NewzIntel.com

Category: Vehicles

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis Chop Shop Operator Pleads Guilty

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – A man on Monday admitted running a “chop shop” that aided car thieves connected to a local gang.

    Jorge Alberto Luviano-Martinez, 41, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of operating a chop shop. As part of his plea, he admitted running a chop shop in the 2900 block of Cass Avenue in St. Louis. Members of a local gang, “Big 5,” discussed obtaining electronic keys for stolen vehicles from Luviano-Martinez and switching vehicle identification numbers (VINs) on stolen vehicles. Investigators conducted a court-approved search of the shop on June 10, 2024, finding eight stolen vehicles. One vehicle had its VIN replaced with a new VIN and another vehicle had a VIN removed.

    Before the search warrant was served, investigators saw Luviano-Martinez leaving the property in a stolen Jeep. He refused to stop for police, instead leading officers on a chase that lasted about 15 minutes. After driving down a dead end street, Luviano-Martinez jumped out of the Jeep and over a fence, but was arrested.

    “Our investigation shut down two chop shops, disrupting a scheme in which gang members were able to easily profit from vehicle thefts,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “The impact should help stem the flow of rising vehicle thefts across the region.”

    Luviano-Martinez, also known as “Charlie Cruz,” is scheduled to be sentenced in August. The charge carries a penalty of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both prison and a fine. 

    The FBI, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the St. Louis County Police Department, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Finlen is prosecuting the case.

    The investigation was conducted by the St. Louis Gateway Strike Force, which is part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force and includes members of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. The OCDETF strike forces are permanent, multi-agency, prosecutor-led teams that conduct intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash: South-Western Motorway

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm one person has died following a crash on the South-Western Motorway this morning.

    The single vehicle crash was reported just before 5am, on northbound lanes near Onehunga.

    Sadly, the sole occupant of this vehicle died at the scene.

    Earlier closures of northbound lanes have now lifted, and Police advise motorists to continue to expect delays as earlier backlogs clear.

    We appreciate motorists’ understanding this morning while emergency services carried out their work.

    The Serious Crash Unit examined the scene this morning, and an investigation is underway into this morning’s crash on behalf of the Coroner.

    ENDS

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New trees usher in next stage of Victoria Street’s linear park

    Source: Auckland Council

    The ancient trees of Albert Park watched over the arrival of four newcomers in Victoria Street East last week – between Lorne Street and Albert Park.

    Completion of the greening of this section of Victoria Street is close.

    Four trees were crane-lifted from trucks, taking their positions in new street-side seating areas. The trees – pūriri, pōhutukawa, titoki and rewarewa – are another visual symbol of the transformation Aucklanders are seeing in midtown’s station neighbourhood.

    Auckland Council’s midtown regeneration programme is ensuring the area will be ready when the City Rail Link (CRL) and Te Waihorotiu Station open.

    Widened footpaths, a dedicated cycleway, fewer traffic lanes, new art, new trees and landscaped resting places along the redesigned sections of Victoria Street are seeing the street reflect its te reo Māori name.

    Te Hā Noa is a name gifted by mana whenua. Te Hā is about life’s essence – to breathe – and Noa is about being free in the journey to experience your surroundings.

    Mana whenua also guided the design of the new terraced tree pits, referencing the geology and forms of Tāmaki Makaurau.

    Tree pits are designed to support the city’s stormwater drainage system. Surface rainwater disperses into the pits, where it irrigates the trees and filters water before it flows to the sea. They are also designed to keep the trees safe from heavy equipment and vehicles and allow them to flourish for years to come.

    By the end of May people will see the area finished, with uplighting of trees and almost 600 new plants greening the gardens at street level.

    There are 16 benefits of trees cited in Auckland Council’s Urban Ngahere (Forest) Strategy.

    Here are four:  

    • The cooling effect of trees, as a result of evapo-transpiration, reduces the urban heat island effectand enhances resilience to an increasing number of hot days (>25°C), one of the projected impacts of climate change. In simple terms, it’s a process where a plant cools itself by sweating water vapour through the pores in its leaves, lowering the temperature of the air.

    • Trees reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere through sequestering carbon in new growth. One tonne of carbon stored in wood is equivalent to removing 3.67 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere.

    • Trees improve air quality by removing air pollutants. A 2006 study estimated that Auckland’s urban trees remove 1320 tonnes of particulates, 1230 tonnes of nitrogen dioxide and 1990 tonnes of ozone.

    • Studies have shown that trees intercept around 15% of the rain that falls on their canopy, depending on a tree’s species and architecture.

    In time, Te Hā Noa will form a green link across the city, linking two much-loved city parks – Rangipuke / Albert Park and Waikōkota / Victoria Park.

    Read more about the completion of the first section of Victoria Street – between Elliott Street and Queen Street at OurAuckland.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Southwestern Motorway

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are at the scene of a serious single-vehicle crash on the Southwestern Motorway, northbound, between the Onehunga Harbour Rd on-ramp and the Queenstown Rd off-ramp.

    Traffic management is in place. 

    Motorists should avoid the area or expect delays. 

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delays on the Auckland network

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists should expect delays on parts of the Auckland motorway network this morning.

    Emergency services are responding to a two-truck collision on the Northern Motorway, near the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

    Southbound traffic is being impacted this morning, with some lanes closed while the scene is cleared.

    Fortunately no injuries have been reported.

    Crews will work as quickly as possible to clear the scene, however motorists should expect delays on their commute this morning.

    This is in addition to an earlier serious crash this morning further south, on the South-Western Motorway near Onehunga.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 2 blocked, Waiotahe

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 2 is blocked at Waiotahe, west of Ōpōtiki, due to a serious crash.

    It happened at the intersection with Baird Road about 5:35am, and involved two vehicles.

    Indications are that one person is seriously injured.

    Diversions are in place and motorists are asked to delay travel if possible.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Leads Coalition Urging Supreme Court to Strike Down Hawaii’s Unconstitutional Public Carry Ban

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Leads Coalition Urging Supreme Court to Strike Down Hawaii’s Unconstitutional Public Carry Ban

    BOISE — Attorney General Raúl Labrador of Idaho and Attorney General Austin Knudsen of Montana filed an amicus brief urging the United States Supreme Court to uphold the constitutional right to bear arms and strike down Hawaii’s sweeping restrictions on lawful public carry. The brief, filed in Wolford v. Lopez, asks the Court to reverse a Ninth Circuit ruling that upheld Hawaii’s near-total ban on carrying firearms in public.
    In 2023, Hawaii enacted Act 52—a direct response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen—imposing unprecedented restrictions on where law-abiding citizens may carry firearms. The law prohibits the carrying of firearms, presumptively or outright, on the vast majority of publicly accessible land in Hawaii, including parks, beaches, and nearly all private property unless the owner gives prior express consent. The result is a comprehensive public carry ban that stands in direct conflict with the Second Amendment and the Supreme Court’s clear guidance in Bruen.
    The Ninth Circuit’s decision to uphold Hawaii’s law creates a direct split with the Second Circuit’s ruling in Antonyuk v. James, which struck down similar restrictions enacted by New York. Idaho and Montana’s brief warns that this circuit conflict threatens to leave millions of Americans’ constitutional rights unprotected based solely on geography—an outcome the Supreme Court must resolve.
    “The right to bear arms belongs to the people—not because government permits it, but because government is bound to protect it,” said Idaho Attorney General Labrador. “Hawaii’s law turns that principle on its head, treating a guaranteed liberty as a regulated privilege. No government—federal or state—has the authority to take what it never had the power to give. If the courts do not intervene, this approach will become a blueprint for restricting the rights of law-abiding gun owners nationwide. Idaho will not stand by. We will fight to uphold the Constitution and defend the freedoms it was established to protect.”
    “Bruen guarantees that the Second Amendment is not a second-class right,” said Montana Attorney General Knudsen. “The Ninth Circuit’s flawed decision puts that guarantee at risk. I hope the Supreme Court will take up the case and reverse the decision to reassure Montanans and Americans that our right to keep and bear arms will not be eroded. I will not stand idly by as Americans’ rights are in jeopardy. My office will continue to fight to uphold the Second Amendment.”
    The coalition’s brief explains that Hawaii’s restrictions lack any grounding in the historical tradition the Supreme Court requires under Bruen. At the time of the founding, citizens were free to carry arms in public spaces and onto private property open to the public—unless expressly forbidden by the owner. Hawaii’s law inverts that tradition, treating public carriage as a privilege to be denied rather than a right to be protected.
    The coalition cautions that unless the Court intervenes, other states may pursue similar legislative ploys to undermine constitutional protections through regulation and presumption. The amici urge the Court to reaffirm that the Second Amendment cannot be regulated out of existence.
    The other 25 members of the coalition are Attorneys General Steve Marshall (Alabama), Treg Taylor (Alaska), Tim Griffin (Arkansas), James Uthmeier (Florida), Christopher Carr (Georgia), Theodore Rokita (Indiana), Brenna Bird (Iowa), Kris Kobach (Kansas), Russell Coleman (Kentucky), Liz Murrill (Louisiana), Lynn Finch (Mississippi), Andrew Bailey (Missouri), Michael Hilgers (Nebraska), John Formella (New Hampshire), Drew Wrigley (North Dakota), Dave Yost (Ohio), Gentner Drummond (Oklahoma), Alan Wilson (South Carolina), Marty Jackley (South Dakota), Ken Paxton (Texas), Derek Brown (Utah), John McCuskey (West Virginia), Bridget Hill (Wyoming), Warren Peterson (President of the Arizona Senate), and Steven Montenegro (Speaker of the Arizona House).
    Read the brief here.
    Read more from the Idaho Dispatch here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Alberta Next: Albertans to decide path forward for the province

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    Albertans have always been loyal, proud and generous Canadians.

    We love Canada. We have fought wars and died defending Canada. We have opened our doors wide for millions of our fellow Canadians searching for opportunity – many of whom stay and become Albertan, and many who return home to their native province. All have been welcomed with open arms.

    Our province has contributed hundreds of billions of dollars more to the federal treasury for use in other parts of the country than we’ll ever receive back in benefits. We have allowed this to occur because, quite frankly, we know how blessed our province is with an endowment of natural resources that no other country on earth possesses – and we want all of our friends, families and fellow Canadians across the country to benefit from it.

    We do not ask for special treatment or handouts.

    We just want to be free. Free to develop and export that incredible wealth of resources we have for the benefit of our families and future generations. Free to pursue opportunities with the ideals of entrepreneurship, hard work and innovation that have become synonymous with the name of our province. Freedom to choose how best to provide health care, education and other needed social services to our people – even if its done differently than what Ottawa has in mind.

    Strong and Free is more than just our provincial motto – it represents who we are and how we want to live as a people.

    And that is why Albertans are so frustrated with the direction of our country.

    For the last 10 years, successive Liberal Governments in Ottawa – supported by their New Democrat allies – have unleashed a tidal wave of laws, policies and political attacks aimed directly at Alberta’s free economy – and in effect – against the future and livelihoods of our people.

    They have blocked new pipelines with C-69, cancelled multiple oil and gas projects, and banned the very tanker ships needed to carry those resources to new markets.

    They have stacked an oil and gas production cap on top of a crippling industrial carbon tax, making new energy and agricultural projects economically impossible to pursue without massive subsidies from governments – which Ottawa has failed to provide and which our taxpayers cannot afford.

    This onslaught of anti-energy, anti-agriculture and anti-resource development policies have scared away global investment to the tune of over a half a trillion dollars – driving those investments and jobs out of Alberta and Canada to much more attractive investment climates in the United States, Asia and the Middle East.

    Having travelled much of the world these past few years, it is evident that Canada is not viewed as an attractive place to invest in resource development, manufacturing or agriculture because of our high carbon taxes, endless red tape, and the uncertainty and chaos brought about by these and other federal government policies.

    As a result, Canada has fallen to dead last in economic growth among industrialized nations. The world looks at us like we have lost our minds. We have the most abundant and accessible natural resources of any country on earth – and yet we landlock them, sell what we do produce to a single customer to the south of us, while enabling polluting dictatorships to eat our lunch.

    For Albertans – these attacks on our province by our own federal government have become unbearable.

    As I said, these policies have cost Albertans roughly a half a trillion dollars in investment – and that loss is growing daily. It has and will continue to cost hundreds of thousands of jobs, robbing countless Albertans and other Canadians of their means of providing for their families. It has cost us a decade of opportunities and tens of billions in lost royalties that could have been invested in the health, education, infrastructure and social services Albertans and Canadians need.

    And what’s worse, Ottawa continues onward with more destructive policies.

    They have imposed net-zero mandates on our natural gas-based power grid causing investment in reliable generation from natural gas to flee, thereby endangering the future stability of our power grid, and risking future blackouts and spikes in electricity costs for Alberta families and businesses.

    They have attacked our food producers with methane taxes, onerous regulations on fertilizer, electric vehicle mandates, and many other destructive policies that have hiked costs on our farmers and ranchers, and driven billions of dollars of investment in agriculture elsewhere.

    They have interfered in provincial jurisdiction time and again. From taking over the regulation of plastics, to mandating how we operate child care, health care and dental care, to harassing law abiding firearms owners, to dozens of other examples of unconstitutional interference.

    And of course, Alberta has fought back. We always have and always will.

    We passed the Sovereignty within a United Canada Act and have invoked it twice to protect Albertans as best we can from the effects of the net zero electricity regulations and energy production cap.

    We have beat the feds in court on both the “no new pipelines law” C-69 and their attempt to regulate plastics (though they have ignored both court decisions to this point) — and we have just announced a court challenge on the net zero electricity regulations and are further preparing to also challenge the energy production cap.

    We continue to do all in our power to counteract Ottawa’s chill on investment in energy, agriculture and our other job sectors through various tax cuts and incentive programs which greatly strain the provincial budget.

    We have fought these attacks from Ottawa furiously and have won some important battles, but the lost opportunities, jobs and futures of so many Albertans are costly and demoralizing — as are the growing number of eastern politicians who choose to openly demonize and target Alberta for political gain.

    That is why a large majority of Albertans are so deeply frustrated with the results of last week’s federal election.

    It’s not that our preferred candidate and party lost. That happens in a democracy.

    It’s that the same Liberal government with almost all of the same Ministers responsible for our nation’s inflation, housing, crime and budget crisis, and that oversaw the attack on our provincial economy for the past 10 years – have been returned to power.

    Now, as we all know, one thing has changed. We have a new Prime Minister. And I will say that in my first conversation with him since the election, he had some promising things to say about changing the direction of his government’s anti-resource policies.

    However, Albertans are more of a “actions speak louder than words” kind of people.

    So while I will in good faith work with Prime Minister Mark Carney on unwinding the mountain of destructive legislation and policies that have ravaged our provincial and national economies this past decade —- until I see tangible proof of real change —- Alberta will be taking steps to better protect ourselves from Ottawa.

    As a start, I will soon appoint a Special Negotiating Team to represent our province in negotiations with the federal government on the following reforms requested by our province. We hope this will result in a binding agreement that Albertans can have confidence in – call it an Alberta Accord if you will.

    First, Alberta requires guaranteed corridor and port access to tidewater off the Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic coasts for the international export of Alberta oil, gas, critical minerals and other resources in amounts supported by the free market, rather than by the dictates and whims of Ottawa.

    Every province in the country, other than Alberta and Saskatchewan, have coastal port access, and no province needs it more given the size and value of our resources. This will benefit all Canadians to the tune of trillions of dollars of economic activity including billions for First Nations’ partners.

    Second. The federal government must end all federal interference in the development of provincial resources by repealing the no new pipelines law, C-69, the oil tanker ban, the net zero electricity regulations, the oil and gas emissions cap, the net zero vehicle mandate, and any federal law or regulation that purports to regulate industrial carbon emissions, plastics, or the commercial free speech of energy companies. These laws are destroying investment confidence and costing Canada and Alberta hundreds of billions in investments each year.

    They need to go.

    Third. The federal government must refrain from imposing export taxes or restrictions on the export of Alberta resources without the consent of the Government of Alberta. Frankly, all provinces should be given that same respect for their resources.

    And fourth, the federal government must provide to Alberta the same per capita federal transfers and equalization as is received by the other three largest provinces – Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia. We have no issue with Alberta continuing to subsidize smaller provinces with their needs, but there is no excuse for such large and powerful economies like Ontario, Quebec, B.C. or Alberta to be subsidizing one another. That was never the intent of equalization, and it needs to end.

    If these points can be agreed to by the federal government, I am convinced it will not only make Alberta and Canada an infinitely stronger and more prosperous country, but will eliminate the doubts a growing number of Albertans feel about the future of Alberta in Canada.

    While these negotiations with Ottawa are ongoing, our government will appoint, and I will chair, the ‘Alberta Next’ panel. This panel will be composed of some of our best and brightest judicial, academic and economic minds, to join with me in a series of in-person and online town halls to discuss Alberta’s future in Canada, and specifically, what next steps can we take as a province to better protect Alberta from any current or future hostile policies of the federal government. Details of the membership and scope of that panel will also be released in the coming weeks.

    After the work of the panel is finished, it is likely we will place some of the more popular ideas discussed with the panel to a provincial referendum so all Albertans can vote on them sometime in 2026.

    To be clear from the outset, our government will not be putting a vote on separation from Canada on the referendum ballot; however, if there is a successful citizen-led referendum petition that is able to gather the requisite number of signatures requesting such a question to be put to a referendum, our government will respect the democratic process and include that question on the 2026 provincial referendum ballot as well.

    I also want to state unequivocally that as Premier, I am entirely committed to protecting, upholding and honouring the inherent rights of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. Therefore, ANY citizen-initiated referendum question MUST not violate the constitutional rights of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, and must uphold and honour Treaties 6, 7 and 8 should any referendum question ever pass. This is non-negotiable.

    Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – that being separation.

    We are well aware that there is large and growing number of Albertans that have lost hope in Alberta having a free and prosperous future as a part of Canada. Many of these Albertans are organizing petitions to trigger a citizen-initiated referendum, as I mentioned earlier. The vast majority of these individuals are not fringe voices to be marginalized or vilified – they are loyal Albertans. They are quite literally our friends and neighbours who have just had enough of having their livelihoods and prosperity attacked by a hostile federal government. They are frustrated – and they have every reason to be.

    I want to talk directly to those Albertans.

    I know how frustrated so many of you have become with our country and the feeling of having politicians living thousands of miles away passing laws and rules that have cost you or your loved ones, jobs, careers, dreams, and opportunities for a brighter future.

    As most Albertans know, I have repeatedly stated I do not support Alberta separating from Canada. I personally still have hope that there is a path forward for a strong and sovereign Alberta within a united Canada. Let me explain a few reasons why.

    First, Alberta already has and can continue to use the Alberta Sovereignty within a United Canada Act and other measures to fight through much of Ottawa’s damaging interference and prosper in spite of it. We will also continue our successful battles against these unconstitutional and damaging policies in both the Courts of law and public opinion.

    But there is more to be hopeful for. This past election demonstrated that attitudes across the country, especially among young people, are changing with respect to understanding the importance of free markets and the development of our natural resources. People are pushing back against government censorship and ‘cancel culture’. More and more Canadians understand that in order for Canada to play a role in ending conflict and poverty at home and abroad – our country must become strong again. And we can only do that by becoming an energy and economic superpower using the vast and unmatched energy, mineral resources and fertile lands of our country.

    85 per cent of Canadians in this last election voted for the two leaders promising to turn Canada into an energy superpower and to build resource corridors, including for oil and gas – while only 13 per cent voted for the fringe voices in the socialist NDP and Bloc parties and their extremist “leave it in the ground” policies.

    Obviously, we have a ways to go and it will take a lot of work to undo the damage caused by these last 10 years of Liberal/NDP rule, but that clear change in public opinion gives me hope. I think it should give all Albertans hope

    Now, none of us know what the future holds should Ottawa, for whatever reason, continue to attack our province as they have done over the last decade. Ultimately that will be for Albertans to decide and I will accept their judgement.

    But I am going to do everything within my power to negotiate a fair deal for Alberta with the new Prime Minister. And while doing so, our government will work with Albertans on various initiatives to better protect Alberta’s provincial sovereignty and economy from Ottawa should those negotiations fail, and the economic attacks continue.

    Alberta didn’t start this fight, but rest assured…we will finish it…and come out of it stronger and more prosperous than ever.

    In closing, I want Albertans to know how important it will be, in the coming months, for our province to be steadfast, unified and to refrain from heeding the voices of those seeking to divide Albertans against one another.

    There will be many outside – and even inside this province – who will try and sow fear and anger among us. They will seek to divide us into different camps for the purpose of marginalizing and vilifying one other based on differing opinions. Effectively pitting neighbour against neighbour — and Albertan against Albertan.

    That is not the Alberta way. It’s not who we are. And it’s not who I am.

    There are thousands of Albertans that are so frustrated with the last ten years of Ottawa’s attacks on their friends’ and family’s livelihoods that they feel Alberta would be stronger and more prosperous as an independent nation. That is an understandable and justifiable feeling to have even if we disagree on what to do about it. These Albertans are not traitors, nor should they ever be treated as such. They just love their province and family and want a better future than the one Ottawa is offering right now.

    There are also thousands of Albertans that are so attached and loyal to their identity as Canadians that there is nothing Ottawa has done to our province that would justify Alberta leaving Canada. Its not that they think everything is perfect or we’ve been treated fairly – they just believe being part of Canada, despite those problems, has much more value than leaving. These individuals are also loyal Albertans and should never be accused of being anything less.

    And then there are hundreds of thousands of Albertans that probably feel a lot like I do —- that are deeply frustrated with the way our province has been mistreated and damaged by successive federal Liberal governments and are not willing to tolerate the status quo any longer. But these Albertans still believe there is a viable path to a strong, free and sovereign Alberta empowered to succeed and prosper within a united Canada. A Canada where the federal government actually honours the constitution, upholds provincial rights, and empowers provinces to pursue their unique potentials as their people so choose.

    Regardless of what each of us believes about this issue, or what path we think is best; we, as Albertans, must be able to respectfully debate and discuss these issues with our friends, family members and neighbours.

    I know that if we do that — in the end, our province will find the best solution for this immense challenge we face, and come out of it stronger and more free than ever.

    I’ll always put my faith in Albertans to find that right path. I trust you.

    May our beautiful Alberta always remain forever strong and free.

    Related information

    • A media availability will follow on May 6 at 12 p.m.
    • Alberta Next: Albertans to decide path forward for the province

    Multimedia

    • Watch the Premier’s address to Albertans

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: More than 440 km of the road network will be updated in 2025 under the Victory Street project

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    In the year of the 80th anniversary of the Victory, repair work and development of road infrastructure are underway on sections of regional and local roads named in honor of heroes or events of the Great Patriotic War, as well as leading to monuments and memorials dedicated to the events of those years. The work is being carried out under the national project “Infrastructure for Life” and other programs with federal and regional funding. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “On the eve of one of the most important holidays for our country – Victory Day – the “Victory Street” project is launched in Russian regions, aimed at preserving the memory of the feat of war heroes and home front workers. In the year of the 80th anniversary of Victory, we will bring about 180 objects named in honor of the heroes or events of the Great Patriotic War to a standard state. Their total length will be more than 440 km. I would like to note that such objects are always given special attention, including in order to preserve the memory of the feat of the soldiers of the Soviet Army for many years to come,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    Let us recall that in 2020, on the eve of the 75th anniversary of the end of the Great Patriotic War, a number of Russian regions came forward with the initiative to hold a patriotic campaign “Victory Street” in the country.

    “This idea was, of course, supported by the Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation. Then, in 2020, the “Victory Street” project became one of the largest in the country. It involved 83 Russian regions – participants in the national project “Safe High-Quality Roads”. As a result, about 400 objects were updated. Each of these streets preserves the memory of the heroes of our country,” emphasized Minister of Transport Roman Starovoit.

    An important task of the Victory Street project is to increase the attention of Russian residents to the history of the country, the feat of the Soviet people – both on the battlefield and in the rear. In this way, a spiritual and moral position, a sense of involvement in the history of the Fatherland, and responsibility for the future of Russia are formed.

    “During the Great Patriotic War, road workers made a special contribution to the common cause, helping on the front lines and in the rear. During the years of fighting the Nazi onslaught, workers maintained 359 thousand km of military highways in difficult conditions, restored about 100 thousand km, and also laid more than 5 thousand km of transport arteries with hard surfaces. Today, we continue their work. Streets named in honor of the heroes and events of the Great Patriotic War do not just connect infrastructure facilities, but connect generations, embodying the memory of everyone who, sometimes at the cost of their lives, brought Victory closer,” said Igor Kostyuchenko, Deputy Head of the Federal Road Agency.

    Thus, in St. Petersburg in 2025, under the national project, the asphalt concrete pavement will be replaced, sidewalks and curbstones will be restored on a 4-kilometer section of Savushkina Street. Hero of the Soviet Union fighter pilot Alexander Petrovich Savushkin made 373 combat sorties on LaGG-3 and P-39 “Airacobra” fighters, shot down 18 enemy aircraft in 49 battles, defending Leningrad from Nazi air raids. In addition, Savushkina Street leads to the Military Pilots Square, where the monument to the Heroes of the Soviet Union is located.

    Another 3.2 km will be brought up to standard on Morskaya Embankment. This is a busy street, where more than 5,000 cars pass daily. On Morskaya Embankment there is a monument to the cruiser Kirov, one of the symbols of the defense of Leningrad during the war and blockade. In addition, more than 2 km of Moskovsky Prospekt (from Kuznetsovskaya Street to Ligovsky Prospekt) will be renovated in the hero city. The repair section leads to Moskovsky Victory Park.

    Fierce battles took place in the Oryol region during the Great Patriotic War. Thanks to the Victory Street project, everyone will be able to honor the memory of those who fought for their homeland. In the Kolpnyansky District, 5.4 km of the Droskovo-Kolpna-Ushakovo highway will be renovated. It leads to the Field of Soldiers’ Glory. Work will also take place on a 9.6 km section of the Glazunovka-Maloarkhangelsk-Kolpna-Dolgoye highway. This is the route to the memorial in the village of Yakovka. Here, in a mass grave, lie the soldiers who heroically defended their native village from the Nazi invaders.

    In the Moscow Region, six road sections associated with the events and names of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War will be repaired. In particular, more than 3 km of the Ostashkovskoye Highway in Mytishchi will be replaced. The Federal War Memorial “Pantheon of Defenders of the Fatherland” is located next to the repair section. Repairs will also be carried out on Bosov Street in Istra. It is named after Hero of the Soviet Union Alexey Petrovich Bosov, and a monument to him has been erected in the Central Square of the city. For the courage and heroism shown in battle, Alexey Petrovich was awarded the Order of Lenin three times, the last time posthumously in February 1942.

    Roads to places of military glory and monuments to liberator soldiers are repaired annually. In 2023, under the national project “Safe High-Quality Roads”, work was completed, including on several sections of the Volokolamsk Highway. The road leads to the large memorial complex “Frontier of Glory” in the village of Lenino, before entering Snegiri. In December 1941, Snegiri was the line where the German troops advancing on Moscow were stopped. The Nazis entered the village on the night of November 30, 1941. On December 2 and 4, they attacked the village of Lenino, but were repelled by Soviet troops. As a result of heavy fighting, more than 6.5 thousand people died here.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Golden votes to roll back California EV mandates that could take options away from Mainers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) voted this week to roll back several waivers from the Environmental Protection Agency that allowed California to set aggressive, unrealistic new electric vehicle (EV) standards that would effectively ban the sale of gas-powered vehicles in several states across the country, potentially including Maine.

    “Maine families and small businesses should be able to buy vehicles that meet their needs, whether that’s a diesel truck or an EV,” Golden said. “The EV market is growing steadily and will continue to grow without new regulations that take options away from people looking to purchase their next vehicle.” 

    Golden voted today in favor of three resolutions under the Congressional Review Act, which allows Congress to overturn federal agency rules. Each resolution involved EPA waivers approved by the Biden Administration under the Clean Air Act (CAA), which allows California to adopt more aggressive emissions reduction standards than the floor set by federal law.

    The CAA permits other states to adopt California’s emissions rules, thereby allowing California to set new standards for the rest of the country. Currently, there are 17 other states (including Maine) that have historically sought to adhere to California’s emissions standards.

    The resolutions included: 

    • H.J.Res. 88, voted on today, which would revoke an EPA waiver allowing California to require all new passenger vehicles sold to be zero emissions by 2035. The bill passed in a bipartisan vote of 246-164.
    • H.J.Res. 87, voted on yesterday, which would revoke an EPA waiver allowing California to require manufacturers to produce and sell increasing percentages of zero-emission trucks by 2035. The bill passed in a bipartisan vote of 231-191.
    • H.J.Res. 89, voted on yesterday, which would revoke an EPA waiver allowing California to reduce the permissible nitrogen oxide emissions from medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The bill passed in a bipartisan vote of 225-196.

    Each resolution will have to pass the Senate and be signed by the president to repeal the respective waivers. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Affordability Actions in the FY26 Budget to Benefit Families

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul visited Kamil and Karolina Kolodziejczyk — parents of two children — on Long Island to discuss her affordability agenda in the Fiscal Year 2026 Executive Budget. The Governor highlighted her efforts to increase the child tax credit, expand child care access, issue New York State’s first-ever inflation refund checks, deliver a tax cut for middle-class and low-income New Yorkers, and provide free breakfast and lunch for every K-12 student in New York — all efforts to put more money back in families’ pockets.

    B-ROLL of the Governor meeting the Kolodziejczyk family is available to stream on Youtube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    VIDEO: The Governor’s conversation with the Kolodziejczyk family is available to stream on YouTube here and TV quality video is available here (h.264, mp4).

    AUDIO: The Governor’s conversation with the Kolodziejczyk family is available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s conversation with the Kolodziejczyk family is available below:

    Governor Hochul: But I just want to talk to you about some of the stresses that families are feeling now and — you’ve got the two little ones, 5-year-old and a 3-year-old.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yep. 3-year-old and a 5-year-old.

    Governor Hochul: And I know a 3-year-old. I have got a 3-year-old granddaughter now. She just had her birthday, so I know this age very well and I’m a mom, so it’s great to see this. But, what’s it like? I mean, you worry about grocery shopping and what’s it like when you have to go to the counter it all adds up? Are you seeing any — what’s it like?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Oh yeah. Everything got so expensive in a few years. This one was born five years ago, and that’s when COVID happened and lost the job, laid off and it got tough.

    Governor Hochul: How long were you laid off when COVID hit?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: I got laid off and I went and opened my own business with a chance and business, you know, going into HVAC.

    Governor Hochul: That was ambitious. How’s that going for you?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: It’s going well. It’s going well. Now especially in this weather; it got really, really warm lately, so people call — we’re doing installation service. When my second son was born, my wife had to take a week from work and stay-at-home because daycare got really expensive and the needs for the kids and everything.

    Governor Hochul: Same thing happened to me — when I had my job, my son was born and then child care was not really available. I just couldn’t find much child care and it was very expensive. And so, I just ended up staying home too. So we went from having two incomes — my husband was working for the government and we went and eliminated my income — and that was when I would go to the newspapers, and cut out the coupons, and go to the big-box stores and just, yeah; you load up the big cart, and buy the diapers in bulk, and paper towels, and toilet, detergent, dishwashing liquid.

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: Costco is my favorite.

    Governor Hochul: Costco. There a BJ’s. Or just even going to Walmart, but even those prices are going up, right?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah. I go get the water for a week or something. It’s $100, $20 and it goes in price. Water, drinks — pull up the cart and so, definitely the prices went up, you know?

    Governor Hochul: So you got hit with COVID —

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah.

    Governor Hochul: — lost your job, came back to work, inflation hits you..

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Inflation — the rate for the house, it’s over 6 percent.

    Governor Hochul: Yeah, yeah.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: So the payment —

    Governor Hochul: Interest rates were going up when you bought your house and then you have property taxes.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Taxes up. Yeah.

    Governor Hochul: Also, especially important here on Long Island is the state and local tax deduction — and back in 2017, that was eliminated by the president who’s in office now; that was a big tax increase for New Yorkers. New Yorkers right now are sending $12 billion because of losing the state and local tax reduction. So you’re not able to deduct all your taxes, are you?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: No, we’re over —

    Governor Hochul: You’re over the limit. So that’s money that you know you should have back in your pocket, not sending to the federal government. And that’s something that’s really a problem. So, have you ever had to make decisions about what not to buy? Like you want to do some —

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: I do want — like some of the little things for the children and even clothes for them, like do I need that?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Thank God we got two boys. So one after another saving too.

    Governor Hochul: They’re always outgrowing their clothes, aren’t they?

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: Yeah. It’s like every year, the whole — everything new for him, so. Thank God, Benjamin. But if it’s still not ripped, he could use it.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: They’re boys, you know? They’re (inaudible).

    Governor Hochul: They’re rough on clothes, boys, aren’t they? I know that, I know that. We used to get clothes at used clothing stores and put it on layaway. You can’t buy it right when you want to buy it so you put it aside and have to come get it later. So, you know, that’s hard. It’s hard.

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: It is hard, and like I said, I do cook at home so getting the groceries, everything we need — it’s a lot.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Obviously the vehicles, you got to get bigger because you got car seats with little kids.

    Governor Hochul: That’s right.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: If you had three kids, you got a problem because what are you going to do with it? You can’t put the three car seats in the back of the vehicle. Having a bigger family, you can’t even think of nowadays.

    Governor Hochul: Are you going to have a bigger family?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: No, it’s — you know.

    [Laughter]

    Governor Hochul: I didn’t want to pry.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: People that consider a bigger family, they have got to think twice, you know?

    Governor Hochul: Yeah, they do. Cost of child care, in some cases, is as much as a first year of college education in a public university or college. Right? I mean, it’s so much — such a big chunk out of family’s lives and so, we’re very focused on that. You know, everything you’re talking about is not unique to you, and a lot of it is out of your control — pandemic, and inflation, and now tariffs are making all the products that even go into the less expensive stores like Walmart or Target; those products are coming from China and there’s now additional costs on them because of the tariffs. So it’s just all adding up. And, I know you feel it, right?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah, a hundred percent. Can of all the awful things that we wish —

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: It’s going up.

    Governor Hochul: Yeah. And the bills, utility bills and everything. Well, we’re focused on that in government to put you on my Budget. I just wrapped it up and I think it’ll be done another day officially — I’ve been done with my priorities for a little while. I really wanted to figure out a way to put money back in people’s pockets, and it’s people like you — I’ve been thinking about that. Again, none of this you asked for; you came here in search of the American Dream all the way from Poland — that joy of home ownership, which is becoming too rare for people, especially here in Long Island because it’s so expensive. You’re raising your boys here and that’s all good, but sometimes it all feels like it just comes crashing down.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah, every month, the first, you’ve got to pay the mortgage, there’s a tax bill comes in, there’s insurance, repairs around the house. So, yeah, it’s definitely —

    Governor Hochul: So my goal is to put more money back in your pockets. I talked about my priorities back when I announced my Budget. I said, “Your family is my fight,” as your executive — families that I’m thinking about. So we have found a way, working with the Legislature, to first of all have a middle class tax cut, which will benefit about 80 percent of people on Long Island. About 1.3 million will be able to get part of this tax cut. We also are looking at families like yours, and we just talked about how expensive they are, they outgrow everything. So for families with four-year-olds or under, we’ll give a $1,000 direct rebate to you, and for the kids that are over four, $500.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Wow, that’s great.

    Governor Hochul: Sound good?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Yeah, we could definitely use it. Definitely use it.

    Governor Hochul: What would you do with that?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Oh, definitely we are going to spend it on first needs — stuff that is needed for the kids. And the summer is coming so we, obviously you want to spend some time with the kids. So maybe that will let us take some time off and maybe go spend more time with the kids doing a little bit, out of trouble.

    Governor Hochul: That’s not all. We have the inflation rebate. What does that mean? Because you paid so much more over the last few years because everything was higher, we collected more at the state level because of the sales tax. Right? So sales tax — we collected more so we had this surplus there, which some would say we should spend on other things, or some would say we should just stash away. And I said, “No, this is not our money. It belongs to you because you had to pay more. You didn’t ask for that.” And so, the money we accumulated there we were able to give a family like yours an additional $400.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Wow.

    Governor Hochul: So $400 there, and in school districts where they don’t cover the school lunches and breakfast, we’re going to pay for that so children that are struggling and their parents don’t have the money to cover it, they won’t feel a stigma. The kids that have to get it subsidized will be able to get it covered. That’s about $1,600 a year that you can either pay for the school lunch with that, or you can — you won’t have to pay this, it’s free — or you can just not have to make the sandwiches anymore. You won’t have to buy the peanut butter and jelly and all those things that are part of your shopping basket that you don’t have to buy now, and all the little snacks. So when your kids are both school aged, that’ll be $3,200 that you don’t have to spend right there

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: That’s great. That’s big.

    Governor Hochul: And then a tax rate — the largest middle class tax rate decrease in 70 years. So we’re going to work cutting middle class taxes, the direct rebates, the Child Tax Credit, covering school lunches and breakfasts, and we have calculated, for a family like yours, it should add up to about $5,000 back in your pockets. So that’s the whole goal of my Budget. Was public safety, keeping everybody safe, but also realizing —

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: There’s a middle class that needs help.

    Governor Hochul: There’s a middle class that needs help, and we get that, and we want you to keep being successful and not have all these stresses that you have. I can’t take them away from you, but maybe just help a little bit. Right?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Of course.

    Karolina Kolodziejczyk: I really appreciate it.

    Governor Hochul: Anything else you need me to know as I head back to Albany and finish up our work?

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: No, we really appreciated that you remember about the middle class because there’s so many of us around here, not only us, but there’re people that really need that help.

    Governor Hochul: Yeah, people come here, especially our immigrants, people who are living here because you want to contribute and have a better life and build a business and expand that. When I come back someday you’re going to have a big business, lots of employees working all over Long Island.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Hopefully. Hopefully.

    Governor Hochul: Well, Kamil and Karolina, it has been a pleasure just to just catch up with you a little bit, and this is a great reminder to me of why we do what we do and reminds me who we’re fighting for.

    Kamil Kolodziejczyk: Thank you. We appreciate that you remembered and took your time to come and visit us.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Tuberville Discusses Space, Defense Budget with additional DoD Nominees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with Daniel Zimmerman, Justin Overbaugh, and Matthew Lohmeier, President Trump’s nominees to be the Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, and Under Secretary of the Air Force, respectively.
    Excerpts from Senator Tuberville’s conversation with the nominees can be found below, and the full conversation can be found on YouTube or Rumble.
    ON CENTCOM TARGETING HOUTHIS AS FTO
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, gentlemen, for [your] willingness to serve. Mr. Zimmerman, since March 15th, CENTCOM forces have conducted a sustained campaign targeting the Houthi terrorist organization in Yemen to restore freedom of navigation and American deterrence. As of April 27th, CENTCOM has struck over 800 targets. These targets have killed hundreds of Houthi fighters and numerous Houthi leaders, including senior Houthi missile and UAV officials. Mr. Zimmerman, in your assessment, have U.S. operations against the Houthis been a success?”
    ZIMMERMAN: “Senator, I support the administration’s forcible approach toward the Houthis beginning in the early days of the administration with the Executive Order that called for the elimination of the threat of the Houthis with allies and designated them as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. I don’t think I have access to the classified information that I would like to have to make an assessment about the efficacy of these strikes, but I support what the administration is trying to do.”
    ON MSIC IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Mr. Overbaugh, one of the organizations you will help oversee if you are confirmed is the Missile and Space Intelligence Center—we call MSIC—which is a component of DIA and located in my state [in] Huntsville, Alabama. MSIC provides a world-class analysis on the performance of foreign weapons systems, which is critical to ensuring our warfighters dominate the battlefield against our adversaries. Mr. Overbaugh, are you familiar with MSIC and MSIC’s analysis, and if so, can you talk a little bit about how important this mission is?”
    OVERBAUGH: “Senator, I am familiar with MSIC and particularly their role in feeding quality intelligence into other entities like DIA to ensure that we have an accurate threat picture. I think even more important is the potential for MSIC to play a key role to ensure we understand the key adversarial threat as it relates to ensuring that our Golden Dome is as effective as it possibly can be.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Have you had the opportunity to visit MSIC headquarters in Huntsville?”
    OVERBAUGH: “Huntsville, yes. MSIC, no.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Hopefully you get to soon. Thank you.”
    ON SUPPORTING FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AT DOD
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Lohmeier, you have an absolutely outstanding unique career path as a military officer. Thank you for your service. You’ve got a breadth of experience in both Air Force and Space Force, which is very uncommon, but none of those experiences are with managing large budgets. Why should you be trusted now with such a heavy responsibility at a time when we are taking [fiscal] responsibility more seriously—thank goodness—than ever before, and while there is a growing demand from the American people that we have a clean audit of the defense department?”
    LOHMEIER: “Thanks, Senator. I’m glad that I get to readdress this. While it’s true that I don’t personally have extensive experience with a large budget in a large organization or acquisition experience, I have sound judgment. I’ve demonstrated it throughout my life. I’m a fast learner. Secretary Meink, if he’s confirmed, has demonstrated that you can pass 16 or 17 clean audits at the National Reconnaissance Office. He’ll be a phenomenal leader to work with on this problem in the Department of the Air Force. What I can say is that we’ve got exceptional professionals who’ve been trying administration after administration to solve our problems—our budget problems, our acquisition problems in the Department of the Air Force—and many of them have had extensive acquisition and budgeting experience, but that doesn’t mean you’re able to solve the problems well. And so, if confirmed, what I can commit to this committee and to the American people is that I’m interested in making data-driven decisions. I’m interested in exercising keen judgement and discernments about these budget decisions, and coming to the right decisions that I believe the American people would be grateful for and trust—and doing that in concert with Secretary Meink and in support of the President’s priorities and in support of the Secretary of Defense’s priorities.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, and your knowledge will be very important moving into space. You have a lot of experience in that area. We look forward to working with you in that area because as we know, it is going to be a much, much more important part of our military in the very near future. Thank you, gentlemen. Look forward to confirming you.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Crikey, ChatGPT’s gone bush! How AI is learning the art of Aussie slang

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ross Yates, Lecturer, Project Management, Edith Cowan University

    Shutterstock

    Ever tried to explain why a sausage would be referred to as a “snag” while overseas, or why the toilet is the “dunny”? If you found this challenging, spare a thought for large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT, which have to contend with slang terms from all over the world.

    Is it possible for AI to decipher the strange “code” that is Australian slang, given all the nuance and cultural references loaded into it?

    Cracking the code

    LLMs don’t “understand” language like we do. Rather, they are trained on massive quantities of online text data (including websites, news articles and books) to learn patterns between words. They can then mimic these patterns to produce human-like responses.

    So it follows that unless AI systems can mingle with people in informal real-world settings – or can access TV shows such as Kath and Kim – they’re unlikely to grasp the finer points of our real-world conversations.

    Take words such as “cooked” and “random”, which can have different meanings in different contexts. Or consider the phrase “flat out like a lizard drinking”. What could it mean? Is the speaker comparing themselves to a thirsty reptile sprawled out under a dripping tap?

    The phrase actually refers to being very busy, by using the visual metaphor of a lizard’s fast-moving tongue. While an AI may not make this connection, many people living in Australia will have a lifetime of experience that helps them understand the message being conveyed.

    To further complicate matters, Aussie slang continues to evolve, and doesn’t always follow the rules of grammar and structure.

    Slang phrases tend to follow a looser sentence structure and are often filled with idioms, metaphors, abbreviations and culturally-specific humour. Australian language expert Roland Sussex estimates we use more than 5,000 abbreviations and diminutives.

    Slang also changes from one generation to the next. For instance, one 2010 study suggests older Australians are more likely to shorten words with an “ie” or “o” sound, such as “truckie” instead of “truck driver” and “ambo” instead of ambulance. Young Australians, meanwhile, are more likely to clip words or add an “s”, such as “mobes” for mobile phone.

    Are we there yet?

    Can AI chatbots learn Aussie slang? There is evidence many are already developing a broad understanding of the most frequently used terms and their current interpretations.

    For example, “give it a crack” and “mozzie” are both understood by Amazon’s Alexa.

    In 2021, Alexa partnered with local celebrity Sophie Monk and comedy duo The Inspired Unemployed to incorporate a large collection of Aussie slang into its vocabulary. The personal AI assistant even comes with an Aussie accent feature.

    Keeping up-to-date with changing Aussie slang terms, interpretations and regional dialects is a resource-intensive undertaking. Nonetheless, ChatGPT and other LLMs have made progress on this front, as this example shows:


    ChatGPT/screenshot

    Some chatbots, such as Perplexity AI, can scour the internet in real-time to try and find the best possible response to an input.

    Trying to peek inside

    LLMs continue to advance in their sophistication and capabilities. The most recent models such as GPT 4o, DeepSeek and Claude 3.7 even incorporate “thinking” to tackle more complex tasks by displaying an internal “thought process” before revealing their answer.

    However, research has shown many AI models, when prompted, won’t always reveal the full “chain-of-thought” they followed to arrive at a particular answer.

    This makes it harder for us to understand the models’ intentions and reasoning processes. So while they may be learning to adapt and respond to our niche slang and cultural references, in many ways they remain a black box.

    Beyond that, AI models can only regurgitate our own slang back to us. They can’t grasp why it is meaningful. Nor do they understand the important role slang plays in our society.

    Aussie slang is born out of millions of interactions and conversations – and LLMs can only ever respond to our use of it. To create it remains an entirely human endeavour.

    Ross Yates 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. Crikey, ChatGPT’s gone bush! How AI is learning the art of Aussie slang – https://theconversation.com/crikey-chatgpts-gone-bush-how-ai-is-learning-the-art-of-aussie-slang-253939

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: AI systems are built on English – but not the kind most of the world speaks

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Celeste Rodriguez Louro, Associate professor, Chair of Linguistics and Director of Language Lab, The University of Western Australia

    Reihaneh Golpayegani / Better Images of AI, CC BY

    An estimated 90% of the training data for current generative AI systems stems from English. However, English is an international lingua franca with about 1.5 billion speakers worldwide, and countless varieties.

    So whose English is today’s technology based on? The answer is primarily the English of mainstream America.

    This is no accident. Mainstream American English is entrenched in the digital infrastructure of the internet, in Silicon Valley’s corporate priorities, and in the data sets that fuel everything from autocorrect to AI-generated synthetic text.

    The consequence? AI models produce a monolithic version of English that erases variation, excludes minoritised and regional voices, and reinforces unequal power dynamics.

    The hegemony of mainstream American English

    The proliferation of American English online is a result of historical, economic and technological factors. The United States has been a dominant force in the development of the internet, content creation, and the rise of tech giants such as Google, Meta, Microsoft and OpenAI.

    Unsurprisingly, the linguistic norms embedded in products by these companies are overwhelmingly mainstream American.

    A recent study found that speakers of non-mainstream English were frustrated with the “homogeneity of AI accents” in voice-cloning and speech-generation technologies. One participant noted the predominant mainstream American accents in the voices available, stating the technologies had been built “with some other people in mind”.

    Mainstream varieties of English have long reigned as the “standard” against which other varieties are weighed.

    To take a single example from the US, linguistics research by John Baugh found that using different accents can determine people’s access to goods and services. When Baugh called different landlords about housing advertised in the local newspaper, using a mainstream accent procured him several housing inspections while using African-American and Latino accents did not.

    The prestige of mainstream English also underpins algorithmic decisions. The models behind tools such as autocorrect, voice-to-text, or even AI writing assistants are most often trained on mainstream American-centric data. This is often scraped from the web, where US-based media, forums and platforms dominate.

    This means variations in grammar, syntax and vocabulary from other varieties of English are systematically ignored, misinterpreted or outright “corrected”.

    Whose English is perceived as adding value?

    The stakes of this linguistic bias in favour of mainstream English become even higher when AI systems are deployed around the world.

    If an AI tutor fails to understand a Nigerian English construction, who bears the cost? If a job application written in Indian English is marked down by an AI-powered resume scanner, what are the consequences? If an Australian First Nations elder’s oral history is transcribed by voice recognition software and the system fails to capture culturally significant terms, what knowledge is lost or misrepresented?

    These questions are unfolding in real time as governments, educational institutions and corporations adopt AI technologies at scale.

    Englishes, not English

    The idea that there is one “good” or “correct” English is a myth. English is spoken in diverse forms across regions, shaped by local societies, cultures, histories and identities.

    As Noongar writer and educator Glenys Collard and I have written, Aboriginal English has “its own structure, rules and the same potential as any other linguistic variety” and the same is true of other forms of English.

    Indian English, for example, has lexical innovations such as “prepone” (the opposite of postpone). Singapore English (Singlish) integrates particles and syntactic features from Malay, Hokkien and Tamil.

    These are not “broken” forms of English. Each community where English was imposed has gone on to make English its own.

    English, and language more generally, is never static. It adapts to meet the needs of an ever-changing society and its speakers.

    Yet in AI development, this linguistic diversity is often treated as noise rather than signal. Non-standardised varieties are underrepresented in training datasets, excluded from annotation schemes, and rarely feature in evaluation benchmarks.

    This results in an AI ecosystem that is multilingual in theory, but monolingual in practice.

    Toward linguistic justice in AI

    So, what would it look like to build AI systems that recognise and respect a range of different forms of English?

    A shift in mindset is required, from prescribing “correct” language to including many varieties of language. What we need are systems that accommodate linguistic variation.

    This may involve supporting community-led efforts to document and digitise linguistic varieties on their own terms, bearing in mind not all linguistic varieties should be digitised or documented.

    Collaboration across disciplines is also important. It requires linguists, technologists, educators and community leaders working together to ensure AI development is grounded in principles of linguistic justice.

    The goal is not to “fix” language but to create technology that produces just outcomes. The focus should be on changing the technology, not the speaker.

    Embracing Englishes

    English has been a powerful vehicle of empire, but it has also been a tool of resistance, creativity and solidarity. Around the world, speakers have taken the language and made it their own. AI-enabled systems should be built to be as inclusive of this variability as possible.

    So next time your phone tells you to “correct” your spelling, or an AI chatbot misunderstands your phrasing, ask yourself: whose English is it trying to model? And whose English is being left out?

    Celeste Rodriguez Louro has received funding from the Australian Research Council. She is also working with Google on a project seeking to make voice-operated technologies inclusive for First Nations people in Australia.

    – ref. AI systems are built on English – but not the kind most of the world speaks – https://theconversation.com/ai-systems-are-built-on-english-but-not-the-kind-most-of-the-world-speaks-249710

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Charged with Multiple Counts of Involuntary Manslaughter Following Fatal High-Speed Rollover Crash

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona man has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and assault resulting in serious bodily injury following a fatal rollover crash that killed two people and injured two others.

    According to court documents, on the afternoon of November 14, 2024, emergency responders were dispatched to mile marker five on Navajo Route 54 after reports of a single-vehicle rollover. Investigators determined that Marvin Wauneka, 40, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was driving at excessive speeds of up to 95 MPH-while consuming alcohol. The crash resulted in the deaths of two occupants and left three others, including Wauneka, hospitalized with serious injuries.

    A witness at the scene reported seeing Wauneka exit the vehicle after the crash, and a bottle of vodka was recovered near one of the victims. Surviving passengers confirmed Wauneka was driving and drinking at the time of the crash. Wauneka’s blood alcohol content was measured at .298 upon arrival at the hospital. He has a prior record of multiple DWI offenses and failures to appear in state court.

    Wauneka is charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter and one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody trial. If convicted of the current charges, Wauneka faces up to 26 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.

    The Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Plantro Ltd. Releases Investor Presentation to Fellow Shareholders of Information Services Corporation and Extends Tender Offer to May 20, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Presentation Highlights the Opportunity to Unlock Value for All ISC Shareholders and Reverse Long-Term Decline

    Board Should Meaningfully Engage with Shareholders to Address Governance Issues at ISC

    Tender Offer to Acquire up to 14% of Class A Limited Voting Shares Extended Until 5:00pm Eastern Time on May 20, 2025

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Plantro Ltd. (“Plantro”) today announced that it has released a presentation to fellow shareholders of Information Services Corporation (TSX: ISC) (“ISC” or the “Company”). The presentation is available here and will be filed and made available on ISC’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Plantro’s investor presentation, which is based on publicly available facts and data, highlights that the economics of ISC are ‘upside down’ and do not benefit long-term shareholders. Since ISC’s IPO in 2013, there has been a clear troubling trend: expense growth has consistently outpaced revenue growth. When expenses consistently outpace revenue, it sets the stage for serious financial challenges over the long-term. This has resulted in a long-term financial decline and decreasing returns.

    Plantro has heard from other ISC shareholders who share its concerns that it is impossible for ISC to fund its ‘buy-to-grow’ strategy to meet its 2028 revenue and adjusted EBITDA targets through cash flow generation or without incurring significant new debt or issuing substantial equity. Plantro’s representatives have made multiple attempts to engage with the board of directors (the “Board”) and management of ISC to discuss these concerns and share Plantro’s plan to unlock near- and long-term value for shareholders. Unfortunately, the Board appears entrenched, as at every step, Plantro has been met with limited and perfunctory engagement.

    Plantro calls on the Board to:

    1. recommend in favour of its ongoing Tender Offer; and
    2. meet with Plantro this week to discuss the governance and business issues at ISC.

    Plantro anticipates that the Board, rather than address ISC’s governance issues, will further entrench and impugn Plantro’s motives. However, ISC shareholders should review the presentation, consider ISC’s current trajectory, and determine for themselves whether the status quo is acceptable.

    Plantro believes that ISC has an exciting opportunity to unlock significant upside for shareholders. However, it has become clear that ISC’s serious governance issues are holding the Company back.

    Tender Offer Extension & Elimination of Voting Tender

    Plantro also announced that it is extending and amending its ongoing all-cash tender offer (the “Tender Offer”) to acquire up to 2,593,142 class A limited voting shares (the “Class A Shares”) in the capital of ISC. Pursuant to the terms of a second amended and restated offer document dated May 5, 2025 (the “Offer Document”), Plantro has extended the expiry date of the Tender Offer to 5:00pm (Eastern Time) on May 20, 2025, unless the Tender Offer is further varied, extended, or withdrawn in accordance with the terms of the Offer Document (the “Expiry Time”).

    Despite the Board’s unwillingness to engage with Plantro, in order to be constructive, the Tender Offer has also been amended to eliminate the proxy voting tender, about which the Board had previously objected. Plantro is no longer asking shareholders to appoint representatives of Plantro as their nominee and proxy in respect of such shares owned by a shareholder. For clarity, Plantro is not soliciting shareholder proxies in respect of the upcoming 2025 annual meeting of shareholders of ISC scheduled to be held on May 13, 2025.

    Shareholders of ISC who have already validly deposited and not withdrawn their Class A Shares are not required to take any further action to accept the Tender Offer. No Class A Shares will be taken up and paid for by Plantro pursuant to the Tender Offer until after the Expiry Time.

    In addition to the above amendments, the size of the Tender Offer has been reduced by 184,100 Class A Shares to reflect that Plantro has acquired such number of shares in the market, all in compliance with the terms of the Tender Offer.

    Other than as set out herein, all other terms of the Tender Offer remain unchanged. Details of the Tender Offer, including instructions for tendering Class A Shares, are included in the Offer Document (the Offer Document and the second amended and restated letter of transmittal dated May 5, 2025, the “Offer Documents”). The Offer Documents will be filed and made available on ISC’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Shareholders of ISC should carefully read the Offer Documents prior to making a decision with respect to the Tender Offer.

    About Plantro

    Plantro is a privately held company, with an established track record of making successful investments in undervalued and high quality legal, financial, and information services businesses.

    Shareholder Questions

    Shareholders of ISC who have questions with respect to the Tender Offer, or who need assistance in depositing their Class A Shares, please contact the depositary or the information agent for the Tender Offer at the contact details below:

    Depositary: Odyssey Trust Company
    Toll Free (US & Canada): 1-888-290-1175
    Calls (All Regions): 587-885-0960
    Email: corp.actions@odysseytrust.com

    Information Agent: Carson Proxy
    North America Toll Free: 1-800-530-5189
    Local and Text: 416-751-2066
    Email: info@carsonproxy.com

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    This press release may contain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Specifically, certain statements contained in this press release, including without limitation statements regarding the Tender Offer, taking up and paying for Class A Shares deposited under the Tender Offer, the expiry of the Tender Offer, Plantro’s perceived governance failings at ISC, and Plantro’s plan to unlock near- and long-term value at ISC, contain “forward-looking information” and are prospective in nature. In some cases, but not necessarily in all cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as “plans”, “targets”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “an opportunity exists”, “is positioned”, “estimates”, “intends”, “assumes”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate” or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking statements.

    Statements containing forward-looking information are not based on historical facts, but rather on current expectations and projections about future events and are therefore subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the future outcomes expressed or implied by the statements containing forward-looking information.

    Although Plantro believes that the expectations reflected in statements containing forward-looking information herein made by it (and not, for greater certainty, any forward-looking statements attributable to the Company) are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Material factors or assumptions that were applied in formulating the forward-looking information contained herein include the assumption that the business and economic conditions affecting the Company’s operations will continue substantially in the current state, including, without limitation, with respect to industry conditions, general levels of economic activity, continuity and availability of personnel, local and international laws and regulations, foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, inflation, taxes, that there will be no unplanned material changes to the Company’s operations, and that the Company’s public disclosure record is accurate in all material respects and is not misleading (including by omission).

    Plantro cautions that the foregoing list of material factors and assumptions is not exhaustive. While these factors and assumptions are considered by Plantro to be appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances as of the date of this press release, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Many of these assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within the control of Plantro and there is no assurance that they will prove correct.

    Important facts that could cause outcomes to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information include, among other things, actions taken by the Company in respect of the Tender Offer, the content of subsequent public disclosures by the Company, the failure to satisfy the conditions to the Tender Offer, general economic conditions, legislative or regulatory changes and changes in capital or securities markets. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if the opinions, estimates or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results or future events might vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Although Plantro has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other risk factors not presently known to Plantro or that Plantro presently believes are not material that could also cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking information.

    Statements containing forward-looking information in this press release are based on Plantro’s beliefs and opinions at the time the statements are made, and there should be no expectation that such forward-looking information will be updated or supplemented as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise, and Plantro disclaims any obligation to do so, except as required by applicable law. All of the forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements.

    Media Contact: Gagnier Communications
    Riyaz Lalani / Dan Gagnier
    Email: Plantro@gagnierfc.com

    A PDF accompanying this announcement is available at http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/a15f0631-205c-4781-9fea-5ac936ebd5bd

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor has the chance to do something big in its second term. What policy reforms should it take on?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yee-Fui Ng, Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, Monash University

    Dan Breckwoldt/Shutterstock

    Labor’s historic election victory means the Albanese government has a rare opportunity to pursue a big, bold reform agenda. The scale of the victory all but guarantees a third term in office after the next election in 2028, and entrenches Anthony Albanese’s authority as prime minister.

    The government may opt to play it safe and limit its legislative agenda to the policies it took to the election. But if it was to chance its arm, which substantial changes should it pursue that could make a real difference to Australia’s long-term future?

    We asked three experts to nominate the top policy priorities for a second Albanese government. Here are their responses.

    Yee-Fui Ng

    Associate Professor of Law, Monash University

    Advancing Voice and Truth with Indigenous Australians should be a priority. This would build on the comprehensive rejection of the politics of division by the Australian people.

    After the defeat of the Voice referendum on Indigenous constitutional recognition, the Coalition reignited the culture wars by criticising “woke” schools and Peter Dutton’s attack on Indigenous welcome to country at Anzac Day ceremonies.

    But that negative message did not resonate with modern multicultural Australia, with its diverse population and identities. Anthony Albanese and Penny Wong’s victory speeches on Saturday night emphasised a kinder and more inclusive politics, where all Australians are recognised and no one is left behind.

    The Labor government now has a strong mandate to take more significant action on Indigenous issues. Aboriginal people experience higher rates of incarceration, and significant disparities in health, education and employment compared to non-Indigenous Australians. Reform measures could be introduced through legislation, rather than by trying to change the constitution.

    Closing the gap and revisiting Voice and Truth should be a priority for the second Albanese government.
    ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock

    Another pressing reform is bolder action on climate change. There is a growing urgency to tackle the effects of global warming, with an increase in environmental degradation and natural disasters globally.

    Peter Dutton’s proposal to build seven nuclear reactors on Australian soil was comprehensively repudiated at the election.

    European countries have harnessed the potential of regenerative energies, with the proliferation of wind farms and electric cars. Australia needs to lift its game and be on the same path towards a more sustainable future.

    We are custodians of the Earth for future generations. It is incumbent on the Labor government to put forward a stronger agenda for a cleaner, more liveable planet.

    Helen Hodgson

    Professor at Curtin Law School and Curtin Business School, Curtin University

    Second terms are often regarded as the best time strategically for governments to legislate difficult, but necessary reforms. It will be no different for the re-elected Albanese government, which will command a large majority in the new parliament.

    Genuine tax reform should be a priority for Labor over the next three years, starting with a reduction in the 50% capital gains tax (CGT) discount and taxing superannuation withdrawals on high balance accounts.

    While many people consider negative gearing to be the main concern in relation to investment in housing, reforming the CGT discount would be a more effective way to address increases in housing prices.

    Negative gearing is only effective as a wealth-building strategy if there is a payoff at the end through the concessional taxation on the capital gain. Reducing the CGT discount would limit the appeal of negative gearing.

    It would also flow through to other forms of investment that might not be delivering productivity gains, including some investments within family trusts.

    Reforming CGT would revisit a contentious Labor policy that was roundly rejected at the 2019 election. But the housing crisis has deepened since then and many voters would now see an overhaul as necessary and timely.

    The second recommendation I would make would be to address the inequalities that arise from tax exempt superannuation. Prior to 2007, withdrawals from super funds were taxed concessionally, but were not fully exempt.

    In the retirement phase, members are required to withdraw a minimum amount from their superannuation accounts. But these days they do it totally tax-free.

    The government should consider taxing these withdrawals, subject to a tax credit that reflects the tax paid by the fund prior to retirement phase. It would also be subject to the existing Seniors and Pensioners Tax Offset, which can reduce the amount of tax paid.

    The rates of these credits could be tweaked to ensure that only those in the wealthiest 20% are affected. This would level the playing field so the tax payable by most retirees with modest superannuation balances would fall within these two concessions.

    These two reforms would help reduce wealth inequality in Australia and raise funds for social spending, including increases in the JobSeeker payment.

    Intifar Chowdhury

    Lecturer in Government, Flinders University

    Despite being one of the most pressing concerns for young Australians, mental health did not get much airtime during the election campaign.

    This is striking given the evidence. According to the 2024 Australian Youth Barometer, 98% of young people aged 18–24 report feelings of anxiety or depression, and nearly 40% experience a diagnosable mental disorder in any given year. These aren’t fringe numbers, they are endemic.

    Labor has pledged $1 billion to expand access to free public mental health care, with a welcome focus on young people. But funding more services is only part of the solution.

    Experts argue that simply increasing the number of people given access to treatment and support won’t go far enough if those people only receive short term or fragmented care. A more meaningful step would be to double the number of free sessions available to people suffering complex mental health needs. Good care takes time, trust and continuity.

    More fundamentally, the current policy focus remains too clinical. By contrast, the most effective models for youth care are more holistic. Many young people grappling with mental illness are also dealing with unstable housing, drug use, educational disruption, or loneliness.

    Psychosocial supports such as social workers, peer mentors and housing liaisons, are essential to wraparound care. Yet, they remain underfunded.

    The new Medicare Mental Health Centres and Youth Specialist Care Centres, which were promised by Labor during the campaign, should not just offer more of the same. Policymakers must rethink the model entirely: multidisciplinary, community-driven, culturally safe, and youth-informed.

    They must also address why young men, who make up a majority of suicide deaths, are the least likely to seek help.

    Mental health policy should be local, flexible, and expansive. Right now, it still feels centralised, cautious, and underdone.

    Improving the mental health and wellbeing of all Australians, especially young people, would be a valuable way of ensuring the government doesn’t squander the time and space its been given by voters to do something truly valuable and reformative.

    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. Labor has the chance to do something big in its second term. What policy reforms should it take on? – https://theconversation.com/labor-has-the-chance-to-do-something-big-in-its-second-term-what-policy-reforms-should-it-take-on-255849

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Obernolte introduces legislation to bolster U.S. critical mineral supply chain

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    WASHINGTON, DC–U.S. Representative Jay Obernolte (CA-23) has introducedlegislation to reduce the United States’ reliance on China and other foreign nations forcritical minerals. Critical minerals and rare earth metals are used to manufactureconsumer electronics, military equipment, electric vehicle batteries, and other advancedtechnologies vital to America’s homeland security and economic competitiveness. Chinais currently the largest source for more than half of the critical minerals on the U.S.Geological Survey’s 2022 list. The Intergovernmental Critical Minerals Task Force Actwould address this concern by identifying opportunities to increase the domesticproduction and recycling of critical minerals.“Critical minerals are essential to our economy, our national security, and thedevelopment of our country’s energy grid,” saidRep. Jay Obernolte.“TheIntergovernmental Critical Minerals Task Force will bring stakeholders together toidentify how we canenhance our supply chains and shore up production of criticalminerals here at home.”“Access to critical minerals is essential for our national security and energy grid. Ourbipartisan bill will identify new ways to reduce our dependency on foreign nations likeChina for critical minerals,” saidCongresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3). “We can’t affordany disruptions to our critical mineral supply chain.”This legislation requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director toappoint representatives from federal agencies to consult with state, local, and tribalgovernments. The Task Force will work to determine how to address national securityrisks associated with America’s critical mineral supply chains and identify new domesticopportunities for mining,processing, refinement, reuse, and recycling of critical minerals. Thebillalso requiresthe Task Force to send a report to Congress and publishfindings, guidelines, and recommendationson reducingthe United States’ reliance onChina and other foreign nations for critical minerals.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Transformation Fund to drive inclusive economic growth

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy President Paul Mashatile has lauded the launch of the Transformation Fund as a significant step towards inclusive economic growth and transformation in South Africa.

    The Deputy President was delivering a keynote address at a Business Breakfast Session and launch of the Transformation Fund at the Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum in Pretoria on Monday. 

    “Today is an important and historic day for South Africa as it marks a key milestone in our journey towards economic transformation. We fully welcome the launch of the Transformation Fund, as it will serve as a strategic vehicle for businesses to embrace change, foster innovation, and drive growth. 

    “This fund will serve as a catalyst for financial support, guiding organisations through crucial transitions and enabling them to seize new opportunities that arise in the market,” the Deputy President said. 

    The Transformation Fund, which brings together both public and private sector contributions, aims to unlock the potential of Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) and the Equity Equivalent Investment Programme, with a strong emphasis on economic inclusion and participation by historically disadvantaged communities.

    “As enterprises seek improved access to capital and the need to remain competitive in this dynamic environment, I believe that the Transformation Fund will be invaluable. The proposed Transformation Fund will unleash Enterprise and Supplier Development’s (ESD’s) potency in driving economic inclusion and participation,” Deputy President Mashatile said. 

    He emphasised the centrality of the initiative within government’s economic agenda.

    “We are going to make sure that the Transformation Fund is at the centre of government, specifically the Presidency,” he said, adding that they will work with the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau as well as key Economic Cluster Ministers to ensure that targets are met, especially in the procurement of goods and services.

    He noted that the National Treasury and Department of Women, Youth, and People with Disabilities have already collaborated to develop a framework. The focus now is to ensure speedy execution and equally implement the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act. 

    The Deputy President moved to recognise the involvement of the private sector in co-funding the initiative. 

    “It is commendable that the fund is anchored by private and public sector contributions to the Enterprise Supplier Development and Equity Equivalent Investment Programme obligations,” he said. 

    The centralised administration of the fund in partnership with business will help increase access to funding, especially for black-owned businesses operating in rural and township settings.

    “Funding will be allocated to various productive sectors of the economy, which includes, among others, services industry, tourism, and agriculture, thereby supporting majority black-owned entities. Technical support and market access will be prioritised to ensure sustainability through inclusive interventions,” he said. 

    The Deputy President underlined the long-term benefits of the fund, noting that it would foster resilience and adaptability in the face of economic challenges.

    Investing in a Transformation Fund signifies a commitment to progress and a dedication to long-term sustainability. “It will enable businesses to navigate challenges with resilience, adjust in response to changing dynamics, and establish themselves as adaptive leaders in their respective industries,” he said.

    Fighting corruption key to an inclusive economy

    The Deputy President made it clear that economic transformation cannot be achieved without tackling the scourge of corruption in both the public and private sectors.

    Corruption undermines small businesses by increasing costs, reducing profits, and creating instability.

    “To promote an inclusive economy, we must commit to addressing corruption by strengthening our institutions, fostering transparency and accountability, and promoting citizen engagement.

    “This includes developing and implementing robust anti-corruption frameworks, strengthening our criminal justice system, and encouraging public participation and oversight,” he said. 

    Access to finance for black businesses

    The Deputy President further stressed the need to find solutions pertaining to access to finance for Black businesses. 

    He emphasised that it was important to recognise that the funding deficits in South Africa are a contributing factor to the failure of small businesses. 

    Despite government intervention, such as Enterprise and Supplier Development, which is a critical component of the B-BBEE framework, he said there was still a need for additional measures to be taken to expand fund access to SMMEs. 

    “Loans are the most common financial instrument for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in South Africa, but they often have stringent underwriting standards, making them difficult for smaller businesses with limited collateral and financial records to secure. 

    “This is why we encourage small businesses seeking financial assistance to explore government funding programmes, and business support agencies such as the National Empowerment Fund, Small Enterprise Finance Agency and the Small Enterprise Development Agency,” the Deputy President said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: Governor McKee, Congressional Delegation, RIDOT and QDC Break Ground on Route 4 ‘Missing Move’ Project

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Governor Dan McKee, Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo, Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) Director Peter Alviti, Jr., and Quonset Development Corporation (QDC) Managing Director Steven King today joined with state and local officials to break ground on one of RIDOT’s newest projects, the I-95 “Missing Move” and Quonset Ramps Construction Project.

    This $144 million project has been in discussion for decades. It includes construction of two critical ramps that were never built when Route 4 was constructed in the 1960s and will afford direct highway connections between I-95 North and Route 4 South, and Route 4 North and I-95 South. The project also will make numerous improvements at and near the Quonset Business Park, the state’s largest industrial park.

    RIDOT was able to move forward with this project after receiving an $81 million federal Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA).

    “This project has been talked about for decades, and today, we’re finally turning words into action,” said Governor Dan McKee. “This crucial infrastructure investment will improve traffic flow and unlock economic potential at Quonset�one of our state’s major job creators. I want to thank Rhode Island’s congressional delegation and all of our partners for helping us move this project forward.”

    “This is a big win for drivers because it will improve efficiency, shorten commutes, and reduce congestion while also improving access for truck and freight operators approaching Quonset Business Park,” said Senator Reed. “This was a collaborative effort that builds upon decades of federal investment into Quonset. I was pleased to help lay the groundwork for this project by securing a $4-million planning grant in 2020.”

    “The INFRA Program I championed through the Environment and Public Works Committee and into law is supporting a slew of major infrastructure projects across Rhode Island,” said Senator Whitehouse, who worked to create the INFRA Program to help meet Rhode Island’s need for large-scale infrastructure investments. “Today’s INFRA Grant-funded groundbreaking will support continued economic growth at Quonset and finally add the missing move to go between Route 4 and I-95.”

    “By finally connecting Route 4 North to I-95 South, we will reduce congestion, improve safety, and make daily travel easier for tens of thousands of people every day,” said Congressman Magaziner. “I am pleased that we are able to deliver this meaningful federal funding for a local project like this and I am committed to continuing to fight for every federal dollar we can secure for Rhode Island.”

    “Today’s announcement will improve our transportation system to benefit Ocean State residents, businesses, and visitors alike. I’m proud to have worked with our delegation to secure $81 million in federal funding to support the “Missing Move” and Quonset Ramps Construction Project,” said Congressman Amo. “This investment in Rhode Island’s infrastructure will make life easier and safer for all those who travel through I-95 and Route 4.”

    “Once again our Congressional delegation put their shoulders into the federal grants process and helped Rhode Island get this funding so we can finally build these missing ramps,” Director Alviti said. “Their construction will reduce travel times, provide more efficient movement of freight traffic and alleviate congestion and delays, especially at the Division Street/South County Trail intersection which is overloaded with traffic that has had no choice but to use local roads to make certain connections between I-95 and Route 4.”

    “Quonset Business Park is known for its convenient network of land, sea, air and rail infrastructure. By better connecting Route 403 to the West Davisville portion of the Business Park, getting to and moving throughout Quonset will be easier than it has ever been before,” said QDC Managing Director King. “I offer my sincere thanks to our federal delegation for delivering the funding to alleviate local traffic and create a more convenient commuting experience for the nearly 15,000 people who come to work at the Business Park each day.”

    The project is divided into two main components. The first portion to be constructed includes three ramps on Route 403 in North Kingstown to connect the Quonset Business Park’s west Davisville district. The project also includes a new roundabout south of Route 403 at Compass Circle. The improvements will provide improved connectivity to all parts of the Business Park and add in ramps that were not included in the Route 403 reconstruction project in the late 2000s. These will be complete in summer 2026.

    The second component, which will begin construction in early 2026, includes the missing moves at the I-95/Route 4 interchange in Warwick. RIDOT will build a new flyover bridge to link Route 4 North to I-95 South. The ramp will use an existing right-of-way for an at-grade link between I-95 North and Route 4 South. The missing moves are expected to be done in summer 2027.

    To compensate for the missing ramps, RIDOT has made numerous adjustments to the traffic signals on Division Street and at its intersection with South County Trail (Route 2). As the area has continued to be developed, especially the growth at the nearby New England Institute of Technology campus, traffic and congestion has steadily increased. The Division Street/South County Trail intersection alone is the site of 60 crashes per year.

    RIDOT also will make safety improvements on I-95 South at the Route 2 interchange on the Warwick/West Warwick line. RIDOT will rebuild the entrance to the Route 2 South to I-95 South ramp so those traveling on Route 2 North can use it. With that ramp accommodating both northbound and southbound traffic on Route 2, RIDOT will permanently close the Route 2 North to I-95 South ramp, removing a weaving conflict on I-95 South.

    All these new ramps will give passenger vehicles, heavy trucks and other freight traffic freeway access without using local roads while reducing emissions from idling vehicles. The improved access also will make the Business Park more attractive to companies who wish to locate there.

    All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings, and weather. Final completion of the entire project is expected in spring 2028.

    The Missing Move project is made possible by RhodeWorks. RIDOT is committed to bringing Rhode Island’s infrastructure into a state of good repair while respecting the environment and striving to improve it. Learn more at www.ridot.net/RhodeWorks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Westerville Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Aiding & Abetting Aggravated Postal Robberies, Firearms Crime

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

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – Cameron D. Newton, 21, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 240 months and one day in prison for his roles in four armed robberies against postal carriers.

    According to court documents, between December 2022 and May 2023, Newton aided and abetted the aggravated robberies of mail and the use of a firearm during the crimes of violence.

    Newton, who was on probation and consequently wearing a GPS ankle monitor at the time, recruited two juveniles to assist with an armed robbery in German Village on Dec. 22, 2022. Newton also arranged for the use of the handgun that his co-conspirator used during the crime.

    On Jan. 23, 2023, Newton provided surveillance for an armed postal robbery on East Columbus Street. Newton was in his vehicle nearby, using the cover of making DoorDash deliveries to evade his home confinement.

    Later that same day, Newton provided surveillance again for a third postal robbery and worked to arrange buyers for the stolen postal keys.

    Newton also obtained a firearm for a co-conspirator to use in the May 11, 2023, robbery of an elderly female postal worker. He picked up accomplices near Goodale Park following the robbery. Newton then paid the robbers several hundred dollars via CashApp.

    On May 18, 2023, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Newton’s residence and discovered $22,000 in cash, hundreds of washed and altered checks and money orders totaling more than $590,000, two Postal keys and hundreds of pieces of stolen mail.

    A total of six defendants have been charged in connection with six separate armed robberies of postal carriers in central Ohio.

    “Newton and his accomplices terrorized postal workers in an effort to steal their keys and loot mailboxes,” stated FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Elena Iatarola. “Through the hard work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, local police, and the FBI, we were able to arrest those responsible for these violent crimes and ensure they are held accountable.”

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Lesley Allison, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS); Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant; Westerville Police Chief Charles Chandler and Whitehall Police Chief Mike Crispen announced the sentence imposed this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Algenon L. Marbley. Assistant United States Attorney Noah R. Litton is representing the United States in these cases.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Soldiers, stevedores set stage for successful African Lion 2025

    Source: United States Army

    1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Lt. Col. Travis Michelena, center, the theater support team chief assigned to the 79th Theater Sustainment Command (Forward), speaks with Maj. Joshua Veal, left, a theater sustainment planner assigned to the 79th Theater Sustainment Command (Forward), and their Tunisian Armed Forces counterpart during port operations in preparation for Exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025.Multiple units joined the port operations in an effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL
    2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, work with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials to offload equipment from the Portuguese-flagged BBC Bergen during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. This photo has been altered for security purposes by blurring out the license plate. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL

    Back to

    U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF)

    GABES, Tunisia — A stevedore shouted over the diesel hum of cranes as the first storage container was lifted out of the cargo ship and onto Tunisian soil. For the untrained eye, it may have looked like just another port delivery. But for the Soldiers and civilians waiting at the port of Gabes, it marked the start of something much bigger.

    This was the opening move in setting the theater for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25).

    Without the shipment of 95 pieces of cargo, including vehicles, equipment and weapon systems, the exercise would be dead in the Mediterranean water.

    “We’re not just moving cargo; we’re enabling the entire exercise to happen,” said U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dustin VanFleet, a mobility officer assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command.

    1 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, work with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials to offload equipment from the Portuguese-flagged BBC Bergen during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL
    2 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, work with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials to offload equipment from the Portuguese-flagged BBC Bergen during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL
    3 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, work with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials to offload the very first shipping container from the Portuguese-flagged BBC Bergen during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL

    Along with setting the theater, VanFleet also set the record straight. A stevedore, he clarified, is a longshoreman who works at a port and is responsible for moving goods on and off ships.

    “We’re the first ones in,” VanFleet explained. “Before troops land or vehicles roll, we’re on the ground establishing the logistical foundation that allows the rest of the force to operate. That’s how we set the theater.”

    This does not happen overnight.

    Setting the theater is a strategic concept that goes beyond logistics. It means having an adaptable and agile military with the infrastructure, agreements and relationships in place to shape conditions for successful Army, joint and combined operations. The combined force in Gabes validated those capabilities in a real-world environment.

    “This is my first time participating in African Lion and working with the Tunisians. It’s been a seamless process allowing for the clearance of cargo at a rapid pace,” said VanFleet.

    The Portuguese-flagged vessel, BBC Bergen, arrived to a welcome-party of Italians, Americans and Tunisians, highlighting the multinational effort involved. The Bergen’s journey took two and a half days across the Mediterranean from Livorno, Italy and all 95 pieces — including shipping containers filled with equipment, trailers, water purification systems, air defense vehicles and M119 howitzers — were offloaded in less than a day and a half.

    1 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, work with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials to offload equipment from the Portuguese-flagged BBC Bergen during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL
    2 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, work with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials to offload equipment from the Portuguese-flagged BBC Bergen during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL
    3 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, work with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials to offload a generator trailer during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL

    Multiple units joined the 839th Transportation Battalion’s offloading effort, including Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), the 79th Theater Sustainment Command, the 173rd Airborne Brigade, 1st Battalion, 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment (1-57 ADAR) and the 240th Composite Supply Company (240th CSC) — all there to ensure a successful offloading process.

    Two members of the 1-57 ADAR accompanied the crew of the Bergen on its voyage from Italy. The escort is a requirement anytime sensitive U.S. military equipment, dubbed “super cargo,” is transported on a foreign-flagged vessel.

    “Without the port operation, nothing downstream moves forward,” said VanFleet.

    This first port operation in Tunisia set the foundation for the broader SETAF-AF-led African Lion exercise, showcasing the U.S. Army’s ability to operate in complex environments. Gabes was simply the first stop.

    Immediately after offloading, equipment was loaded onto Tunisian Armed Forces vehicles and transported to exercise locations throughout the country.

    The 839th Transportation Battalion is unique compared to most Army units. Along with Soldiers, it also employs two U.S. Army civilians and up to 10 local nationals per detachment. During port operations, the assigned detachment leads contract responsibilities, documentation and cargo handling, while the battalion sends military leadership to provide command oversight.

    “Utilizing our local nationals is a huge asset,” said VanFleet. “Some individuals have been doing this for more than 30 years. Their knowledge of the area of operations and relationships with host-nation authorities are critical to mission success.”

    1 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, work with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials to offload a shipping container during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL
    2 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dustin VanFleet, second from left, a mobility officer assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, speaks with civilian officials prior to offloading equipment from the Portuguese-flagged BBC Bergen during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros)
    3 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Soldiers and civilians assigned to the 839th Transportation Battalion, 598th Transportation Brigade, Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Transportation Command, speak with the Tunisian Armed Forces and civilian officials prior to offloading equipment from the Portuguese-flagged BBC Bergen during port operations in preparation for exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Gabes, Tunisia, April 8, 2025. Multiple units joined the 839th’s offloading effort to set the exercise theater, validating their ability to deploy personnel and equipment over long distances while maintaining operational readiness. AL25 is U.S. Africa Command’s premier annual exercise, led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), that strengthens the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly, operate forward and train alongside allies and partners. Designed to address shared security challenges, AL25 enhances readiness, reinforces strategic reach and fosters innovative solutions. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL

    In the first months of 2025 alone, the battalion supported missions in Poland, Turkey, Greece, Tunisia, Italy and Croatia, with additional deployments planned throughout the year.

    “It’s vital we keep exercising these ports and working with our partners,” said VanFleet. “It allows everyone to create that muscle memory that only makes our relationships stronger.”

    AL25, U.S. Africa Command’s largest annual exercise, brings together more than 10,000 troops from over 40 nations to enhance interoperability and strengthen multinational readiness. But before the first formation steps into the training area, port operations like the one in Gabes must succeed.

    Every stevedore handshake and each offloaded vehicle contributes to the larger picture: the ability to quickly and efficiently project lethality anywhere, anytime.

    About the 839th Transportation Battalion

    The 839th supports both U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command, functioning as the single port manager for U.S. military cargo entering and exiting strategic seaports in both theaters. Its responsibilities include staging, reception, onward movement, customs clearance, agricultural inspections and overall integration of DoD assets at ports of embarkation and debarkation.

    About African Lion

    African Lion 25 (AL25) is set to be the largest annual military exercise in Africa, bringing together 41 nations, including seven NATO allies, and about 10,000 troops. Led by U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM), the exercise will take place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia.

    AL25 is designed to restore the warrior ethos, sharpen lethality and strengthen military readiness alongside our African partners and allies. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win when it matters most.

    African Lion provides an opportunity to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative readiness training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands including U.S. Africa Command, U.S. European Command, and U.S. Central Command; as well as strategic maritime choke points and global shipping lanes.

    About SETAF-AF

    U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

    Follow SETAF-AF on:

    Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Finds Atlanta Woman Guilty of Methamphetamine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. PAUL, Minn. – A federal jury convicted Vannesa Violante-Lujano of attempting to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, in June 2022, federal authorities at the U.S.-Mexico border seized approximately 220 pounds of Cartel-sourced methamphetamine destined for Minnesota. Special agents with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) then conducted an undercover operation in Lakeville, Minnesota. During the undercover operation, Violante-Lujano and a co-conspirator met an undercover officer at a Lakeville truck stop and attempted to pick up the 220-pound shipment of methamphetamine. The attempted drug deal was captured on video, and Violante-Lujano and her co-conspirator were apprehended by the Minnesota State Patrol (MSP) shortly thereafter.

    “Minnesota has become a hub for Cartel-sourced methamphetamine,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “In 2022, the Cartel was flooding the border with their poison. In this case, the Cartel sent 220 pounds of deadly methamphetamine—worth $6 million—across the border, bound for Minnesota. I am grateful to the excellent work of law enforcement, who not only seized these drugs, but also utilized an undercover operation to catch the state-side drug dealers.”

    After a four-day trial before Judge Susan Richard Nelson in U.S. District Court, Violante-Lujano was convicted by a jury on one count of attempting to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Following the verdict, Violante-Lujano was taken into custody pending sentencing.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the DEA and MSP.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and David P. Steinkamp tried the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: The Board of Directors of KH Group Plc resolved to establish a performance share plan for the Group’s key employees

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KH Group Plc
    Stock Exchange Release 5 May 2025 at 9:15 pm EEST

    The Board of Directors of KH Group Plc resolved to establish a performance share plan for the Group’s key employees

    The Board of Directors of KH Group Plc resolved to establish a performance share plan for the key employees of KH-Koneet. The plan replaces the performance matching share plan announced on 31 May 2024. The aim of the new plan is to align the objectives of the shareholders and key employees to increase the value of the company in the long term, to steer them toward achieving the company’s strategic objectives, to retain them at the company and to offer them a competitive incentive plan that is based on acquiring and accumulating KH Group shares.

    The performance share plan consists of one (1) two-year (2-year) performance period, covering the financial years of 2025–2026. In the plan, the key employees have an opportunity to earn KH Group shares based on performance.

    The potential rewards from the plan will be paid within five months after the end of the performance period. The rewards will be paid partly in KH Group shares and partly in cash. The cash proportion is intended to cover taxes and social security contributions arising from the reward to the participant. As a rule, no reward will be paid if a participant’s employment or service terminates before the reward payment.

    The performance criteria for the key employees of KH-Koneet are based on KH-Koneet’s EBIT in 2026 and Return on Invested Capital in 2026.

    The target group of the plan consists of approximately 20 persons, including members of the KH-Koneet Management. The rewards to be paid on the basis of the plan correspond to the value of an approximate maximum total of 1,094,000 KH Group shares, including also the proportion to be paid in cash. 

    The members of KH-Koneet Management are obliged to hold 50 per cent of the reward shares received, until the total value of the Management member’s shareholding in KH Group equals to 50 per cent of their annual base salary of the year preceding the payment of the reward. Respectively, the CEO of KH-Koneet is obliged to hold 50 per cent of the reward shares received, until the person’s shareholding in KH Group equals to the annual base salary of the year preceding the payment of the reward. Such number of KH Group shares must be held as long as the membership in the Management or the position as the CEO continues.

    KH GROUP PLC

    Further information:
    Chairman of the Board of Directors Juha Karttunen, tel. +358 40 555 4727

    Distribution:
    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Main media
    www.khgroup.com

    KH Group Plc is a Nordic conglomerate operating in the business areas of KH-Koneet, Nordic Rescue Group and Indoor Group. We are a leading supplier of construction and earth-moving equipment, rescue vehicle manufacturer as well as furniture and interior decoration retailer. The objective of our strategy is to create an industrial group around the business of KH-Koneet. KH Group’s share is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Felon Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to three years of imprisonment on his conviction of possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Deon Cortez Dutrieuille, 24, on May 1, 2025.

    According to information presented to the Court, on November 25, 2023, the Monroeville Police Department were called to the Monroeville Mall in connection with a retail theft investigation. When they arrived, Dutrieuille was in the driver’s seat of a vehicle wearing a stolen jacket for which he admitted not paying. At that time, Dutrieuille had an outstanding arrest warrant in connection with an unrelated incident. When the officers tried to speak with Dutrieuille, the defendant provided fake names and then fled on foot. After apprehending and taking Dutrieuille into custody, officers conducted a search of the car and seized a stolen Glock handgun. Dutrieuille’s fingerprints were found on the gun by the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office. Dutrieuille had multiple prior felony convictions, including in a robbery and prior illegal gun possession cases. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

    Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Monroeville Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Dutrieuille.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Phoenix arrest Guatemalan criminal alien wanted by authorities in New Mexico on a sex-related offense against a child

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PHOENIX, Ariz. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Phoenix officers and agents arrested criminal alien Francisco Alexander Pablo-Antonio, 23, on May 2, following a routine vehicle stop.

    Though the Guatemalan national was arrested in Phoenix, Pablo faces an outstanding criminal arrest warrant in New Mexico’s Magistrate Court for the County of San Juan, where he is charged with criminal sexual communication with a child, a Class Four felony offense.

    “Illegal aliens who perpetrate egregious crimes against the most vulnerable in our communities will be prioritized for arrest and detention,” said ERO Deputy Field Office Director Alejandro Almeida. “ERO Phoenix is resolute in its mission to protect American communities through robust immigration enforcement efforts focused on public safety.”

    Pablo was initially encountered by U.S. Border Patrol agents near El Paso, Texas, in December 2018. He was issued a notice to appear in March 2019 and released on his own recognizance with strict conditions. An immigration judge ordered Pablo removed from the United States on Sept. 7, 2019, three days before the New Mexico Farmington Magistrate filed criminal charges against him.

    He will be held without bond pending determination on his criminal case.

    If you have information about foreign fugitives, transnational gang members or other criminal aliens who are in the U.S. illegally, call the ICE Tip Line at 866-347-2423 or internationally at 001-1802-872-6199. You can also file a tip online by completing ICE’s online tip form.

    For more news and information on how ICE carries out its immigration enforcement mission in Arizona, follow us on X at @ERO__Phoenix.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon DEQ to reopen Clean Vehicle Rebate Program on May 22

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he wait is over! The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality today announced it will reopen the popular Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program on Thursday, May 22. In even more exciting news, the program will remain open longer this year due to funds awarded to DEQ last summer through the Climate Equity and Resilience Through Action grant. Any vehicles purchased or leased before May 22 are not eligible to apply for the rebate.

    DEQ offers two rebates*:

    • Standard Rebate (Open to all Oregon residents, businesses, non-profits and government agencies): Up to $2,500 for the purchase or lease of a new battery electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or a new zero-emission ​motorcycle selected from the Standard Rebate Eligible Vehicle List.
    • Charge Ahead Rebate (Open to low- and moderate-income households and nonprofit, low-income service providers):
      • The Used Charge Ahead Rebate: $5,000 for the purchase or lease of an eligible used battery electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.
      • The New Charge Ahead Rebate: Up to $7,500 for the purchase or lease of an eligible new battery electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.
      • Select vehicle options from the Charge Ahead Eligible Vehicle List.

    *You may only apply for one rebate.

    To determine Charge Ahead Rebate eligibility for individuals, check DEQ’s Charge Ahead Rebate: Income Eligibility web page. Charge Ahead Rebate applicants can prequalify by completing the prequalification application to receive a voucher to be used at participating dealerships.

    “The Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program is enormously popular,” said DEQ Air Quality Transportation Section Manager Rachel Sakata. “By helping to offset the cost of an electric vehicle, it continues to be one of the best ways many individuals and families can gain access to cleaner transportation and improve air quality across the state.”

    The Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program receives at least $12 million annually, or 45% of the state’s Vehicle Privilege Tax. Last year, overwhelming demand closed the program after just two months. However, the $31 million CERTA grant will expand the Charge Ahead Rebate option, giving more low- and moderate-income households access to savings. DEQ will monitor rebates and is required to suspend the program once funds are depleted. The agency will announce the closure date at least 30 days in advance.

    Applicants have six months from date of purchase or lease to apply for a rebate. However, people are encouraged to apply early and track available rebate funding online. If approved applications are submitted after funds are depleted, those applicants will be placed on a waitlist for payment in early spring 2026.

    Electric vehicles purchased or leased before May 22, 2025 will not receive state rebates and will not be placed on a waiting list, but they may still qualify for federal tax credits.

    A variety of state agencies and public electric utilities offer savings on electric vehicle purchases, leases or charging infrastructure. The Go Electric Oregon website lists available incentives and provides helpful information for potential electric vehicle buyers and lessees.

    DEQ’s Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program web page has all the details. Please visit the EV Rebate Contact web page to ask questions. You may register at OCVRP Sign Up to receive program updates by email.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senior Design Project Aims for the Sky

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Once the realm of science fiction, the prospect of utilizing electric vertical take-off and lift (eVTOL) aircraft has gained much popularity, especially due to their convenience and ability to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. However, like electric vehicles, they use batteries to store and power the vehicle. The batteries needed to propel and sustain eVTOL vehicles in flight are bulky and heavy. As a result, these energy-density challenges limit the range of electrically powered aircraft and rotorcraft.

    At UConn’s College of Engineering (CoE), groups of engineering students — working in conjunction with mentors from CoE and from Sikorsky Aircraft — are embracing these challenges and creating senior design projects that might, one day, appear in eVTOL control systems.

    The capstone Senior Design Program features engineering seniors working with faculty and industry engineers to solve real-world engineering problems. Leading manufacturi

    ng companies, pharmaceutical and medical firms, consulting practices and utilities present the College with design challenges or problems they are encountering in their businesses. Working with CoE, they assign a technical representative from their company to help guide and mentor the senior engineering students as they work to properly frame the problem and develop meaningful solutions.

    According to Liang Zhang, professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the students have responded enthusiastically and creatively to a variety of difficult barriers and expectations.

    “Students are required to utilize the open-source flight control software PX4, implemented from within Simulink, to add a pilot-assist mode to the flight-control software,” Zhang explains. “This flight mode, when engaged, will help the pilot maintain an optimal flight regime for energy efficiency. Students need to acquire their hardware, thoroughly test its energy usage with a payload, and analyze flight data to determine the optimal flight envelopes. Then they develop a user-enabled flight mode to assist the remote pilot in maintaining an energy-efficient flight. Finally, they need to test this flight mode and prove its effectiveness.”

    Students Neo Joseph, Kevin Loja, and James Weber.

    The project team uses a flight drone and runs various tests for each built-in flight mode, including different speeds and altitudes. For each variation, they record the time and the power consumption upon completion. Using these recorded values, they determine which of the built-in flight modes is most efficient. Once they assess what makes a flight mode efficient, they program and test a new flight mode that optimizes throttle, speed, and other settings to save power.

    These challenges, says James Weber, a senior working on the eVTOL project, are as difficult as they sound. And even in the best of circumstances, he adds, there have been obstacles they didn’t anticipate, from purchasing tools and software, learning how to fly a drone, and being continually grounded by bad weather. But each setback, he admits, including breaking a drone propeller, has been a learning opportunity, and has forced their team to find creative solutions.

    “The biggest challenges have been learning how to use and master the required software,” Weber says, “along with connecting various applications and getting virtual operating systems aligned and working properly. We’re almost done with running tests with our physical drone and will soon move to developing and simulating our new flight mode. I am enjoying the challenge, even with the stress of so much being out of our control.”

    The Senior Design team’s drone.

    Senior Kevin Loja is the project manager for this senior design assignment. Overall, he says, it has been a valuable learning experience when it comes to control systems, helicopters, drones, and aviation.

    “We learned a lot about helicopter and drone flight during the fall semester, especially since our sponsors were very insistent on establishing a good background on these subjects,” Loja says. “Currently, I would say our biggest challenge right now, as Jim points out, is the weather. Storrs is a very windy place, making it difficult to schedule days where we can safely fly our drone to gather the data we need to develop our flight mode. We’ve adjusted to each setback and keep moving forward.”

    Weber, Loja and groupmate Neo Joseph work with their faculty advisor, Shalabh Gupta, associate professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. “The students,” Gupta says, “have put great effort in overcoming various challenges associated with collecting flight data that will be used to optimize energy efficiency. This project, like many other senior design projects, has significant practical value in addition to providing valuable hands-on learning experiences for our students.”

    Weber, Loja and Joseph earned second-place in the electrical and computer engineering departmental Senior Design awards on May 2.

    The team also meets weekly with their advisors from Sikorsky to discuss progress and challenges. In addition to the testing, they are building a statistical data model. Their project, Gupta adds, is about 60 percent completed, and the final white paper will be presented in May.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bonavista — Driver ticketed by Bonavista RCMP for failing to stop for school bus

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 76-year-old woman was ticketed by Bonavista RCMP for failing to stop for a school bus that was picking up a young child at a bus stop in Plate Cove West on May 1, 2025.

    Shortly before 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, as a small child was entering onto the school bus, which had its emergency lights and stop sign activated, a vehicle drove through the bus’s stop sign. The child was not injured.

    Descriptions of the vehicle and the driver were obtained and the information was provided to police. The driver was located by Bonavista RCMP and was issued a ticket under the Highway Traffic Act for passing a school bus illegally.

    Students, especially younger children, oftentimes, without checking, rely on motorists to follow the rules of the road and expect that vehicles will be stopped while they enter or exit a school bus.

    Reports involving school bus safety are taken quite seriously by RCMP NL. Drivers must stop when a school bus stops to pick up and drop off children. Upon conviction, a driver who fails to stop for a school bus faces a fine that ranges between $500-$1500 and an accumulation of six demerit points.

    RCMP NL thanks those who provided information which assisted with this investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province takes energy action to electrify economy, increase resilience

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province, in partnership with BC Hydro, is launching an ambitious plan to harness British Columbia’s clean-electricity advantage, driving economic growth and transformative change, strengthening energy security and advancing climate action.

    “With this work, we are securing our energy and our economy for the future by expanding one of our greatest assets: abundant clean electricity,” said Premier David Eby. “We are boosting our clean-energy supply, powering our growing communities and industries, and creating thousands of family-supporting jobs – all while advancing reconciliation and reducing pollution. Perhaps most importantly, this will help build a strong foundation for our province and our country at a time of external threats to our sovereignty and prosperity.”

    The Clean Power Action Plan is a forward-thinking strategy to leverage B.C.’s clean-electricity advantage, ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for British Columbia. With five transformative initiatives, the plan aims to accelerate economic growth, while securing long-term energy stability for generations to come:

    • launching a second call for power to acquire a target of up to 5,000 gigawatt-hours per year of energy from large, clean and renewable projects in partnership with First Nations and independent power producers – enough to power 500,000 new homes. This builds on the success of the 2024 call for power, which resulted in 10 new renewable-energy projects, with First Nations asset ownership between 49% and 51%, capable of powering about 500,000 new homes;
    • opening up the opportunity to explore B.C.’s power potential through a request for expressions of interest exploring capacity and firm, baseload electricity projects to deliver for peak demand periods and to provide back-up intermittent energy resources;
    • ushering in an expanded era of energy efficiency by partnering with innovators through a request for expressions of interest to deliver market-ready demand-side management technologies that help people and businesses save energy and money;
    • investing more than $12 million from the B.C. Innovative Clean Energy (ICE) fund in a targeted three-year call for new, made-in-B.C. clean-energy technologies that will combat climate change and create sustainable jobs; and
    • streamlining connections to B.C.’s grid to enable new homes and businesses to access clean electricity faster and less expensively.

    “Uncertain times demand bold, decisive action, and we need to respond with urgency and with confidence and turn adversity into opportunity,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions. “Our commitment to strengthening energy security and building a resilient electricity system will unlock critical economic opportunities, foster innovation, deepen collaboration with First Nations and reaffirm B.C.’s leadership in climate action.”  

    These initiatives build on actions underway, including setting BC Hydro rate increases at 3.75% for the next two years to provide stable, affordable rates, while enabling significant investments, offering new optional rates to help residential customers save, and implementing BC Hydro’s $36-billion 10-year capital plan to expand and reinforce electricity infrastructure throughout the province.

    Beyond driving economic development and ensuring energy security, the Clean Power Action Plan also supports electrification – the transition from fossil fuels to clean electricity in homes, businesses, industry and transportation, a key pillar of the CleanBC climate strategy.

    “Through collaboration with government, First Nations, and the clean-energy sector, BC Hydro is making significant investments and seeking new partnerships to secure B.C.’s clean-energy future,” said Chris O’Riley, president and CEO, BC Hydro. “The initiatives in the Clean Power Action Plan will set the stage for an increased renewable, reliable and resilient energy supply to support our growing province in the years ahead. At the same time, we remain committed to affordability by offering customers more ways to save energy and money, while maintaining stable, predictable rates.”

    By taking action today, the Province and BC Hydro are laying the foundation for a cleaner, stronger and more resilient future. Through strategic investments, innovation and collaboration, British Columbia is poised to lead in sustainable-energy development, while driving economic progress. As the Clean Power Action Plan moves forward, it will continue to empower communities, create opportunities and secure the province’s place as a leader in clean energy and climate action.

    Quote:

    Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, executive director, Clean Energy Association of British Columbia (CEBC) –

    “The 2024 call for power was historic, showing what’s possible when First Nations, industry, and government collaborate to deliver clean electricity, drive investment, and advance reconciliation. Today’s announcement builds on that momentum with a second call and plan that prioritizes Indigenous equity, local energy solutions and jobs, and sustainable economic growth. CEBC applauds the Province for its continued leadership and remains committed to building a clean and equitable future for all British Columbians.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The 10 wind and solar projects selected through BC Hydro’s 2024 call for power will power 500,000 homes and increase electricity supply by 8%.
    • These projects represent up to $6 billion in private capital spending throughout the province and will create approximately 2,000 jobs during construction.
    • Nearly all the projects have First Nations majority ownership – representing up to $3 billion of asset ownership by First Nations.
    • BC Hydro is investing more than $700 million over the next three years in energy-efficiency tools, technology and programs, which is expected to result in 2,000 gigawatt-hours per year of electricity savings, or enough to power 200,000 homes.
    • Since 2008, the B.C. Innovative Clean Energy Fund has committed more than $124 million to support pre-commercial clean-energy technology projects, clean-energy vehicles, research and development, and energy-efficiency programs.
    • BC Hydro’s residential, commercial and industrial rates are the third lowest in North America (among 22 utilities surveyed in Hydro Quebec’s 2024 Rates Comparison Report).

    Learn More:

    For information on B.C.’s Clean Power Action Plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/EnergizingEconomyReport.pdf

    For information about the wind- and solar-energy projects selected in BC Hydro’s 2024 call for power, visit: https://www.bchydro.com/work-with-us/selling-clean-energy/2024-call-for-power/participants.html

    To find out about the Province’s rate stability direction, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025ECS0011-000216

    To compare BC Hydro rates with other energy utilities in North America, visit: http://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BCHydroRates.pdf

    To learn more about the Innovative Clean Energy Fund and the 2025 targeted call for clean-energy innovation, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/electricity-alternative-energy/innovative-clean-energy-solutions/innovative-clean-energy-ice-fund

    For information about BC Hydro’s energy-efficiency programs, visit: https://www.bchydro.com/toolbar/about/strategies-plans-regulatory/supply-operations/efficiency-plan.html

    MIL OSI Canada News –