Category: Vehicles

MIL-OSI Global: Des Moines food pantries face spiking demand as the Iowa region’s SNAP enrollment declines

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Lendie R. Follett, Associate Professor of Business Analytics, Drake University

A volunteer loads food into a bag at the Des Moines Area Religious Council food pantry in 2020. AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall

As part of its drive to cut federal spending, the Trump administration has paused over US$500 million of funds that had previously flowed annually to food banks across the U.S. It’s not the only policy change that could make it harder than it already is for many Americans to get enough to eat.

I’m a professor of statistics who finds hidden patterns in data related to food insecurity in Iowa. I also serve on the board of directors of Iowa’s largest network of food pantries.

Food pantries in Iowa have seen demand for their assistance soar in recent years. At the same time, fewer Iowans have been enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, through which low-income Americans get money from the government to buy groceries.

Hunger in the breadbasket of the world

It may seem illogical that anyone in Iowa would need help obtaining food.

Known as the “breadbasket of the world,” my state plays a crucial role in food production as a top supplier of grain, meats and eggs to both domestic and international markets.

For example, in 2023, Iowa led the nation in corn production, harvesting over 2.5 billion bushels. It’s also the top producer of eggs, supplying more than 13 billion eggs per year.

Despite this agricultural abundance, food insecurity – not being able to maintain an adequate diet – is a pressing issue. In 2022, an estimated 1 in 9 Iowans were hungry. This rate was even higher among children: 1 in 6.

Des Moines Area Religious Council Food Pantry worker Patrick Minor looks over a cooler full of ground pork packages during a pantry stop in Des Moines, Iowa, in 2020.
AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall

Food pantries struggle to keep up

Many food-insecure families turn to food pantries to fill their refrigerators and cupboards.

The Des Moines Area Religious Council operates 14 food pantries in the Polk County area. This network of food pantries has been seeing record-breaking demand. It provided food to more than 70,000 people in 2024, up from 59,000 a year earlier.

About 35% of the people it supports are children. This rate has been increasing since government phased out COVID-19 pandemic-era programs, such as the Child Tax Credit expansion and summer EBT, a federal nutrition program that helped low-income families feed their kids when schools were closed.

Some 19% of food pantry clients in the Des Moines region are unemployed adults, only 8% are people who are 65 and up, and 38% are adults who are either working or have disabilities.

Scaling back benefits in 2022

Early in the pandemic, Congress temporarily expanded SNAP by providing everyone enrolled in the program with the maximum amount of benefits for which they were eligible based on the number of people in their family, regardless of their income. Normally, only 37% of the people who get SNAP benefits get the maximum amount. For 2025, for example, a family of three can get up to $768 a month through the program.

In March 2022, Iowa became one of the first states to end this policy, creating a natural experiment of sorts at a time when food prices were rising quickly.

As you might expect, the number of clients visiting food pantries surged once that policy changed. This trend continued throughout 2024, with many months of record-breaking demand at the state’s food pantries.

Hunger is up, SNAP enrollment is down

While most food pantry visitors in Polk County qualify for at least some SNAP benefits, only around 1 in 3 are enrolled in the program today, down from 44% in 2020.

This decline in SNAP enrollment is placing more pressure on the food pantries trying to make up the difference.

Low SNAP enrollment rates can be partly explained by low benefit amounts, which is all that some eligible individuals and families qualify for.

Recent laws have made it more difficult for families to be eligible to receive benefits. In 2023, Iowa introduced a state-specific asset test, which limits the total assets of all members of a family to $15,000 in order to maintain eligibility. This test includes the value of boats, vacation homes and savings accounts. It also includes a second vehicle used for household transportation purposes, but not a family’s primary residence.

Another consideration is time management, especially in light of the additional administrative hurdles.

“The time it is taking these working households to get and maintain their SNAP benefits is significantly more time and effort than simply visiting a local food pantry,” said Matt Unger, Des Moines Area Religious Council’s CEO. “Here in Iowa, we are facing nearly a 17-year low in SNAP enrollment while food banks and food pantries across the state are breaking records every month. Something just doesn’t add up.”

Congress is currently deciding whether to cut SNAP spending. If lawmakers do that, benefits will decline, increasing the strain on food pantries in Iowa and everywhere else across the country.

Lendie R. Follett is affiliated with the Des Moines Area Religious Council. She currently serves on the board of directors.

– ref. Des Moines food pantries face spiking demand as the Iowa region’s SNAP enrollment declines – https://theconversation.com/des-moines-food-pantries-face-spiking-demand-as-the-iowa-regions-snap-enrollment-declines-252351

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: YORK COUNTY – Shapiro Administration, PA Office of Attorney General to Encourage Participation in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, Get Unwanted Meds off the Street

Source: US State of Pennsylvania

April 16, 2025 – York, PA

ADVISORY – YORK COUNTY – Shapiro Administration, PA Office of Attorney General to Encourage Participation in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, Get Unwanted Meds off the Street

The Shapiro Administration and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General will join York County officials tomorrow to encourage Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth to take part in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 26.

Individuals may drop off unwanted prescription and over-the-counter medication at any of the hundreds of secure locations throughout the state.

WHO:
Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, Secretary, Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs
Major General John Pippy, Adjutant General, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA)
Sergeant Logan Brouse, Pennsylvania State Police
Kara Bowser, Senior Counsel, Office of Attorney General
Jonathan Bowman, Acting Deputy Secretary, Department of Aging
Michael Muldrow, York City Police Commissioner

WHEN:
April 16, 2025; 11:00 AM

WHERE:
York City Police Department; 50 West King Street, York PA 17401

VISUALS:
Photos and video may be taken of a take-back box and DMVA’s collection truck which will both be onsite

RSVP:
Please email stdugan@pa.gov and share the reporter’s name and media outlet who wishes to attend.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Annual Energy Outlook 2025
Source: US Energy Information Administration

Introduction

The Annual Energy Outlook 2025 (AEO2025) explores potential long-term energy trends in the United States. AEO2025 is published in accordance with Section 205c of the Department of Energy Organization Act of 1977 (Public Law 95-91), which requires the Administrator of the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) to prepare an annual report that contains trends and projections of energy consumption and supply. These projections are used by federal, state, and local governments; industry; trade associations; and other planners and decisionmakers in the public and private sectors.

We prepared the AEO by using the National Energy Modeling System (NEMS) to project a set of scenarios that, taken together, represent a range of outcomes for the U.S. energy system. AEO2025 represents the culmination of a year-long effort that enabled major upgrades to NEMS.

Our policy assumptions are central to understanding our AEO2025 projections. In most of the cases we model, we only consider laws and regulations implemented as of December 2024. As is the case every time we prepare an AEO, a cutoff date is necessary to enable us to conclude our modeling and integrate the final results for publication. Therefore, legislation, regulations, executive actions, and court rulings after that date are not included. We are releasing the model results without a lengthy market analysis this year.

The U.S. energy system underwent major changes in the first quarter of the 21st century as oil and natural gas production surged, renewables were deployed more widely, and energy consumption patterns changed. AEO2025 can help stakeholders examine the ways in which the system could further change through 2050.

Energy markets are complex. Energy models are simplified representations of energy production and consumption, laws and regulations, and producer and consumer behavior. Projections are highly dependent on the data, methodologies, model structures, and assumptions used in their development. These results are not predictions of what will happen. Instead, AEO2025 results represent modeled projections of what could happen given certain assumptions and methodologies.

Consistent with our historical practices and statutory mission, we do not independently propose or advocate future legislative and regulatory changes, although at times we do analyze scenarios based on existing policy proposals. Our assumptions documents provide additional details on the assumptions we included in AEO2025, and an overview of the laws and regulations included in AEO2025 is available on the AEO website.

AEO2025’s projections reflect business-as-usual trends, given known technological and demographic trends and current laws and regulations, and so provides a policy-neutral Reference case and an accompanying set of core side cases that can be used to analyze policy initiatives. For some readers, this approach may be unsatisfying because policy rarely remains static for long periods. But the purpose of basing projections on laws and regulations as of December 2024 is to provide a comparison point for further analysis; without such a reference point, critical information about incremental changes to energy system outcomes based on new assumptions is lost.

Because policies can have meaningful impacts on the energy sector, we have also included two alternative policy cases this year to help stakeholders to examine the effects of regulations implemented since our last AEO. When compared with the Reference case, one case allows stakeholders to examine the effects of recent regulations on power plants and the other recent regulations targeting vehicle fuel economy and emissions.

Modeled Cases

Outcomes concerning future technology, demographics, and resources cannot be known with any degree of certainty. We address many key uncertainties in our projections through alternative cases. In AEO2025, we ran 11 cases to model a range of assumptions. In addition to the two alternative policy cases we examined this year, we also include eight core side cases, which we have presented in prior releases of the AEO. A detailed explanation of each case is available on the website, and a brief description is in the following sections.

AEO2025 Reference case

Our Reference case assesses how the U.S. energy markets could operate under laws and regulations current as of December 2024 and under historically observed technological growth assumptions.

Alternative Electricity case

Our Alternative Electricity case assumes the Clean Air Act (CAA) Section 111 rule implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in April 2024 to regulate carbon dioxide emissions from new gas-fired combustion turbines and existing coal, oil, and gas-fired steam generating units is not in place, and the affected generators are able to operate under rules existing prior to April 2024. In this case, existing coal-fired plants continue operating without requiring modifications to reduce emissions, and generation from new natural gas-fired combined cycle units isn’t constrained based on whether the plant has installed carbon capture equipment.

Alternative Transportation case

Our Alternative Transportation case assumes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards and EPA’s vehicle tailpipe emission standards for model years 2027–2032 are not in place. The case also assumes the California Air Resources Board’s zero-emission vehicle sale mandates for trucks issued since our last published AEO are not in place. Rules affecting fuel economy and tailpipe emissions that were issued for model years 2026 and earlier remain in place. In this case, introduction of new electric vehicle (EV) models and building of EV charging infrastructure are based on growth in EV sales and registrations rather than on announced public and private sector plans. In addition, manufacturer reshoring of EV and battery supply chains, including growth in eligibility for credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, is slower than in the Reference case.

High and Low Oil Price cases

In the High Oil Price case, the price of Brent crude oil increases to $155 per barrel (b) in 2050, compared with $91/b in the Reference case and $47/b in the Low Oil Price case.

High and Low Oil and Gas Supply cases

The High Oil and Gas Supply case assumes ultimate recovery for new tight oil, tight gas, or shale gas wells are 50% higher than in the Reference case. The case also assumes 50% higher undiscovered resources in Alaska and offshore fields. Technological improvement is assumed to be 50% faster. The Low Oil and Gas Supply case assumes the converse.

High and Low Zero-Carbon Technology Cost cases

The Low Zero-Carbon Technology Cost case assumes faster cost declines for electricity-generating technologies that produce zero emissions as construction and manufacturing experience grows, resulting in 40% lower costs than in the Reference case in 2050. The High Zero-Carbon Technology Cost case, conversely, assumes no additional cost reductions from learning with additional deployment of these electricity generating technologies.

High and Low Economic Growth cases

The High Economic Growth case assumes the compound annual growth rate for U.S. GDP is 2.1% through 2050, and the Low Economic Growth case assumes a 1.2% rate. By contrast, the Reference case assumes the U.S. GDP annual growth rate is 1.8% over the projection period.

Major changes for AEO2025

In 2024 we made significant updates to NEMS, and an overview of the changes can be found in our assumptions documents and in the module-specific fact sheets. Briefly, the model that underpins our outlook now includes three new modules:
- The Hydrogen Market Module, which represents hydrogen production and pricing, including the impacts of policy, storage, and logistics
- The Carbon Capture, Allocation, Transportation, and Sequestration Module, which allocates projected supply of captured CO2 across the energy system either for enhanced oil recovery or storage
- The Hydrocarbon Supply Module, which improves the representation of upstream oil and natural gas resources, replacing the legacy NEMS Oil and Gas Supply Module
In addition to the new modules, we have extensively enhanced many existing modules to better reflect market dynamics and emerging technologies. We will provide additional details in the AEO2025 model documentation in the coming months.

We have rewritten and modernized significant portions of the NEMS code base. The source code associated with NEMS is now available via GitHub under an open-source license.

In addition to changes to NEMS, we also updated the way we calculate primary energy consumption of electricity generation from noncombustible renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal. We now calculate consumption of noncombustible renewable energy for electricity generation using the captured energy approach, which applies a constant conversion factor of 3,412 British thermal units per kilowatthour (Btu/kWh), using the heat content of electricity. This approach is a change from our previous methodology, called the fossil fuel equivalency approach, and is consistent with the methodology now used for all EIA products and reports.

The captured energy approach is more consistent with international energy statistics standards than the fossil fuel equivalency approach.

MIL OSI USA News –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont Releases $2.5 Million to Regional Education Service Centers To Help Municipalities Reduce Costs

Source: US State of Connecticut

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is releasing $2,461,057 million in state funding to two regional education service centers to help in the improvement of public education through the coordination of high-quality, cost-effective programs and services.

The funds are being released through Connecticut’s Regional Performance Incentive Program, which provides grants to regional councils of governments and regional education service centers that coordinate functions and services on a regional basis, creating efficiencies that help municipalities reduce costs. The program is administered by the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management (OPM).

LEARN, southeastern Connecticut’s regional education service center, is receiving a grant in the amount of $1,295,941, and EdAdvance, northwestern Connecticut’s regional education service center, is receiving a grant in the amount of $1,165,116.

“The state is taking an active role in helping our cities and towns reduce costs and find efficiencies,” Governor Lamont said. “These grants are yet another example of those efforts that are taking place throughout the whole of government to lower costs and reduce taxes. Working together we can make government work the way our taxpayers expect.”

“The grants will increase efficiencies, lower costs, and save taxpayer dollars,” OPM Secretary Jeffrey Beckham said. “By sharing resources across multiple municipalities and school districts, local governments save costs and can lower mill rates. Regionalizing services, while reducing the tax burden on residents and businesses is a top priority of the Lamont administration, and these grants help to fulfill that promise.”

LEARN’s grant will be used to expand back-office support services to its members districts. The organization will tailor its expanded service offerings in information technology, business and human resources to member districts’ individual needs. Participating member districts will benefit from high-quality services without the expense of recruiting and maintaining full-time staff. In addition, regional staff services help to promote best practices and process improvement in daily functions.

“LEARN is thrilled to be awarded a Regional Performance Incentive Program grant,” Kate Ericson, executive director of LEARN, said. “This grant and the Regional Shared Service Solutions Project were co-designed in collaboration with superintendents – Dr. Jack Zamary of Bozrah, Mr. Troy Hopkins of North Stonington, Mr. Jeffrey Wihbey of Region 17, Dr. Roy Seitsinger of Preston, and Mr. Brian Hendrickson of Salem. With the award of this grant, LEARN’s primary goal is to reward the districts currently benefiting from our regional services while also attracting new districts to join us and experience the cost savings and operational efficiencies offered by LEARN’s dedicated team of professionals.”

EdAdvance’s grant will be used to expand its successful Regional Transportation Collaborative and improve transportation efficiency, reduce costs, and convert to electric vehicle (EV) technology. The grant will enable the purchase of ten new EVs for special education transportation services, the installation of ten high-speed EV charging stations throughout the service area, and the development of a comprehensive usage and sustainability plan. Participating districts will save on special education transportation costs and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

As part of the planning process included in the grant, EdAdvance will also explore opportunities to benefit other populations currently served through the collaborative, including high school students in EdAdvance’s College and Career Accelerator Program, and clients of EdAdvance’s Transportation in Every Direction Program (TRED), which serves clients’ critical transportation needs to wellness and recovery programs, education or job training, and other basic needs.

“We are thrilled to accept this award,” Jonathan Costa, executive director of EdAdvance, said. “This new electric vehicle infrastructure in combination with our recently developed transportation management software that allows us to track up to 30 cost variables will ensure that we can maximize the efficiency of our services to our member districts while at the same time demonstrating how much EVs save on each route we drive.”

The Regional Performance Incentive Program was established in 2007, and amended in 2021, to encourage regional participation in voluntary intermunicipal or regional shared services projects that have the potential to produce measurable “economies of scale,” provide desired or required public services, and lower the costs and tax burdens associated with the provision of such services.

For more information on this program, visit portal.ct.gov/opm/igpp/grants/regional-performance-incentive-program/regional-performance-incentive-program.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: EIA projections show U.S. energy consumption decreasing in the near term, increasing after early 2040s
Source: US Energy Information Administration – EIA

Headline: EIA projections show U.S. energy consumption decreasing in the near term, increasing after early 2040s

U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
WASHINGTON DC 20585

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 15, 2025

U.S. energy consumption decreases in the next several years and doesn’t increase again until the early 2040s through 2050, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Annual Energy Outlook 2025 (AEO2025). U.S. energy consumption in 2050 is lower than in 2024 in most of the scenarios modeled in AEO2025, but the range of outcomes varies significantly based on the underlying assumptions in the scenarios EIA analyzed.

AEO2025 explores long-term energy trends in the United States. It relies on a Reference case that assumes laws and regulations in effect as of December 2024 remain in effect through 2050. AEO2025 also includes scenario-based analyses of separate side cases that make various other assumptions about the energy sector:
- The Alternative Electricity case assumes electric generators can operate under regulations that existed prior to April 2024, when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a new rule targeting carbon dioxide emissions from new and existing generating units.
- The Alternative Transportation case assumes recent rules targeting vehicle fuel economy and emissions from the EPA, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the California Air Resource Board are not in place.
- The High Oil Price case assumes the price of Brent crude oil increases to $155 per barrel (b) in 2050, compared with $91/b in the Reference case and $47/b in the Low Oil Price case.
- The High Oil and Gas Supply case assumes ultimate recovery for new tight oil, tight gas, or shale gas wells are 50% higher than in the Reference case. The case also assumes 50% higher undiscovered resources in Alaska and offshore fields. Technological improvement is assumed to be 50% faster. The Low Oil and Gas Supply case assumes the converse.
- The Low Zero-Carbon Technology Cost case assumes faster cost declines for zero-emissions electricity-generating technologies resulting in 40% lower costs in 2050 than in the Reference case. The High Zero-Carbon Technology Cost case assumes no additional cost reductions with additional deployment.
- The High Economic Growth case assumes the compound annual growth rate for U.S. GDP is 2.1% through 2050, compared with 1.2% in the Low Economic Growth case and 1.8% in the Reference case.
For AEO2025, EIA significantly updated the model that underpins the results, adding a hydrogen market module; a carbon capture, allocation, transportation, and sequestration module; and an enhanced upstream oil and natural gas resources module. EIA also enhanced many existing modules to better reflect market dynamics and emerging technologies.

The full Annual Energy Outlook 2025 is available on the EIA website, including full projection tables, a brief narrative, and a detailed description of the assumptions used in each case.

The product described in this press release was prepared by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy. By law, EIA’s data, analysis, and forecasts are independent of approval by any other officer or employee of the U.S. government. The views in the product and this press release therefore should not be construed as representing those of the U.S. Department of Energy or other federal agencies.

EIA Press Contact: Chris Higginbotham, EIAMedia@eia.gov
MIL OSI Economics –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Fort McMurray — Wood Buffalo RCMP investigate flight from police, seize guns

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

On Mar. 25, 2025 at approximately 3 p.m., Wood Buffalo RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) were conducting patrols in downtown Fort McMurray when they noted a speeding vehicle leaving the area. CRU continued to observe the vehicle, a red GMC Acadia, and attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Thickwood Drive in Fort McMurray. The vehicle failed to stop for Police, proceeded to Timberline Drive and onto Gladstone Drive. Wood Buffalo RCMP Police Dog Services attended, pre-emptively blocking the path of the suspect vehicle. The suspect vehicle slowed and attempted to flee by reversing into police. The suspect was not successful. RCMP were able to prevent the vehicle from fleeing any further and arrested the six occupants of the vehicle without further incident. There were no injuries to any occupants or police and only minor damage to the police vehicle.

During a subsequent search of the vehicle incidental to arrest, Police located and seized:

• Loaded 12-gauge shotgun

• Pellet style handgun

• Hard body armour

A 35-year-old individual, a resident of Fort McMurray, is facing charges:

• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

• Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle

• Operation while Prohibited

• Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle

• Two Counts Possession of a Weapon contrary to an order

• Flight from Police

• Three counts Fail to Comply with Release Order

The 35-year-old individual was held for a judicial interim release order. He was remanded into custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on March 27, 2025.

A 33-year-old individual, a resident of Fort McMurray, is facing charges:

• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

• Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle

• Fail to comply with Probation Order

• Three counts Fail to Comply with Release Order

The 33-year-old individual was held for a judicial interim release order. He was remanded into custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on March 27, 2025.

A 42-year-old individual, a resident of Fort McMurray, is facing charges:

• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

• Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle

• Possession of Weapon contrary to Order

• Five counts Fail to Comply with Release Order

The 42-year-old individual was held for a judicial interim release order. He was remanded into custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on March 27, 2025.

A 33-year-old individual, a resident of Fort McMurray, is facing charges:

• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

• Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle

• Two counts Fail to Comply with Release Order

The 33-year-old individual was held for a judicial interim release order. She was remanded into custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on March 27, 2025.

The other two vehicle occupants were released from police custody on Appearance Notices. Both females, who cannot be named until an Information is sworn, are set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on April 30, 2025.

Wood Buffalo RCMP continue to investigate the incident. RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to police. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

MIL Security OSI –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: EIA projections show U.S. energy consumption decreasing in the near term, increasing after early 2040s
Source: US Energy Information Administration

U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
WASHINGTON DC 20585

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 15, 2025

U.S. energy consumption decreases in the next several years and doesn’t increase again until the early 2040s through 2050, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Annual Energy Outlook 2025 (AEO2025). U.S. energy consumption in 2050 is lower than in 2024 in most of the scenarios modeled in AEO2025, but the range of outcomes varies significantly based on the underlying assumptions in the scenarios EIA analyzed.

AEO2025 explores long-term energy trends in the United States. It relies on a Reference case that assumes laws and regulations in effect as of December 2024 remain in effect through 2050. AEO2025 also includes scenario-based analyses of separate side cases that make various other assumptions about the energy sector:
- The Alternative Electricity case assumes electric generators can operate under regulations that existed prior to April 2024, when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented a new rule targeting carbon dioxide emissions from new and existing generating units.
- The Alternative Transportation case assumes recent rules targeting vehicle fuel economy and emissions from the EPA, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the California Air Resource Board are not in place.
- The High Oil Price case assumes the price of Brent crude oil increases to $155 per barrel (b) in 2050, compared with $91/b in the Reference case and $47/b in the Low Oil Price case.
- The High Oil and Gas Supply case assumes ultimate recovery for new tight oil, tight gas, or shale gas wells are 50% higher than in the Reference case. The case also assumes 50% higher undiscovered resources in Alaska and offshore fields. Technological improvement is assumed to be 50% faster. The Low Oil and Gas Supply case assumes the converse.
- The Low Zero-Carbon Technology Cost case assumes faster cost declines for zero-emissions electricity-generating technologies resulting in 40% lower costs in 2050 than in the Reference case. The High Zero-Carbon Technology Cost case assumes no additional cost reductions with additional deployment.
- The High Economic Growth case assumes the compound annual growth rate for U.S. GDP is 2.1% through 2050, compared with 1.2% in the Low Economic Growth case and 1.8% in the Reference case.
For AEO2025, EIA significantly updated the model that underpins the results, adding a hydrogen market module; a carbon capture, allocation, transportation, and sequestration module; and an enhanced upstream oil and natural gas resources module. EIA also enhanced many existing modules to better reflect market dynamics and emerging technologies.

The full Annual Energy Outlook 2025 is available on the EIA website, including full projection tables, a brief narrative, and a detailed description of the assumptions used in each case.

The product described in this press release was prepared by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy. By law, EIA’s data, analysis, and forecasts are independent of approval by any other officer or employee of the U.S. government. The views in the product and this press release therefore should not be construed as representing those of the U.S. Department of Energy or other federal agencies.

EIA Press Contact: Chris Higginbotham, EIAMedia@eia.gov

MIL OSI USA News –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Anderson Man Found Guilty of Impersonating Homeland Security Officer and Possessing Molotov Cocktails

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

INDIANAPOLIS— A federal jury has found Joshua W. Stearman, 42, of Anderson, Indiana, guilty of unlawfully possessing incendiary bombs, commonly referred to as Molotov cocktails, and falsely impersonating an officer or employee of the United States.

According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on December 12, 2023, at approximately 1:47 a.m., a police officer in Ingalls, Indiana, was dispatched to an address that had recently been vandalized multiple times, including with fires set in the driveway and inside the mailbox at that address. Dispatch received a report of a suspicious man walking toward the house carrying something but who ran back to his red Toyota RAV4 when the house’s security lights came on.

The officer located the RAV4 and pulled it over. As the officer approached, Stearman pressed against the window his ID as well as an unknown government identification that included a government seal at the bottom. Repeatedly, Stearman claimed he was a Homeland Security Officer returning from a “mission.” Stearman was wearing black gloves with black duct tape around his wrists.

Eventually, Stearman exited the vehicle and was placed in custody. Inside the vehicle, officers found four bottles containing a yellow-brown liquid that gave off an odor of fuel, as well as what appeared to be small pieces of wood or kindling inside of them. All four had a piece of cloth or fabric sticking out from under the cap. Officers also found a lighter in the vehicle.

During the trial, experts from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) testified about their analysis of the four bottles. An ATF Forensic Chemist testified that she had analyzed the liquid inside the bottles, and each was found to contain gasoline. Then, an ATF Destructive Device Examiner testified how each of the bottles was designed to be used as an incendiary bomb: The wick is ignited by an open flame and the device is thrown against a surface, with the intent that the ignitable liquid and wooden sticks inside will spread fire to a combustible surface against which it was thrown. Incendiary bombs, commonly known as Molotov cocktails, are a type of destructive device that is generally unlawful to possess under federal law.

The ATF and Ingalls Police Department investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by Lapel, Indiana Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security. Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt presided over the trial and will sentence Stearman at a later date.

Acting U.S. Attorney John E. Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nate Walter, who are prosecuting this case.

###

MIL Security OSI –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI: DTE Energy breaks ground on new solar park to help meet Ford Motor Company’s needs for 100% carbon-free and renewable energy

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Detroit, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DTE Energy, the state’s largest producer of and investor in renewable energy, broke ground this morning on a 100-megawatt solar array near Coldwater, MI. When complete in 2026, Cold Creek Solar Park will be the first of several DTE parks that will help Ford Motor Company reach its goal of attributing 100 percent carbon-free and renewable energy to its Michigan manufacturing facilities.

Ford’s purchase of 650 megawatts of renewable energy from DTE’s CleanVision MIGreenPower program is the larges such purchase from a utility in U.S. history. MIGreenPower, DTE’s voluntary renewable energy program, enables business and residential customers to attribute their electricity use to Michigan-made renewable energy while funding the development of new solar and wind parks, such as the new array now under construction near Coldwater.

Ford’s enrollment in MIGreenPower, which will help the company avoid as much as 600,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, is part of its global environmental commitments. The company’s goal is to achieve carbon neutrality across its vehicles, manufacturing and supply chain no later than 2050, and to use 100% carbon-free electricity in its global manufacturing facilities by 2035.

“Thanks to this strategic investment with DTE, Ford will soon be able to attribute all of our electricity supply in Michigan to clean energy,” said Amir Mirshahi, director of Utilities and Energy Infrastructure at Ford. “This partnership is proof of Ford’s unwavering commitment to transitioning to clean energy and aligns us with our sustainability objectives. It represents a significant step toward our goal of achieving carbon neutrality and will also help make our local Michigan communities more resilient to the impacts of climate change.”

“We’re excited to be on this clean energy journey with Ford to fulfill its electricity needs with affordable, Michigan-made renewable energy,” said Matt Paul, president and chief operating officer, DTE Electric. “Our customers – whether they are large manufacturers like Ford, or hometown businesses, or families – are telling us they want more renewable energy, and we will continue to develop and deliver it to them.”

DTE’s renewable energy portfolio currently consists of 20 wind parks and 34 solar parks – all located in Michigan. DTE has invested $4.6 billion in its renewable energy infrastructure since 2009 and aims to invest an additional $4 billion in renewable energy over the next several years.

In 2025, DTE will have three new solar parks coming online in the first half of year, with three additional solar parks beginning construction. The six parks will total 800 megawatts, or enough clean energy to power more than 220,000 homes. The developments will help DTE make significant progress toward its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions as well as meeting the State of Michigan’s clean energy goals.

For more information on DTE’s MIGreenPower program, please visit www.migreenpower.com.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, as well as connected services. Additionally, Ford is establishing leadership positions in mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 182,000 people worldwide. More information about the company, its products and Ford Credit is available at corporate.ford.com.

About DTE Energy
DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include an electric company serving 2.3 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company serving 1.3 million customers across Michigan. The DTE portfolio also includes energy businesses focused on custom energy solutions, renewable energy generation, and energy marketing and trading. DTE has continued to accelerate its carbon reduction goals to meet aggressive targets and is committed to serving with its energy through volunteerism, education and employment initiatives, philanthropy, emission reductions and economic progress. Information about DTE is available at dteenergy.com, empoweringmichigan.com, x.com/dte_energy and facebook.com/dteenergy. 

The MIL Network –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: State’s first Work Zone Speed Camera launches April 16 on I-5 near JBLM

Source: Washington State News 2

Cameras focus on safety by slowing speeders and protecting workers on Washington highways

OLYMPIA – Washington transportation leaders are taking a bold step to protect road construction workers and drivers as the first Work Zone Speed Camera begins enforcement Wednesday, April 16, near Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

The trailer-mounted camera photographs vehicles speeding through active work zones. The Washington State Department of Transportation will rotate the camera between construction, maintenance and emergency projects where speeding is an issue. This safety tool aims to protect workers and the traveling public by encouraging drivers to follow work zone speed limits and reducing the number of speed-related crashes. The first site was selected because of ongoing safety concerns with people speeding through that Interstate 5 work zone.

Signs will notify drivers when the camera is at a job site and when possible, a radar feedback sign will accompany the camera to remind drivers to slow down. The program will expand with two more cameras this spring and three more by summer.

“Too many workers have been injured or killed, and statistics show drivers are not slowing down,” said Secretary of Transportation Julie Meredith. “This provides another tool to help ensure workers – and everyone on the roadway – comes home safe at the end of the day.”

Program and enforcement details

The cameras will only record infractions when workers are present on a job site. Work can take place day or night, so drivers should assume there are workers in all work zones, particularly if they are in the area where they see a sign notifying them about a camera ahead.

After the camera detects a speeding vehicle, information will be forwarded to the Washington State Patrol. The photos do not include images of drivers. Troopers will determine if a violation was committed and, if so, issue an infraction. The vehicle’s registered owner will receive the infraction in the mail and can contest it, ask for a reduction or request a payment plan.

When someone receives a notice of infraction, they will be directed to the program’s website to acknowledge the incident. There is no fine for the first work zone speed camera infraction; the second and every infraction after that is $248. The vehicle’s registered owner must respond to the notice of infraction online or through the mail, even if it carries no financial penalty. The infractions are recorded as non-moving violations and do not affect driving records or insurance. Unpaid fines will be added to vehicle registration renewals.

The state Office of Administrative Hearings will oversee appeals for infractions. After people appeal, they can submit supporting evidence such as photographs or other documents for the judge to consider. Depending on the reason for the appeal, they will have either a brief adjudicative proceeding, which involves only documents, or a formal adjudicative hearing, where they can also provide testimony over the phone to a judge.

Legislative, agency and industry partnerships

The cameras result from partnerships and support by the state Legislature, several state agencies, law enforcement and union and industry groups. Legislation for the cameras took effect July 1, 2023, with an Amendment bill passed the following year.

The money received from fines will pay for the program’s costs and any extra money will support WSP DUI and safety programs. The program runs through 2030 unless extended by the Legislature.

Proven safety tool

Through scanning light detection and ranging, called LiDAR, the camera detects vehicles traveling faster than the posted speed limit and takes images of the vehicle, its license plate and related information (e.g., speed limit, a vehicle’s recorded speed, location, date, time, etc.). Work zone speed camera vendor Elovate works with other states on similar programs, including Maryland and Indiana.

Since 2020, Washington has averaged 1,345 work zone crashes every year. Meredith said the goal of the safety program is to reduce speeding, not issue tickets.

“We would be ecstatic if these cameras never resulted in infractions,” she said, “because that would mean drivers instead changed their behavior.”

This program is separate from the recently launched Highway Speed Camera Program, which is currently underway on I-5 and I-90 in Skagit and Spokane counties.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Cochrane — Cochrane RCMP Crime Reduction Unit recover over $200,000 of stolen vehicles

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

In January of 2025, Cochrane RCMP Crime Reduction Unit began an investigation into the re-vinning and fraudulent registration of stolen vehicles in the area of Cochrane. With the assistance of community partners, the police launched an investigation into the suspect.

Through the investigation, it was learned that the operation spanned across Alberta and into Saskatchewan. With assistance from the Wynyard RCMP, Saskatchewan RCMP’s Auto Theft Unit and Saskatoon Police Service, a Ford Expedition and a Lexus RX350 were recovered, resulting in the arrest of a suspect.

In March 2025, Cochrane RCMP recovered a Ford F150 and then executed a search warrant at a Calgary residence, resulting in the seizure of a re-vinned Dodge Ram. The total value of recovered vehicles across the two provinces exceeds $200,000.

A 32-year-old individual, a resident of Calgary, was charged with the following:

• Fraud Over $5000;

• Altering a VIN;

• Uttering Forged Documents;

• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000; and

• Possession for the Purposes of Trafficking a Controlled Substance.

The individual is scheduled to appear on April 28, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Cochrane.

“The success of this investigation demonstrates the exceptional work of our investigators and the strong relationships we have with our partner law enforcement agencies and the community” says Inspector Dave Brunner, Commanding Officer of the Cochrane RCMP.

MIL Security OSI –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Grande Prairie — Grande Prairie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit conducts multiple drug-related arrests
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Throughout the month of February, the Grande Prairie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) conducted multiple drug-related arrests. Included in the arrests are the following instances:

On Feb. 3, 2025, Grande Prairie RCMP CRU members, while on an unrelated call, witnessed a drug exchange involving an individual known to police. This individual had been arrested twice in Oct. 2024 for similar offences, brought before a justice of the peace and released on both occasions. As a result of the investigation, 36g of fentanyl were seized and a 36-year-old individual, a resident of Grande Prairie, was charged with:
- Possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of property obtained by crime; and
- Failure to comply with release order (x4).
The 36-year-old individual was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody. He is to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Grande Prairie on Dec. 2, 2025.

On Feb. 19, 2025, Grande Prairie RCMP CRU conducted a traffic stop in the Grande Prairie area, resulting in the arrest of three individuals. A search of the vehicle and its occupants revealed:
- 95g of cocaine;
- 126 oxy pills;
- $1660 in Canadian currency; and
- Unstamped tobacco products.
As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were arrested and charged:

A 50-year-old, 30-year-old individuals, both residents of Grande Prairie as well as a 23-year-old individual, a resident of Clairmont, Alta., were charged with:
- Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of oxy for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of property obtained by crime; and
- Possession of unstamped tobacco.
All individuals were released on conditions after their arrest and are to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Grande Prairie on June 4, 2025.

On Feb. 20, 2025, Grande Prairie RCMP CRU conducted a traffic stop in the Grande Prairie area, from which a vehicle fled. The vehicle was later located by CRU members, who safely arrested the driver, who had multiple outstanding warrants, including one for assault with a weapon. A search of the vehicle incidental to arrest revealed 86g of methamphetamines and 5g of fentanyl.

As a result of the investigation, a 44-year-old individual, a resident of Peace River, Alta. was charged with:
- Possession of methamphetamines for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking;
- Dangerous Driving;
- Flight from Peace Officer; and
- Failure to comply with release order (x2).
The 44-year-old individual was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody, to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Peace River on April 7, 2025.

On Feb. 27, 2025, Grande Prairie RCMP CRU conducted a traffic stop in the Grande Prairie area, resulting in the arrest of three individuals. A search of the vehicle and its occupants revealed:
- A handgun, complete with extra ammunition. The handgun was later discovered to have been stolen during a break and enter;
- 13 grams of fentanyl;
- 33 grams of cocaine; and
- 33 grams of methamphetamines.
As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were arrested and charged:

A 41-year-old individual, a resident of Crooked Creek, Alta., and a 54-year-old individual, a resident of Grande Prairie, were charged with:
- Possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of methamphetamines for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000; and
- Firearms-related offences (x6).
A 41-year-old individual, a resident of Grande Prairie, was charged with:
- Possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of methamphetamines for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000;
- Firearms-related offences (x6); and
- Failure to comply with release order.
All individuals were brought before a justice of the peace and originally remanded into custody. Shea and Trautman have since been released. All three are to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Grande Prairie on April 9, 2025.

“I would like to start by thanking the members of the Grande Prairie RCMP CRU for their hard work and dedication in keeping our community safe” said Staff Sergeant Groenen of the Grande Prairie RCMP. “Grande Prairie RCMP CRU believes in our mission to help our community and we do so by ensuring that drugs such as Fentanyl are removed from our streets and that those peddling in such goods are brought before the courts.”

MIL Security OSI –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/HAITI – Children and adults of the Pourcine Pic Makaya community: a people of heroes

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Tuesday, 15 April 2025

MM

by Father Massimo Miraglio*Pourcine Pic Makaya (Agenzia Fides) – Every morning, around 250 children walk for hours along steep and dangerous paths to reach the primary and nursery school in Pourcine Pic Makaya, where the village is located. They come from hamlets scattered throughout the area: some climb from the nearby valleys, others descend from the top of the plateau, facing stony and slippery paths that become almost impassable in the rain or dew.“Every morning, at 7:30, I stand at the entrance to the schoolyard to welcome our young heroes, aged between 4 and 14,” says a missionary present in the community. “Many arrive punctually and dressed up, within their means. Even the little ones, who travel long distances, have washed at the public fountain and put on their school uniforms.” Punctuality, however, is not always possible. “Are you late, Jean?” the missionary asks a child. “Father, I live in Loran. This morning my mother sent me to the fountain to get water, then I took the goat to graze… and the path is very slippery,” the little boy replies. It’s barely 8:30 in the morning, and this seven-year-old has already covered several kilometers and completed multiple family chores.“Falling ill at Pourcine Pic Makaya is a tragedy that must be avoided. The hospital is inaccessible and reserved for the most serious cases, who are carried by hand on a stretcher to the bottom of the valley (a six-hour walk) and then… by motorbike, or if you are lucky enough to meet one of the very rare cars that pass by, you can hope to reach the hospital in Jérémie, but many often die along the way.”Illnesses, especially those that are not too serious, are treated at Pourcine Pic Makaya with traditional medicine, which combines the use of medicinal plants with rituals and beliefs that are more difficult to understand. In many cases, this medicine is effective and decisive, but there are situations that, due to their severity, require immediate treatment and the presence of professional personnel. In these cases, continuing to administer traditional remedies can have fatal consequences.“In recent months, several people have died because of these ‘false beliefs’ fueled by cults. In Pourcine Pic Makaya, the parish priest’s house has become a point of reference for all those who fall ill, whether it’s a toothache, bronchitis, or a wound that needs treating… not to mention schoolchildren: parasites, fever, cough, wounds, and some then, with so much hope in their hearts, come from far away to seek a solution to even serious health problems.” “For the time being,” he continues, “what we can do is monitor the symptoms and help the person reach the bottom of the valley where, with luck, they may be able to reach the hospital. Every time I am amazed to see how a person in very poor health manages to make such an arduous and difficult journey. They arrive at the parish feverish or seriously injured, and from there they set off to reach the hospital. A people of heroes.”“In 2024 and in this first part of 2025, some steps have been taken to improve the living conditions of the local community (see Fides, 5/3/2025). During 2025, we will continue along this path, despite the country’s enormous difficulties. We will begin the literacy project for adults, maintenance work on some sections of the paths and mule tracks in the area, the second section of the aqueduct, and the safety of two other sources, the coffee nursery. The greatest challenge remains: building a small clinic to meet the population’s significant health needs.”(Agenzia Fides, 15/4/2025)* Father Massimo Miraglio is a Camillian missionary of the Order of Ministers to the Sick, parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Pourcine Pic Makaya.
MM

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MIL OSI Europe News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Building contractor sentenced for £50,000 Covid loan fraud
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Building contractor sentenced for £50,000 Covid loan fraud

Florin-Petrica Bodale, who was a sole trader operating as a building contractor, exaggerated his turnover to obtain the maximum Bounce Back Loan.
Florin-Petrica Bodale was a building contractor and sole trader, operating in Harrow.

He claimed his business had a turnover of more than £200,000 to claim the maximum Covid Bounce Back loan.

He was sentenced to 13-months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, following a hearing at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

A building contractor who fraudulently claimed a £50,000 Covid Bounce Back loan has received a 13-month suspended sentence.

Florin-Petrica Bodale operated as a building contractor offering plumbing, heating and air-conditioning installation and was based in Harrow, London.

In November 2020, the 34-year-old successfully applied to a bank for a Covid Bounce Back loan of £50,000.

But an Insolvency Service investigation found that he had falsely claimed the company’s turnover was £240,000 to receive the maximum loan available.

In reality, the turnover of the company was around £22,000 – meaning he was only entitled to £5,500.

On 10 April 2025, at Snaresbrook Crown Court, Bodale was sentenced to 13-months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, for one count of fraud by false representation.

He was also ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work.

Insolvency Service Chief Investigator David Snasdell said:

Florin-Petrica Bodale falsely claimed a much higher turnover for his business and the reality of this is a notable sentence on top of his earlier disqualification as a director.

These loans were intended to help keep small businesses afloat, not to take money from the public purse that businesses were not entitled to.

We will continue in our efforts to bring those who abuse this scheme to justice.

In 2022, before the criminal investigation, Bodale signed a ten-year bankruptcy restriction undertaking which also included a ten-year director disqualification following a civil investigation by the Insolvency Service.

The court noted that he had repaid some money as part of the bankruptcy process.

Measures were introduced during 2020 to support businesses affected by COVID-19 such as loans, grants and tax allowances. The Bounce Back loan scheme helped small and medium-sized businesses to borrow between £2,000 and £50,000, at a low interest rate, guaranteed by the Government.

The Bounce Back loans were made on the condition that they were not to be used for personal purposes, but could be used, for example, to purchase a company asset such as a vehicle, if it would provide an economic benefit to the business.

Further information:

Florin-Petrica Bodale’s last known address is Elmsleigh Avenue, Harrow. Date of birth: 26/06/1990

Read more about the Bounce Back Loan Scheme and the action the Insolvency Service can take if it finds misconduct.

The Insolvency Service can investigate complaints about corporate abuse by live companies. This may include serious misconduct, fraud, scams or dishonest practice in the way the company operates. Further information on our live investigations can be found here   

Further information about the work of the Insolvency Service, and how to complain about financial misconduct.

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Published 15 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Icebreaking near Bruce Mines, Ontario

Source: Government of Canada News (2)

April 15, 2025

Sarnia, Ontario – The Canadian Coast Guard advises residents of Bruce Mines, Ontario that the USCGC Neah Bay will carry out icebreaking operations in the area on or around April 16, 2025. The purpose of this operation is to break up the ice to allow commercial vessels safe and efficient movement.

It is recommended that all traffic on the ice, including pedestrians, fishers, snowmobilers, and all-terrain vehicle operators, leave the ice during icebreaking operations. The ice may move, creating a real danger for anyone on it. Additionally, plan activities carefully and use extreme caution after operations are complete as the ice will remain unstable even once the icebreaker has left the area.

Icebreaking on the Great Lakes and connecting waterways is delivered through close co-operation between the Canadian and United States Coast Guards. By working together, the two Coast Guards ensure scheduled vessel traffic can move through the shipping channels and in and out of community harbours. Vessels will be assigned as needed to provide this service.

The date and assets are subject to change with no notice, as activities could begin before or after that period, depending on operational requirements or weather conditions.

MIL OSI Canada News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: New, adaptive mountain-biking trail opens in Alice Lake Park
Source: Government of Canada regional news

A new, beginner-friendly adaptive mountain-biking trail at Alice Lake Park is now open, giving more people better access to local trails and a more inclusive experience.

“Everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy active, outdoor recreation, and as more people choose to spend their weekends and holidays in B.C., we are continuing to ensure our parks are welcoming and inclusive,” said Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks. “The South Coaster Adaptive Trail is a fantastic addition to Alice Lake Park, making it easier for people with diverse abilities to explore our beautiful forests.”

The new one-kilometre South Coaster Adaptive Trail is a $180,000 investment from the Government of B.C., in partnership with the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA). It includes wide and smooth terrain to support adaptive mountain-bike users and links to Miki’s Magic and Cardrona trails, opening access to a nine-kilometre adaptive mountain biking loop. Adaptive mountain bikes are specialized bikes designed for riders with diverse mobility needs; they include things such as extra wheels, hand cranks and custom seating.

“SORCA has been working closely with BC Parks staff for approximately six years to bring this trail to fruition,” said Ian Lowe, executive director, SORCA. “Initially, the focus of the trail was to provide a significantly improved experience for less-experienced riders. However, BC Parks amplified SORCA’s original vision by making this an adaptive mountain-bike friendly trail, which will be enjoyed by a wide spectrum of riders and user groups.”

The new trail addresses a growing need for mountain-biking trail access in the Sea to Sky region, which continues to be a popular area for people to visit. It builds on recent improvements to Stawamus Chief Park and Garibaldi Park. Parking lots have been expanded at Stawamus Chief and the Diamond Head chain-up lot in Garibaldi to provide more opportunities for people to access these popular parks. Trail upgrades are ongoing at Stawamus Chief Park.

With its trailhead located near the parking lots and campground, the South Coaster links to the Bob McIntosh Memorial Trail, expanding year-round trail options for all mountain bikers in the region.

“Everyone should have access to outdoor recreation, and these trails provide a means to experience the joy and beauty of our region,” said Armand Hurford, mayor of Squamish. “The District of Squamish is committed to building an inclusive community in which all people can thrive. Thank you to BC Parks and the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association for creating this opportunity and considering the needs of all trail users, with adaptive mountain bike users in mind.”

The upgrades are part of a five-year, $21.5-million provincial investment to increase and improve opportunities for outdoor recreation in B.C. They also support the Province’s renewed and expanded commitment to make BC Parks more inclusive and accessible spaces.

Accessibility upgrades continue to be made in parks throughout the province. Universal design standards are incorporated in new campgrounds and recreation expansion projects.

Quick Facts:
- There are four different types of adaptive mountain bikes that can be ridden on the South Coaster: cross-country, all-mountain, all-mountain (kneeling) and all-electric.
- B.C.’s first purpose-built adaptive mountain-biking trail, Spine Trail in the Kootenays, opened in 2017.
- In addition to trails, Alice Lake Park offers 108 campsites, 96 of which are vehicle-accessible.
Learn More:

To learn more about adaptive trail standards, visit: https://kootenayadaptive.wordpress.com/adaptive-mountain-biking-trail-standards/

To learn more about Alice Lake Park, visit: https://bcparks.ca/alice-lake-park/

To learn more about the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association, visit: https://www.sorca.ca/

To learn more about BC Parks’ Commitment to Inclusion, visit: https://bcparks.ca/about/commitment-to-inclusion/

MIL OSI Canada News –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Eskom issues tender to accelerate renewable energy deployment

Source: South Africa News Agency

Eskom has issued a call for proposals from experienced companies to establish renewable energy businesses to expedite the deployment of renewable energy solutions.

According to the statement released on Tuesday, Eskom will evaluate applicants based on several criteria, including a demonstrated history of successfully establishing a renewable energy company and the number of public-private partnerships (PPPs) and special purpose vehicles (SPVs) that have created tangible projects.

The evaluation will also look at expertise in the independent power producer (IPP) business model and financial structuring, technical capabilities, and knowledge of the sector.

This evaluation process aims to select firms that can effectively contribute to Eskom’s renewable energy initiatives.

The State utility announced that the new subsidiary aims to operate independently from the main Eskom entity, enabling better governance, improved market competitiveness, and enhanced PPPs.

“Agility and efficiency are at the heart of preparing for a competitive marketplace and ensuring we serve our current and future customers with the electricity supply solutions they require,“ said Eskom’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane.

Marokane stated that Eskom is now one year into its turnaround strategy.

This strategy aims to not only end load shedding but also transform the utility into a sustainable and competitive company while ensuring a secure supply of electricity.

“To make a meaningful impact in the renewables space, we recognised that the most cost-effective way to do this is to bring in at the start some new skills, thinking and expertise to set our Eskom teams up for success in the business, so through knowledge transfer we can execute strategic initiatives in a competitive market faster and more efficiently. The creation of our renewable energy business also forms part of Eskom’s focus both in this country and internationally to identify the latest developments and strategies to reduce carbon emissions and other air pollutants,” he explained.

Eskom said it was committed to maintaining a balanced and diversified energy mix.

This includes utilising existing coal and nuclear power, introducing gas for baseload power, and incorporating renewable energy sources.

In addition, Eskom aims to implement energy storage systems, such as battery energy storage systems (BESS) and pumped hydro, to ensure overall security of supply and sustainably meet the growing electricity demand in South Africa.

The utility said it has an executable initial pipeline of at least 2GW of clean energy projects by 2026 and has developed a pipeline of more than 20GW of clean energy projects to diversify its energy mix.

Eskom will update the marketplace on the progress of the development of its renewable energy business throughout 2025.

The opportunity to respond to the tender closes on 7 May 2025 at 10 am, and application forms can be found on the Eskom website. The support will be required over 12 months. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Rines Creek — Media notification: Emergency alert in areas of Colchester and East Hants as RCMPNS continues search for man who may be armed with firearm

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

An emergency alert has been issued for areas of Colchester County, Millbrook, Stewiacke, Indian Brook, and East Hants as RCMPNS continues to search for a man who may be armed with a firearm near Rhines Creek, Nova Scotia.

The man was last seen running on foot from a motor vehicle crash on Highway 215, near Exit 10. The man is described as being 6 feet tall, 220 pounds, black hair, extensive tattoos, wearing a gold chain. If seen, do not approach, call 9-1-1.

Instructions for the public: Do not provide a ride to anyone asking for one. Do not pick up hitch hikers. Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies or tips. Updates will be posted to RCMPNS website and social accounts as available.

MIL Security OSI –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Travelling for Easter? The CBSA gives tips for a smooth trip
Source: Government of Canada News (2)

April 15, 2025
Ottawa, Ontario

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reminds travellers that it can be extra busy at the border over the Easter long weekend.

Every day, the CBSA works hard to protect Canadians, support the economy and ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods across the border. In 2024, we welcomed over 93.4 million travellers, stopped over 34,400 kg of illegal drugs from entering our communities and kept more than 17,200 weapons and 930 firearms off our streets.

The CBSA plans and prepares for peak periods, including long weekends and summer months. We monitor traveller volumes and take measures to minimize border wait times at land ports of entry and at international airports, without compromising safety and security.

Here are some travel tips to help you plan for your trip:
- Driving into Canada? Check border wait times and expect delays.
  - Early mornings are the best time to cross the border to avoid wait times.
  - The Monday of holiday long weekends tend to be the busiest.
  - Consider an alternative port of entry with shorter wait times or less traffic.
  - Check the port of entry’s hours of operation on the official CBSA Directory of Offices and Services.
  - If you are using a GPS application (such as Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze) to direct you to a port of entry, consider checking different navigation options (such as fastest and shortest routes) to determine the preferred route of travel.
- Have your travel documents handy. This will speed up processing times at the border.
- Be prepared to declare. Declare everything you have with you upon entry into Canada. If arriving by land, you are responsible for everything inside your vehicle.
  - Goods purchased abroad: If you are a resident of Canada, personal exemptions allow you to bring goods, including alcohol and tobacco (up to a certain value), back to Canada without paying regular duty and taxes. Make sure you know how much you are bringing back in Canadian dollars and have your receipts readily available for the officer.
  - Surtaxes on certain US goods. If you’ve purchased goods in the U.S. and are bringing them into Canada, you may have to pay a 25% surtax in addition to regular duties and taxes. For residents of Canada, this surtax applies only to goods exceeding your personal exemptions limit. Consult the lists of products surtaxed as of March 4, as of March 13, and April 9 (U.S.-made vehicles). Visit the CBSA website for more details on how these surtaxes apply at the border.
  - Visitors to Canada may also bring gifts for their friends and family as long as the gifts are unwrapped or in gift bags, in case border services officers need to inspect the contents.
  - You can bring in Easter chocolate as long as it’s for personal use and doesn’t exceed a certain weight.
- Flying into Canada? Use Advance Declaration and make your customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours in advance of your arrival into Canada at participating airports.
- When travelling with children, who are not your own or for whom you don’t have full legal custody, we recommend you have a consent letter from the parent or legal guardian authorizing you to travel with the child. We are always watching for missing children, and in the absence of the letter, officers may ask additional questions.
- Know before you go: review the restricted and prohibited goods to avoid the possibility of penalties, including fines, seizure or prosecution. Make sure you have the information you need before attempting to bring items into Canada.
- Leave behind: firearms, weapons, narcotics and cannabis.
- We encourage you to read and follow all of our travel tips before arriving at the border.
Not sure? Ask a CBSA officer. The best way to save time is to be open and honest with the border services officer. If you are not sure about what to declare, don’t hesitate to ask!

For more information, visit the CBSA website or call us at 1-800-461-9999.

MIL OSI Canada News –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Results of Consultation around Drumgeith Community Campus
Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

The results of a major consultation exercise over delivery of community services in the North East and East End of Dundee will be discussed by councillors next week.

Hundreds of people responded to the call for views on proposals to relocate council and Leisure and Culture Dundee services from current facilities to the new Drumgeith Community Campus, which is set to open alongside Greenfield Academy in August.

Consultation ran for six weeks late last year and the results of the survey and recommendations for future service delivery will be set out to the City Governance Committee at its next meeting.

Councillors will be asked to
- Approve the continued operation of Douglas Community Centre and Library
- Approve the closure of The Hub Library and Community facility and redistribution of services within six months for the services and building to be closed after the opening of the Drumgeith Community Campus
- Approve the closure of Whitfield Library (The Crescent) and redistribution of services within six months after the opening of the Drumgeith Community Campus
- Defer a decision on the closure of Douglas Sports Centre and remit the Chief Executive to further review the operations and report back to a future committee.
Council leader Cllr Mark Flynn said: “I would like to thank everyone who took the time to take part in this consultation. Their views have played an important part in formulating the recommendations for future delivery of services.

“Drumgeith Community Campus is the largest investment in education, sport and community provision in the city and will deliver state-of-the-art facilities and services to the area.

“However, we were keen to ensure that existing provision in the wider community was looked at with the perspectives of local people closely considered.

“It became clear that Douglas Community Centre and Library plays a crucial role in delivering vital services for the people of Douglas and that these should be retained in the local area.

“Similarly, there was a high level of concern expressed about the closure of Douglas Sports Centre, and I think that a further review is a sensible way forward.

“A balance is being struck for the community with these proposals, and I hope people can see how seriously their views have been taken in the process.”

Councillors will hear that a review into Douglas Community Centre concluded that it “has an important role in the delivery of many key services for the people of Douglas and these services are best retained in Douglas”.”

A report proposes that Douglas Community Centre and Library and the new campus operate as a hub and spoke model where each site is complementary to the other, and that there is an integrated offer across the communities served by the two facilities.

The report also explains that a review is currently underway to develop an effective single governance and operating model for the Drumgeith Community Campus.

This will ensure that the Drumgeith Community Campus operates efficiently, transparently, and sustainably, meeting the needs of all stakeholders while maintaining high standards of safety, compliance, and community engagement.

Dundee City Council will manage the facility, and a service level agreement will be established for all partners.

Leisure and Culture Dundee would provide services such as sport, leisure, and library activities.

The City Governance Committee meets on Monday April 21.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PHILIPPINES – The nation consecrates itself to Divine Mercy: a “collective response of faith and hope”

Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

Archdiocese of Manila

Manila (Agenzia Fides) – In a context of growing social and political polarization, the Philippines is preparing to consecrate itself to Divine Mercy as a sign of national unity. The country’s Bishops’ Conference has called for a solemn act of consecration for Sunday, April 27, the Feast of Divine Mercy, which will be celebrated during Masses in all the country’s churches. Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, President of the Bishops’ Conference, described this consecration as “a collective response of faith and hope” to the “serious challenges” facing the nation and the world: widespread corruption, the erosion of truth, the growing rejection of the Church’s teachings on life and the family, as well as the threat of internal divisions and armed conflicts at the local and global levels. “The national consecration will be a profound expression of our trust in Divine Mercy, which remains our last refuge in these times of uncertainty and trial,” the Cardinal explained.“We entrust ourselves, our Church, and our nation to God’s infinite mercy, certain that in it we will find the healing, renewal, and hope we so deeply need,” he wrote. During the ceremony, a prayer of consecration will be recited, asking Jesus for mercy for wars, for sins against truth, justice, and fraternity, as well as for abuses against human dignity and the family. “Jesus, with complete faith and trust in your boundless ocean of love, we place ourselves under the protection of your merciful care,” the prayer continues: “We unite ourselves to your perfect offering, with the Holy Spirit, to the Father, so that we may be completely transformed in your mercy. Have mercy on us for the wars between nations and the terrors with which we torment one another. Have mercy on us for the widespread sin against the truth and the horrible sins against justice and human brotherhood. Have mercy on us for the blasphemy to which your Divine Mercy is subjected and the abominable deception of the weak and the poor. Have mercy on us for the abuses against human dignity, the sin against life, love, and family.” The initiative is inspired by the spirit of the Fifth World Apostolic Congress on Mercy, held in Cebu in 2024, where the Filipino faithful reaffirmed their commitment to be “vehicles of the Lord’s compassion” and concrete witnesses of his mercy in all communities. They were also “true messengers of mercy.” The nation, it was stated at the end of the Congress, needs “works that translate the spirit of mercy into concrete acts: the baptized are called to be a living mercy for others.” Divine Mercy Sunday was instituted in 2000 by Saint John Paul II, coinciding with the canonization of Saint Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun and mystic whose revelations inspired this devotion. It is celebrated annually on the second Sunday of Easter. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 15/4/2025)
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MIL OSI Europe News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Resilient Chinese economy injects certainty into the world amid rising protectionism

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

Resilient Chinese economy injects certainty into the world amid rising protectionism

BEIJING, April 15 — Despite headwinds of rising protectionism, increasing signals point to a good start for China’s economy for the first quarter (Q1) of 2025, injecting much-needed certainty and confidence into the world.

The Chinese economic momentum is highlighted by domestic demand, industrial production and foreign trade, and driven by pro-growth policies, innovation, and structural adjustment.

The Chinese government has prioritized such tasks as boosting domestic demand, developing new quality productive forces, implementing landmark reform measures, and expanding high-standard opening up, for this year.

Foreign trade remains one of the bright spots for the largest developing country, whose Q1 goods trade volume hit a record high for the same period. Beating market expectations, China’s exports in Q1 grew by 6.9 percent. The resilience of foreign trade has been underpinned by its diversification of international markets and innovation-based competitiveness.

Other figures also attest to the steady recovery trend, especially the upward trajectory since the final quarter of last year. The purchasing managers’ index of the manufacturing sector registered a one-year high in March and remained in expansion territory for the second consecutive month.

In the first two months of this year, industrial production, consumption, and investment growth rates surpassed last year’s full-year figures. The domestic sales of excavators for major manufacturers grew by 28.5 percent in March, reflecting the momentum in infrastructure investment.

Consumption is gaining new momentum because of the expanded large-scale equipment upgrade and consumer goods trade-in programs. The Q1 retail sales of refrigerators and other household appliances increased by 38.4 percent year on year, and those of mobile phones and other communication equipment increased by 27.3 percent, according to value-added tax invoice data from the State Taxation Administration.

China’s new energy industries and green transition, driven by its cutting-edge technologies, remain important growth drivers. Green technology promotion services in energy conservation and environmental protection, as well as the sales revenue of the new energy vehicle manufacturing industry, all posted double-digit growth in Q1. Among the country’s innovation achievements, humanoid robotics and large artificial intelligence models have driven the development of relevant industries.

Despite external challenges, China is determined to manage its own affairs well, advancing Chinese modernization and pursuing high-quality development while sharing with other countries the new opportunities presented by its development.

Through reassuring messages from policymakers at multiple symposiums, conferences, and expos this year, confidence has been significantly strengthened in the private sector and among foreign investors. This could be seen from a year-on-year increase of 33.4 percent in border crossings by foreign nationals in Q1, and a record 65 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders attending the ongoing fifth China International Consumer Products Expo in south China’s Hainan Province.

The sustained economic growth in Q1 has laid a solid foundation for accomplishing the country’s annual economic growth target of around 5 percent for 2025. China will implement more proactive macro policies, introduce new incremental policies as needed, and ensure effective economic work in the second quarter and beyond, with intensified efforts across all tasks.

With sufficient and effective policy tools, China has the confidence and capability to achieve this year’s economic and social development goals, tackle external uncertainties, and contribute certainty and stability to the world amid rising protectionism.

MIL OSI China News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI China: A glimpse of low-altitude economy zone at ongoing CICPE

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

A glimpse of low-altitude economy zone at ongoing CICPE

Updated: April 15, 2025 21:07 Xinhua

A visitor experiences a passenger-carrying drone at the booth of EHang at the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 15, 2025. Slated from April 13 to 18, this year’s expo features dedicated exhibition zones for groundbreaking innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and low-altitude economy for the first time. Making its debut this year, the low-altitude economy zone showcases electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, flying cars, and drones. [Photo/Xinhua]

A logistics drone loaded with goods and heading for Xuwen Port in Guangdong Province takes off outside the exhibition hall of the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

An unmanned aircraft used for fighting fire in tall buildings is displayed at the low-altitude economy zone of the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

A staff member introduces a product to a visitor at the booth of DJI at the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 15, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

A staff member introduces an exhibit by Xpeng AeroHT at the low-altitude economy zone of the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 15, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

People visit the low-altitude economy zone at the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 14, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

People visit the low-altitude economy zone at the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 15, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

People visit the booth of United Aircraft at the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China’s Hainan Province, April 15, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

MIL OSI China News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Canada announces new support for Canadian businesses affected by U.S. tariffs

Source: Government of Canada News (2)

April 15, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

The Minister of Finance, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, today announced new measures for Canadian businesses and entities affected by the tariff dispute between Canada and the United States. These measures include the remission of some of the countermeasure tariffs announced by Canada in response to unjustified tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian products.

First, Minister Champagne announced a performance-based remission framework for automakers, designed to incentivize continued production and investment in Canada. In recognition of the integrated nature of the North American automotive sector, this will allow automakers that continue to manufacture vehicles in Canada to import a certain number of U.S.-assembled, CUSMA-compliant vehicles into Canada, free of the countermeasure tariffs that Canada has imposed.

The remission granted to these companies is contingent on these automakers continuing to produce vehicles in Canada and on completing planned investments. The number of tariff-free vehicles a company is permitted to import will be reduced if there are reductions in Canadian production or investment.

Second, the Minister announced that the government intends to provide temporary 6-month relief for goods imported from the U.S. that are used in Canadian manufacturing, processing and food and beverage packaging, and for those used to support public health, health care, public safety, and national security objectives. This provides immediate relief to a broad cross-section of Canadian businesses that must rely on U.S. inputs to support their competitiveness as well as to entities integral to Canadians’ health and safety, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities and fire departments. The remission is provided on a time-limited basis to provide businesses and entities with additional time to adjust their supply chains and prioritize domestic sources of supply if available.

Third, the new Large Enterprise Tariff Loan Facility (LETL), as announced by the Prime Minister in March, is now accepting applicants. This program will support eligible large businesses—including those that contribute to Canada’s food security, energy security, economic security and national security—that are facing difficulties in accessing traditional sources of market financing, by providing access to liquidity. This will help employers that were viable before the recent U.S. trade actions to help sustain their operations and return to financial stability. Companies will be required to make efforts to maintain jobs and sustain business activities in Canada. Those that were already involved in insolvency proceedings before this crisis will not be eligible.

In the weeks and months ahead, additional measures will be brought forward, as needed, to support businesses and workers. The federal government will also continue to work closely with provinces and territories to ensure complementary supports are in place across all jurisdictions.

MIL OSI Canada News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI: Global Robotic Exoskeleton Market Size Expected to Reach $30 Billion By 2032 as A.I. Influence Disrupts the Industry

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PALM BEACH, Fla., April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Industry experts project that the wearable robotic exoskeleton market, which has experienced notable growth over the past decade, driven by advancements in robotics, the increasing need for rehabilitation technologies, and heightened emphasis on workplace safety, will continue to grow substantially. The market’s growth has been particularly robust in the healthcare and manufacturing sectors, where both assistive and powered exoskeletons are in high demand. Furthermore, the market’s expansion is propelled by technological innovations, with powered systems holding the largest wearable robotic exoskeleton market share due to their superior performance and adaptability. Ongoing technological advancements, particularly in AI, sensors, and battery efficiency, are expected to drive further adoption across various sectors. The healthcare sector is anticipated to witness increased adoption of rehabilitation and assistive solutions. At the same time, the defense and manufacturing industries continue to seek solutions for enhancing human endurance and reducing injury risks. With strong growth projections, especially in emerging markets such as Asia Pacific, the market is expected to see continued investment and development over the forecast period. A report from Fortune Business Insights said that the global wearable robotic exoskeleton market size is projected to grow to USD 30.56 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 43.1% during the forecast period. North America dominated the global market with a share of 38.64% in 2024. Active companies in news today include: KULR Technology Group, Inc. (NYSE: KULR), C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHRW), Pitney Bowes (NYSE: PBI), GXO Logistics, Inc. (NYSE: GXO), Microbot Medical Inc. (NASDAQ: MBOT).

The Fortune Business Insights report continued: “A key trend in the wearable robotic exoskeleton market is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced sensor technologies to improve precision, functionality, and user experience. AI-powered exoskeletons are capable of learning and adapting to the user’s movements, offering personalized assistance based on real-time data. This adaptive functionality is particularly beneficial in rehabilitation, where exoskeletons can adjust their support levels according to the patient’s progress, enhancing recovery outcomes. Advanced sensors, including pressure, motion, and biofeedback sensors, are enabling more intuitive control, allowing the exoskeleton to respond seamlessly to the user’s body movements. These innovations are improving the ease of use and reducing the cognitive load on users, making the technology more accessible and effective for a broader audience. As AI and sensor technology continue to evolve, the capabilities of wearable exoskeletons are expected to grow, driving higher adoption across various sectors, from healthcare to industrial applications.”

KULR Technology Group, Inc. (NYSE American: KULR) Expands into High-Growth Robotics Market with German Bionic AI-Powered Exoskeletons for U.S. Workforce – KULR Technology Group, Inc. (the “Company” or “KULR”) ($KULR), a leader in advanced energy management platforms, today announced the launch of a new strategic partnership with German Bionic (“GB”), a leading global robotics company known for its groundbreaking robotic exoskeleton, Apogee ULTRA, to expand into the rapidly growing fields of robotics and artificial intelligence. GB counts global logistics companies, large retailers, hospitals, and major international airports among its customers, including Dachser Intelligent Logistics, GXO, Nuremberg Airport, Canadian Tire, the British consumer electronics retailer Currys, and the Charité Hospital Berlin. According to Spherical Insights, the global wearable robotic exoskeleton market size is expected to reach $41.5 billion by 2033.

The initiative includes the formation of a dedicated business unit, KULR AI & Robotics, aimed at driving innovation and commercialization of affordable and mature robotic solutions to support the US workforce and reshoring of manufacturing. During their EOY and Q4 earnings call, KULR also announced that their website has been updated and relaunched as KULR.ai to reflect this shift and the introduction of the new business unit. The new unit will be led by Josh Steinmann, VP of AI and Robotics.

“This partnership exemplifies our broader strategy to leverage our energy management expertise and become a key enabler of the robotics and AI ecosystem, as these applications demand higher battery performance and more efficient thermal management for their high-performance electronics,” said Michael Mo, CEO of KULR Technology Group. “AI is a critical enabler of robotics, and we’re aggressively focused on this area – through this partnership and other strategic initiatives – to help shape the future of human-machine interface.”

“We are pleased to have KULR as a key partner, joining us in the journey to scale and deliver the world’s strongest data-driven exoskeletons to North America and beyond,” says Armin G. Schmidt, Founder and CEO of German Bionic. “At the core of our innovation is a clear understanding of energy as a fundamental force – something unseen yet essential in driving both progress and human advancement. Our exoskeletons are designed to empower and elevate frontline workers, unlocking their full potential each day. This partnership is the natural unfolding of our mission to infuse the world with greater value, vitality, and purpose.”

The sixth-generation Apogee ULTRA is a proven, in-market solution engineered for large-scale deployment. Apogee ULTRA and anticipated future generations of the exoskeleton can enhance human energy output significantly and materially reduce workplace injuries, driving outsized returns on investment, employee satisfaction and retention, and reduced healthcare costs. This technology has demonstrated success across multiple sectors, including delivery logistics, supply chain solutions, manufacturing, construction, and healthcare. CONTINUED… Read this entire press release and more news for KULR at: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-kulr/.

In other developments in the markets of note:

C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHRW) recently announced that it will issue its first quarter 2025 results after the market closes on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. The company will hold a conference call from 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm Eastern Time on the same day to discuss the quarterly results and answer live questions from the investment community. Presentation slides and a simultaneous audio webcast of the conference call may be accessed at http://investor.chrobinson.com. To participate in the conference call by telephone, please call ten minutes early by dialing 877-269-7756. An audio replay will be available at http://investor.chrobinson.com.

C.H. Robinson delivers logistics like no one else™. Companies around the world look to us to reimagine supply chains, advance freight technology, and solve logistics challenges—from the simple to the most complex. 83,000 customers and 450,000 contract carriers in our network trust us to manage 37 million shipments and $23 billion in freight annually. Through our unmatched expertise, unrivaled scale, and tailored solutions, we ensure the seamless delivery of goods across industries and continents via truckload, less-than-truckload, ocean, air, and beyond. As a responsible global citizen, we make supply chains more sustainable and proudly contribute millions to the causes that matter most to our employees.

Pitney Bowes (NYSE: PBI) recently announced Pitney Bowes has been recognized as the Top Company in Shipping Software for 2025 by Logistics Tech Outlook, a leading enterprise technology magazine trusted by senior-level leaders and decision-makers in the logistics industry. This award highlights Pitney Bowes’ commitment to delivering cutting-edge shipping technology that empowers businesses to streamline their logistics operations.

“Pitney Bowes has set a new benchmark in the shipping software industry by providing highly adaptable, secure, and data-driven solutions,” said Linda James, Managing Editor of Logistics Tech Outlook. “Their ability to continually innovate and address the evolving needs of businesses, from eCommerce retailers to large enterprises, made them a clear choice for this recognition.”

GXO Logistics, Inc. (NYSE: GXO) recently announced a new strategic partnership with Hisense, a global leader in technology, televisions, home appliances and HVAC equipment. GXO will be responsible for managing Hisense’s logistics operations at a new 36,000-square-meter site in Albuixech, Valencia. Operations will include distribution, returns and repacking as well as value-added services such as repalletization.

‘We are very proud of this new strategic partnership with Hisense, a company that shares our values of innovation and excellence,” said Rui Marques, Managing Director of GXO in Spain and Portugal. “Our ability to address supply chain challenges such as peak demand, as well as operate an environmentally sustainable facility, are key to enabling increased customer satisfaction for Hisense.”

Microbot Medical Inc. (NASDAQ: MBOT), developer of the innovative LIBERTY^® Endovascular Robotic System, recently presented for the first time the data from its ACCESS-PVI pivotal trial at the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) annual meeting. The study was performed at three leading medical centers in the U.S.; Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, NY), Baptist Hospital of Miami (Miami, FL) and Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Boston, MA). The late-breaking podium presentation was given by Francois Cornelis, M.D., PhD, Director of the Neuro Vascular Interventional Radiology Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

The data presented concluded that robotic endovascular procedures using LIBERTY^® are feasible and significantly minimize radiation exposure.

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The MIL Network –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Volcanic ash is a silent killer, more so than lava: What Alaska needs to know with Mount Spurr likely to erupt

Source: The Conversation – USA – By David Kitchen, Associate Professor of Geology, University of Richmond

One of two main craters on Alaska’s Mount Spurr, shown in 1991. Earthquake activity suggests the volcano is close to erupting again in 2025. R.G. McGimsey/Alaska Volcano Observatory/U.S. Geological Survey, CC BY

Volcanoes inspire awe with spectacular eruptions and incandescent rivers of lava, but often their deadliest hazard is what quietly falls from the sky.

When a large volcano erupts, as Mount Spurr appears close to doing about 80 miles from Anchorage, Alaska, it can release enormous volumes of ash. Fine ash can infiltrate the lungs of people and animals who breathe it in, poison crops and disrupt aquatic life. Thick deposits of ash can collapse roofs, cripple utilities and disrupt transport networks.

Ash may lack the visual impact of flowing lava, but as a geologist who studies disasters, I’m aware that ash travels farther, lasts longer and leaves deep scars.

Ash buried cars and buildings after the 1984 eruption of Rabaul in Papua New Guinea.
Volcano Hazards Program, U.S. Geological Survey

Volcanic ash: What it is, and why it matters

Volcanic ash forms when viscous magma – molten rock from deep beneath Earth’s surface – erupts, exploding into shards of rock, mineral and glass carried in a near-supersonic stream of hot gas.

Towering clouds of ash rise several miles into the atmosphere, where the ash is captured by high-altitude winds that can carry it hundreds or even thousands of miles.

As the volcanic ash settles back to Earth, it accumulates in layers that typically decrease in thickness with distance from the eruption source. Near the vent, the ash may be several feet deep, but communities farther away may see only a dusting.

When Mount Spurr erupted in 1992, a dark column of ash and gas shot into the atmosphere from the volcano’s Crater Peak vent. Wind patterns determine where the ash will fall.
U.S. Geological Survey

Breathing danger: Health risks from ash

Breathing volcanic ash can irritate the throat and lungs, trigger asthma attacks and aggravate chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD.

The finest particles pose the greatest risk because they can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause death by asphyxiation in the worst cases. Mild, short-term symptoms often resolve with rest. However, the long-term consequences of ash exposure can include silicosis, a lung disease and a possible cause of cancer.

The danger increases in dry regions where fallen ash can be kicked up into the air again by wind or human activity.

Risks to pets and livestock

Humans aren’t the only ones at risk. Animals experience similar respiratory symptoms to humans.

Domestic pets can develop respiratory distress, eye inflammation and paw irritation from exposure to ash.

Ash covers sheep in Argentina after the 2011 Puyehue volcanic eruption in Chile.
Federico Grosso/U.S. Geological Survey

Livestock face greater dangers. If grazing animals eat volcanic ash, it can damage their teeth, block their intestines and poison them.

During the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption in Iceland, farmers were advised to shelter sheep and cattle because the ash contained fluoride concentrations above the recognized safety threshold of 400 parts per million. Animals that remained exposed became sick and some died.

Harm to crops, soil and water

Soil and crops can also be damaged. Volcanic ash alters the acidity of soil and introduces harmful elements such as arsenic and sulfur into the environment.

While the ash can add nutrients such as potassium and phosphorus that enhance fertility, the immediate impact is mostly harmful.

Ash can smother crops, block sunlight and clog the tiny stomata, or pores, in leaves that allow plants to exchange gases with the atmosphere. It can also introduce toxins that render food unmarketable. Vegetables, fruit trees and vines are particularly vulnerable, but even sturdy cereals and grasses can die if ash remains on leaves or poisons emerging shoots.

Following the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption, vast tracts of farmland in central Luzon in the Philippines were rendered unproductive for years due to acidic ash and buried topsoil. If multiple ashfalls occur in a growing season, crop failure becomes a near certainty. It was the cause of a historic famine that followed the eruption of Mount Tambora in 1815.

Ash from a 1953 eruption of Mount Spurr included very fine grains, like powder. The ash cloud reached about 70,000 feet high and left Anchorage under a blanket of ash up to a quarter-inch deep, according to a U.S. Geological Survey report at the time.
James St. John via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

Electron microscope images of ash show how sharp the shards are. The top left image of shards from Mount Etna in 2002 is 1 mm across. Top right is an ash particle from Mount St. Helens magnified 200 times. The shards in the lower images are less than 0.064 mm.
Volcano Hazards Program, U.S. Geological Survey

Ash can also contaminate surface water by introducing toxins and increasing the water’s acidity. The toxins can leach into groundwater, contaminating wells. Fine ash particles can also settle in waterways and smother aquatic plants and animals. During the 2008 Chaitén eruption in Chile, ash contamination led to widespread fish deaths in the Río Blanco.

Ash can ground airplanes, gum up infrastructure

Ash clouds are extremely dangerous to aircraft. The glassy ash particles melt when sucked into jet turbines, clog fuel systems and can stall engines in midair.

In 1982, British Airways Flight 9 lost power in all four engines after flying through an ash cloud. A similar incident occurred in 1989 to KLM Flight 867 over Alaska. In 2010, Iceland’s Eyjafjallajökull eruption grounded more than 100,000 flights across Europe, disrupting travel for over 10 million passengers and costing the global economy billions of dollars.

Volcanic ash can also wreak havoc on infrastructure by clogging water supplies, short-circuiting electrical systems and collapsing roofs under its weight. It can disrupt transportation, communication, rescue and power networks, as the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines dramatically demonstrated.

What to do during ashfall

During an ashfall event, the most effective strategy to stay safe is to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid inhaling ash particles.

Anyone who must go outside should wear a properly fitted N95 or P2 mask. Cloth masks provide little protection against fine ash. Rainwater tanks, troughs and open wells should be covered and monitored for contamination. Livestock should be moved to clean pastures or given uncontaminated fodder.

The challenges Alaska is facing if Mount Spurr erupts.

To reduce structural damage, ash should be cleared from roofs and gutters promptly, especially before rainfall.

Older adults, children and people who are sick are at greatest risk, particularly those living in poorly ventilated homes. Rural communities that are dependent on agriculture and livestock are disproportionately affected by ashfall, as are low-income people who lack access to clean water, protective masks or safe shelter.

Communities can stay informed about ash risks through official alerts, including those from the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centers, which monitor ash dispersion and issue timely warnings. The International Volcanic Health Hazard Network also offers guidelines on personal protection, emergency planning and ash cleanup.

The long tail of ash

Volcanic ash may fall quietly, but its effects are widespread, persistent and potentially deadly. It poses a chronic threat to health, agriculture, infrastructure and aquatic systems.

Recognizing the risk is a crucial first step to protecting lives. Effective planning and public awareness can further help reduce the damage.

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

– ref. Volcanic ash is a silent killer, more so than lava: What Alaska needs to know with Mount Spurr likely to erupt – https://theconversation.com/volcanic-ash-is-a-silent-killer-more-so-than-lava-what-alaska-needs-to-know-with-mount-spurr-likely-to-erupt-254461

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: A need for chaos powers some Americans’ support for Elon Musk taking a chainsaw to the US government

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Dannagal G. Young, Professor of Communication and Political Science, University of Delaware

There’s a sizable group of Americans who agree with the phrase ‘I think society should be burned to the ground.’ Anton Petrus-Moment/Getty Images

A video of a Las Vegas Tesla dealership that had been set on fire by anti-Elon Musk protesters was posted on March 18, 2025, by an account on X called EndWokeness.

The next day Musk replied to the post, “Some people just want to watch the world burn,” an iconic line from the 2008 Batman film “The Dark Knight.” Alfred, the Wayne family’s faithful butler, says the line to Bruce Wayne – Batman – to describe the motivations behind the Joker’s chaotic acts of violence.

Musk – and Alfred – was right. Some people do, in fact, say they think that society should be burned to the ground. It’s part of a psychological measure political psychologists created called “need for chaos.”

New data from the Center for Political Communication at the University of Delaware suggests that those people – the ones who want society to burn – are the ones with more, not less, trust in Musk. They also report more trust in the Department of Government Efficiency, the government entity Musk advises, which the Trump administration claims it created to cut government waste and fraud.

Yet, critics point out that Musk and DOGE’s seemingly indiscriminate approach to spending cuts risks damaging the infrastructure necessary for American innovation.

This desire to watch the world burn doesn’t come out of nowhere.

Fear of losing status

Somewhat like the Joker, whose perpetual sense of victimhood – “You wanna know how I got these scars?” – drove his need for chaos and destruction, people can develop a need for chaos in response to a sense that they are losing.

When political psychologists introduced this concept of “need for chaos” in 2021, they described it not as a psychological trait, but as a character adaptation that occurs when some people experience a cultural and political situation that makes them feel like they are losing status and power. For some people, this feeling triggers a desire to “burn it all down” – “it” being society, institutions, the world – maybe to rebuild it all anew, or maybe just to see it all destroyed.

Only a small percentage of the U.S. population – less than 15% – tends to score high in need for chaos. But even so, understanding this minority is important to gaining insight into this political moment.

For example, people who score high in need for chaos exhibit greater support for political violence and a willingness to knowingly share hostile and false information online. And in our data, those higher in need for chaos report holding more trust in Musk, DOGE and Trump than people who score lower in the need for chaos measure.

Who wants to burn it down

We are political psychologists who study the link between psychological traits and political beliefs. Last month, the University of Delaware’s Center for Political Communication ran a national survey that we designed to understand where the public stands on various political issues and how those beliefs relate to psychological traits, including need for chaos.

In our national study of 1,600 Americans conducted between Feb. 27-March 5, 2025, by YouGov, we asked respondents how much they agreed or disagreed with the following statements:

• “I fantasize about a natural disaster wiping out most of humanity such that a small group of people can start all over”

• “I think society should be burned to the ground”

• “We cannot fix the problems in our social institutions; we need to tear them down and start over”

• “I need chaos around me – it is too boring if nothing is going on”

Similar to prior work by author Kevin Arceneaux and his colleagues, our data shows that a very small number – fewer than 20% of the sample – agrees strongly or agrees somewhat with each item.

However, looking at need for chaos among groups of varying ages, education levels and media habits, we find the highest need for chaos scores among people under age 40, those with less education, and those who pay the least attention to politics.

Burning it down through government policy

Our new data also shows that while people highest in need for chaos report having more trust in Musk, DOGE, and President Trump, these chaos-seeking folks report having less trust in “people in general,” journalists or the federal government. These findings hold even when statistically accounting for other factors, among them party, race, gender, education and ideology.

Musk’s penchant for wielding chainsaws as a symbol of DOGE’s work provides some insight into why chaos seekers may like what they see in Musk.

It’s not clear exactly what Musk’s aim is with his work at DOGE, as he eliminates the jobs of hundreds of thousands of government workers.

What is clear, however, is that by many accounts, the mass firings and the gutting of agencies, like the U.S. Agency for International Development and the Institute for Peace, are sowing chaos. And a significant portion of Americans want just that.

Dannagal G. Young receives funding from the Center for Political Communication Research Fund at the University of Delaware

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

– ref. A need for chaos powers some Americans’ support for Elon Musk taking a chainsaw to the US government – https://theconversation.com/a-need-for-chaos-powers-some-americans-support-for-elon-musk-taking-a-chainsaw-to-the-us-government-253420

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Go Baby Go Provides Modified Cars for Children with Disabilities

Source: US State of Connecticut

On Friday, April 4, three children with disabilities received cars custom modified for them by UConn engineering and doctor of physical therapy (DPT) students through the Go Baby Go program.

Go Baby Go modifies commercially available battery-powered cars for children, typically one to five years old, with mobility-related disabilities. These modifications allow the children to control the vehicle independently.

With the cars, these children can better interact with their peers, engage in family activities, and get around more independently.

Students work with children to modify battery-powered cars.

UConn Engineering and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in the Department of Kinesiology in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources modified commercially available battery-powered cars to customize them for children with mobility-related disabilities through the Go Baby Go program in the Peter J. Werth Residence Tower (WTRH). Apr. 4, 2025. (Claire Tremont/UConn Photo)

Students work with children to modify battery-powered cars.

UConn Engineering and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in the Department of Kinesiology in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources modified commercially available battery-powered cars to customize them for children with mobility-related disabilities through the Go Baby Go program in the Peter J. Werth Residence Tower (WTRH). Apr. 4, 2025. (Claire Tremont/UConn Photo)

Students work with children to modify battery-powered cars.

UConn Engineering and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in the Department of Kinesiology in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources modified commercially available battery-powered cars to customize them for children with mobility-related disabilities through the Go Baby Go program in the Peter J. Werth Residence Tower (WTRH). Apr. 4, 2025. (Claire Tremont/UConn Photo)

Students work with children to modify battery-powered cars.

UConn Engineering and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in the Department of Kinesiology in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources modified commercially available battery-powered cars to customize them for children with mobility-related disabilities through the Go Baby Go program in the Peter J. Werth Residence Tower (WTRH). Apr. 4, 2025. (Claire Tremont/UConn Photo)

Students work with children to modify battery-powered cars.

UConn Engineering and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in the Department of Kinesiology in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources modified commercially available battery-powered cars to customize them for children with mobility-related disabilities through the Go Baby Go program in the Peter J. Werth Residence Tower (WTRH). Apr. 4, 2025. (Claire Tremont/UConn Photo)

Students work with children to modify battery-powered cars.

UConn Engineering and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in the Department of Kinesiology in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources modified commercially available battery-powered cars to customize them for children with mobility-related disabilities through the Go Baby Go program in the Peter J. Werth Residence Tower (WTRH). Apr. 4, 2025. (Claire Tremont/UConn Photo)

“Sociability and mobility are the biggest components of the Go Baby Go car,” says Kelly Conte, associated faculty in the Department of Kinesiology in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR). “You’re allowing them to move and interact with people.”

Mubin Kamran’s son received a car last summer.

“Everyone was so great, so respectful,” Kamran says. “It was the best event. Every parent was happy, every kid was happy.”

Kamran’s son, who is now three, uses his car at the park and playground with his family.

“He loves to ride on it,” Kamran says. “He sits like a boss in the car.”

Based on the needs of the individual child, the team from UConn’s College of Engineering installs an electrical switch that the child can operate with their hand or head to make the car go. There are ropes attached to the car so caregivers can help steer.

Students in the Engineering House Learning Community spend the year working on Go Baby Go. This year, 40 engineering students were involved. Alex Clonan ‘22 (ENG, CLAS) a Ph.D. candidate at UConn, is the project lead.

The students are broken into three teams: an electrical team, a build team, and a design team.

The build team assembles the car out of the box and makes any necessary physical modifications, like adding a roll cage. The electrical team works out the switch mechanism. The design team works on the exterior, personalizing it for each child based on their interests.

“The biggest value for the students is obviously the engineering aspects that are related to this,” Nick Delaney, director of experiential education in the College of Engineering, says. “But more than anything, being able to help a family. It’s their skills and what they’ve learned being delivered directly to a child.”

During the events Go Baby Go holds throughout the year, DPT students make on-site adjustments to ensure the child can sit comfortably and safely in the car. DPT students participate in the event through PT CARES (Community Access to Rehabilitation and Education Services), a free community engagement program run by DPT students and their faculty advisors.

Kelsey Zator ‘26 (CAHNR) is a DPT student who has participated in Go Baby Go twice so far.

“It’s just seeing them be happy, being able to do something for themselves for once and not have to be handled by somebody else,” Zator says.

Ahead of the event, the two student groups meet to tell each other about the modifications they have made or will make on the day of the event.

“I think that interdisciplinary work for a project like this, it adds perspective and particularly for our students, who are sophomores, to get the opportunity to work with doctoral students is really helpful too,” Delaney says.

CAHNR and Engineering have been collaborating on Go Baby Go for the last year. In that time, there have been more than a dozen events with three or four children at each. Prior to the partnership, DPT students and faculty ran the program annually since 2017.

“Dr. Sudha Srinivasan and Dr. Bubela, professors in our program, worked through DPT’s Advanced Pediatrics course,” says Maryclaire Capetta, interim director of physical therapy. “Prior to the Engineering students getting involved, they performed the vehicle modifications themselves.”

Go Baby Go was initially conceived by Cole Galloway, a professor of physical therapy at the University of Delaware, in the early 2000s. Since then, the program has spread throughout the country. Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) has been running their own version since 2015.

Conte collaborates in leading this project with Michele Dischino a CCSU engineering professor; Misty Olsen, an occupational therapist at Quinnipiac University; and Jennifer Rodriguez-MacClintic, a pediatric physical therapist at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.

“The four of us together have taken on this project of getting cars to as many children as we can,” Conte says.

To get involved with the event, interested families can fill out this application form.

This work relates to CAHNR’s Strategic Vision area focused on Enhancing Health and Promoting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice.

Follow UConn CAHNR and UConn Engineering on social media

MIL OSI USA News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Learning Community Students Celebrate Public Health Week with Child Health Researchers
Source: US State of Connecticut

UConn researchers met with undergraduate students in the UConn Public Health House Learning Community on April 8 in a celebration of public health week and as part of a long-running collaboration between the community and the UConn Collaboratory on School and Child Health (CSCH).

Over 75 first- and second-year students gathered in Werth Tower to hear from the researchers, all of whom are CSCH affiliates who work on issues relating to school and child health.

The researchers included:
- Sandra Chafouleas, Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor and Neag Endowed Professor, Department of Educational Psychology and co-director of CSCH
- Kevin Ferreira van Leer, assistant professor, Human Development and Family Sciences
- Jessica Koslouski, assistant research professor, Educational Psychology
- Maria LaRusso, assistant professor, Human Development and Family Sciences
- Christina Ross, assistant professor, School of Nursing
- Sudha Srinivasan, assistant professor, Kinesiology
Jaci VanHeest, associate professor in Educational Psychology, faculty director of the Public Health Learning Community, and CSCH steering committee member, moderated the event.

CSCH researchers led small group discussions about their career path and current projects at the April 8 event with the Public Health House. (Helene Marcy/UConn CSCH)

After giving brief introductions about their background, the six researchers — from four UConn schools and colleges — each led a small group discussion about their career path and their current projects. Students rotated to a different researcher halfway through the event.

Areas of research represented at the event included children’s social-emotional learning and well-being; child and parent well-being in immigrant families; trauma-informed approaches in schools; the use of puppets to teach kids coping strategies; the development of fun assistive technologies that can help children with developmental disabilities; and the development of an app to help Black adolescent females learn about sexual health.

“The range of faculty showcased the variety of fields that work to promote child health as well as many overlapping areas of focus and inquiry,” Koslouski said.

“Learning about their fields of study and current projects gave me a new perspective on how broad the field is,” said Hannah Tuxbury, a second-year physiology and neurobiology major. “I was able to see how passionate these professionals were about the work that they do, which made me excited to explore the opportunities that are out there.”

The small group discussions gave students a chance to also ask questions of the researchers in an informal setting. Students asked specific questions about particular research projects, fields as a whole, what classes the researchers recommended, and the impact of the research.

“I enjoyed getting to know the students, learning about their experience in the learning community, and discussing research with them,” Ross said.

“I was really struck by the critical questions students asked about how research can influence policy that support children’s well-being,” Ferreira van Leer said. “Multiple students asked nitty gritty questions about how the research process can center policy-relevant questions and use findings to inform policy.”

Both researchers and students also appreciated the more casual format.

“Learning about [the researchers’] fields of study and current projects gave me a new perspective on how broad the field is. … which made me excited to explore the opportunities that are out there.” &#8212 Hannah Tuxbury, student

“It is a wonderful initiative for students to have the opportunity to connect with researchers on campus in a safe, non-intimidating environment,” Srinivasan said.

“I thought that it was a great way to get people talking to professors about research in a conversational way,” agreed Avery Hawthorne, a second-year physiology and neurobiology major.

And students weren’t the only ones learning at the event.

“I learned a lot about what other faculty across campus are working on and getting to know them was a pleasure,” Ross said. “I hope other faculty get to engage in this activity in the future.”

Over the past seven years, UConn Public Health House and CSCH have collaborated on many events, including panel discussions, participating in the recording of CSCH Live Talks, research panels, UConn Gives, and the building of puppets through the Feel Your Best Self project.

Assistant professor Christina Ross leads a discussion with Public Health House students on April 8. (Helene Marcy/UConn CSCH)

“Our collaboration with the Public Health House Learning Community has been the highlight of my spring semester for many years,” Chafouleas said. “Although our activities have varied by year, each opportunity has presented terrific opportunities to amplify collective interests in child, family, and school health.”

“The partnership between PHLC and CSCH has been a cornerstone of our scholarly activities over the past seven years,” VanHeest said. “Our students have been challenged to explore themselves and the broad scope of health issues through these interactions. We are excited about furthering this partnership.”

Part of the Collaboratory’s mission is to educate and mentor students in the science of school and child health. This is the third meet-the-researcher event put together by the two teams; the style and content of the event has been a consistent hit with involved students and faculty.

It was an amazing experience,” said first-year student Amelia Espinal, a speech, language and hearing sciences major. “I learned so much about things that will truly help me with my future career. The presenters were incredibly friendly and eager to help, always ready to answer any questions my friends and I had.”

“The opportunity to interact with young, curious, and enthusiastic minds was invigorating,” Srinivasan said. “It was wonderful to be able to share my journey with the students, hear their questions, and offer my perspective.”

“I really enjoyed the roundtable conversations,” Ferreira van Leer said. “I left the conversation hopeful about the role students can play in research and excited to see the large interest in getting involved in the research process.”

MIL OSI USA News –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China’s new EV battery safety standard to take effect in July 2026

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

BEIJING, April 15 — An updated mandatory national standard on the safety of electric vehicle batteries in China is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

The standard is titled “Safety Requirements for Power Batteries Used in Electric Vehicles (GB38031-2025),” according to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

The revisions include updates to thermal diffusion testing of batteries, further clarifying the temperature requirements, observation time, and vehicle testing conditions.

A new bottom impact test has been introduced to assess the protective capabilities of the battery upon impact to its base. A new safety test following fast charging cycles has also been added, which requires external short circuit testing after 300 fast charge cycles, mandating no fire or explosion.

The revised version clearly states that the standard applies to power batteries for electric vehicles, excluding non-propulsion batteries.

MIL OSI China News –

April 15, 2025