NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Security: Forty-Eighth Conviction in Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – Asad Mohamed Abshir has pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering for his role in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thomspon.  He is the 48th defendant to be convicted in this massive fraud scheme.

    “This guilty plea is another step in exposing the staggering levels of fraud that have been hiding in plain sight across Minnesota,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. “This defendant laundered money meant to feed children and funneled it into a web of shell companies and luxury spending. As FBI Director Kah Patel recently said, this case stands as one of the most egregious abuses of public trust in recent memory. The people of Minnesota deserve better.”

    In fall of 2020, the defendant, Asad Mohamed Abshir, 34, assisted his brother and co-defendant, Abdinasir Abshir, in the operations of non-profit called Stigma Free International. Under the sponsorship of Feeding Our Future, the Abshir brothers claimed to operate, through Stigma Free, a food distribution site in Mankato, Minneosta. At the same time, Abdinasir Abshir claimed to provide food for the Mankato site through an entity he controlled called Horseed Management LLC. But the Abshirs did not provide the food they claimed to, and they were not entitled to the taxpayer dollars they received for their claims.

    Over the course of 2020 to 2021, the Abshirs fraudulently claimed to have provided 1.6 million meals to children. For his role in the scheme, Abdinasir personally received about $750,000. The defendant used $77,353 in fraud proceeds to purchase a 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali truck, which has been seized and will be forfeited to the United States. In addition, the Unites States seized $424,762.51 from the bank account for the defedant’s shell company, Santana LLC, all of which will be forfeited.

    “Asad Abshir’s guilty plea underscores a troubling intersection of deception and exploitation within federal assistance programs designed to nourish vulnerable populations,” said FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. “Abshir not only undermined the integrity of the Federal Child Nutrition Program, but also abused the resources intended for the nation’s most at-risk children. This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for stringent oversight and accountability in the administration of taxpayer dollars.”

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service

    Abshir pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court before Judge Nancy E. Brasel. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew S. Ebert, Harry M. Jacobs, and Daniel W. Bobier are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty To Unlawful Reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Angel Urbina-Ramirez, a/k/a Angel Urbina Ramirez, a/k/a Angel Urbinaramirez, age 53, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Poteau, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.  

    The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division.

    The Indictment alleged that on June 13, 2025, Urbina-Ramirez, an alien, was found in the United States after having been previously removed on January 30, 2018, without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission 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).

    The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.

    A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Urbina-Ramirez will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Dak T. Cohen represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Alien Pleads Guilty To Unlawful Reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Angel Urbina-Ramirez, a/k/a Angel Urbina Ramirez, a/k/a Angel Urbinaramirez, age 53, a Mexican national unlawfully present in Poteau, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to one count of Unlawful Reentry of Removed Alien, punishable by a term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.  

    The charge arose from an investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division.

    The Indictment alleged that on June 13, 2025, Urbina-Ramirez, an alien, was found in the United States after having been previously removed on January 30, 2018, without obtaining the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission 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).

    The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.

    A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Urbina-Ramirez will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Dak T. Cohen represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Reaches $501,556 Civil Settlement Resolving Allegations of False Claims to Federal Health Care Programs

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Drake on Tuesday announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri and a Missouri psychiatrist have reached a $501,556 civil settlement that will resolve False Claims Act (FCA) allegations.

    The settlement resolves allegations that from Jan. 1, 2019, through May 31, 2024, Dr. Mohd Azfar Malik falsely indicated to both Medicare and Missouri Medicaid that he provided face-to-face psychotherapy to patients, including by submitting false claims for payment when he was out of town and for services that were provided by other practitioners.  Dr. Malik was part-owner of Behavioral Health Services, LLC which owned and operated Psych Care Consultants in St. Louis, Missouri.

    The settlement consists of $250,778 in restitution, which is doubled under the FCA. 

    The civil settlement contains no admission of liability. In April of 2025, Dr. Malik pleaded guilty to making false statement in federal health care related matters and admitted submitting claims for payment to Medicare, Medicaid and private health insurers in which he falsely claimed to have performed in-person services when he was out of Missouri or out of the country. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 11.

    “Holding health care professionals accountable for submitting false claims for financial gain is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that critical resources are appropriately utilized,” said Linda T. Hanley, Special Agent in Charge with the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).  “HHS-OIG, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our law enforcement partners will continue to collaborate our efforts to protect the integrity of the Medicare and Medicaid programs.”

    This civil settlement was a result of the combined work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri, HHS/OIG Office of Investigations, the Missouri Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Rep. Castor Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Finally Put Zombie Campaigns in the Grave

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Jamie Raskin (MD-08) reintroduced the bipartisan Honest Elections and Campaign, No Gain Act (HEC No), bipartisan legislation requiring former lawmakers and others no longer seeking office to close their campaign accounts within two years, instead of living on as zombie campaigns.

    “Campaign accounts should never be allowed to become personal slush funds for ex-lawmakers and former candidates to personally benefit from and enrich themselves, as has become all too common,” said Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14). “Our bipartisan HEC No Act will finally put an end to the misuse of leftover campaign cash. This is a straightforward reform to build trust and ensure campaign contributions are used as intended — to support public service and serve the public interest, not private gain. It’s time Congress passed the HEC No Act to put Zombie Campaigns in the grave once and for all.”

    “Elected officials have a duty to uphold the public trust,” said Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12). “Unfortunately, we’ve seen troubling cases where former members keep their campaign accounts open indefinitely and use the funds for personal benefit. While these actions may not technically violate the law, they clearly defy its spirit — and that’s unacceptable. It’s time to close this loophole and restore public confidence.”

    “As elected representatives of the people, members of Congress must preserve public trust, even after they leave office,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08). “The Honest Elections and Campaign Act stops zombie campaigns, requiring former lawmakers and others no longer seeking office to close their campaign accounts within two years. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation with Representatives Castor and Bilirakis.”

    “It’s wrong for former members of Congress to finance extravagant lifestyles with leftover campaign funds. It only serves to further erode the public’s faith in their elected officials. We applaud Rep. Castor for her bipartisan legislation to tackle this issue and commitment to fighting corruption and restoring trust in our system,” Tiffany Muller, President, End Citizens United // Let America Vote Action Fund.

    “Both parties should agree: campaign accounts weren’t meant to be retirement plans. It’s time to close the loophole that lets former candidates hang on to leftover campaign cash indefinitely, often using it to boost lobbying careers. Congress can take a commonsense step toward restoring public trust by passing this long-overdue reform.” – Issue One.

    “Campaign donors give money for the express purpose of helping promote the candidacy of a specific candidate. They are not handing over their generous donations to be used for other purposes by the candidate, such as funding a post-election lobby career or doling the funds out to other candidates in future elections. When a candidate decides not to run for federal office again, the campaign accounts should be properly closed. Public Citizen heartily endorses Rep. Castor’s ‘HEC No Act,’” said Craig Holman, Ph.D., Public Citizen.

    Supporters of HEC No include Campaign Legal Center, Common Cause, End Citizens United, Issue One, Let America Vote Action Fund and Public Citizen.

    For the past four sessions of Congress, U.S. Rep. Castor has introduced similar legislation after explosive reports by the Tampa Bay Times and WTSP Channel 10 detailing how several former members of Congress continued their campaign accounts years after their campaigns ended, using the funds to pay personal expenses and employ family members. New reporting, published last week, details the “lavish spending” of campaign dollars by a former lawmaker on music festivals, winery visits, ski trips, hotel stays, airfare, and more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCS encourages Administrative Service summer interns

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs Ingrid Yeung, met and shared experiences with over 50 tertiary students participating in the Administrative Service Summer Internship Programme today (July 22). She encouraged them to apply for civil service positions such as the Administrative Officer (AO) post, and to use their professional knowledge to serve the community, benefit people’s livelihood and contribute to the development of Hong Kong.
     
         This year, the Civil Service Bureau (CSB) has arranged for the interns to discuss and submit policy proposals in various areas including transport, planning and development, social enterprises, district affairs, the silver economy, etc, based on their observations and insights gained after working in different bureaux or departments. The CSB will submit these proposals to the bureaux or departments where the interns were assigned to for their reference.

         At the gathering, Mrs Yeung listened to the sharing by interns on both their work experiences and proposed policy initiatives during their internships. Drawing on her nearly 40 years of service in the civil service, she shared valuable insights as an AO and encouraged students to actively enrich themselves, plan ahead for their future and contribute to the development of the country and Hong Kong.
     
         She said, “I am aware that this round of the Programme has received a record number of applications, attracting more than 300 applications from tertiary students in Hong Kong, mainland China and overseas. From your sharing, I can genuinely feel your passion for public service. I would like to take this opportunity to call on young people who are dedicated to serve the community and willing to take on responsibilities to join the civil service.

         “I look forward to interns becoming AOs in the near future, serving the public and contributing to the country and Hong Kong with your own strengths and talents.”

         The Permanent Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Clement Leung, and Deputy Secretary for the Civil Service Ms Eureka Cheung also joined the sharing session and spoke with interns to learn about their internship experiences and views on Hong Kong’s development.

         AOs are professional public administrators who play a pivotal role in the Government. They are responsible for assisting in the formulation of government policies, co-ordinating and supervising various initiatives, managing the use of public resources, promoting district work and publicising Hong Kong externally, etc. To enable AOs to accumulate experience and unleash their full potential in different public policy areas, they are posted to various bureaux and departments at regular intervals, broadening their horizons and gaining a fuller grasp of the challenges and opportunities in public administration.

         The CSB organises the Administrative Service Internship Programme every summer and winter, offering students who aspire to become AOs opportunities to work alongside serving AOs for around eight weeks to gain early practical experiences in public service and lay a solid foundation for their future career development. Statistics from the past five years show that around one in every five newly recruited AOs had participated in the Programme. 

         The Government will launch a new round of recruitment for the posts of Administrative Officer, Executive Officer II, Assistant Labour Officer II, Assistant Trade Officer II and Management Services Officer II in September this year. Prospective applicants must first take the Common Recruitment Examination (CRE) and the Basic Law and National Security Law Test to attain the requisite scores. The new round of the CRE is currently open for application. Interested candidates are required to apply online by August 1. For details, please refer to the CSB website (www.csb.gov.hk/english/index.html).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hongkong Post updates on the information security incident

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Hongkong Post announced today (July 22) on the investigation result so far of the information security incident identified on July 21. According to the investigation, the unauthorised party had cyberattacked the system by making countless attempts at the mid-night of July 20 and the following day to access and retrieve information through the address book function of EC-Ship system. Hongkong Post had activated the blocking mechanism immediately after the abnormal activities being detected by its system and disabled the operation of the EC-Ship account which was involved in the cyberattacks at once. During the above-mentioned blockage and interception of these cyberattacks, the concerned accounts’ address books information, including the senders’ and recipients’ person/company names, addresses, and/or phone numbers, fax numbers, and email addresses, was being accessed and retrieved.

    Hongkong Post has sent emails to inform all affected account holders today and reminded them to remain vigilant, and to immediately inform relevant persons of their address books about this incident and remind them to be vigilant. The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) has initiated investigation into the incident and Hongkong Post will fully cooperate with the HKPF in the investigation, and will closely monitor the situation of the involved information.

    Hongkong Post has been following established Government procedures on information and cybersecurity. The Digital Policy Office (DPO) is also in close communication with Hongkong Post on the incident, noting that it has taken immediate actions by promptly blocking the cyberattacks and enhancing the security measures of the system. The services concerned have resumed normal and account holders involved can continue to use the services.

    The spokesman for Hongkong Post said that the global cybersecurity landscape was evolving, with various forms of cyberattacks emerging continuously. Hongkong Post would actively seek advice from the DPO to continuously enhance the cyber resilience level and cybersecurity risk management, to safeguard the information security of users and to prevent similar incidents from happening again.

    Hongkong Post reiterates that it will not send embedded hyperlinks via emails, SMS messages or social media pages for collecting personal information or requesting for payment. Hongkong Post wishes to alert members of the public again to refrain from clicking on any embedded links or providing any personal or financial information such as credit card information, or making any payment to suspicious emails or SMS messages alleged to be sent by Hongkong Post. For enquiries, members of the public may call the Hongkong Post General Enquiry Hotline at 2921 2222.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MTA Expands Accessibility With 12 More Stations

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) continued its celebration of Disability Pride Month with the announcement of an additional 12 stations across four boroughs to receive elevators and other accessibility upgrades as part of the 2025-2029 Capital Plan. The Capital Plan calls for at least 60 more stations to be made ADA-accessible. This will ensure that nearly 70 percent of all subway rides will take place to or from accessible stations.

    “Every New Yorker deserves an accessible, safe, and reliable transit system, and today’s announcement represents real progress towards a better subway for everyone,” Governor Hochul said. “Thanks to record investment in the MTA’s current capital plan and funding from congestion pricing, dozens of station accessibility projects across the city are already underway. By including 12 more stations to our accessibility program, this historic pace of upgrades will only get better.”

    These stations were selected using legislatively mandated criteria including geographic coverage, demographics, ridership, transfers and priority destinations. And for the first time, the MTA used a public tool to allow riders to submit their accessibility priorities, which garnered more than 2,000 responses across all five boroughs. This adds to the previous 43 stations the MTA has committed to upgrading with elevators or ramps in the 2025-2029 Capital Plan. The 2025-2029 Capital plan also includes the replacement and modernization of 45 subway station elevators.

    New York State Chief Disability Officer Kimberly Hill Ridley said, “With this announcement comes the news that all New Yorkers, both with and without disabilities, families and visitors to this great state will soon have more access to the subway station that connects so many important parts of this city. I commend the Governor Hochul and the MTA for making accessibility one of its priorities that everyone will benefit from.”

    MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, “When it comes to accessibility, the MTA is delivering much more than ever before – both in terms of dollars and number of ADA stations. And thanks to our fully funded Capital Plan, we are going to keep moving forward at the same pace – five times faster than ever before – until we achieve full accessibility.”

    MTA Construction and Development President Jamie Torres-Springer said, “Nearly a quarter of every accessible station in the system has been built in the last five years. We’re on an unprecedented streak of success in bringing our system to everyone, and we can’t wait to keep the momentum going. This next batch of stations presents new opportunities to expand access, and we’re ready to complete the projects better, faster, and cheaper.”

    MTA Chief Accessibility Officer and Senior Advisor Quemuel Arroyo said, “This is the next step in our journey to make transit accessible for everyone, including riders with disabilities, seniors, families with strollers, and visitors. These stations serve tens of thousands of daily riders, and I’m thrilled to see how these upgrades will improve their customer experience.”

    The stations receiving accessibility upgrades are:

    • 53 St R
    • 63 Dr-Rego Park MR
    • 190 St A
    • Bedford-Nostrand Avs G
    • Botanic Garden S
    • Cathedral Pkwy (110 St) 1
    • Eastchester-Dyre Av 5
    • Fordham Rd BD
    • Franklin Av-Medgar Evers College 2345
    • Grand Army Plaza 23
    • Grand Av-Newtown MR
    • Woodlawn 4

    The MTA also announced the launch of a revamped Elevator and Escalator Status tool, making it easier for riders to check the status of any elevator or escalator. Improvements were made to the interface, navigation and search functionality, which allows customers to save favorite stations. This tool allows customers to make travel decisions with real-time information about the status of machines throughout the MTA system.

    The MTA is also using funds from congestion pricing to invest in transit improvements, including Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades at 23 subway stations, including new elevators and reconstructed platforms. The MTA is delivering accessibility projects at an unprecedented pace, completing 36 ADA stations since 2020, double the number of ADA stations completed in the previous six years.

    Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said, “These much-needed accessibility upgrades at subway stations across the city are key to modernizing the system and making public transit more accessible for the whole riding public. New Yorkers with disabilities, including many seniors, have long suffered from poor access to our region’s mass transit. I’m proud to support the MTA’s accessibility projects with the federal funding needed to deliver these critical upgrades.”

    Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “Every New Yorker, regardless of age or disability, deserves an accessible and inclusive public transportation network. Renovated platforms, new elevators, and other upgrades will make our subway stations more accessible for riders with disabilities, families, seniors, and travelers with luggage. As ranking member of the Senate Aging Committee and Senate Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee, I will continue to fight for federal funding for vital ADA upgrades and other improvements to New York City’s public transit infrastructure.”

    House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, “I am grateful that the MTA continues to make investments in accessibility and has included the Bedford-Nostrand Avenue station among its planned improvements in the 2025-2029 Capital Plan. The G train is an incredibly important part of the transportation infrastructure of Bed-Stuy and these upgrades will provide more of the people I am privileged to represent with the ability to travel freely throughout our great city.”

    Representative Adriano Espaillat said, “Public transportation is the lifeline of my district and New York City and ensuring accessibly to the 190th street station’s A line platform and Fordham Road station’s B/D line platform are welcomed news for the residents of Upper Manhattan and the Northwest Bronx. I commend Governor Hochul, Janno Lieber, community advocates, and the entire MTA team for advancing these much-needed improvements as a part of the broader effort to make New York City’s subway the most accessible system in the world.”

    Representative Jerrold Nadler said, “Thanks to congestion pricing, MTA stations will become more accessible. It is great to see that Cathedral Parkway–110th Street station is in the first batch of stations to be making accessibility improvements. Congestion pricing is delivering for all New Yorkers — from improving traffic conditions to providing the funding needed to ensure that everyone has the ability to ride mass transit.”

    Representative Dan Goldman said, “I’m thrilled to hear that the MTA has expanded the number of stations included in their Accessibility Plan. New York City has the most comprehensive public transit system in the nation, and it’s imperative that we ensure accessibility and equitable access for all. As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, I’m excited to see the MTA’s commitment to strengthening New York’s infrastructure to guarantee affordable, accessible, and reliable public transportation for everyone.”

    Representative George Latimer said, “I applaud the MTA for making these much-needed ADA upgrades that will make subway stations more accessible. People with disabilities, parents with strollers, people who are elderly, and people hauling large bags to train stations and airports will benefit from these upgrades, and I hope it will incentivize even more people to take public transportation”

    State Senator Liz Kreuger said, “I am happy to see the MTA making continued progress on ADA accessibility for our subway system. Every station that becomes ADA accessible means life got made significantly easier for the many New Yorkers who rely on that stop to get to work, to do their grocery shopping, and to spend hard-earned free time with friends and family. This improvement will help disabled and older New Yorkers and families with young children in strollers to use our vital subway system. Accessibility at these stops is another step toward system-wide ADA compliance for public transit, which is an essential part of keeping our city a thriving, just, and affordable place to live for all New Yorkers.”

    State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. said, “I commend the MTA for its continued  efforts to enhance  subway accessibility for all  New Yorkers, especially my constituents. The  installation of elevators and  accessibility improvements at  these stations represents  a fundamental advancement towards enabling people with  mobility issues to travel more easily throughout  the city. I am especially grateful to the MTA for proceeding with the elevator project at the station within my district, located in my hometown of Ozone Park. I’m pleased to see the use of public input in prioritizing projects and the progress made in increasing ADA-accessibility across the system. These collective  efforts advance us toward establishing a  transit network which  provides equal access to  all residents.”

    State Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris said, “Expanding the accessibility of our subway system is one of the most important investments we can make in transit. I look forward to the installation of elevators at these 12 stations, and to all of the benefits they will bring to riders who live and work nearby.”

    State Senator Leroy Comrie said, “As Chair of the Senate Committee on Corporations, Authorities, and Commissions, I commend the MTA for its continued commitment to expanding accessibility across our transit system. The inclusion of the Grand Avenue, Newtown and 63rd Drive Rego Park stations in Queens reflects the power of advocacy and public input in shaping a more equitable transit network. For too long, far too many New Yorkers, particularly seniors, people with disabilities, and families have faced unnecessary barriers just getting to where they need to go. This investment is another step toward a transit system that works for all New Yorkers.”

    State Senator Robert Jackson said, “Accessibility isn’t just about infrastructure — it’s a powerful affirmation of our shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and dignity for every New Yorker. I commend the MTA for taking this critical step to expand access across our transit system. I’m proud that communities in my district will directly benefit from these upgrades, which help ensure that no rider is left behind. This investment brings us closer to a system that reflects the full dignity and diversity of its riders. I look forward to continuing to work with the MTA to ensure these promises become reality — and to building a city where accessibility is the standard, not the exception.”

    State Senator Andrew Gounardes said, “The subway belongs to every New Yorker, and every New Yorker should be able to access it. These new elevators bring us one step closer to a truly accessible transit system, and I was proud to vote for them in this year’s state budget. Whether you use a wheelchair, push your child in a stroller, travel with luggage or simply struggle climbing the stairs, these elevators are for you. Thanks to the MTA for their work to expand subway access — I look forward to continuing to work together as we create a transit system that works for every New Yorker.”

    State Senator Zellnor Myrie said, “Even as we recognize there is more work to do, I’m pleased the MTA’s Capital Plan includes ADA upgrades at stations in Central Brooklyn. These upgrades are made possible by congestion pricing, which allows us to invest in mass transit improvements while reducing traffic and improving air quality. I’m grateful to the MTA for prioritizing these improvements for Brooklyn commuters.”

    State Senator Gustavo Rivera said, “I am incredibly excited that the MTA is prioritizing the Bronx by planning accessibility upgrades at the Woodlawn 4 station and the Fordham Road B/D station in my district. These stations will receive significant infrastructure upgrades including elevators to make them accessible to seniors and disabled folks in our community. I look forward to continued progress to make our public transportation system more inclusive and accessible for all New Yorkers.”

    Assemblymember Ed Braunstein said, “Today’s announcement that 12 additional stations will be included in the MTA’s accessibility expansion will significantly improve the quality of life for numerous transit-dependent New Yorkers. I thank MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber for working to ensure that our city has an accessible and reliable public transit system.”

    Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz said, “I am thrilled that we are continuing to add to the list of ADA compliant stations throughout New York City. The addition of ADA compliance at the Woodlawn station will help hundreds of residents, most notably my constituents, daily in their attempts to commute via public transit. I have been a longstanding advocate for ADA compliance in my district, and I applaud the MTA in their efforts to make public transportation more accessible to all New Yorkers.”

    Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon said, “New Yorkers deserve a transit system that works for everyone, including riders with disabilities, older adults, and parents with strollers. These upgrades bring us one step closer to creating a subway system that truly serves us all. I applaud the MTA for accelerating its commitment to accessibility and pushing for a more equitable future in public transit.”

    Assemblymember Micah Lasher said, “Every New Yorker deserves a transit system that works for them. I’m proud to see the MTA prioritizing accessibility, especially with the inclusion of the 110 St 1 line in this next round of ADA upgrades. This investment will make a real difference in the lives of riders in our community and bring us closer to a more equitable and inclusive city.”

    Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest said, “Residents of Central Brooklyn need and deserve access to a more accessible transit system, particularly along busy corridors like Nostrand Avenue and Franklin Avenue. I’m so happy that they will soon have accessible stations at these locations. This clearly demonstrates the importance of adequately funding ADA upgrades to our public transportation system. I look forward to collaborating with the MTA and all other stakeholders to ensure these upgrades are delivered smoothly and quickly.”

    Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia said, “I’m thrilled that Fordham Road is included in the MTA’s latest round of accessibility upgrades. This is a major win for our community, especially for seniors, families with strollers, and New Yorkers with disabilities who rely on public transit every day. I commend the MTA for listening to riders and prioritizing the needs of our neighborhoods in the Bronx.”

    Assembly Member Rev. Dr. Al Taylor said, “I commend the MTA for prioritizing accessibility with this latest round of ADA station upgrades, including the 190 St A train station in my district. For far too long, residents living in the surrounding hills of Washington Heights and visitors to Fort Tryon Park and the Cloisters have faced steep barriers, literally and figuratively, when using public transit. These upgrades are not just about elevators; they are about equity, dignity, and ensuring all New Yorkers, including our seniors and neighbors with disabilities, can move through the city with ease. I’m proud to support this step forward.”

    New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers said, “Every New Yorker deserves a transit system that is safe, reliable, and accessible — regardless of ability. These investments are essential for creating an equitable system that works for everyone, and I applaud the MTA for including community voices in the process. As Chair of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I look forward to working with the MTA to ensure these improvements are delivered on time and with real impact for riders.”

    New York City Council Member Eric Dinowitz said, “I’m thrilled that the MTA’s ’25-29 Capital Plan includes much-needed accessibility upgrades to the Woodlawn 4 station. For too long, seniors, parents with strollers, and New Yorkers with disabilities have faced unnecessary barriers in our transit system. I fought for accessibility at the Mosholu train stop and I’m happy to hear these upgrades are coming to Woodlawn as well. The city is finally working to ensure our subway stations comply with ADA accessibility standards, and I thank the MTA for their commitment to ensure residents can move through our city with dignity and ease.”

    New York City Council Member Crystal Hudson said, “The New York City subway sees over a billion rides each year and remains the backbone of our city’s public transit system. With the largest underground rail system in the country, it is essential that we make it safe and accessible for all New Yorkers. I am thrilled that the MTA will bring long-overdue ADA upgrades to twelve stations , including three in my district. These improvements are a critical step toward making our transit system truly equitable, and I will continue to push for even more MTA accessibility upgrades across New York City.”

    New York City Council Member Carmen De La Rosa said, “We are elated that another one of our train stations Uptown will receive ADA improvements under the new capital plan. We have a largely aging community with varying disabilities and families who need better access to the largest transit system in the world. The 190th A train station deserves all of the love it can get, and we are excited to offer new accessible options for District 10 strap-hangers.”

    New York City Council Member Alexa Avilés said, “I am extremely pleased to know that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is centering the needs of Sunset Park residents in their 2025-29 Capital Plan. The allocated elevator upgrades will be meaningful in our community, enabling all residents to access reliable transportation. Every step towards an accessible New York is a step towards a New York that works for everyone. These upgrades are making inclusivity a reality. I look forward to working with the MTA to engage our community around these projects over the coming years.”

    New York City Council Member Kevin C. Riley said, “Accessibility is a cornerstone of equity. Many families, seniors, and people with disabilities in our communities have long encountered barriers to fully accessing our transit system. This commitment by the MTA is a powerful step toward ensuring that all New Yorkers can move through our city with dignity and independence. I also commend the MTA for continuing to prioritize accessibility improvements in neighborhoods across the city as we work toward a more inclusive and equitable transit future. I’m proud to see the Eastchester–Dyre Avenue station—right here in our Northeast Bronx community—included in this initiative, receiving the critical investment our residents deserve and rely on.”

    Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso said, “New Yorkers deserve to move through our boroughs with ease and comfort. This investment will continue to break down long-standing barriers for Brooklynites. I am thankful to the MTA for making equity a priority in this project and moving us a step closer to building the accessible, world-class transit system our city needs.”

    Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said, “It’s great to see an additional 12 stations across the city to receive elevators and other accessibility upgrades, especially Grand Avenue-Newtown in Elmhurst and 63 Drive-Rego Park Station in Rego Park in Queens. Now, more people will be able to use our subway system. We must continue to work together to ensure all New Yorkers, regardless of ability, can access the subway system and the rest of the city with these important upgrades.”

    Riders Alliance Executive Director Betsy Plum said, “Transit riders organized and won historic subway upgrades that will make it possible for all New Yorkers to get around safely and affordably underground. Congestion pricing is working and thanks to bold leadership in Albany, New York is funding long awaited station accessibility improvements across the city. Accessibility is the law and elevators are for everyone.”

    New Yorkers Regional Plan Association Executive Vice President Kate Slevin said, “Whether at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn or at MTA stations across the city, each new elevator brings the transit system one step closer to being fully accessible to all. These are the types of projects that the MTA can deliver thanks to a fully funded capital program.”

    Tri-State Transportation Campaign Director of Climate and Equity Policy Jaqi Cohen said, “Every New Yorker deserves equal access to our subway system. These new accessible stations are long overdue, and we’re proud to see real progress made toward greater transit equity. When we invest in greater transportation accessibility, we invest in a more livable, vibrant, and inclusive New York.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Buffalo Run Casino & Resort Selects QCI Go to Empower Hosts and Enhance Guest Engagement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Buffalo Run Casino & Resort has chosen Quick Custom Intelligence’s (QCI) Go, a native mobile app designed specifically for casino hosts, to elevate host productivity and deliver a superior guest experience.

    QCI Go provides hosts with powerful tools including player card scanning, real-time player lookup, seamless access to QCI Meet and QCI Events, and robust task management features—all in a user-friendly mobile interface. By putting these capabilities directly in the hands of hosts, QCI Go enables faster service, deeper guest relationships, and greater operational efficiency on the casino floor.

    Mary Jewett, Vice President and General Marketing at Buffalo Run Casino & Resort, expressed excitement about the implementation:
    “Bringing QCI Go to Buffalo Run Casino & Resort represents a significant advancement in how we empower our hosts to serve guests. With mobile access to key player information, events, and task management, our team can deliver personalized service in real time, enhancing both the guest experience and host effectiveness.”

    Dr. Ralph Thomas, CEO of QCI, shared his perspective on the partnership:
    “We are thrilled to deploy QCI Go at Buffalo Run Casino & Resort. By providing hosts with mobile access to the QCI platform, we enable them to deliver exceptional, timely service and foster stronger player relationships. This is a great example of how our mobile-first innovations help operators improve team productivity and guest satisfaction.”

    QCI Go is part of Quick Custom Intelligence’s broader commitment to innovation in the gaming industry, providing operators with state-of-the-art tools that support host teams, streamline operations, and drive meaningful guest engagement.

    ABOUT Buffalo Run Casino & Resort
    Owned and operated by the Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, Buffalo Run Casino & Resort is future-focused on a gaming entertainment experience that both excites and exceeds guest expectations. Maintaining its reputation for a clean and friendly environment, it empowers team members and continues to elevate hospitality and guest experiences by investing in team member training and career development programs. Consequently, this strategic reinvestment into team members and property has resulted in earning the vote for one of the Best and Brightest Companies in the Nation to work for in 2022.

    Buffalo Run Casino & Resort has over 70,000 square feet of casino floor and features the area’s widest variety of slots and tables games. The resort also includes a non-smoking Hotel, Truckers Lounge with special amenities and offers, the Peoria Showplace in-door event center, the outdoor amphitheater, complimentary entertainment in the Backwoods Bar, an 18-hole championship golf course, two indoor Top Golf® bays, and a smoke-free high-end Player’s Lounge. Additionally, the Buffalo Run Casino & Resort offers three dining experiences including Coal Creek Restaurant with high-end cuisine, the Bistro with hand-tossed brick oven pizza, and the Backwoods Bar & Grill which claims the title for best in-house smoked barbecue in the area.

    Ongoing advancements to the property include the Peoria Showplace remodel, Hotel updates and restaurant remodel with more to come. New technology has been implemented to streamline offer redemption for guests that include self-serve kiosks for dining and promotions, digital core mail pieces, and a mobile app for monthly promotional information. Updates on the casino floor include in-game bonuses and upgraded slots. Innovation and strategic marketing decisions are powered by data driven technology (QCI), empowering the casino to customize the guest experience and increase loyalty in a highly competitive market.

    ABOUT QCI
    Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI Enterprise Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 250 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and Europe. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $35 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI’s data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Dallas, and Tulsa. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com.

    ABOUT Dr. Ralph Thomas
    Dr. Ralph Thomas is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Quick Custom Intelligence. Ralph is a product visionary in applied analytics and the founder of two companies that deliver solutions in casino gaming, education, and adult learning. As a gaming industry veteran, Dr. Thomas has substantial experience implementing analytics into single and multi-property gaming companies to drive tangible and measurable gains to the bottom line and has built business intelligence tools for multibillion-dollar casinos. Dr. Thomas is co-author of seven books and over 80 articles on applied analytics and data science in gaming, an inventor on dozens of patents, and understands gaming from raw data up through casino operations, giving him a unique, 360-degree view of the industry.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Yellowknife’s Giant Mine: Canada downplayed arsenic exposure as an Indigenous community was poisoned

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Arn Keeling, Professor, Department of Geography, Memorial University of Newfoundland

    Giant Mine, just north of Yellowknife, N.W.T., in September 2011. The gold mine officially opened in 1948 and was operational for over 50 years before it was closed in 2004. (John Sandlos)

    Decades of gold mining at Giant Mine in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, has left a toxic legacy: 237,000 tonnes of arsenic trioxide dust stored in underground chambers.

    As a multi-billion government remediation effort to clean up the mine site and secure the underground arsenic ramps up, the Canadian government is promising to deal with the mine’s disastrous consequences for local Indigenous communities.

    In March, the minister for Crown-Indigenous relations appointed a ministerial special representative, Murray Rankin, to investigate how historic mining affected the treaty rights of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation.

    We document this history in our forthcoming book, The Price of Gold: Mining, Pollution, and Resistance in Yellowknife, exposing how colonialism, corporate greed and lax regulation led to widespread air and water pollution, particularly affecting Tatsǫ́t’ıné (Yellowknives Dene) communities.

    We also highlight the struggle for pollution controls and public health led by Tatsǫ́t’ıné and their allies, including mine workers.

    Sickness from Giant Mine

    The story begins when prospectors discovered a rich gold ore body at Giant Mine in the 1930s. While mining started at the nearby Con Mine in the late 1930s, Giant’s development was interrupted by the Second World War. Only with new investment and the lifting of wartime labour restrictions in 1948 did Giant Mine start production.

    Mining at Giant was a challenge. Much of the gold was locked within arsenopyrite formations, and to get at it, workers needed to crush, then roast the gold ore at very high temperatures.

    This burned off the arsenic in the ore before using cyanide treatment to extract gold. One byproduct of this process was thousands of tonnes per day of arsenic trioxide, sent up a smokestack into the local environment.

    In addition to being acutely toxic, arsenic trioxide is also linked to lung and skin cancers, though scientific understanding of environmental exposures was inconclusive at the time.

    Archival records show that federal public health officials recommended the roaster be shut down until arsenic emissions could be controlled. But the company and federal mining regulators dragged their feet, fearing the economic impact.

    The result, in 1951, was the poisoning death of at least one Dene child on Latham Island (now Ndilǫ), near the mine; his family was compensated a paltry $750. Many Dene in Ndilǫ relied on snow melt for drinking water, and there were reports of widespread sickness in the community. Local animals, including dairy cattle and sled dogs, also became sick and died.

    Only after this tragedy did the federal government force the company to implement pollution controls. The control system was not terribly effective at first, though as it improved, arsenic emissions dropped dramatically from nearly 12,000 pounds per day to around 115 pounds per day in 1959. Thousands of tonnes of arsenic captured through this process was collected and stored in mined-out chambers underground.

    Fighting back against pollution

    Throughout the 1960s, public health officials continually downplayed concerns about arsenic exposure in Yellowknife, whether via drinking water or on local vegetables.

    By the 1970s, however, latent public health concerns over arsenic exposure in Yellowknife became a major national media story. It began with a CBC Radio As it Happens episode in 1975 that unearthed an unreleased government report documenting widespread, chronic arsenic exposure in the city. Facing accusations of a cover-up, the federal government dismissed health concerns even as it set up a local study group to investigate them.

    Suspicious of government studies and disregard for local health risks, Indigenous communities and workers took matters into their own hands. A remarkable alliance emerged between the Indian Brotherhood of the Northwest Territories and the United Steelworkers of America (the union representing Giant Mine workers) to undertake their own investigations.

    They conducted hair samplings of Dene children and mine workers — the population most exposed to arsenic in the community — and submitted them for laboratory analysis.

    The resulting report accused the federal government of suppressing health information and suggested children and workers were being poisoned. The controversy made national headlines yet again, prompting an independent inquiry by the Canadian Public Health Association.

    The association’s 1978 report somewhat quelled public concern. But environmental and public health advocates in Yellowknife continued their fight for pollution reduction through the 1980s.

    Giant’s toxic afterlife

    As Giant Mine entered the turbulent final decade of its life, including a violent lockout in 1992, public concern mounted over the growing environmental liabilities. Most urgently, people living in and near Yellowknife began to realize that enough arsenic trioxide had been stored underground over the years to poison every human on the planet four times over.

    Without constant pumping of groundwater out of the mine, the highly soluble arsenic could seep into local waterways, including Yellowknife Bay. When the company that owned the mine, Royal Oak Mines, went bankrupt in 1999, it left no clear plan for the remediation of this toxic material, and very little money to deal with it.

    The federal government assumed primary responsibility for the abandoned mine and, in the quarter century since, developed plans to clean up the site and stabilize the arsenic underground by freezing it — an approach that will cost more than $4 billion.

    Public concern and activism by Yellowknives Dene First Nation and other Yellowknifers prompted a highly contested environmental assessment and the creation of an independent oversight body, the Giant Mine Oversight Board in 2015. Under the current remediation strategy, the toxic waste at Giant Mine will require perpetual care, imposing a financial and environmental burden on future generations.

    The long history of historical injustice resulting from mineral development and pollution around Yellowknife remains unaddressed. In support of calls for an apology and compensation, the Yellowknives Dene First Nation recently published reports that include oral testimony and other evidence of impacts on their health and land in their traditional territory.

    Hopefully, the Canadian government’s appointment of the special representative means the colonial legacy of the mine will finally be addressed. Giant Mine serves as a warning about the current push from governments and industry to ram through development projects without environmental assessments or Indigenous consultations.

    Extractive projects may generate short-term wealth, but they also compromise the national interest if they saddle the public with enormous costs and long-term consequences.

    Arn Keeling receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

    John Sandlos receives funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. Yellowknife’s Giant Mine: Canada downplayed arsenic exposure as an Indigenous community was poisoned – https://theconversation.com/yellowknifes-giant-mine-canada-downplayed-arsenic-exposure-as-an-indigenous-community-was-poisoned-261002

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Development Bank’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA) supports electric cooking expansion across three African nations

    Source: APO

    The Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA), managed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) (www.AfDB.org), is tackling charcoal dependence in Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia with a $4 million reimbursable grant. This grant will fund the Burn Electric Cooking Expansion Program (BEEP), deploying 115,000 Burn ECOA Electric Induction Cookers to provide clean cooking solutions for low-income, grid-connected households currently relying on charcoal.

    Burn, a Kenya-based clean cookstove company and carbon developer with operations in over 10 African countries, will implement BEEP. This program makes clean cooking appliances more affordable and accessible by prefinancing induction cookers and recovering costs through carbon credit sales in the voluntary market. This innovative model combines carbon-backed subsidies with pay-as-you-go payment plans, significantly lowering upfront costs for end-users.

    Capitalised through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), the Program is funded by a $5 million senior loan from the Spark+ Africa Fund, a $4 million reimbursable grant from SEFA, and $1 million in equity from Burn Manufacturing Company. This SPV will partner with Burn to manage sales, distribution, and servicing of the cookers. The appliances will generate carbon credits, owned by the SPV, with revenues shared among investors.

    Dr. Daniel Schroth, Director for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency at the African Development Bank Group, stated, “This marks the Bank’s first carbon finance transaction of its kind, with SEFA playing a critical role in mitigating carbon market risks and enhancing the Program’s financial sustainability.”

    The program aligns with SEFA’s thematic area on Energy Efficiency, catalysing private sector investments in efficient appliances and promoting scale-up of clean cooking technologies. It also supports the Mission 300 Initiative and the Bank’s New Deal on Energy for Africa, which aim to deliver universal energy access through low-carbon solutions.

    “We are honoured to receive this catalytic investment from the African Development Bank’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa—their first-ever investment in carbon projects focused on electric cooking. This milestone enables BURN to rapidly scale our IoT-enabled induction stove across Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia, providing low-income households with a zero-emission, digitally monitored alternative to charcoal and wood,” said Peter Scott, Founder and CEO, BURN. “By integrating cutting-edge technology, carbon financing, and mobile-enabled Pay-As-You-Cook models, we are demonstrating that electric cooking can be clean, affordable, and scalable across the continent.” 

    In addition to environmental and health benefits, the program will stimulate job creation and fortify local supply chains within the three target countries, paving the way for a cleaner, more prosperous future for communities across Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

    Media contact: 
    Alexis Adélé
    Communications and External Relations Department
    media@afdb.org

    ABOUT SEFA:
    SEFA is a multi-donor Special Fund that provides catalytic finance to unlock private sector investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. SEFA offers technical assistance and concessional finance instruments to remove market barriers, build a more robust pipeline of projects and improve the risk-return profile of individual investments. The Fund’s overarching goal is to contribute to universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy services for all in Africa, in line with the New Deal on Energy for Africa and the M300.

    About the African Development Bank Group:
    The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s leading development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). Represented in 41 African countries, with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and social progress of its 54 regional member countries. For more information: www.AfDB.org

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Infrastructure upgrades improve visitor experience in two Okanagan parks

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    More people can access Myra-Bellevue Park and safely enjoy one of the most scenic sections of the historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail as several infrastructure upgrades are nearing completion.

    The Myra Station parking lot has been expanded with 60 new spaces and 12 spaces for buses and trailers to accommodate the growth in visitors. Six new accessible toilets have also been added to the day-use area at the trailhead, near Kelowna.

    “Myra-Bellevue Park is a gem in B.C.’s Okanagan region, offering a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and historical significance,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “Investing in infrastructure upgrades at Myra-Bellevue Park ensures this natural treasure remains safe and accessible for everyone who comes to explore the trails, history and biodiversity of this special region in B.C.”

    The upgrades are part of a $2.1-million project that began in 2021 and includes removing and replacing the old decking of all 18 trestles along the Myra-Bellevue section of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. The trestle decks have also been widened from 1.5 to 2.75 metres to improve accessibility and accommodate safe two-way traffic for hikers and cyclists. Work on the trestles was completed in the summer of 2024.

    “For over two decades, the Friends of the South Slopes (FOSS) has protected and maintained the trail networks in Okanagan Mountain Park and Myra-Bellevue Park, including recently the Myra Canyon trestles. We do so under the leadership of a stellar team at B.C. Parks with whom we enjoy a great working relationship and friendship,” said Cam Kourany, FOSS president. “FOSS and its 70-plus volunteers are proud to support our community and the Ministry of Environment and Parks. Their investments in the trestles and amenities greatly improve usability and safety.”

    At Monashee Park northwest of Vernon, the bridge at Little Peters Lake is being replaced to restore access to several alpine recreation areas, including Big Peters Lake. The bridge was damaged by heavy snow and removed in 2024 due to safety concerns.

    In addition to the bridge replacement, the Big Peters Lake backcountry campground is being expanded from 10 to 18 raised wooden tent platforms. The cost of the project is an estimated $445,000 and includes replacing one pit toilet and adding another one, along with adding a secure storage container to protect food and other items from wildlife.

    “Monashee Park is such a gem that is great for hiking, swimming, camping or a leisurely stroll,” said Steve Morissette, MLA for Kootenay-Monashee. “Replacing the bridge at Little Peters Lake and adding more campsites at Big Peters Lake means more people, whether visitors or locals, can enjoy the beautiful Monashee Mountains.”

    Backcountry camping is available at four locations in Monashee Park: Spectrum Lake, Little Peters Lake, Big Peters Lake and Margie Lake. Big Peters Lake is the largest campground in the sub-alpine and is located 13 kilometres from the Spectrum Creek trailhead and parking lot.  

    The upgrades at Monashee Park are part of a five-year, $21.5-million investment to increase and improve access to outdoor recreation in B.C. Upgrades include new campsites and trails, improvements to existing facilities and accessibility improvements. The upgrades at Myra-Bellevue Park are funded through the B.C. Parks capital budget.

    Learn More:

    For more information about Myra-Bellevue Park, visit: https://bcparks.ca/myra-bellevue-park/

    For more information about Monashee Park, visit: https://bcparks.ca/monashee-park/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Drinking Water Standards – Gore’s iconic brown trout statue latest victim of township’s drinking water crisis – Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace

    Gore’s brown trout statue has become the latest victim of dairy industry pollution. On Tuesday night, the iconic statue was given cartoon-style crosses for eyes – Greenpeace Aotearoa’s way of spotlighting the town’s drinking water crisis and the role of dairy pollution in poisoning it.
    Greenpeace has also rebranded the ‘Welcome to Gore’ sign, which now reads ‘Welcome to Gore – where dirty dairy wrecked the water’.
    Last Friday, residents of Gore were issued a do-not-drink notice after their town water supply exceeded 11.3 mg/L of nitrate, which is the legal limit set in the 1950s to avoid blue baby syndrome. While this notice has since been lifted, Greenpeace warns that it is only a matter of time before this happens again.
    Greenpeace spokesperson Will Appelbe says “The dirty dairy industry has wrecked Gore’s drinking water, putting people’s health at risk due to nitrate contamination. It is unacceptable that this community is increasingly unable to drink the water coming out of their kitchen taps. Gore’s giant brown trout statue is now a beacon of the industry’s pollution of drinking water.”
    A growing body of scientific evidence has linked several health risks with long term exposure to nitrate at levels below the current legal limits. Long-term exposure to nitrate in drinking water at levels as low as 1 mg/L has been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer, and this risk increases with higher levels of nitrate. At levels of nitrate above 5 mg/L, the New Zealand College of Midwives advises pregnant people to consider an alternative source of drinking water, because of an increased risk of preterm birth.
    Appelbe says, “ Two years ago, we offered free nitrate tests to Gore residents, and found that 45% of the samples we tested from the town supply were above 4 mg/L of nitrate. Since then, levels of nitrate contamination have more than doubled, to above 10 mg/L.
    “This problem isn’t going to go away simply by diluting the water – for many rural communities, nitrate contamination will get worse unless action is taken to address the source of the pollution: the intensive dairy industry, led by Fonterra.
    “There are too many cows and the industry is using too much synthetic nitrogen fertiliser. Nitrate contamination across the country is increasing as a result, particularly in rural areas.
    “We need regional councils and the Government to take action now. But instead of protecting people’s drinking water, Luxon’s Government is attempting to weaken freshwater protections. They’ve proposed removing the cap on synthetic nitrogen fertiliser, which will enable dairy expansion. That means more cows, more fertiliser, and ultimately more contaminated drinking water.”
    Greenpeace is calling on the Government to scrap its proposed changes to the National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management and the National Environmental Standards for Freshwater, which are currently going through consultation. The organisation says that these changes will make freshwater pollution worse, impacting lakes, rivers, and drinking water across the country.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Aspida Re Expands Global Footprint with Strategic Reinsurance Transaction in Japan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DURHAM, N.C., July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aspida Life Re Ltd (“Aspida Re”), a Bermuda-based life and annuity reinsurance company, announced the execution of its second reinsurance transaction in Japan, effective June 1, 2025. This milestone marks a significant step in Aspida Re’s ongoing strategy to expand its global footprint and deliver innovative reinsurance solutions to life and annuity insurance partners worldwide.

    The transaction was completed with a highly rated Japanese life insurance carrier (“Company”). Aspida Re, rated A- (Excellent) by AM Best, will reinsure new or incoming flow business. The reinsured product is a Japanese yen (JPY) denominated fixed annuity, highlighting Aspida Re’s ability to manage foreign exchange risk and deliver tailored solutions to its cedents.

    “This transaction is highly strategic for Aspida Re,” said David Florian, CEO of Aspida Re. “It reflects our deep commitment to the Japanese market and our broader vision of supporting insurers around the world with innovative, capital-efficient reinsurance solutions.”

    Aspida Re’s continued growth in Asian markets demonstrates its agility and expertise in navigating complex regulatory and financial environments, while reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in the global reinsurance landscape.

    “We are excited to secure our second Japanese reinsurance agreement,” said Jon Steffen, President and Chief Actuary of Aspida Re. “Our flexibility and customized solutions allow us to provide significant advantage to clients and partners, no matter their location.”

    To learn more about Aspida Re, visit aspidare.bm.

    About Aspida Re

    Aspida Life Re Ltd (“Aspida Re”), a Bermuda-based reinsurance platform, is focused on providing efficient and secure life and annuity reinsurance solutions to its global clients. Aspida Re seeks to be a trusted partner in its clients’ long-term financial growth by delivering creative, customized solutions while driving business by doing good for the communities it serves. Aspida Re is part of Aspida Holdings Ltd, with over $23.1bn in total assets as of March 31, 2025. A subsidiary of Ares Management Corporation (NYSE: ARES) acts as the dedicated investment manager, capital solutions, and corporate development partner to Aspida Re. For more information on Aspida Re, please visit www.aspidare.bm or follow them on LinkedIn.

    Krystle Cajas, PR Contact
    krystle.cajas@modop.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Aspida Re Expands Global Footprint with Strategic Reinsurance Transaction in Japan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DURHAM, N.C., July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aspida Life Re Ltd (“Aspida Re”), a Bermuda-based life and annuity reinsurance company, announced the execution of its second reinsurance transaction in Japan, effective June 1, 2025. This milestone marks a significant step in Aspida Re’s ongoing strategy to expand its global footprint and deliver innovative reinsurance solutions to life and annuity insurance partners worldwide.

    The transaction was completed with a highly rated Japanese life insurance carrier (“Company”). Aspida Re, rated A- (Excellent) by AM Best, will reinsure new or incoming flow business. The reinsured product is a Japanese yen (JPY) denominated fixed annuity, highlighting Aspida Re’s ability to manage foreign exchange risk and deliver tailored solutions to its cedents.

    “This transaction is highly strategic for Aspida Re,” said David Florian, CEO of Aspida Re. “It reflects our deep commitment to the Japanese market and our broader vision of supporting insurers around the world with innovative, capital-efficient reinsurance solutions.”

    Aspida Re’s continued growth in Asian markets demonstrates its agility and expertise in navigating complex regulatory and financial environments, while reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in the global reinsurance landscape.

    “We are excited to secure our second Japanese reinsurance agreement,” said Jon Steffen, President and Chief Actuary of Aspida Re. “Our flexibility and customized solutions allow us to provide significant advantage to clients and partners, no matter their location.”

    To learn more about Aspida Re, visit aspidare.bm.

    About Aspida Re

    Aspida Life Re Ltd (“Aspida Re”), a Bermuda-based reinsurance platform, is focused on providing efficient and secure life and annuity reinsurance solutions to its global clients. Aspida Re seeks to be a trusted partner in its clients’ long-term financial growth by delivering creative, customized solutions while driving business by doing good for the communities it serves. Aspida Re is part of Aspida Holdings Ltd, with over $23.1bn in total assets as of March 31, 2025. A subsidiary of Ares Management Corporation (NYSE: ARES) acts as the dedicated investment manager, capital solutions, and corporate development partner to Aspida Re. For more information on Aspida Re, please visit www.aspidare.bm or follow them on LinkedIn.

    Krystle Cajas, PR Contact
    krystle.cajas@modop.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Zinke, Sheehy, Moore, Banks Introduce Legislation to Implement Fees on Foreign Tourists to Rebuild National Parks

    Source:

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Western Montana Congressman and former Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke (MT-01), with Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Representative Riley Moore (WV-02), and Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) introduced the bicameral Protecting America’s Treasures by Raising Inflow from Overseas Tourists in Parks Act (PATRIOT Parks Act), which would authorize a surcharge for most foreign tourists visiting national parks. If implemented, the bill would ensure foreign visitors contribute their fair share to the upkeep and preservation of America’s most treasured places. 

    “National Parks are Americas best idea and maintaining that legacy for future generations means making smart investments in the management of the parks,” said Zinke. “Americans already pay for parks in our tax dollars as well as at the gates. It’s unfair to American taxpayers to foot the bill for millions of foreign visitors. Almost every other country charges foreign visitors more, it’s common sense. President Trump and Secretary Burgum did the right thing directing the National Park Service implement a foreign visitor fee. This legislation will codify the policy and ensure Americans are put First in our own parks.”

    “From the New River Gorge in my home state to Shenandoah, the Great Smoky Mountains, the Everglades, and the Grand Canyon – God blessed our nation with a tremendous natural heritage. We owe it to future generations to ensure these natural marvels are protected, said Moore. “Unfortunately, the National Park System currently faces a backlog of more than $23 billion in deferred maintenance, including more than $200 million on properties across the Mountain State. Our commonsense legislation keeps entry fees static for Americans while charging more for foreigners visiting our National Parks. This will allow us to finally start tackling this extensive maintenance backlog.”

    “Our national parks drive Montana’s tourism economy by bringing in visitors from all over the world and define our way life by offering an experience you can only find in America,” said Sheehy. “Implementing a foreign visitor fee is an America First, commonsense way to secure affordable access for American families, improve our national parks for all visitors, and better manage our treasured public lands. It’s not too much for Americans to ask that their government puts them first, and that’s why I’m proud to support the PATRIOT Parks Act so more American families can enjoy our national parks for generations to come.”

    The National Park Service has $23 billion deferred maintenance infrastructure backlog. NPS relies on appropriated funds from tax dollars, Great American Outdoors Act funds from energy leasing, and entrance fees to address infrastructure needs. Every park will benefit from this program regardless of if they collect fees or not. By law, under the current formula for entrance fees, 80% of the fees collected at a park stay in the park where they are collected. The remaining 20% of entrance fees collected is distributed to non-fee collecting parks to improve infrastructure and visitor experience. The foreign visitors surcharge will use the same formula ensuring all parks benefit from this funding. 

    According to a report by Property and Environment Research Center (PERC), a surcharge of just $40 per foreign visitor would raise $528 million for our park system.

    “People travel from around the world to experience America’s national parks, and now they can help conserve them too,” said PERC CEO Brian Yablonski. “A surcharge on international visitors is a common practice globally and offers a smart, reliable way to fund better trails, cleaner campgrounds, modernized water systems, and desperately needed restoration work in our parks. We appreciate Rep. Zinke’s support for strengthening America’s national parks.” 

    Virtually all other countries do this already. Foreign tourists visiting the Galapagos National Park in Ecuador pay a $200 surcharge, South Africa charges as much as 500% more for foreign visitors, many European Union nations charge non-EU citizens surcharges at museums and cultural sites. 

    The foreign visitor would only apply to National Parks units that already collect entrance fees. If a park does not currently collect an entrance fee, the surcharge will not apply. Canadian citizens visiting Glacier National Park would be exempt from the surcharge in recognition of our joint stewardship of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Fee-collecting monuments in Washington, D.C., are also exempted.

    The bill codifies an executive order signed by President Trump directing the Department of the Interior and Department of Agriculture to implement a foreign visitor surcharge to support public lands and rural communities.

    Read the full bill text here.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Floating babies, cosmic radiation and zero-gravity birth: what space pregnancy might actually involve

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arun Vivian Holden, Emeritus Professor of Computational Biology, University of Leeds

    Lidiia/Shutterstock

    As plans for missions to Mars accelerate, so do questions about how the human body might cope. A return trip to the red planet would give more than enough time for someone to become pregnant and even give birth. But could a pregnancy be conceived and carried safely in space? And what would happen to a baby born far from Earth?

    Most of us rarely consider the risks we survived before birth. For instance, about two thirds of human embryos do not live long enough to be born, with most losses happening in the first few weeks after fertilisation; often before a person even knows they’re pregnant. These early, unnoticed losses usually happen when an embryo either fails to develop properly or to implant successfully in the wall of the womb.

    Pregnancy can be understood as a chain of biological milestones. Each one must happen in the right order and each has a certain chance of success. On Earth, these odds can be estimated using clinical research and biological models. My latest research explores how these same stages might be affected by the extreme conditions of interplanetary space.

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    Microgravity, the near-weightlessness experienced during spaceflight, would make conception more physically awkward but probably wouldn’t interfere much with staying pregnant once the embryo has implanted.

    However, giving birth, and looking after a newborn, would be far more difficult in zero gravity. After all, in space, nothing stays still. Fluids float. So do people. That makes delivering a baby and caring for one a much messier and more complicated process than on Earth, where gravity helps with everything from positioning to feeding.

    At the same time, the developing foetus already grows in something like microgravity. It floats in neutrally buoyant amniotic fluid inside the womb, cushioned and suspended. In fact, astronauts train for spacewalks in water tanks designed to mimic weightlessness. In that sense, the womb is already a microgravity simulator.

    But gravity is only part of the picture.

    Radiation

    Outside Earth’s protective layers, there’s a more dangerous threat: cosmic rays. These are high-energy particles – “stripped-down” or “bare” atomic nuclei – that race through space at nearly the speed of light. They’re atoms that have lost all their electrons, leaving just the dense core of protons and neutrons. When these bare nuclei collide with the human body, they can cause serious cellular damage.

    Here on Earth, we’re protected from most cosmic radiation by the planet’s thick atmosphere and, depending on the time of day, tens of thousands to millions of miles of coverage from the Earth’s magnetic field. In space, that shielding disappears.

    When a cosmic ray passes through the human body, it may strike an atom, strip its electrons, and smash into its nucleus, knocking out protons and neutrons and leaving behind a different element or isotope. This can cause extremely localised damage – meaning that individual cells, or parts of cells, are destroyed while the rest of the body might remain unaffected. Sometimes the ray passes right through without hitting anything. But if it hits DNA, it can cause mutations that increase the risk of cancer.

    Even when cells survive, radiation can trigger inflammatory responses. That means the immune system overreacts, releasing chemicals that can damage healthy tissue and disrupt organ function.

    In the first few weeks of pregnancy, embryonic cells are rapidly dividing, moving, and forming early tissues and structures. For development to continue, the embryo must stay viable throughout this delicate process. The first month after fertilisation is the most vulnerable time.

    A single hit from a high-energy cosmic ray at this stage could be lethal to the embryo. However, the embryo is very small – and cosmic rays, while dangerous, are relatively rare. So a direct hit is unlikely. If it did happen, it would probably result in an unnoticed miscarriage.

    Pregnancy risks

    As pregnancy progresses, the risks shift. Once the placental circulation – the blood flow system that connects mother and foetus – is fully formed by the end of the first trimester, the foetus and uterus grow rapidly.

    That growth presents a larger target. A cosmic ray is now more likely to hit the uterine muscle, which could trigger contractions and potentially cause premature labour. And although neonatal intensive care has improved dramatically, the earlier a baby is born, the higher the risk of complications, particularly in space.

    On Earth, pregnancy and childbirth already carry risks. In space, those risks are magnified – but not necessarily prohibitive.

    But development doesn’t stop at birth. A baby born in space would continue growing in microgravity, which could interfere with postural reflexes and coordination. These are the instincts that help a baby learn to lift its head, sit up, crawl, and eventually walk: all movements that rely on gravity. Without that sense of “up” and “down,” these abilities might develop in very different ways.

    And the radiation risk doesn’t go away. A baby’s brain continues to grow after birth, and prolonged exposure to cosmic rays could cause permanent damage – potentially affecting cognition, memory, behaviour and long-term health.

    So, could a baby be born in space?

    In theory, yes. But until we can protect embryos from radiation, prevent premature birth, and ensure babies can grow safely in microgravity, space pregnancy remains a high-risk experiment – one we’re not yet ready to try.

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

    – ref. Floating babies, cosmic radiation and zero-gravity birth: what space pregnancy might actually involve – https://theconversation.com/floating-babies-cosmic-radiation-and-zero-gravity-birth-what-space-pregnancy-might-actually-involve-261142

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Is today’s political climate making dating harder for young people?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Katherine Twamley, Professor of Sociology, UCL

    Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock

    The last year has highlighted a political divide between young men and women. Data from elections in several countries shows that women aged 18-29 are becoming significantly more liberal, while young men are leaning more conservative. And a recent 30-country study found generation Z more divided than other generations on key questions around gender equality.

    At the same time, there is growing evidence that this cohort is turning away from traditional dating and long-term romantic relationships. According to the National Survey of Family Growth, in the US between 2022 and 2023, 24% of men and 13% of women aged 22-34 reported no sexual activity in the past year.

    This is a significant increase on previous years. And American teens are less likely to have romantic relationships than teenagers of previous generations.

    In the UK, surveys over the past decades reveal a trend in reduced sexual activity, in terms of both frequency and number of partners, among young people. Dating apps are also losing their lustre, with the top platforms seeing significant user declines among heterosexual gen Z users in the last year.

    Is the gendered political divide making dating harder? As sociologists of intimacy, our work has shown how relationships are affected by larger social, economic and political trends.

    Our research on enduring gender inequality has shown that it can affect the perceived quality of intimate relationships and relationship stability. For example, heterosexual relationships are often underpinned by unequal divisions of emotional and domestic labour, even among partners with similar incomes.

    Dating today can feel like a mix of endless swipes, red flags and shifting expectations. From decoding mixed signals to balancing independence with intimacy, relationships in your 20s and 30s come with unique challenges. Love IRL is the latest series from Quarter Life that explores it all.

    These research-backed articles break down the complexities of modern love to help you build meaningful connections, no matter your relationship status.

    Some commentators and researchers have identified a trend of “heteropessimism” — a disillusionment with heterosexual relationships, often marked by irony, detachment or frustration. Anecdotally, women have widely expressed weariness with the gender inequality that can emerge in relationships with men.

    But heteropessimism has been identified among men too, and research has found that women are, on average, happier being single than men.

    Take domestic labour. Despite progress towards gender equality in many areas, data shows that women in mixed sex relationships still shoulder the majority of housework and care. In the UK, women carry out an average of 60% more unpaid work than men. This gap persists even among couples who both work full-time.



    Read more:
    What is ‘heteropessimism’, and why do men and women suffer from it?

    In Korea, persistent gender inequality is thought to be behind the 4B movement. Young Korean women, fed up with sexist stereotypes which tie women to traditional roles, have declared their rejection of marriage, childbirth, dating and sex with men.

    Beyond Korea, young women have declared themselves “boy sober”. Harassment, abuse and “toxic behaviour” on dating apps has reportedly driven young women away from wanting to date at all.

    Others have embraced voluntary celibacy. One reason is that, for some women, the erosion of reproductive rights, such as the overturning of Roe v Wade in the US, sharpens the political stakes of intimacy. Political disagreements that may once have been surmountable in a relationship are now deeply personal, affecting womens’ bodily autonomy and experiences of misogyny.

    Of course, gender inequality does not just negatively affect women. In education, evidence suggests boys are falling behind girls at every level in the UK, though recent research shows this has reversed in maths and science. Men report feeling locked out of opportunities to care for their children through old-fashioned parental leave norms, which offer minimal opportunities for fathers to spend time with their children.

    Some influencers capitalise on real and perceived losses for men, pushing regressive and sexist views of women and relationships into the social media feeds of millions of boys and young men.

    Given all of the above, it is not entirely surprising that young men are more likely than young women to report that feminism has done more harm than good.

    Anxiety and uncertainty

    But there are wider political and economic issues that affect both young men and women, and how (or whether) they date each other. Gen Z are coming of age in a time of economic depression. Research shows that those experiencing financial stress have difficulties in establishing and maintaining intimate relationships.

    This may partly be because early stages of romance are strongly associated with consumerism – dinner out, gifts and so on. But there is also a lack of mental space for dating when people are under pressure to make ends meet. Insecure finances also affect young people’s ability to afford their own homes and have access to private spaces with a partner.

    There are, additionally, growing rates of mental ill health reported by young people worldwide. Anxieties abound around the pandemic, economic recession, the climate and international conflict.

    These anxieties play out in the dating scene, with some feeling that entering into a romantic relationship is another risk to be avoided. Research with UK-based heterosexual dating app users aged 18-25 found that they often saw dating as a psychological stand-off – where expressing care too soon could result in humiliation or rejection.

    Be vulnerable and risk rejection, or jump ship?
    Dedraw Studio/Shutterstock

    The result was that neither young men nor women felt safe expressing genuine interest. This left people stuck in the much-lamented “talking stage”, where relationships fail to progress.

    As sociologist Lisa Wade and others have shown, even when casual sex is part of the picture, emotional attachment is often actively resisted. The proliferation of “hook-up culture” – characterised by casual sexual encounters that prioritise physical pleasure over emotional intimacy – may partly be a response to a cultural discomfort with vulnerability.

    Gen Z’s turn away from dating doesn’t necessarily reflect a lack of desire for connection, but perhaps a heightened sense of vulnerability related to larger trends in mental ill-health and social, economic and political insecurity.

    It may not be that young people are rejecting relationships. Rather, they may be struggling to find emotionally safe (and affordable) spaces where intimacy can develop.

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

    – ref. Is today’s political climate making dating harder for young people? – https://theconversation.com/is-todays-political-climate-making-dating-harder-for-young-people-257844

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: What was the Battle of Orgreave, and why has the government launched an inquiry into it?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Steven Daniels, Lecturer in Politics, Edge Hill University

    The UK’s home secretary, Yvette Cooper, has announced a full inquiry into the Battle of Orgreave, a large, violent clash between the National Union of Mineworkers and South Yorkshire police that took place over 40 years ago.

    The clash was a flashpoint of the 1984-85 miners’ strike, in which mining communities fought to protect jobs and industry from closure. It descended into a violent confrontation between miners and police, with injuries and accusations of misconduct on both sides.

    The announcement of an inquiry has been a long time coming for miners’ groups. Comparisons have been made to the Hillsborough tragedy and inquiry – another incident involving accusations of mistreatment by South Yorkshire Police.

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    The Battle of Orgreave took place on June 18 1984, outside Orgreave coking plant in Rotherham. The miners’ strike had been raging since March 1984, with both sides looking for opportunities to turn the tide in their favour.

    Before ascending to the presidency of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in 1982, British trade unionist Arthur Scargill had gained notoriety during the 1972 miners’ strike. He developed the “flying pickets” tactic. This approach saw large numbers of strikers from around the country descend on an industrially sensitive target, to pressure it into closing. These tactics successfully closed Saltley Gate gasworks in Birmingham, forcing the taxpayer-owned National Coal Board and Edward Heath’s government to concede the 1972 strike to the NUM.

    In 1984, realising that British Steel’s furnaces would be vulnerable without coking coal, Scargill planned to repeat the 1972 victory at Orgreave.

    On June 18, around 8,000 miners began assembling as early as 4am. They were met by 6,000 police in full riot gear. As lorries began arriving to collect coking coal, the conflict began around 8am. This unfolded in waves: mounted police would cavalry charge miners, splitting their lines, with “snatch squads” then swarming miners who had failed to retreat in time, arresting them.

    This continued until the afternoon, when miners retreated into Orgreave village. Police continued trying to disperse miners, even cavalry-charging the village.

    Miners’ groups allege that the police charged their lines despite their picket being peaceful in nature, and there was no trigger for violence. They claim only once police started charging did they retaliate in defence, throwing rocks and other missiles. Controversially, footage of these incidents was allegedly shown in reverse order by the BBC, painting the strikers as the aggressors.

    Orgreave is considered a turning point, both in the strike, and in policing of protest. With the “flying pickets” strategy in tatters, the NUM struggled to maintain pressure and lost momentum as the months dragged on. The strike ended in March 1985 with a full, unconditional return to work.

    The aftermath

    Ninety-five miners were arrested that day, with 55 subsequently charged with riot. This was a serious charge, carrying the maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Many more reported injuries and accused South Yorkshire Police of being unnecessarily violent and heavy handed.

    One of the most famous images from the day shows Lesley Boulton, a woman there to document the strike with her camera, with a mounted policeman swinging his truncheon at her head. This photo sums up the brutality of the day. Accusations also emerged of police removing their collar numbers, so as not to be identified.

    Sensationally, the 1985 trial for riot collapsed after evidence from South Yorkshire Police was found to be unreliable. It was later revealed through archival material that officers were given direction or guidance in their statements.

    It was also revealed that Margaret Thatcher herself attended a drinks reception for police chiefs involved in the strike, thanking them personally for “all they did and their forces did to maintain public order”. Even though the 55 miners were cleared of the charges, many were financially ruined, and unable to return to the coal industry.

    Thirty-nine of those involved subsequently took legal action against South Yorkshire Police for unlawful arrest and malicious prosecution, settling for a payment of £425,000 and no admission of liability. Not a single police officer was prosecuted or punished for their role in Orgreave.



    Read more:
    New files add weight to calls for Battle of Orgreave inquiry

    Calls for inquiry

    Calls for an inquiry into the Battle of Orgreave, as well as the general standard of policing during the strike, have been ongoing for decades. As early as January 1985 (with the strike ongoing), the then home secretary, Leon Brittan, was resistant to any public inquiry into the conduct of police officers during the strike, fearing it would descend into a “witch-hunt”. John Major’s government similarly resisted such calls in 1991, believing them unnecessary.

    In 2015, the Independent Police Complaints Commission declined to mount a formal investigation, despite finding evidence to suggest officers had indeed assaulted miners at Orgreave and other forms of misconduct. The commission argued that too much time had passed for the investigation to have any meaning.

    Theresa May’s government rejected calls for an inquiry in 2016. The then home secretary Amber Rudd claimed an inquiry was not in the public interest, arguing policing standards had changed substantially since the 1980s and that the event had simply occurred too long ago. Rudd also said that many involved in the strike would have died, and most officers involved would no longer be employed by South Yorkshire Police.

    The volunteer-run Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign has long campaigned for a public inquiry, arguing that Orgreave was a serious miscarriage of justice that needs to be adequately addressed. They believe that a full inquiry will provide accountability and clarity regarding the role of the police and the state in such a tumultuous time period.

    The Hillsborough inquiry shows what successful (and persistent) community action can achieve. Accusations made against South Yorkshire Police then were eventually proven correct. While there has yet to be any significantly successful legal action taken against officers involved in Hillsborough, the inquiry itself brought closure (and, crucially, the truth) to families involved. Mining communities will be hoping for similar closure with the Orgreave inquiry.

    Steven Daniels consulted the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign on archival findings from his wider research in 2017.

    – ref. What was the Battle of Orgreave, and why has the government launched an inquiry into it? – https://theconversation.com/what-was-the-battle-of-orgreave-and-why-has-the-government-launched-an-inquiry-into-it-261596

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: No wonder England’s water needs cleaning up – most sewage discharges aren’t even classified as pollution incidents

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Alex Ford, Professor of Biology, University of Portsmouth

    oneSHUTTER oneMEMORY/Shutterstock

    England’s privatised water industry may one day be considered a textbook case study of failed corporate responsibility, regulation and governance. The Cunliffe review, the recent report into England’s privatised water industry, concluded that the financial regulator, OfWat, needs to be disbanded and a new water regulator will be introduced.

    For that to work effectively, better pollution monitoring and more clearly defined pollution incident criteria are essential. While politicians and water companies have claimed to be reducing pollution incidences, they might not strictly be tackling sources of pollution, so communications must be carefully scrutinised for disinformation.

    The UK’s environment minister Steve Reed MP has described the water industry as “broken”. The public have rising water bills. Water companies owe over £60 billion in debts and have left the country with uncertain water security in the face of climate change.

    The Environment Agency (EA) in England recently announced that serious pollution incidents in 2024 rose by 60% to 75 from 47 in the previous year. The EA classifies pollution incidents using a four-point scale called the common incident classification scheme. Trained EA officers consider the evidence reported via their incident hotline to assess its credibility and severity.

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    Category 1 is for major incidents, 2 for significant, 3 for minor incidents and 4 for no impact. Category 1 and 2 typically involve visible signs of dead fish floating. For salmon, if more than 10 adult or 100 young fish are dead, this is category 1. With fewer than ten adult and 100 young fish dead, it’s category 2.

    No dead fish, no serious problem? The EA can also record damage on protected habitats as “pollution incidents” but these are harder to substantiate without investigative research that takes time and money.

    Last year, more than 450,000 sewage discharges were recorded by event duration monitors. These are devices fitted to the end of overflow pipes that indicate when and for how long they have been discharging.

    These discharges represent 3.6 million hours of untreated sewage going into our rivers and coasts. These contain chemical contaminants including pharmaceuticals, detergents and human pathogens. Only 75 incidents were recorded as serious or significant in 2024. Another 2,726 were classed as minor.

    So lots of sewage discharges are not being classified as pollution incidents, despite containing pollutants. The EA advises its investigating officers to “record substantiated incidents that result in no environmental impact, or where the impact cannot be confirmed, as a category 4”.

    The EA has been criticised for turning up late to 74% of category 1 and 2 pollution incidents and for being pressured to ignore low-level pollution – all claims that they have denied. However, they admit they are constrained by finances. Any new regulator must be adequately resourced and independent.

    Pollution isn’t always classified as an official pollution incident.
    YueStock/Shutterstock

    In their recent report into pollution incidences, the EA states that they respond to all category 1 and 2 (serious and significant) water industry incidents and will be increasing their attendance at category 3 (minor) incidents. They highlight that more inspections will identify more issues. This shows some acceptance that the more incidents they attend, the more would be substantiated or recorded appropriately.

    Most sewage discharges would not have been reported to, or recorded by, the EA as pollution incidents because they were permitted discharges from combined stormwater overflows. Water companies are allowed to discharge untreated wastewater under exceptional rainfall or snowfall conditions to prevent sewage backing up through the pipes.

    Extra water flow in rivers from rainfall is meant to dilute chemical contaminants in wastewater. However, some discharges can last days or weeks. The EA is currently investigating whether water companies have been breaching their permits and discharging untreated wastewater when there is low or even no rainfall.

    What counts as pollution?

    The UN classifies pollution as “presence of substances and energy (for example, light and heat) in environmental media (air, water, land) whose nature, location, or quantity produces undesirable environmental effects”. This definition differs markedly from the EA’s working definition of pollution incidents.

    Many sewage discharges containing low concentrations of pollutants won’t kill fish but might still be harmful to fish larvae or small insects, for example.

    However, the broad picture from EA data is that invertebrate communities at least are in a better state than they were three decades ago before wastewater treatment plants were upgraded following the EU’s Urban Wastewater Directive.

    Some pollutants bioaccumulate through the food chain, so they become concentrated in top predators such as orcas. Some chemicals mimic reproductive hormones even in low concentrations and can feminise fish, for example. High levels of nutrients from agriculture and sewage in rivers can cause fungal diseases in seagrass meadows.

    Other families of chemicals build up in wildlife and people, such as persistent “forever chemicals”, much of which comes from wastewater discharges. Continued discharges of antibiotics into waterways might not be classified as pollution incidents but still pose a substantial risk to human and ecosystem health through bacteria developing antibiotic resistance.

    The government has just committed to cut sewage pollution by 50% by December 2029 based on 2024 data. But it’s not yet clear whether these involve cutting the frequency of discharges, the duration or both.

    This data could also be manipulated so that a large number of small discharges can be consolidated into one official discharge event. Currently, the volume of discharges from stormwater overflows isn’t known. Without this vital data we can’t ascertain the risk posed by their contaminants.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Alex Ford receives funding from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), EU, charities and industry including water companies.

    – ref. No wonder England’s water needs cleaning up – most sewage discharges aren’t even classified as pollution incidents – https://theconversation.com/no-wonder-englands-water-needs-cleaning-up-most-sewage-discharges-arent-even-classified-as-pollution-incidents-261502

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: From ‘MMS’ to ‘aerobic oxygen’, why drinking bleach has become a dangerous wellness trend

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam Taylor, Professor of Anatomy, Lancaster University

    Grossinger/Shutterstock

    If something online promises to cure everything, it’s probably too good to be true. One of the most dangerous examples? Chlorine dioxide is often marketed under names like “Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS)” or “aerobic oxygen”, buzzwords that hint at health and vitality.

    But in reality, these products can make you violently ill within hours – and in some cases, they can be fatal.

    Despite what the name suggests, MMS is not just bleach. Bleach contains sodium hypochlorite, whereas MMS contains sodium chlorite – a different but equally toxic chemical.

    When ingested, sodium chlorite can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition where red blood cells lose their ability to carry oxygen. It can also trigger haemolysis (the rupture of red blood cells), followed by kidney failure and death.

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    When sodium chlorite mixes with acid (such as stomach acid), it converts into chlorine dioxide, a bleaching agent. This compound has strong antimicrobial properties: it can kill bacteria, fungi and even viruses like SARS-CoV-2. For that reason, it’s commonly used in sanitising dental equipment and hospital tools like endoscopes. Its effectiveness at killing over 400 bacterial species makes it useful in cleaning – but not in humans.

    While the mouth and oesophagus are lined with multiple cell layers, offering some protection, the stomach and intestines are far more vulnerable. These organs have a single-cell lining to absorb nutrients efficiently – but this also means they’re highly sensitive to damage.

    That’s why ingesting chlorine dioxide often leads to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. In extreme cases, the chemical can burn through the gut lining, leading to bowel perforation – a medical emergency with a high risk of death.

    Using MMS as an enema is equally dangerous. Chlorine dioxide can trigger an overproduction of reactive oxygen species – unstable molecules that damage cells and contribute to chronic gut conditions. This cellular stress may explain both the immediate symptoms and the long-term injuries seen in reported cases.

    It doesn’t make a good mouthwash, either

    Some sellers claim MMS can be used safely in the mouth because it’s found in dental cleaners. But clinical trials show it’s no more effective than other mouthwashes, and its oxidising power doesn’t distinguish between harmful microbes and healthy cells.

    Yes, it may temporarily reduce bad breath, but it also disrupts protein synthesis, damages cell membranes, and harms the gut microbiome – the collection of helpful bacteria we rely on for digestion and immune health.

    Chlorine dioxide doesn’t just attack the gut. It also affects the cardiovascular system. Documented risks include low blood pressure, fainting, and cardiac damage – including stroke and shock.

    In some cases, it causes a dangerous blood disorder called disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). This condition causes abnormal clotting, followed by severe bleeding and potential organ failure, stroke and death.

    Chlorine dioxide is also a respiratory irritant. Inhalation can inflame the nose, throat and lungs, and in severe cases, cause respiratory distress – particularly with repeated exposure in workplaces.

    Studies of factory workers show that even low doses can lead to nasal inflammation, coughing and breathing difficulties. And some patients who drank chlorine dioxide to “treat” COVID-19 ended up with severe chemical lung injuries.

    Risks to the brain, hormones and skin

    Animal studies suggest chlorine dioxide can harm the nervous system, causing developmental delays, reduced movement, and slower brain growth. It also appears to affect the thyroid, potentially causing hormonal disruptions and delayed puberty.

    It doesn’t stop there. Some people who consume chlorine dioxide also develop cerebral salt wasting syndrome, a condition where the kidneys lose too much sodium, leading to excessive urination, dehydration and dangerously low blood volume.

    Skin contact isn’t safe either. Chlorine dioxide can irritate the skin, and lab studies show it can kill skin cells at high concentrations. People who’ve used it to treat fungal infections have ended up with chemical dermatitis instead.

    Chlorine dioxide can be useful for disinfecting hospital tools, dental equipment and water supplies. But that doesn’t mean it belongs in your body. Many of its supposed “benefits” come from lab studies or animal research – not from safe, approved human trials.

    There’s no evidence that drinking it cures any disease. There’s overwhelming evidence that it can harm or kill you.

    So, if you’re tempted by a product that promises miracles with science-y language and zero regulation, take a step back. The risks are very real – and very dangerous.

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

    – ref. From ‘MMS’ to ‘aerobic oxygen’, why drinking bleach has become a dangerous wellness trend – https://theconversation.com/from-mms-to-aerobic-oxygen-why-drinking-bleach-has-become-a-dangerous-wellness-trend-260761

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: A global treaty to limit plastic pollution is within reach – will countries seize the moment?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Winnie Courtene-Jones, Lecturer in Marine Pollution, Bangor University

    Bandung, Indonesia. Sony Herdiana/Shutterstock

    Representatives from 175 countries will gather in Geneva, Switzerland, in August for the final round of negotiations on a legally binding UN treaty to end plastic pollution. Non-governmental organisations, academics and industry lobbyists will also be in the room. They will all be hoping to influence what could be the world’s first truly global agreement on plastics.

    The summit, known as “INC-5.2”, follows a failed attempt to reach agreement in Busan, South Korea, late last year. That meeting ended without resolving important issues, despite hopes that it would conclude the treaty process. Now, it’s crunch time in Geneva.

    Either countries bridge their political divides, or risk the whole process falling apart.

    I’ve been researching the effects of plastic for more than a decade and have been involved in the UN treaty process since 2022. I’ve attended several of the negotiations and will be in Geneva next month. The science is clear: we need ambitious action which tackles every stage of the plastics lifecycle, from production through to disposal. But the question is, will countries deliver?

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    In 2022, the UN Environment Assembly agreed to develop a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution. Since then, progress has been slow. Negotiations have repeatedly stalled over issues such as whether the treaty should limit plastic production or regulate chemicals, how to define terms, and how to fund implementation.

    Industry lobbying has also played a powerful role throughout. At the last round of talks, lobbyists for the petrochemical and plastics industries made up the single largest delegation. They outnumbered representatives from the EU, all of Latin America, the Pacific islands, independent scientists and Indigenous communities. This imbalance threatens to weaken the science-based action that is urgently needed.

    Although countries failed to reach agreement in Busan, a foundation was laid. They agreed to continue negotiations using the “chair’s text”, which is a draft treaty with multiple options still on the table. That document forms the starting point in Geneva. But it remains uncertain whether enough common ground can be found to finalise the text.

    What’s at stake?

    This treaty is a once-in-a-generation chance to tackle one of the world’s most urgent environmental crises. More than 450 million tonnes of plastic are produced every year. That figure is expected to double by 2045 if current trends continue.

    Only around 9% of plastic is ever recycled. The rest is landfilled, incinerated or ends up polluting the environment.

    An estimated 139 million tonnes of plastics pollute marine and fresh water. But that could be significantly higher when considering leakages of plastics to land, and from microplastics, which are plastics smaller than 5mm in diameter.

    Plastic is found in the deepest oceans, the remotest mountains and inside the human body. While scientists are only beginning to understand the long-term implications for human health, biodiversity and climate, studies show harmful effects of plastics and their chemicals on animals and ecosystems.

    Plastic pollution doesn’t respect national borders. It moves through rivers, oceans and air, and gets carried across continents. Global supply chains and waste exports have made this a problem no country can solve alone. That’s why a global treaty is essential.

    Crossroads

    Despite this growing urgency, a disparity in positions has hindered progress and continues to divide delegations.

    Some, such as members of the High Ambition Coalition, a group of countries committed to progressive climate action, want strong rules to cap plastic production, phase out toxic chemicals and hold polluters accountable. Others, often with prominent petrochemical industries, argue for a weaker, voluntary approach focused mainly on recycling and waste management.



    Read more:
    A global plastic treaty will only work if it caps production, modelling shows

    If these divisions aren’t resolved, there’s a real risk the treaty will end up being too watered down to make a difference. A patchy, fragmented agreement would fail to curb rising plastic production and could undermine the integrity of global action.

    Between December’s meeting in Busan and next month’s talks, countries have been holding smaller meetings to try to find compromise. That momentum must now be carried into the final negotiations.

    Important articles in the draft treaty, including those on chemicals and products, plastic production and finance, remain contested. Whether those provisions are strengthened or diluted will shape the treaty’s effects for decades to come.

    Flexibility will be needed. But leadership is also crucial. Countries that support an ambitious outcome must stand firm and bring others with them.

    As we approach what may be the final negotiating round, we’re at a critical crossroads. The world has the chance to take meaningful action on plastic pollution. Let’s not waste it.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Winnie Courtene-Jones is an unpaid member and working-group lead of the Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Treaty; an International network of independent scientific and technical experts contributing robust scientific evidence to the Treaty process.

    – ref. A global treaty to limit plastic pollution is within reach – will countries seize the moment? – https://theconversation.com/a-global-treaty-to-limit-plastic-pollution-is-within-reach-will-countries-seize-the-moment-261331

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Hosepipe ban survival guide: which garden plants to save and which to sacrifice

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Alastair Culham, Associate Professor of Botany, University of Reading

    Studio 37/Shutterstock

    With hosepipe bans in force across several English regions and more restrictions likely to follow, gardeners face some tough choices. When every drop counts, which plants deserve your precious water from the water butt, and which should you leave to fend for themselves?

    As someone who has researched how British gardeners need to adapt to respond to our changing climate, I can tell you that not all garden plants are created equal when it comes to water needs. Some plants will bounce back from a summer scorching, while others may never recover.

    Top plants to prioritise for watering

    1. New woody plants

    Any woody plant installed in the last 12-18 months should be your absolute priority. These haven’t yet developed the deep root systems needed to find moisture reserves and going without enough water the first year or so after planting could kill them.

    Water thoroughly and add a deep mulch of wood chips to help the soil hold water. For young trees you can install a watering bag around the trunk but you still need to top it up.

    2. Hydrangeas

    Hydrangeas adopt a conservative strategy when it comes to drought. They shut their stomata (leaf pores) rapidly when they sense dry soil, and keep them closed until consistent moisture returns. They often drop their leaves too.

    This can mean many weeks without growth, after even a relatively short drought period. So if you want to keep them looking at their best, they need consistent watering. You can cut growth back to reduce water loss, and save the the plant at the cost of flowers.

    Hydrangeas need help during a drought.
    savitskaya iryna/Shutterstock

    3. Moisture loving trees

    Japanese maples (Acer palmatum), along with other moisture-loving trees like birch and beech, are prone to serious die-back during summer droughts. Their shallow root systems and large leaves make them particularly vulnerable to water stress. Water and mulch them.

    4. Soft herbaceous plants

    Astilbe, dicentra, filipendula, heuchera, primula, trollius and many other soft herbaceous plants require good moisture levels and may not survive prolonged drought.

    5. Shallow-rooted shrubs

    Rhododendrons and azaleas are shallow-rooted shrubs particularly susceptible to drought stress, especially the large-leaved evergreen species which are also prone to wind damage when stressed.

    6. Clematis

    Many clematis varieties struggle with drought. Since they’re often grown for their spectacular flowering displays, maintaining adequate moisture around the roots is crucial, especially for autumn-flowering varieties, or spring-flowering varieties which flower on the previous year’s growth.

    A gravel mulch can help keep the roots cool and damp. However, clematis orientalis, terniflora, and evergreens such as C. cirrhosa can be surprisingly tolerant of a hot dry period.

    7. Ripening vegetables

    If you’re growing vegetables, prioritise crops approaching harvest and those that split when moisture returns after drought, such as carrots. Runner beans and courgettes need moist soil to keep cropping and potato yields are heavily influenced by water levels.

    8. All the pots

    Anything in pots has limited access to soil moisture reserves and will need regular attention. Move containers to shadier spots if possible. Always use a pot saucer to hold water and prevent it draining away.

    Plants that can survive without extra water

    Research into plant water-stress shows that many common garden plants are surprisingly resilient.

    Forsythia adopts a risk-taking strategy. It keeps growing and photosynthesising even when soil moisture becomes limited, gambling that it can regrow after damage. This makes it remarkably drought-tolerant. It is also tolerant of heavy pruning which can save it in severe conditions.

    Mediterranean shrubs like lavender, rosemary, sage and thyme are naturally adapted to dry conditions. Their grey, hairy or waxy leaves are evolved to conserve moisture. Soil conditions are crucial though. If the plants are deep rooted they will draw water up, but if your soil is shallow or compacted they might well be less drought tolerant.

    Sedums, sempervivums and other succulents store water in their fleshy leaves and can survive extended dry periods. RHS research identifies Sedum spectabile as particularly reliable under stress.

    Buddleja can cope better than you might think in dry spells.
    Steidi/Shutterstock

    Ornamental grasses generally have efficient root systems and many species actually prefer drier conditions once established.

    Established shrubs including cistus, phlomis, buddleja, cotoneaster, berberis and viburnum have deep roots and proven track records for drought survival. The RHS report identifies these as garden stalwarts, with high stress resilience.

    Some trees, including eucalyptus, bay (Laurus nobilis) and holm oak are remarkably drought tolerant.

    Those to sacrifice

    Grass lawns are thirsty and can be left to go dormant. If you have a newly seeded or turfed lawn from this year, some limited watering may be justified. But in general, embrace the golden colour of water-stressed lawns. As long as you don’t create too many bare patches from over-use, the green colour and growth will come back when it rains.

    Annual bedding plants like busy lizzies and begonias have shallow root systems and high water demands. However, they are only there for one season and are easily replaceable, so prioritise them for watering only if they’re particularly important to your garden’s summer display and you can spare the water. You could save some by potting them up and enjoying a display that needs less water.

    When you do water, research shows that technique is crucial. Water thoroughly but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Focus water at the base of plants rather than on leaves, and water in early morning or evening to reduce evaporation.

    Consider “split-root” watering for established shrubs – water one side of the plant thoroughly, then switch to the other side two to three weeks later. This keeps plants hydrated while chemical signals from the dry side’s roots prevent excessive new growth that would increase water demands.

    This drought is a taste of Britain’s gardening future. The plants struggling most in this year’s drought are likely to become increasingly unsuitable for British gardens without intensive irrigation.

    Be willing to swap out plants that suffer in drought for new plants that are more tolerant. Refresh plantings to adapt to the new climate.

    This article features references to books that have been included for editorial reasons, and may contain links to bookshop.org. If you click on one of the links and go on to buy something from bookshop.org The Conversation UK may earn a commission.

    Alastair Culham is affiliated with the Royal Horticultural Society through the RHS Science & Collections Group as a voluntary member. Opinions expressed here are his and do not represent the RHS.

    – ref. Hosepipe ban survival guide: which garden plants to save and which to sacrifice – https://theconversation.com/hosepipe-ban-survival-guide-which-garden-plants-to-save-and-which-to-sacrifice-261603

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: A Philosopher Looks at Clothes by Kate Moran is engaging and unpretentious – we need more philosophy books like this

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sarah Richmond, Honorary Associate Professor of Philosophy, UCL

    With a few exceptions, philosophers have had little to say about clothes. Maybe this is because the topic seems frivolous, or feminine, unworthy of the attention of a predominantly male collection of thinkers.

    Perhaps, too, the transience of fashion, and the fact that clothes belong – quite literally – to the domain of mere appearance, also has something to do with it. In A Philosopher Looks at Clothes, an engaging and informative book, Kate Moran, philosophy professor at Brandeis University in the US, urges us to think again.

    As Moran points out, clothing looms large in life. Every day we dress, deciding how many layers to wear and whether we need a coat – or might a cardigan suffice? We gaze critically at other people’s choices (“OMG, those shoes!”). We wonder how to rise to the challenge of an imminent Eurovision-themed party.

    From a historical point of view, also, our species-specific recourse to clothes stretches back to the earliest human society. In mythical time, it begins with Adam’s and Eve’s discovery, in shame, that they were naked. If fashion is transient, clothes, per se, are not.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Clothes, Moran tells us, serve three basic purposes: protection, modesty and decoration. At once, these introduce questions of deep philosophical interest. Are the purposes equally important? Why, throughout human history, have we refused to settle merely for protection, desiring for example that a hat should be of some favoured colour or shape? To what extent do our decorative choices express our personal identity? Do clothes ever qualify as works of art? Why is modesty an abiding concern, given that we all know the contours of the unclothed body?

    In many contexts, and especially today, clothes invite ethical and political assessment. Clothes communicate a great deal of information about us, including our social position and the causes we espouse.



    Read more:
    A brief history of the slogan T-shirt

    We may knowingly exploit this, choosing to flaunt an obviously expensive garment or to wear our football team’s scarf. In other cases the meanings are imposed. The uniforms forced on prisoners, for example, emphasise subordination and erase their individuality.

    Poignantly, research into textile history has uncovered a streak of resistance in even the most ill-treated captives. In concentration camps during the second world war some prisoners altered their uniforms, or mended them, or added pockets. As Moran remarks, these actions were not just practical; their aim, too, was to “recover some sense of identity and dignity”.

    Portrait of Friedrich Nietzsche by Edvard Munch (1906).
    Thiel Gallery, Stockholm

    In the brilliantly conceived series by Cambridge University Press to which this title belongs, each author discusses some general topic from a perspective that is philosophically informed and at the same time personal.

    We need more books like these, to counteract the entrenched pretence of disinterestedness in philosophy. (Nietzsche, exceptionally, saw through it, denouncing philosophers as “advocates who do not want to be seen as such … sly spokesmen for prejudices that they christen as ‘truths’”.)

    Knowledge of the significance, in an author’s life, of her subject-matter enriches the reader’s imaginative experience of a book. Describing herself as an “ardent hobbyist” who sews her own clothes, Moran provides an additional facet to her account of today’s fashion industry and its scandalous environmental costs.

    The reader knows that Moran herself has found an alternative. This lends a certain authority to her judgement that, however futile it may seem for any one person to step off the fast-fashion bus: “There is an important moral difference between being inefficacious and being innocent.”

    Moran shows how many areas of philosophy can illuminate the phenomenon of clothes: not only ethics and political thought, but also aesthetics, theories of communication, of personal identity, of gender and cultural appropriation.

    For readers unfamiliar with academic philosophy, these forays offer a path into a rich conceptual landscape. Along the way, we are offered a multitude of riveting facts. Who would have guessed that pink has not always been for girls, and blue for boys? And there are pictures, too. My highlight was the “revenge dress” that Princess Diana wore to a gala dinner in the midst of hostilities with Charles, in a successful bid to divert press attention from his appearance on TV.

    This article features references to books that have been included for editorial reasons, and may contain links to bookshop.org. If you click on one of the links and go on to buy something from bookshop.org The Conversation UK may earn a commission.

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

    – ref. A Philosopher Looks at Clothes by Kate Moran is engaging and unpretentious – we need more philosophy books like this – https://theconversation.com/a-philosopher-looks-at-clothes-by-kate-moran-is-engaging-and-unpretentious-we-need-more-philosophy-books-like-this-260473

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Farewell to summer? ‘Haze’ and ‘trash’ among Earth’s new seasons as climate change and pollution play havoc

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Felicia Liu, Lecturer (Assistant Professor) in Sustainability, University of York

    Throughout history, people have viewed seasons as relatively stable, recurrent blocks of time that neatly align farming, cultural celebrations and routines with nature’s cycles. But the seasons as we know them are changing. Human activity is rapidly transforming the Earth, and once reliable seasonal patterns are becoming unfamiliar.

    In our recent study, we argue that new seasons are surfacing. These emergent seasons are entirely novel and anthropogenic (in other words, made by humans).

    Examples include “haze seasons” in the northern and equatorial nations of south-east Asia, when the sky is filled with smoke for several weeks. This is caused by widespread burning of vegetation to clear forests and make way for agriculture during particularly dry times of year.

    Or there is the annual “trash season”, during which tidal patterns bring plastic to the shores of Bali, Indonesia, between November and March.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    At the same time, some seasons are disappearing altogether, with profound consequences for ecosystems and cultures. These extinct seasons can encompass drastically altered or terminated migratory animal behaviour, such as the decline of seabird breeding seasons in northern England.

    Climate change is also calling time on traditional winter sport seasons by making snow scarcer in alpine regions.

    Nature’s new rhythms

    Perhaps more common are “syncopated seasons”. The changes are akin to new emphases on beats or off-beats in familiar music that capture the listener’s attention.

    Syncopated seasons include hotter summers and milder winters in temperate climates, with increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather that exposes more people and ecosystems to stress.

    The timings of key seasonal events, like when leaves fall or certain migratory species arrive, are becoming more unpredictable. We coined the term “arrhythmic seasons”, a concept borrowed from cardiology, to refer to abnormal rhythms which include earlier springs or breeding seasons, longer summers or growing seasons, and shorter winters or hibernating seasons.

    Changing seasonal patterns throw the interdependent life cycles of plants and animals out of sync with each other, and disrupt the communities that are economically, socially and culturally dependent on them.

    In northern Thailand, human activity has reshaped nature’s rhythms and affected the supply of water and food in turn. Communities along the Mekong river’s tributaries have relied on the seasonal flow of rivers to fish and farm for generations.

    At first, upstream dams disrupted these cycles by blocking fish migration and preventing the accumulation of sediment that farms need for soil. More recently, climate change has shifted rainfall patterns and made dry seasons longer and rainy seasons shorter but more intense, bringing fires and further uncertainty to farmers.

    Let’s rethink time

    How we react to changing seasonal patterns can either worsen or improve environmental conditions. In south-east Asia, public awareness of the “haze season” has led to better forecasting, the installation of air filters in homes and the establishment of public health initiatives.

    These efforts help communities adapt. But if society only uses adaptive fixes like these, it can make the haze worse over time by failing to tackle its root causes. By recognising this new season, societies might normalise the recurrence of haze and isolate anyone who demands the government and businesses deal with deforestation and burning.

    Powerful institutions like these shape narratives about seasonal crises to minimise their responsibility and shift blame elsewhere. Understanding these dynamics is crucial to fostering accountability and ensuring fair responses.

    The shifting seasons require us to rethink our relationship with time and the environment. Today, most of us think about time in terms of days, hours and minutes, which is a globalised standard used everywhere from smartphones to train timetables. But this way of keeping time forgets older and more local ways of understanding time – those that are shaped by natural rhythms, such as the arrival of the rainy season, or solar and lunar cycles, rooted in the lives and cultures of different communities.

    Diverse perspectives, especially those from Indigenous knowledge systems, can enhance our ability to respond to environmental changes. Integrating alternative time-keeping methods into mainstream practices could foster fairer and more effective solutions to environmental problems.

    Seasons are more than just divisions of time – they connect us with nature. Finding synchrony with changing seasonal rhythms is essential for building a sustainable future.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

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

    – ref. Farewell to summer? ‘Haze’ and ‘trash’ among Earth’s new seasons as climate change and pollution play havoc – https://theconversation.com/farewell-to-summer-haze-and-trash-among-earths-new-seasons-as-climate-change-and-pollution-play-havoc-260765

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Popular Tunisian island’s cultural heritage at risk due to tourism, neglect and climate change

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Majdi Faleh, Academic Fellow & Lecturer in Architecture and Cultural Heritage, Nottingham Trent University

    The Sidi Yati mosque in Djerba, which dates back to the 10th century, has been damaged by coastal erosion. Mehdi Elouati, CC BY-NC-ND

    Nestled in the southern Mediterranean, off the south-east coast of Tunisia, lies the island of Djerba. With a rich cultural and religious history, it has been a crossroad of many civilisations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs, and is home to many unique architectural sites. These include the Sedouikech underground mosque, St Joseph’s Church and the El Ghriba Synagogue.

    But, for many years, Djerba’s cultural heritage has been in danger. This is due to a combination of over-tourism, environmental change and human neglect.

    An underground mosque on the island of Djerba.
    Mariana Delca / Shutterstock

    By the 1990s to early 2000s, when Djerba was at the height of its popularity, the island was attracting between 1 million and 1.5 million visitors each year. It is one of Tunisia’s most popular tourist areas, with more hotels than any other destination in the country.

    Tourism has resulted in excessive tourist traffic in Djerba, particularly during the summer. It has also contributed to other problems such as water stress and waste generation. According to figures from 2020, hotels alone generate between 35% and 40% of all the waste on the island.

    But the development of tourism has, above all, altered Djerba’s cultural landscape. In some areas of the island, Djerba’s traditional housing – houmas, menzels and houchs – have given way to more modern tourist infrastructure.

    This has accelerated since Tunisia’s 2011 revolution, when long-time dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was ousted. Weak institutional oversight has led to vandalism, illegal construction on archaeological sites and unauthorised demolitions.

    The development of tourism on Djerba has also eroded traditional ways of life. The island has experienced significant changes due to tourism, with the development of roads, ferries, an airport and the internet leading to a decline in traditional activity. Livelihoods like agriculture, fishing and artisanal crafts have declined and are often now showcased only in tourist areas.

    Life on Djerba has changed since it was opened up for tourism.
    BTWImages / Shutterstock

    Climate change has worsened Djerba’s problems. Rainfall patterns have changed across the island over recent decades, with models suggesting that annual precipitation rates could drop 20% by the end of the century. More frequent and prolonged droughts are expected.

    At the same time, rising sea levels and increasingly common storm surges are affecting the island. Research from 2022 found that 14% of Djerba’s beaches are now highly vulnerable to submersion and coastal erosion.

    Several historical monuments on Djerba have already experienced periodic flooding and saltwater intrusion. The ruins of Sidi Garous and the shrine of Sidi Bakour are now entirely underwater and have been replaced by memorials.

    Other archaeological sites located near the coast like Haribus, Meninx, Ghizene and Edzira, some of which date back to the Roman era (eighth century BC to fifth century AD), are now partially or fully submerged. Studies by Tunisia’s National Institute of Heritage suggest that many of these sites have been lost permanently to the encroaching sea.

    World heritage site

    Significant portions of Djerba’s cultural heritage have already been erased by sea-level rise and coastal erosion. Future losses could be even more severe. The island’s cultural heritage will only grow more precarious without meaningful preservation and climate adaptation efforts.

    However, many of Djerba’s monuments, historical buildings and traditional dwellings have suffered from years of neglect. A chronic lack of local and international funding, as well as weak institutional frameworks for heritage management, mean some of the island’s historic structures have been abandoned. Many other buildings have deteriorated due to a lack of protective measures and maintenance.

    Community organisations such as the Association for the Safeguarding of the Island of Djerba have tried to step in to fill the void left by weak institutional frameworks. Their work ranges from delivering public awareness campaigns to local young people to efforts like re-purposing ancient rainwater tanks to manage periods of drought.

    But these grassroots efforts alone are not enough to stop Djerba’s cultural heritage from deteriorating at its current pace.

    The ruins of a Housh, a traditional dwelling, on the island of Djerba.
    Ahmed Bedoui, CC BY-NC-ND

    In September 2023, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) announced that it was adding Djerba to its list of world heritage sites. Tunisia’s culture ministry welcomed the decision. It followed years of efforts by local groups and government officials to add Djerba to the list.

    Djerba’s inclusion offers hope for the long-term preservation of the island’s heritage. A world heritage site designation increases global recognition and enables improved access to sources of funding.

    And since Djerba’s classification, there has been some progress. The culture ministry has established a task force to monitor the construction of buildings and other infrastructure, collect data on designated protected areas, and prepare projects to preserve heritage sites.

    But Djerba’s cultural heritage remains in danger. Improved preservation of these sites will require continuous funding and stringent regulation of tourism and construction activities.

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

    – ref. Popular Tunisian island’s cultural heritage at risk due to tourism, neglect and climate change – https://theconversation.com/popular-tunisian-islands-cultural-heritage-at-risk-due-to-tourism-neglect-and-climate-change-223612

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union’s Brian Shanahan Appointed to Metra Board, Bringing Worker Perspective to Chicagoland Transit Leadership

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM is proud to announce that Brian Shanahan, IAM Railroad Coordinator, has been appointed to the Metra Board of Directors in the Chicagoland area. This appointment marks a significant milestone for labor representation in regional transit leadership, and a homecoming for Shanahan, who began his railroad career with Metra more than 17 years ago.

    Shanahan’s deep knowledge of the rail industry comes from decades of service and leadership. He started as a clerk with Metra in 2008 and became a member of Transportation Communications Union (TCU/IAM) Local 829. Over the course of his career, he has held numerous leadership roles, including Local Chairman, Assistant National Representative, National Representative and National Vice President. In January 2023, he was appointed IAM Railroad Coordinator, where he now helps lead national rail strategy and advocacy on behalf of IAM Rail Division members.

    “This is a tremendous honor,” said Shanahan. “Metra is where I got my start, and I’ve spent my career fighting for the rights of the people who keep our trains running. I’m proud to now represent both workers and the riding public on the Metra Board. I’m committed to ensuring the voices of working people are part of every decision that shapes the future of rail in Illinois.”

    Shanahan is currently a member of the Illinois High Speed Rail Commission and was also appointed to the Will Kankakee Regional Development Authority by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

    “I’m extremely excited,” Shanahan told the Daily [Arlington Heights, Ill.] Herald. “I have a long lineage of railroading in my blood. Public transportation has been such a key ingredient to my life. I can’t wait to for the opportunity to contribute.” 

    Josh Hartford, IAM Special Assistant to the International President for the IAM Rail Division, praised Shanahan’s appointment as a win for working families and public transit users.

    “Brian’s appointment is more than just well-deserved—it’s exactly what Metra needs,” said Hartford. “He understands the challenges rail workers face every day, and he brings a deep commitment to safety, service, and fairness. Having Brian at the table ensures that working families and riders alike will have a strong advocate in the decisions that affect them most.”

    The post IAM Union’s Brian Shanahan Appointed to Metra Board, Bringing Worker Perspective to Chicagoland Transit Leadership appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Launches Crypto Loans: Unlock Liquidity and Earn While You Borrow

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    BitMart, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, announced the launch of BitMart Crypto Loans service, the lending product that allows users to stake their digital assets as collateral, borrow instantly, and continue earning interest — all without selling their holdings.

    As the digital asset market evolves rapidly, users are increasingly seeking flexible and efficient ways to manage their assets. In the current market environment, liquidity has become a major challenge for crypto asset holders. Traditional solutions often require selling assets to unlock funds — but this also means giving up the potential for future appreciation, particularly for long-term holders of major assets like BTC, ETH, or the platform token BMX. For these users, selling their holdings could mean missing out on future opportunities. Therefore, the market urgently needs a solution that provides liquidity without liquidating assets.

    Key Highlights of BitMart Crypto Loans

    • Flexible Loans Without Selling Assets — Users can pledge their digital assets as collateral to borrow loans without having to sell. This is especially attractive to long-term holders.
    • Earn Interest on Collateralized Assets — Users can continue earning yields on your pledged assets via BitMart Earn.
    • Flexible Repayment — No fixed terms or late fees; repay anytime at your convenience.
    • Multi-Asset Support — Borrow and pledge in USDT, USDC, BTC, ETH, BMX, and more.
    • Transparent, Low Costs — Competitive hourly interest rates that adjust with the market.

    BMX, BitMart’s native token, plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem. It can be used both as collateral and as a borrowed asset, further enhancing liquidity and utility. BMX holders also enjoy additional perks, including trading fee discounts, VIP benefits, and participation in BitMart’s growth through airdrops and rewards — creating a vibrant, user-driven ecosystem.

    Launch Benefits: Interest Rebates and USDC Rewards

    To celebrate the launch, BitMart is offering exclusive promotions:

    • Interest Subsidy — New users receive a 50% rebate on interest paid; VIP users enjoy a full 100% rebate, achieving “zero-interest” borrowing.
    • Leaderboard Rewards — The top 50 borrowers by total loan amount will share in generous USDC prizes, with first place taking home 1,000 USDC.

    Details: https://www.bitmart.com/activity/cryptoloans/en-US 

    As the digital asset market matures and evolves, traditional asset management models can no longer meet modern users’ demands for flexibility, efficiency, and diversification. The launch of BitMart Crypto Loans not only brings a fresh liquidity solution to the market but also opens up new possibilities for the application of crypto assets. Without sacrificing the long-term appreciation potential of their holdings, users can easily allocate funds while earning transparent and sustainable yields through financial tools. This innovative model undoubtedly represents the future of the industry: smarter, more flexible, and more efficient asset management is set to become the new norm in the crypto market.

    About BitMart

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deep dive into the International Seabed Authority: Why it matters now

    Source: United Nations 2

    At a time when the international community seeks to regulate the rich tapestry of the planet’s ocean floors while countries and corporations speed towards deep-sea mining opportunities, here’s what you need to know about ISA and why it matters now:

    What does it do?

    ISA manages the mineral resources of the seabed beyond national jurisdiction, which covers 54 per cent of the world’s oceans, for “the shared benefit of all humankind”.

    Created by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea in 1994, ISA is aims to ensure that all economic activities in the deep seabed, including mining, are regulated and responsibly managed.

    Mandated to ensure the effective protection of the marine environment from harmful effects that may arise from deep-seabed-related activities, its work also contributes to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

    Seabeds contain rich fauna and an array of rare earth minerals.

    Why it matters now?

    As the world’s only international body that focuses on the deep-sea area beyond national borders, ISA aims to address pressing concerns, from plastic waste littering oceans to the race to secure rare earth minerals to quench the world’s insatiable thirst for lithium batteries and a range of tech items.

    What kind of rare earth minerals are on the ocean floor? Copper, cobalt, gold, lanthanum, neodymium, nickel, silver, yttrium and zinc to name a few.

    Right now, countries can pursue deep-sea mining within their own territorial waters or “exclusive economic zones”. But, under international law, the deep seabed belongs to no single country or corporation, ISA Secretary-General Leticia Carvalho wrote in a recent op-ed.

    “It is our common heritage,” she said.

    An active volcano on the ocean floor.

    What’s the draft mining code?

    Right now, nations are looking for ever more sources of rare earth minerals to meet demand for renewable energy technologies and such items as mobile phones and computers. The deep-sea contains a plethora of supplies. That’s where the draft mining code comes in.

    During its 30th session, ISA members are working on a draft code that would protect the marine environment and build a foundation for ensuring that any activities in the deep-sea area are conducted responsibly and in line with environmental sustainability principles as well as benefitting all of humanity.

    A food container seen resting at 4,947m on the slopes of an underwater canyon near the North Marianas Islands in the Pacific Ocean.

    Tackling the ‘missing plastics paradox’

    Plastic pollution is another part of the problem. To address this and other pressing issues, ISA members adopted a global research agenda in July 2020, serving as an action plan for marine scientific research with six strategic priorities that include advancing knowledge of deep-sea ecosystems, promoting data sharing and providing insights into the scientific landscape of plastics in the deep-sea.

    This latter growing global challenge has potential consequences for the sustainable use of oceans. In 2019, the plastics industry produced over 450 million tonnes of plastic, a figure expected to rise in the coming decades and is likely to increase pressure on marine environments and species. Yet, a portion of plastics entering the oceans remains unaccounted for, a phenomenon known as the “missing plastics paradox”.

    Some researchers suggest that the deep sea may act as a sink for plastic debris, where their prolonged persistence could pose risks to these environments.

    Acorn worms were one of the many types of fauna observed in the deep-sea around the North Marianas Islands in the Pacific Ocean.

    The world’s new deep-sea biobank

    ISA has also just begun filling its new biobank, launched in June on the margins of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France. The Deep-Sea Biobank Initiative (DBI) aims to enhance access to deep-sea biological samples and genetic data collected from the international seabed area.

    Designed to promote deep-sea research and inclusive scientific collaboration, particularly for developing States, the initiative will establish a global repository of biological samples and develop standard operating procedures to enhance data quality, sharing and use by stakeholders.

    “The DBI is ISA’s response to a growing need to advance research, share data, build capacity and facilitate access to deep-sea knowledge, particularly for developing States,” said the authority’s chief Carvalho. “We aim to create standardised and equitable pathways for scientific collaboration, empowering countries and institutions to explore, understand and protect the ocean’s most remote ecosystems.”

    The International Seabed Authority has emerged as a central institution of global ocean architecture, charting a course towards responsible and sustainable use.

    ‘DeepData’ diving

    The wealth of data and information ISA has collected has been critical to shaping environmental management plans. Every data byte collected through deep-sea exploration adds critical new information about life in the ocean and assists with decision making.

    In launching the DeepData database in 2019, ISA made publicly available for the first time the biggest and most complete global repository of environmental data and information on the deep-sea area.

    Exactly how much data has been collected? As of May 2023, DeepData contained over 10 terabytes, roughly equivalent to 6.9 million Instagram uploads. Widely used around the world, it had about 2.4 million hits from visitors in 2022 alone and more than 160 citations in scientific publications.

    Learn more about ISA here.

    • The International Seabed Authority (ISA) has 170 members
    • ISA is an autonomous intergovernmental organization established by the UN
    • Members meet annually to address pressing issues
    • The 30th session concludes with the ISA assembly meeting from 21 to 25 July in Kingston, Jamaica

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Laredo man sentenced to 63 months for smuggling over 100 illegal aliens in locked trailer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A 49-year-old resident of Laredo has been ordered to federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Juan Manuel Aguirre pleaded guilty Feb. 6.

    U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison has now ordered Aguirre to serve 63 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court considered Aguirre’s history of smuggling aliens on multiple occasions and the danger he posed by transporting them in a sealed, locked, dark and unventilated trailer that required authorities to open with a bolt cutter. 

    “Human smuggling is an incredibly dangerous enterprise, and it requires the trafficker to care absolutely nothing about the lives and safety of those they transport,” said Ganjei. “Fortunately, there were no deaths in this case, but the underlying facts indicate that several of those transported had difficulty breathing and feared for their life. The Southern District of Texas will make sure that all human smugglers pay a serious price for their callousness.”

    On Dec. 2, 2024, law enforcement observed several individuals being loading into a white trailer in a warehouse parking lot. Aguirre was the driver of the truck hauling it. After he departed the location, authorities conducted a traffic stop which resulted in the discovery of 101 aliens locked inside the trailer, 13 of whom were children as young as 13 years old.

    Multiple illegal aliens reported they had difficulty breathing and feared for their life due to the conditions in the trailer. They were from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, Cuba and Honduras.

    Aguirre will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, Texas Department of Public Safety and Border Patrol conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection, Drug Enforcement Administration and Webb County Sheriff’s Office. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –