened with the business surplus, falling 18% in the early postwar decades before jumping 34% from 1970 to today.

    Meanwhile, corporate profits have outpaced economic growth by 193% since 1970. Within profits, shareholder dividends as a share of GDP grew 274%.

    As of 2023, labor had lost all of the economic gains made since 1947. Had workers kept their 1970 share of GDP, they would have earned $1.7 trillion more in 2023 alone. And no legislation or federal action since 1970 has reversed this half-century trend.

    When more of the economy goes to businesses instead of workers, that poses serious social problems. My research focuses on three that threaten democracy.

    1. Fraying social bonds and livelihoods

    Not just an issue of income and assets, growing class inequality represents the fraying of American society.

    For instance, inequality and the resulting hardship are linked to worse health outcomes. Americans die younger than their peers in other rich countries, and U.S. life expectancy has decreased, especially among the poor.

    Moreover, economic struggles contribute to mental health issues, deaths of despair and profound problems such as addiction, including tobacco, alcohol and opioid abuse.

    Inequality can disrupt families. Kids who experience the stresses of poverty can develop neurological and emotional problems, putting them at risk for drug use as adults. On the other hand, when minimum wages increase and people begin saving wealth, divorce risk falls.

    Research shows inequality has many other negative consequences, from reduced social mobility to lower social trust and even higher homicide rates.

    Together, these broad social consequences are linked to misery, political discontent and normlessness.

    2. Increasing corruption in politics

    Inequality is rising in the U.S. largely because business elites are exercising more influence over policy outcomes, research shows. My related work on privatization explains how 50 years of outsourcing public functions – through contracting, disinvestment and job cuts – threatens democratic accountability.

    Research across different countries has repeatedly found that higher income inequality increases political corruption. It does so by undermining trust in government and institutions, and enabling elites to dominate policymaking while weakening public oversight.

    Since 2010, weakened campaign finance laws driven by monied interests have sharply increased corruption risks. The Supreme Court ruled then in Citizens United to lift campaign finance restrictions, enabling unlimited political spending. It reached an apex in 2024, when Elon Musk spent $200 million to elect Trump before later installing his Starlink equipment onto Federal Aviation Administration systems in a reported takeover of a $2.4 billion contract with Verizon.

    Research shows that a large majority of Americans believe that the economy is rigged, suggesting everyday people sense the link between inequality and corruption.

    Demonstrators gather outside the Supreme Court in Washington as the court heard arguments on campaign finance in 2013.
    AP Photo/Susan Walsh

    3. Undermining belief in the common good

    National aspirations have emphasized the common good since America’s founding. The Declaration of Independence lists the king’s first offense as undermining the “public good” by subverting the rule of law. The Constitution’s preamble commits the government to promoting the general welfare and shared well-being.

    But higher inequality historically means the common good goes overlooked, according to research. Meanwhile, work has become more precarious, less unionized, more segmented and less geographically stable. Artificial intelligence may worsen these trends.

    This tends to coincide with a drop in voting and other forms of civic engagement.

    The government has fewer mechanisms for protecting community when rising inequality is paired with lower taxes for the wealthy and reduced public resources. My research finds that public sector unions especially bolster civic engagement in this environment.

    Given increasing workplace and social isolation, America’s loneliness epidemic is unsurprising, especially for low earners.

    All of these factors and their contribution to alienation can foster authoritarian beliefs and individualism. When people become cold and distrustful of one another, the notion of the common good collapses.

    Inequality as a policy outcome

    News coverage of the Trump bill and policy debate have largely centered on immediate gains and losses. But zoomed out, a clearer picture emerges of the long-term dismantling of foundations that once supported broad economic security. That, in turn, has enabled democratic decline.

    As labor’s share of the economy declined, so too did the institutional trust and shared social values that underpin democratic life. Among the many consequences are the political discontent and disillusionment shaping our current moment.

    Republicans hold both chambers of Congress through 2026, making significant policy changes unlikely in the short term. Democrats opposed the bill but are out of power. And their coalition is divided between a centrist establishment and an insurgent progressive wing with diverging priorities in addressing inequality.

    Yet democratic decline and inequality are not inevitable. If restoring broad prosperity and social stability are the goals, they may require revisiting the New Deal-style policies that produced labor’s peak economic share of 59% of GDP in 1970.

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

    – ref. Inequality has risen from 1970 to Trump − that has 3 hidden costs that undermine democracy – https://theconversation.com/inequality-has-risen-from-1970-to-trump-that-has-3-hidden-costs-that-undermine-democracy-259104

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Spotted lanternflies love grapevines, and that’s bad for Pennsylvania’s wine industry

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Flor Acevedo, Assistant Professor of Entomology, Penn State

    Adult spotted lanternflies infest areas of Pennsylvania from July to December. Lauren A. Little/MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images

    Spotted lanternfly season is back in Pennsylvania. The polka-dotted, gray-and-red-winged adult insects make their appearance each July and tend to hang around until December. It’s an unwelcome summer ritual that started in 2014 when the invasive pests were first detected in the U.S.

    The Conversation U.S. talked to Flor Acevedo, an assistant professor of entomology at Penn State University, about the bugs and her research on how lanternflies are threatening the state’s vineyards and wine industry.

    Does Pennsylvania have many vineyards?

    Pennsylvania has more than 400 wineries with about 14,000 acres planted in vineyards, according to the Pennsylvania Wine Association. The industry generates about US$7 billion in total economic activity. Erie County, where I live, has about 70% of Pennsylvania’s vineyard acreage, with the rest scattered across the state.

    What do lanternflies do to grapevines?

    The spotted lanternfly feeds on many plants, but its preferred hosts are the Tree of Heaven, an invasive plant introduced to Philadelphia from China in 1784, and grapevines.

    Entomologist Flor Acevedo counts spotted lanternflies on a Tree of Heaven plant.
    Flor E. Acevedo

    Extensive feeding by these sap-sucking insects can weaken grapevines and, when combined with other stressors such as diseases or frosty winters, can kill the vines. While spotted lanternflies feed on other important crops such as apple trees, they have been lethal only to grapevines and Tree of Heaven plants.

    Feeding can also reduce yield and fruit quality, which affects juice and wine quality.

    Tell us about your lanternfly experiments

    My lab initially investigated whether spotted lanternflies could survive to adulthood and reproduce when feeding exclusively on grapevines. This would help us determine whether the insects could thrive in regions with extensive grapevine cultivation.

    We found they do survive, but their fitness is severely reduced. Insects feeding solely on grapevines had high mortality, slower development and laid fewer eggs when compared with those that had access to a mixed diet of Tree of Heaven and grapevines.

    Our next question was whether different grapes would be equally suitable for spotted lanternfly survival and reproduction. In the U.S. we grow native grapevines such as Concord and muscadine as well as vines of European origin. We found that spotted lanternflies did not survive to adulthood when they fed only on muscadine grapevines.

    We have also partnered with colleagues specialized in plant science, food science and agricultural economics to investigate the effects of spotted lanternfly feeding on grapevine yield and wine and juice quality.

    This research group enclosed both red and white grapevines – Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay – in mesh cages in the field and infested them with between 20 and 350 spotted lanternflies per vine. We wanted to determine the effect of constant adult insect feeding on grapevine yield, fruit sugars and phenolics, which are chemical compounds that are important for wine color, flavor and aroma. We also wanted to know the density of infestation that would induce changes in yield and fruit and wine quality.

    Researchers infested grapevines with lanternflies to see how they affect yield and fruit quality.
    Flor E. Acevedo

    We found a decrease in sugar content in the fruit within a single season, as well as a decrease in phenolics in red wine. We also found a reduction in yield after the second year of consecutive insect feeding.

    These findings suggest that, if not controlled, spotted lanternfly adult feeding could reduce income to growers by reducing yield and could affect the wine industry by reducing the quality of the drink.

    How worried are Pennsylvania winemakers and how are they responding?

    Perceptions vary depending on whether the winery or vineyard is in an area that has already been infested.

    Those that have been dealing with lanternflies for a few years have established protocols for pest monitoring and applying insecticides. But those that haven’t experienced it yet are concerned about the insect’s arrival on their properties.

    Owners of organic vineyards are also concerned, but there are few of those in this region.

    Wineries are being affected by spotted lanternflies in at least two ways. First, for those that grow grapes, lanternflies have increased their costs due to the extra labor and insecticide applications needed to control them. Second, for wineries that are agrotourism sites, they need to keep outdoor seating spaces neat and free from lanternflies.

    Spotted lanternfly nymphs crawl across a Tree of Heaven stem.
    Natalie Kolb/MediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images

    As an entomologist, what do you find most fascinating about these creatures?

    Most insects that feed on plants lay their eggs close to a food source for the young to feed on when they hatch. But spotted lanternflies lay their eggs on almost anything – car tires, field equipment, rocks, fabrics, old wood, cardboard. This behavior facilitates the insect’s dispersal, as eggs can be easily transported without being noticed. Once the eggs hatch, the nymphs search for young plant shoots or herbaceous plants to eat.

    Anything else people in Pennsylvania should know as they see lanternflies again this summer?

    I think it’s important for the public to know that, as pretty as some of us may find spotted lanternflies, these insects are invasive, damaging and affecting the state economy. Everybody can help stop the spread of these insects by killing and avoiding transporting them at any living stage.

    Spotted lanternflies lay eggs in masses. These masses look like light grayish-brown, mudlike or puttylike patches, typically about an inch long, and they are found on various surfaces. At any life stage the insects can be killed by squishing them, immersing them in hand sanitizer or freezing them for several days.

    Read more of our stories about Philadelphia and Pennsylvania.

    Flor Acevedo has received funding for her research from the USDA Crop Protection and Pest Management program (2023-70006-40597), the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the Pennsylvania Wine Marketing and Research Board, the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, the Penn State University College of Agriculture, and the John H. and Timothy R. Crouch Endowment Grant for Viticulture, Enology, and Pomology Research.

    – ref. Spotted lanternflies love grapevines, and that’s bad for Pennsylvania’s wine industry – https://theconversation.com/spotted-lanternflies-love-grapevines-and-thats-bad-for-pennsylvanias-wine-industry-260374

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister visits USS Newport News in Grundartangi Harbour

    Source: Government of Iceland

    Iceland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir visited the US submarine USS Newport News in Grundartangi harbour yesterday. The submarine is in Iceland for a regular service visit. This is the not the first time a nuclear-powered US submarine enters Icelandic territorial waters; however, this is the first service visit of such a vessel to an Icelandic port. The USS Newport is a Los Angeles-class vessel with a crew of around 140 personnel and does not carry nuclear weapons.

    “This is an important milestone in a long and successful defence partnership with the United States, which has been strengthened significantly in recent years. We have been systematically deepening the partnership based on the Bilateral Defence Agreement from 1951 and common interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic. We place great emphasis on security and defence and want to ensure our own security and the security of our allies, and we do this, inter alia, by supporting their operations in the region,” says Þorgerður Katrín.

    Admiral Stuart B. Munsch, Commander of the U.S. European and African Fleet, and Erin Sawyer, Acting U.S. Ambassador to Iceland, welcomed the Minister for Foreign Affairs upon her arrival at Grundartangi. There, the Minister was given a tour of the submarine, briefed on the crew’s assignments, and met with Admiral Munsch on security developments in the North Atlantic and Arctic. Admiral Munsch also met with the Director General for Defence, Mr. Jónas G. Allansson, visited the Keflavík Air Base, and met with the U.S. forces carrying out Anti-Submarine Warfare missions.

    This is the eighth time that a U.S. Navy nuclear-powered submarine makes a service visit in Icelandic territorial waters, since the former Minister for Foreign Affairs announced on April 18, 2023, that such submarines would be permitted to make brief service stops in Iceland.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for the visit, but the Icelandic Coast Guard is leading its implementation in close collaboration with the National Commissioner of Police, the Icelandic Radiation Safety Agency and the Directorate of Health in accordance with established procedures. The visits have all been successful due to close cooperation and consultation between the relevant domestic institutions and good cooperation with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Embassy in Iceland.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/ALGERIA – Appointment of bishop of Constantine

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Friday, 11 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Michel Guillaud, of the clergy of Lyon, until now diocesan administrator of the diocese of Constantine, Algeria. as bishop of the same see.Bishop Michel Guillaud was born on 24 June 1961 in Villeurbanne, France. After studying at the University Seminary of Lyon and obtaining a licentiate in theology, he was awarded a licentiate in Islamology from the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies (PISAI), Rome.He was ordained a priest on 1 July 1990 for the archdiocese of Lyon.He has held the following offices: lecturer in Islamology at the Catholic Faculty of Lyon; chaplain of students of the Catholic University of Lyon; parish priest in Batna (2006-2014), Constantine (2014-2016), Skikda (2016 to the present) and vicar general of the diocese of Constantine (2020-2024); secretary general of the Regional Episcopal Conference of North Africa (CERNA) (2015-2025); and since 2024, diocesan administrator of the diocese of Constantine. (Agenzia Fides, 11/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/ALGERIA – Appointment of bishop of Constantine

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Friday, 11 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Michel Guillaud, of the clergy of Lyon, until now diocesan administrator of the diocese of Constantine, Algeria. as bishop of the same see.Bishop Michel Guillaud was born on 24 June 1961 in Villeurbanne, France. After studying at the University Seminary of Lyon and obtaining a licentiate in theology, he was awarded a licentiate in Islamology from the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies (PISAI), Rome.He was ordained a priest on 1 July 1990 for the archdiocese of Lyon.He has held the following offices: lecturer in Islamology at the Catholic Faculty of Lyon; chaplain of students of the Catholic University of Lyon; parish priest in Batna (2006-2014), Constantine (2014-2016), Skikda (2016 to the present) and vicar general of the diocese of Constantine (2020-2024); secretary general of the Regional Episcopal Conference of North Africa (CERNA) (2015-2025); and since 2024, diocesan administrator of the diocese of Constantine. (Agenzia Fides, 11/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/ALGERIA – Appointment of bishop of Constantine

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Friday, 11 July 2025

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Michel Guillaud, of the clergy of Lyon, until now diocesan administrator of the diocese of Constantine, Algeria. as bishop of the same see.Bishop Michel Guillaud was born on 24 June 1961 in Villeurbanne, France. After studying at the University Seminary of Lyon and obtaining a licentiate in theology, he was awarded a licentiate in Islamology from the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies (PISAI), Rome.He was ordained a priest on 1 July 1990 for the archdiocese of Lyon.He has held the following offices: lecturer in Islamology at the Catholic Faculty of Lyon; chaplain of students of the Catholic University of Lyon; parish priest in Batna (2006-2014), Constantine (2014-2016), Skikda (2016 to the present) and vicar general of the diocese of Constantine (2020-2024); secretary general of the Regional Episcopal Conference of North Africa (CERNA) (2015-2025); and since 2024, diocesan administrator of the diocese of Constantine. (Agenzia Fides, 11/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – Three Bishops of war-torn regions address the faithful in a joint pastoral letter: “Do not let your hearts be troubled”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    diocese of Myitkyina

    Myitkyina (Agenzia Fides) – In the face of terrible events such as the bloody civil war and the earthquake that devastated central Myanmar, the three bishops of the Burmese dioceses of Myitkyina, Banmaw, and Lashio (in north-central Myanmar) address the faithful in a joint pastoral letter: “The Lord Jesus told us: ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me!’ (John 14:1). And further: ‘Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me (Mt 16:24).” The pastoral letter, sent to Fides, is signed by the three bishops: Msgr. John Mung-ngawn La Sam, M.F., of the diocese of Myitkyina; Msgr. Raymond Sumlut Gam, of the Diocese of Banmaw; and Msgr. Lucas Dau Ze Jeimphaung, SDB, of the Diocese of Lashio, all three often forced to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere due to insecurity and fighting in their territories.”Over the past four years,” the bishops lament, “the fighting has led to the destruction of lives, families, farms, and land, as well as the displacement of thousands of people to refugee camps.” People are “worried about their safety and their children’s education.” The wounds of war were aggravated by the powerful earthquake that “once again shook central Myanmar, collapsing houses, and injuring and killing many people.”In this situation of uncertainty and distress, the bishops wish to assist the faithful and write: “No matter how difficult our situation may be, if we pray to God every day with faith and love, we will be able to endure all difficulties and become bearers of the Cross with Jesus Christ, receiving his grace of consolation and encouragement.”In this context, the bishops recall the sufferings and tribulations of many saints who, in their experience, accepted suffering out of love for Christ and lived the spirit described by St. Paul in his Letter to the Corinthians, which the bishops cite and apply today to the Burmese people: “We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Cor 4:8-9).The bishops remind the faithful that other peoples of the world are also experiencing the same situation of extreme hardship, which is why they should feel united in this trial: “Many countries in the world are suffering from natural disasters, terrorism, wars, death, illness, and infirmity,” and everyone is called to live this situation in faith and not to lose hope and charity. “Therefore, dear faithful, let us, without becoming discouraged, pray for a lasting peace and implore peace from God with all our heart, mind, and strength,” the three bishops conclude. “Let us pray, encourage, console, and help one another in this Holy Year, which, despite everything, is full of hope.” “May God bless you with physical, mental, and spiritual health and grant you His grace and the strength of the Holy Spirit.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 11/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/MYANMAR – Three Bishops of war-torn regions address the faithful in a joint pastoral letter: “Do not let your hearts be troubled”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    diocese of Myitkyina

    Myitkyina (Agenzia Fides) – In the face of terrible events such as the bloody civil war and the earthquake that devastated central Myanmar, the three bishops of the Burmese dioceses of Myitkyina, Banmaw, and Lashio (in north-central Myanmar) address the faithful in a joint pastoral letter: “The Lord Jesus told us: ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me!’ (John 14:1). And further: ‘Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me (Mt 16:24).” The pastoral letter, sent to Fides, is signed by the three bishops: Msgr. John Mung-ngawn La Sam, M.F., of the diocese of Myitkyina; Msgr. Raymond Sumlut Gam, of the Diocese of Banmaw; and Msgr. Lucas Dau Ze Jeimphaung, SDB, of the Diocese of Lashio, all three often forced to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere due to insecurity and fighting in their territories.”Over the past four years,” the bishops lament, “the fighting has led to the destruction of lives, families, farms, and land, as well as the displacement of thousands of people to refugee camps.” People are “worried about their safety and their children’s education.” The wounds of war were aggravated by the powerful earthquake that “once again shook central Myanmar, collapsing houses, and injuring and killing many people.”In this situation of uncertainty and distress, the bishops wish to assist the faithful and write: “No matter how difficult our situation may be, if we pray to God every day with faith and love, we will be able to endure all difficulties and become bearers of the Cross with Jesus Christ, receiving his grace of consolation and encouragement.”In this context, the bishops recall the sufferings and tribulations of many saints who, in their experience, accepted suffering out of love for Christ and lived the spirit described by St. Paul in his Letter to the Corinthians, which the bishops cite and apply today to the Burmese people: “We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Cor 4:8-9).The bishops remind the faithful that other peoples of the world are also experiencing the same situation of extreme hardship, which is why they should feel united in this trial: “Many countries in the world are suffering from natural disasters, terrorism, wars, death, illness, and infirmity,” and everyone is called to live this situation in faith and not to lose hope and charity. “Therefore, dear faithful, let us, without becoming discouraged, pray for a lasting peace and implore peace from God with all our heart, mind, and strength,” the three bishops conclude. “Let us pray, encourage, console, and help one another in this Holy Year, which, despite everything, is full of hope.” “May God bless you with physical, mental, and spiritual health and grant you His grace and the strength of the Holy Spirit.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 11/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: KC Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Fentanyl Trafficking, Illegal Firearm

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

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for fentanyl trafficking and illegally possessing a firearm.

    Lawrence A. Andrews, 51, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 10 years in federal prison without parole.

    On March 4, 2025, Andrews pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  Andrews admitted he possessed fentanyl pills weighing a total of approximately 19 grams with the intent to distribute and a SCCY, Model CPX-2, 9mm pistol on Aug. 8, 2023.

    On Aug. 8, 2023, officers with the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department stopped a vehicle driven by Andrews.  Andrews was arrested on a failure to appear warrant.  Officers searched Andrews’ vehicle and located the firearm and fentanyl, along with approximately 10 grams of PCP, 22 grams of cocaine in the base form, 3 grams of cocaine in the salt form, and 3 grams of methamphetamine.

    Andrews has prior felony convictions, including two convictions for stealing, eight convictions for possession of a controlled substance, trafficking in drugs in the second degree, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings.  It was investigated by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: KC Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Fentanyl Trafficking, Illegal Firearm

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

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for fentanyl trafficking and illegally possessing a firearm.

    Lawrence A. Andrews, 51, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 10 years in federal prison without parole.

    On March 4, 2025, Andrews pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  Andrews admitted he possessed fentanyl pills weighing a total of approximately 19 grams with the intent to distribute and a SCCY, Model CPX-2, 9mm pistol on Aug. 8, 2023.

    On Aug. 8, 2023, officers with the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department stopped a vehicle driven by Andrews.  Andrews was arrested on a failure to appear warrant.  Officers searched Andrews’ vehicle and located the firearm and fentanyl, along with approximately 10 grams of PCP, 22 grams of cocaine in the base form, 3 grams of cocaine in the salt form, and 3 grams of methamphetamine.

    Andrews has prior felony convictions, including two convictions for stealing, eight convictions for possession of a controlled substance, trafficking in drugs in the second degree, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings.  It was investigated by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: KC Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Fentanyl Trafficking, Illegal Firearm

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

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo. man was sentenced in federal court today for fentanyl trafficking and illegally possessing a firearm.

    Lawrence A. Andrews, 51, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 10 years in federal prison without parole.

    On March 4, 2025, Andrews pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  Andrews admitted he possessed fentanyl pills weighing a total of approximately 19 grams with the intent to distribute and a SCCY, Model CPX-2, 9mm pistol on Aug. 8, 2023.

    On Aug. 8, 2023, officers with the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department stopped a vehicle driven by Andrews.  Andrews was arrested on a failure to appear warrant.  Officers searched Andrews’ vehicle and located the firearm and fentanyl, along with approximately 10 grams of PCP, 22 grams of cocaine in the base form, 3 grams of cocaine in the salt form, and 3 grams of methamphetamine.

    Andrews has prior felony convictions, including two convictions for stealing, eight convictions for possession of a controlled substance, trafficking in drugs in the second degree, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Jennings.  It was investigated by the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Mexican national sentenced for firearms violation

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

    TYLER, Texas –A Mexican national has been sentenced for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Tomas Ocamp-Mondragon, 37, a Mexican national illegally living in Tyler, pleaded guilty to being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker on July 10, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on August 5, 2024, Ocampo-Mondragon was stopped for a traffic violation in Smith County. It was determined that he was intoxicated, and he was arrested.  During the arrest, a loaded firearm was discovered in his pocket.

    Further investigation revealed Ocampo-Mondragon was a citizen of Mexico and had previously been found unlawfully present in the United States on September 14, 2019, in Las Cruces, New Mexico.  He was also found to be in possession of a firearm during that encounter.  He voluntarily returned to Mexico on January 3, 2020, and did not have permission to return to the United States.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Department of Homeland Security, the Smith County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Mexican national sentenced for firearms violation

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

    TYLER, Texas –A Mexican national has been sentenced for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Tomas Ocamp-Mondragon, 37, a Mexican national illegally living in Tyler, pleaded guilty to being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker on July 10, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on August 5, 2024, Ocampo-Mondragon was stopped for a traffic violation in Smith County. It was determined that he was intoxicated, and he was arrested.  During the arrest, a loaded firearm was discovered in his pocket.

    Further investigation revealed Ocampo-Mondragon was a citizen of Mexico and had previously been found unlawfully present in the United States on September 14, 2019, in Las Cruces, New Mexico.  He was also found to be in possession of a firearm during that encounter.  He voluntarily returned to Mexico on January 3, 2020, and did not have permission to return to the United States.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Department of Homeland Security, the Smith County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Noble.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Sudan: Surge in Darfur displacement pushes Tawila into full-scale crisis, cholera spreading

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    A massive increase in people fleeing to Tawila in North Darfur over the last three months is propelling the small town into a full-scale humanitarian crisis. With the rainy season starting, hundreds of thousands of people who just barely escaped horror are bracing themselves for torrential storms, cholera outbreak and spiralling hunger.

    Since April 2025, Tawila, has absorbed nearly 379,000 people fleeing repeated campaigns of mass destruction and year long siege on Zamzam Camp and Al Fasher, where famine has also been confirmed. Most are women (70 per cent), children, and people with disabilities, arriving into camps, mostly on foot after days of fleeing for their lives. Four new camps were set up to cope with the spiralling numbers and humanitarian organisations are overwhelmed, with prepositioned aid ahead of the rainy season already depleted. 

    “The situation in Tawila is collapsing,” said NRC’s Sudan Country Director Shashwat Saraf. “Families are surviving on scraps, sleeping in the dirt under roofs made out of straw, with barely any access to clean water and toilets. Cases of cholera are rising, and the rainy season is approaching fast, making living conditions more miserable.” 

    NRC’s June 2025 assessment across four new camps in Tawila housing 213,000 people confirms: 

    • Lack of access to water: only 21,000 people, or 10 per cent, have reliable water access. 
    • Latrine shortages: approximately 2,684 households, or less than 10 per cent, have access to latrines, while 31,238 households are without access. 
    • Severe food shortages: most families report that they are eating one meal a day or less. 
    • Lack of schools: only 11 temporary learning spaces means that many children are unable to attend classes. 
    • Major protection concerns: 39 per cent of women are pregnant or lactating, 22 per cent of households include persons with disabilities, and there is a lack of proper services and support 
    • Uncertain future: 60 per cent of the people in the camps say they are intending to stay long-term, yet 27 per cent have no plan, reflecting fear and uncertainty. 

    The families in the camps have been fleeing scenes of extreme violence: April’s raid on Zamzam and Abu Shouk camps left up to 400 dead, many raped, aid workers killed, and survivors risking their lives to flee into Tawila in desperation. Since April 2023, 782,000 people have been displaced from Al Fasher and Zamzam, including nearly 500,000 in April – May 2025 alone.  

    A separate assessment by aid agencies and local authorities in Al Fasher found 38 per cent of children under 5 at displacement sites suffer from acute malnutrition, 11 percent with severe acute malnutrition.  

    “The window for saving thousands of lives is closing fast,” Saraf added. “We need funding and decisive action from the world’s leaders to get aid trucks and relief teams to Tawila – without delays and restrictions from the warring parties – before this spirals completely out of control.”

    – on behalf of Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA)’s Sustainable Support for Emergency Medicine Capacity in The Gambia

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    The Emergency Medicine Capacity Building Program (ATKAP), launched in 2021 by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) in cooperation with the Ministries of Health of the Republic of Turkey and the Republic of The Gambia, continues to yield lasting results.

    The Introduction to Emergency Response Training (ADG+), which started as part of the project, is now delivered by Gambian doctors thanks to the “training of trainers” model. TİKA continues to support the program by providing modern training equipment.

    In the second phase of the 2025 program, a total of 50 healthcare providers participated in the training held at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, which included extensive theoretical and practical modules on emergency response, trauma management, disaster planning, and teamwork during crises.

    With ATKAP, TİKA continues to strengthen local health capacity through similar trainings held in various countries.

    – on behalf of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Ramaphosa calls for citizen-led national dialogue

    Source: Government of South Africa

    President Cyril Ramaphosa has convened the inaugural meeting of the Eminent Persons Group to kickstart a critical national dialogue aimed at addressing South Africa’s persistent challenges 31 years after democracy.

    Speaking at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Friday, President Ramaphosa candidly acknowledged the country’s ongoing struggles. 

    “There can be no doubt that we have begun to transform our society and our economy. And yet, the vestiges of our apartheid past remain,” he said, pointing to persistent issues of inequality, poverty and unemployment that continue to plague the nation.

    “Our economy has not been growing, and the number of unemployed people has been rising.” 

    He also acknowledged the deterioration in governance, a decline in the delivery of services, and widespread corruption and wastage of public resources.

    “At the same time, we have seen an increasing disengagement by many people from the democratic process, as witnessed by the turnout in the May 2024 elections.” 

    According to the country’s Commander-in-Chief, the national dialogue represents a bold attempt to unite South Africans across political, cultural, and social divides. 

    READ | National Convention to set agenda for the National Dialogue

    President Ramaphosa used Friday’s meeting to call for a process that is inclusive and citizen-led.

    “It cannot be partisan. It cannot favour one group or perspective over any other.

    “It needs to be citizen-led, and the outcomes need to reflect the collective views of the South African people.”

    The President said the national dialogue represents a strategic effort to mobilise South Africans and restore the country’s developmental trajectory. 

    “The national dialogue is neither government-driven nor directed,” President Ramaphosa stressed, underlining the importance of genuine public participation.

    “Citizens must be able to freely and fully participate in the national dialogue as individuals, in organised formations, and through representative bodies.

    “That is why the Eminent Persons Group is so important.” 

    Highlighting the nation’s rich tradition of collaborative problem-solving, President Ramaphosa noted that “dialoguing is not a new phenomenon to South Africans”. 

    He also pointed to previous successful national conversations like drafting the Constitution, the National Peace Accord, and the country’s response to the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. 

    However, the President emphasised that the dialogue is not intended to replace existing democratic processes. 

    Instead, President Ramaphosa pointed out that it aims to create a social compact that outlines clear commitments for government, political parties, business, labour, civil society, and citizens. 

    President Ramaphosa stated that a carefully selected Eminent Persons Group will champion the dialogue, tasked with ensuring its authenticity and effectiveness. 

    He challenged these leaders to be critical guardians of the process, not mere cheerleaders.

    “We are asking you, Eminent Persons, to be champions of the national dialogue, not cheerleaders.

    “We expect that you will critically consider the progress and the conduct of the national dialogue, and provide advice where correction is required.

    “If there is confusion or misunderstanding, or disarray, we ask you to help correct it. If there are groups that seek to commandeer the process, we ask that you alert us.” 

    Strengthening social cohesion

    The First Citizen announced that the first national convention is scheduled for August, with the hopes of generating a collective vision for South Africa’s future. 

    “South Africans want to be heard, they want to participate; they want to be included in whatever process is meant to improve their lives.”

    With scepticism and political tensions already emerging, President Ramaphosa believes that the success of this national dialogue remains to be seen. 

    “We have already been confronted by the challenge of misinformation and misrepresentation, whether on the cost of the national dialogue or on who is running it.

    “But that should not distract us from the work we have to do to give a platform to the millions of voices in our country, so that they may be heard and so that they may be counted.

    “We should not fear criticism. We should welcome it.”

    Despite criticism, the President strongly believes this platform represents a potentially crucial step in addressing the country’s deep-seated challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cape Town carries out temp repairs on potholes

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Officials from the City of Cape Town have undertaken temporary pothole repairs in Gugulethu, Manenberg and Newlands, as wet conditions persist.

    “During winter, and as a result of heavy and ongoing rains, water seeps into cracks on the road surface. These cracks widen, and turn into potholes that damage tyres and cause accidents. 

    “Permanent pothole repairs require dry, warm conditions, thus during the wet months, we have to do cold mix asphalt repairs. 

    “In summer, we will return to monitor the performance of the cold mix and do permanent repairs with hot mix asphalts, where needed,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas.

    READ | Western Cape concerned at 23 deaths on province’s roads in one week

    Quintas joined the city’s Roads Infrastructure Management team this week as they embarked on temporary pothole repairs.

    Excessive mountain run-off has also led to flooding in some areas. In Gugulethu and Manenberg, the city found that illegal dumping of household items into stormwater drains increased the severity of flooding, as the drains were blocked.

    “Another issue is illegal outlets or the dumping of greywater which contains chemicals that damage road surfaces and causes potholes. This greywater contains detergents and comes from baths, clothes, dishes and car washing. 

    “Our teams are working hard to clear blocked drains and keep roads safe this winter, but we need your help. 

    “Please dispose of greywater properly through the sewer system so it can be treated and re-used, and keep it off our road surfaces. Together, we can reduce winter flooding and prevent the forming of new potholes,” said Quintas.

    Residents are encouraged to report incidents of flooding and related issues to the city’s call centre at 0860 103 089, via the City App, or alternatively via email on transport.info@capetown.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –