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MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More red tape slashed to reduce apprenticeship bureaucracy
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Reforms to apprenticeship training provider payment system and End Point Assessments will cut bureaucracy and enable focus on high quality training.
The government is slashing more red tape to ensure businesses and apprenticeship training providers are able to focus even more of their time on apprentices, the Skills Minister announced today, unlocking opportunity and driving growth under the government’s Plan for Change.

Reforms to the payment system have long been called for by training providers. They will cut red tape by stopping the need for providers to log the same data multiple times, saving valuable time currently wasted on duplicating records, ensuring consistency across systems.

The move comes during National Apprenticeship Week and will mean training providers can focus on what matters most – breaking down barriers to opportunity through helping apprentices to develop their skills to enter well-paid careers and drive economic growth in key sectors.

Today the government also announced changes to End Point Assessments (EPAs), making the system simpler and more flexible while ensuring apprentices prove their competence for skilled work.

Where appropriate, apprentices will be assessed on some things during their apprenticeship rather than all at the end, and training providers may be able to deliver elements of the assessment, rather than having to rely on external assessors.

The government is also ensuring apprentices don’t have to be re-tested on the same skills they have already demonstrated, such as by taking a mandatory industry exam, to avoid wasting apprentices’ time.

This will deliver more timely assessments while retaining rigour, and ensure that apprentices are assessed on what matters most to employers, removing unnecessary burdens to career opportunities and getting skilled workers into key industries to support growth.

Skills Minister, Baroness Jacqui Smith, said:

Employers and providers are burdened with needless red tape which makes it harder to train and recruit apprentices.

We have heard time and again from training providers, apprentices and employers that this needs to change, and we are determined to deliver this so they can focus on what they do best – creating jobs and driving growth.

Businesses should rest assured this National Apprenticeship Week that this government is determined to work with them to make apprenticeships work better, helping to grow the economy.

Mike Blakeley, Executive Director of Partnerships & Apprenticeships at Exeter College, said:

Employer voice is very important to us here at Exeter College, and being invited to contribute to shaping some of these changes has allowed us to share concepts and ideas to make the learner and employer journey easier to navigate.

We thank DfE for not only listening but actioning a range of simplifications to the system that will ease the burden on employers and providers alike. These measures will be welcomed across the sector and will be a significant boost to an already brilliant National Apprenticeship Week.

Rob Nitsch, CEO of the Federation of Awarding Bodies (FAB), said:

Seven years into apprenticeship standards, it is right and natural that we should be stepping back to see how end-point assessment can be optimised for the benefit of apprentices, employers and those involved in delivery.

The Federation welcomes the principles-based methodology that the Department has proposed and the inclusive approach that has been adopted; FAB and its members are pleased to have contributed to the refinement of the principles already and look forward to working with DfE and other stakeholders to take them forward to the next stage and moving to implement the Review at pace.

This builds on reforms announced earlier in National Apprenticeship Week by the DfE. These included shorter apprenticeships with the minimum time for completion reduced to eight months, and making English and Maths requirements for completing an apprenticeship more flexible to boost recruitment in sectors like construction and healthcare.

Existing assessment plans will be rewritten on a standard-by-standard basis to reflect these changes, with the first plans being revised from April 2025.

New assessment principles for apprenticeships will be published this week, and will be available here.

DfE media enquiries

Central newsdesk – for journalists 020 7783 8300

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Published 13 February 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Completes SMP Discussion Mission to Zimbabwe

Source: IMF – News in Russian

February 13, 2025

End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. This mission will not result in a Board discussion.

Harare, Zimbabwe: Following the request for a Staff-Monitored Program (SMP) by the authorities in 2023, an International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team led by Mr. Wojciech Maliszewski conducted a mission to Harare from January 30 to February 13, 2024, to advance discussions on the SMP.

At the conclusion of the IMF mission, Mr. Maliszewski issued the following statement:

“Zimbabwe’s economic activity has started recovering after the El Niño-induced drought. Growth slowed from 5.3 percent to an estimated 2 percent in 2024, as the drought lowered agricultural output by 15 percent. This was compounded by reduced electricity production and declining prices for key mineral exports (platinum and lithium). That said, strong remittances continued supporting activity in domestic trade, services, and construction, and improved the current account surplus to an estimated US$500 million (1.4 percent of GDP) in 2024. The ZiG willing-buyer willing-seller (WBWS) exchange rate was stable from the ZiG’s introduction in April 2024—with the ZiG month-on-month inflation averaging 2.3 percent—until September, when the currency weakened. Relative stability returned with the tightening of monetary policy since September, and the WBWS and parallel market exchange rates have stabilized, and the gap between these rates has narrowed. Meanwhile, fiscal pressures intensified—owing, in large part, to the transfer of the RBZ’s quasi-fiscal operations to the Treasury. Strong revenue collection helped limit the 2024 budget deficit to an estimated 1 percent of GDP, but fiscal pressures resulted in an accumulation of domestic expenditure arrears, leading to the government implementing emergency spending cuts. Going forward, growth in 2025 is projected to increase to 6 percent, with the recovery in agriculture output due to better climate conditions and the projected improvement in the terms-of-trade.

“Against this background, the Zimbabwe authorities had requested an SMP to support their efforts to stabilize the economy and re-engage with the international community on the arrears clearance and debt resolution process. The main objective of the SMP would be to durably anchor macroeconomic stability, building on policy recommendations from the 2024 Article IV consultation.

“Building on progress achieved during the mission on the ongoing SMP discussions, Fund staff will continue working closely with the authorities on defining the key parameters and modalities of the program. Discussions include (1) adjusting the fiscal position to avoid a recourse to monetary financing and new arrears and building foundations for a durable fiscal consolidation; (2) fiscal risks residing off-budget (including from the operations of the Mutapa Investment Fund); (3) the effectiveness of the monetary policy framework for the ZiG; and (4) reforms to strengthen economic governance.

“International reengagement remains critical for debt resolution and arrears clearance, which would open the door for access to external financing. The authorities’ reengagement efforts, through the Structured Dialogue Platform (SDP), are key for attaining debt sustainability and gaining access to concessional financial support. In this context, the SMP will help in enhancing policy credibility and advancing the reform agenda embedded in the SDP.

“The IMF continues to provide policy advice and extensive technical assistance in the areas of revenue mobilization, expenditure control, financial supervision, debt management, economic governance, as well as macroeconomic statistics. However, the IMF is currently precluded from providing financial support to Zimbabwe due to its unsustainable debt situation—based on the IMF’s Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA)—and official external arrears. An IMF financial arrangement would require a clear path to comprehensive restructuring of Zimbabwe’s external debt, including the clearance of arrears and a reform plan that is consistent with durably restoring macroeconomic stability; enhancing inclusive growth; lowering poverty; and strengthening economic governance.

“The IMF mission held meetings with the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Hon. Professor Mthuli Ncube, his Permanent Secretary Mr. George Guvamatanga; the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor Dr. John Mushayavanhu; the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr. Martin Rushwaya, other senior government and RBZ officials, honorable members of Parliament, representatives of the private sector, civil society, and Zimbabwe’s development partners.

“The IMF staff wishes to express its gratitude to the Zimbabwean authorities and stakeholders for the constructive and open discussions and support during the mission.”

IMF Communications Department

MEDIA RELATIONS

PRESS OFFICER: Kwabena Akuamoah-Boateng

Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

@IMFSpokesperson

https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/02/13/pr-2535-zimbabwe-imf-completes-smp-discussion-mission

MIL OSI

MIL OSI Russia News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Online consultation – Accelerating the Transition Towards a Circular Economy in the Agri-Food Sector in the Republic of Serbia

Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

Background, context and objective

To increase the sustainability of food systems and ensure enough food for growing populations, the agri-food sector needs to become more productive, environmentally sustainable, and resource-use efficient. A circular economy, with resource-use efficiency and bioeconomy at its core, can help improve the sustainability of food systems. The concept is built on the premise of eliminating waste and pollution, circulating products and materials at their highest value, and regenerating nature.

The Republic of Serbia is committed to increasing the circularity of its economy. In 2021 a Roadmap for Circular Economy in Serbia was developed, which identifies agriculture and food as one of the four preliminary priority sectors for a circular economy transition in Serbia.1
Under the project “Accelerating the Transition towards a Circular Economy in UNECE Region” (2021-2024), UNECE has been working to support the transition to a circular economy in the UNECE region. In Serbia, the focus has been on the agri-food sector.

The objective of the meeting is to present and discuss key recommendations and suggested actions contained in the draft roadmap for circularity in agri-food with a focus on food loss and waste reduction and management developed under the project, aiming to validate the findings and invite additional suggestions by key Ministries of the Government of Serbia.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message at the 2025 Session of the Committee on the Situation with regard to the Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples

Source: United Nations secretary general

I am pleased to deliver the Secretary-General’s remarks today on his behalf.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

It is my pleasure to greet the Special Committee on Decolonization at the beginning of its 2025 session.

As the Committee continues to fulfil its vital mandate, I remain fully committed to your work.

Decolonization is central to the mission of the United Nations – and one of the defining causes of my own political journey.

I witnessed firsthand how liberation movements in Portuguese colonies transformed societies, including my own.

Yet decolonization is just the first step on a new path, not the journey’s end.

Countries must still grapple with the legacy of colonialism – including economies structured by exploitation, persistent inequalities, chronic economic, social and institutional underinvestment, and profound imbalances and discrimination.

As we meet today, 17 Non-Self-Governing Territories remain.

Each with its own set of unique challenges and circumstances.

As you can see – our work is far from over.

However, the path to decolonization requires the collaboration of Non-Self-Governing Territories, administering Powers, Member States, and other stakeholders to support these Territories, guided by the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions.

In the upcoming session, I urge all involved to strengthen dialogue towards achieving decolonization. Constructive discussions among all are essential to eradicating colonialism.

Most Territories are small islands on the frontlines of the climate crisis. I therefore urge you to keep resilience and adaptation at the heart of today’s discussions.

We in the Secretariat will do everything to support the Special Committee in its important task.

Over the coming year, let’s redouble our efforts to end colonialism.

I wish you every success during this session.

Thank you.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Water Security Agency Releases Preliminary Runoff Report – Conditions Improve Across The Province

Source: Government of Canada regional news

Released on February 13, 2025

Today, the Water Security Agency (WSA) released the preliminary spring runoff report for 2025.

While much of Saskatchewan experienced below-normal precipitation, leading to dry conditions at freeze-up last fall, overall conditions improved compared to last year. Most major reservoirs in southern Saskatchewan are at or above normal levels and are expected to be near normal levels following spring runoff.

Winter precipitation has been variable across the province, ranging from below normal in south-central and northern Saskatchewan, to above normal in parts of the southwest and west central portions of the province.

Currently, Lake Diefenbaker, the province’s main water supply, is above normal levels for this time of year and inflows this winter have been near normal.

“In anticipation of potential below normal runoff from the alpine region, WSA has implemented an overwinter operating plan at Lake Diefenbaker that still focuses on retaining water supplies to ensure safe, reliable drinking water for communities and other users,” Minister Responsible for the Water Security Agency Daryl Harrison said.

A more complete assessment of potential runoff conditions will be available after snowpack survey data is gathered later in February. Snowpack data, collected from over 100 locations across the province, provides a comprehensive view of moisture conditions, helping to refine runoff forecasts and water management decisions.

Parts of southern and central Saskatchewan are expected to see an above normal runoff response as a result of an above normal snowpack in combination with wetter fall conditions. Below normal conditions continue in northern Saskatchewan and the south- and east-central parts of the province.

In the Souris Basin, reservoirs are projected to remain within normal operating ranges. All lakes within the Qu’Appelle River Basin are expected to remain in the normal operating ranges.

WSA will continue to monitor and report on conditions as they develop.

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For more information, contact:

MIL OSI Canada News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: A Few Simple Steps to Start Preventing Heart Disease Today

Source: US State of Connecticut

Dr. Maxwell Eder recently joined the Calhoun Cardiology Center at UConn Health. The Center is celebrating its 20^th anniversary of advancing cardiovascular care, research, and training the next generation of heart doctors.

“UConn Health is an excellent place for general cardiology,” says Eder. “General cardiology allows me to care for a wide variety of heart patients which I really enjoy!”

Eder serves as an assistant professor of cardiology at UConn School of Medicine. He joined the UConn faculty from Yale where he completed both his residency and fellowship training in general cardiology.

Eder cares for patients at UConn Health ranging from those who simply want to prevent heart disease or lower their risk factors to those with a cardiovascular disease diagnosis and are being treated in the echocardiography lab or as inpatients at UConn John Dempsey Hospital.

Eder loves the heart.

Maxwell Eder, MD, is a general cardiologist in the Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center at UConn Health (Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo).

“I really like the complexity of this muscle we call the heart,” says Eder. “It is more than just a muscle, a lot more. The heart has a very unique pathology, its own piping, and even its own electrical system too.”

Plus, Eder loves the heart patients he gets to meet.

“I really connect with my heart patients. It’s very gratifying to be able to offer them really great and evidence-based treatments,” Eder says who finds it also rewarding to meet with patients who are looking to prevent heart disease.

“I am happy to see all patients, but most people don’t need a practicing cardiologist to begin to prevent heart disease today, right now,” Eder says about heart disease which remains the leading cause of death of American men and women.

According to Eder, if someone has a new concern or change in their heart health or risk factors for the disease such as a sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, was a past smoker, or has a strong family history of heart attack or stroke, it’s a very good idea to seek a consult with a cardiologist.

Eder advises three simple healthy lifestyle choices to begin preventing heart disease at any age.

First, eat heart healthy with a daily diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and high in fiber.

Second, stay active weekly with brisk walking or other vigorous exercise you enjoy. In fact, the official recommendation for exercise by the American Heart Association (AHA) is 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week with strength training two days per week.

Lastly, don’t ever smoke, or quit smoking now, as it hardens and narrows the arteries in your body including those in the heart.

“If you eat healthy, exercise regularly, keep your cholesterol low, and avoid smoking your risk of developing heart disease will be much lower,” stresses Eder. “It’s never too early to start preventing heart disease and reducing your cardiovascular risk factors to prevent a heart attack or stroke in your lifetime.”

Eder concludes, “Live a healthy lifestyle, with everything in moderation. Do these few simple steps daily and you will be doing an amazing job of keeping your risk factors for cardiovascular disease low and maintaining your heart health.”

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: High-Ranking Member of Sinaloa Cartel Charged in Chicago with Drug Conspiracy

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

CHICAGO — A federal grand jury in Chicago has indicted a high-ranking member of the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico on a drug conspiracy charge for allegedly manufacturing and distributing fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and other drugs and importing them into the United States.

According to an indictment returned Monday in the Northern District of Illinois, CEFERINO ESPINOZA ANGULO, 43, a dual citizen of the U.S. and Mexico, employed dozens of gunmen in Mexico to protect and support the leadership of the Guzman faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, including Ivan Guzman-Salazar, Jesus Alfredo Guzman-Salazar, Ovidio Guzman-Lopez, and Joaquin Guzman-Lopez, collectively known as “the Chapitos.” The indictment alleges that Espinoza Angulo worked with others to obtain fentanyl precursor chemicals and to manufacture fentanyl for importation into the United States. Espinoza Angulo allegedly worked with others to transport the fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and ecstasy toward the U.S. border for importation into the country. The indictment accuses Espinoza Angulo of illegally using a machine gun in furtherance of his drug trafficking crime.

The Chapitos are the sons of Joaquin Guzman Loera, also known as “El Chapo,” who led the Sinaloa Cartel before being convicted by a federal jury in Brooklyn, N.Y., and sentenced to life in prison. The Chapitos allegedly assumed their father’s role as leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel. The Chapitos have been charged with drug trafficking in other U.S. indictments.

The indictment against Espinoza Angulo charges him with drug conspiracy and a firearm offense, which are punishable by a maximum sentence of life in federal prison and a minimum of 30 years. Espinoza Angulo is believed to be residing in Mexico. A U.S. warrant has been issued for his arrest.

The indictment was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Antoinette T. Bacon, Supervisory Official of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Tara K. McGrath, United States Attorney for the Southern District of California, and Chad Yarbrough, Assistant Director of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations Field Offices in Arizona and Spokane, Wash.; DEA Special Operations Division, Bilateral Investigations Unit; FBI Field Offices in Washington, San Diego, and Los Angeles; and the Portland, Ore. Police Bureau, Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit, HIDTA Interdiction Taskforce. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle J. Parthum and Andrew C. Erskine of the Northern District of Illinois, Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Sutton of the Southern District of California, and Trial Attorney Kirk Handrich of the Criminal Division’s Narcotics and Dangerous Drug Section at the Justice Department.

The case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug trafficking organizations and other criminal networks that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local enforcement agencies.

“Our nation’s fentanyl crisis has devastated individuals and families in northern Illinois and throughout the country,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Pasqual. “Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to disrupt the production and trafficking of fentanyl and other dangerous narcotics before they can reach more victims.”

“As alleged, the defendant conspired to traffic dangerous drugs, including fentanyl, into the United States — and employed dozens of gunmen to protect his drug trafficking operation and the leadership of the Guzman faction of the Sinaloa Cartel,” said Supervisory Official Bacon. “Stopping Mexican cartels from poisoning our communities with fentanyl and other narcotics is a top priority of this Administration. Today’s indictment demonstrates that the Criminal Division is relentless in its pursuit of the drug traffickers who profit at the expense of the American people.”

“From San Diego to Chicago to D.C., we are united to bring down the traffickers pushing these poisons into American communities,” said U.S. Attorney McGrath. “We are attacking at every level — from street dealers to cartel leaders.”

“This indictment reinforces the FBI’s unwavering commitment to hold accountable those who endanger our communities and traffic violence and drugs across our borders,” said Assistant Director Yarbrough. “Let this serve as a clear message: if you engage in cartel activity, we will pursue you and bring you to justice. Together with our law enforcement partners at every level, we remain fully committed to protecting the American people and stopping the flow of these dangerous drugs into our nation.”

The public is reminded that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

MIL Security OSI –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Orlando Man Sentenced To One Year And Six Months In Federal Prison For Possessing A Machinegun

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton, Jr. has sentenced Jeremiah Cundiff (19, Orlando) to one year and six months in federal prison for possessing a machinegun. Cundiff pleaded guilty on October 31, 2024.

According to court documents, on October 23, 2023, law enforcement apprehended Cundiff, who had an active warrant for his arrest. During the apprehension, Cundiff fled and made a stealthy movement. At the area of Cundiff’s movement, a loaded firearm with a machinegun conversion device installed (pictured below) was recovered. Cundiff’s DNA was found on the firearm.

The type of machinegun conversion device in this case is commonly referred to as a “switch,” and is designed and intended, solely and exclusively, to convert a semiautomatic pistol into a machinegun, causing the pistol to fire more than one shot with the single pull of the trigger.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with valuable assistance from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Noah P. Dorman.

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

MIL Security OSI –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects $23.5 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2024

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ST. LOUIS – U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming announced today that the Eastern District of Missouri collected $23.5 million in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $11 million was collected in criminal actions and $12.5 million was collected in civil actions.

Additionally, the Eastern District of Missouri worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect $16.9 million in cases pursued jointly by these offices, the majority of which was collected in civil actions.

Among the civil settlements were two cases involving allegations of false claims for medical services. Total Access Urgent Care (TAUC) paid $9.1 million and a Festus pain management doctor, Dr. Nehal Modh paid $1.2 million.

Nearly $1 million of the total collected in criminal actions came from a continuing case against two Jefferson County chiropractors who aided their clients in committing disability fraud. So far, 27 patients have pleaded guilty and been ordered to repay their fraudulently-obtained disability payments. The chiropractors are currently in prison, and have also been ordered to pay restitution.

More than $880,000 was recovered in fiscal year 2024 from the garnishment of the retirement accounts belonging to two doctors who pleaded guilty in separate criminal cases. About $628,000 was recovered from Dr. Amy Swegan, who admitted accepting kickbacks from telemedicine companies involved in a nationwide fraud scheme. Nearly $255,000 was collected from Dr. Ashu Joshi, who distributed child pornography involving the daughter of a former patient.

“These cases show that our Financial Litigation Unit will aggressively pursue restitution for victims and taxpayers, even if it takes years after a case is resolved,” said U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming.

The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $5.6 million in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2024. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.

MIL Security OSI –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Boston Woman Sentenced for Fraudulently Obtaining COVID-Relief Funds

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

BOSTON – A Boston woman was sentenced in federal court in Boston for a scheme to fraudulently obtain pandemic-related relief funds from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

Jameela Gross, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young to time served (one day) to be followed by three years of supervised release. Gross has also been ordered to pay $18,750 in restitution. In September 2024, Gross pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Gross was arrested in February 2024 along with over 40 Heath Street Gang members/associates, who were charged with racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking, firearms charges and financial frauds, including COVID-related fraud.

Among other relief programs, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act created the PPP, a temporary loan program directed at small businesses. PPP loans were processed and funded by participating lenders and guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration. If the small business used the loan funds for permissible expenses, the loan could be forgiven.

In April 2021, Gross submitted a fraudulent PPP loan application on behalf of her purported photography business. The application contained multiple false statements, including false representations regarding the fictitious business’s income in 2020 and the purpose of the loan. Gross also submitted false tax records in support of her loan application. Based on the fraudulent application, Gross received approximately $18,750.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox; Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge of Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Hoefle and Lucy Sun of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

MIL Security OSI –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Four Arrested for Harboring a Dozen Illegal Aliens in 2 El Paso Hotels

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

EL PASO, Texas – Four individuals were arrested in El Paso on criminal charges related to their alleged involvement in a human smuggling conspiracy.

According to court documents, agents from the Ysleta Border Patrol Station’s Disrupt Unit were conducting surveillance operations at an El Paso motel when they observed a vehicle outfitted with a temporary license plate. The vehicle had previously been observed at various other hotels known to be used for harboring undocumented noncitizens. Court documents allege that the driver of the vehicle entered the motel lobby briefly before returning to the vehicle and driving away.

Soon after, the agents allegedly observed three individuals cautiously departing from one of the motel rooms and entering a separate vehicle with a temporary license plate. The driver of the vehicle, Yair Alejandro Aguilar-Flores, allegedly admitted to being a Mexican national living in the United States illegally. The two individuals who accompanied him, Angel Eduardo Carrillo-Carrillo and Jorge Alfredo Lopez-Acevedo, were also arrested after the agents determined them to also be illegally present in the U.S. They also acknowledged that additional undocumented noncitizens were inside the motel room.

Upon investigation, the agents located seven more undocumented noncitizens, all of whom were placed under arrest. As agents were concluding their investigation, they noticed the driver of the first vehicle returning to the motel. He approached the room where the migrants had been arrested and knocked on the door. The individual, Jesus David Reyes-Villagran, allegedly admitted to the agents that the motel room was his and that he was returning from dropping off five other undocumented noncitizens at another El Paso hotel.

Aguilar-Flores, Carrillo-Carrillo, Lopez-Acevedo and Reyes-Villagran are charged with bringing in and transporting aliens. If convicted, they each face up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas the announcement.

The U.S. Border Patrol is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Wang is prosecuting the case.

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

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MIL Security OSI –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Fall River Woman Pleads Guilty to Stealing Social Security Benefits

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

BOSTON – A Fall River woman pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to stealing Social Security benefits intended for her child.

Nancy Taylor, 45, pleaded guilty to one count of theft of public funds. Chief U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV scheduled sentencing for May 12, 2025. Taylor was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2024.

From May 2016 through May 2022, Taylor embezzled approximately $86,994.58 in Social Security benefits that were intended for her minor child. In August 2014, when Taylor applied to receive benefits on behalf of her child as a representative payee, the Social Security Administration (SSA) informed her of her obligation to notify SSA if her child left her custody. However, Taylor did not notify SSA when she lost custody of her child in May 2016. Instead, Taylor called SSA in October 2021 to update contact information for the child so that she could continue receiving her child’s benefits. Further, in June 2022, Taylor visited an SSA field office to reactivate her receipt of her child’s benefits and provided two fraudulent forms claiming that her child still lived with her and that she spent all the Social Security benefits she received for her child’s care. In reality, Taylor used the vast majority of the stolen funds to pay her own bills.

The charge of theft of public funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Amy Connelly, Special Agent-in-Charge of the U.S. Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: FBI Takes Action to Protect Your Hard-Earned Money
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

As cryptocurrency investment fraud scams blanket the nation, causing unprecedented financial and psychological hardship to tens of thousands of Americans, the FBI is stepping up with a hands-on measure to protect the public.

Operation Level Up is a proactive initiative to identify and notify victims of cryptocurrency investment fraud. Using sophisticated techniques, the FBI identifies victims who are actively being defrauded and promptly intervenes by contacting those victims.

Since the start of Operation Level Up over a year ago, the FBI has notified more than 4,300 victims spanning all 50 states. Of these victims, 76 percent were not aware they were being scammed. Through these notification efforts, the FBI has saved victims more than $285 million.

“The FBI is committed to protecting citizens from cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes,” said FBI Criminal Investigative Division Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough. “Unfortunately, we continue to see these scams grow and evolve every day. It doesn’t matter where the subjects are—we will use every tool at our disposal to stop them from targeting U.S. citizens. By raising awareness, we can prevent countless people from losing their savings and send a clear message to criminals that these schemes will not be tolerated.”

Cryptocurrency investment frauds are elaborate schemes that often involve unsolicited online contact, a long period of trust building, fake investment opportunities, and a false sense of urgency to send money, perpetrated by individuals typically located overseas who target victims in the United States.

In Operation Level Up, specially trained FBI and U.S. Secret Service Agents are contacting victims directly to prevent further victimization and financial loss. Agents also explain how these crimes work and how to avoid them in the future, outline how to file a report with federal law enforcement, and provide access to mental health and other resources to assist with the impacts of these crimes.

In numerous instances, victims told the FBI that the notification stopped them from liquidating their entire retirement accounts, selling their homes, or taking out costly loans to continue investing in fake cryptocurrency applications. Due to the profound emotional toll these scams can have, dozens of victims contacted through Operation Level Up were referred to the FBI Victim Services Division and provided direct support and lifesaving measures.

The FBI also works through our legal attaché offices located around the world to collaborate with international law enforcement partners and share hundreds of foreign victims identified through Operation Level Up for intervention. Information about illicit applications, websites, and social media accounts are also collected from victims and shared with technology companies for their awareness.

Below are some tips to help protect yourself from these scams:
- Do not release any financial or personal identifying information and do not send any money to someone you met online.
- Do not invest solely based on the advice of someone you met online.
- Do not download or use any unfamiliar applications or click on any links sent to you by someone you met online.
- Do not pay any additional fees or taxes to withdraw money you have invested in a potential scheme.
- Do not pay for services that claim to be able to recover lost funds, as these are often scams as well.
The FBI knows some individuals involved in criminal activity may try to discourage victims from heeding our warnings. It’s important to stay vigilant and cautious if someone advises you to disregard communications from the FBI or provides you with instructions on how to respond to the FBI.

The FBI is launching this public awareness campaign to educate the public, so no one falls victim to these fast-evolving schemes. We also want the public to have information readily available in case they are contacted by the FBI.

If an FBI agent contacts you via phone or email, the FBI will never ask for money, or ask to move communications to private messaging applications, or request bank account details or personal identifying information, other than confirming your identity with information already possessed. When they call or email, agents will provide you with methods you can use to confirm they are truly FBI agents. When in doubt, visit or call your local FBI field office for further clarification.

If you think you may be a potential victim, you should stop sending money immediately and file a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

For more information about Operation Level Up and what to look out for, please visit fbi.gov/levelup and fbi.gov/scams.

MIL Security OSI –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Operation Level-Up: How the FBI Is Saving Victims from Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud

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

Protecting and preventing

Prevention and education are the keys to stopping these scammers. We know that some victims are reluctant to trust unsolicited warnings when they are initially contacted by the FBI. When victims receive these calls, FBI agents will offer ways to confirm their identities. The FBI will never ask you for your personally identifying information, for money, or to move your assets to a new account.

The FBI also knows some individuals involved in criminal activity may try to discourage victims from heeding our warnings. It’s important to stay vigilant and cautious if someone advises you to disregard communications from the FBI or provides you with instructions on how to respond to the FBI.

Operation Level Up outreach also helps the FBI gather additional leads and information about the criminals perpetrating these frauds. In addition to warning and helping victims, the FBI is pursuing a multi-pronged investigative approach to address the financial, infrastructure, and organized crime components operating the schemes.

The FBI will continue to work with domestic and international partners to identify, target, and disrupt criminal organizations facilitating these cryptocurrency confidence fraud schemes. In addition, the FBI shares illicit domains and accounts identified by Operation Level Up with the private sector so they can take any action they deem appropriate.

MIL Security OSI –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Michigan National Guard hosts winter warfare training exercise

Source: US National Guard (video statements)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlY8Mngy-p0

MIL OSI Video –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Munich Security Conference 2025

Source: European Commission (video statements)

“The EU in the World”
Keynote speech by Ursula von der LEYEN, President of the European Commission followed by Q&A

Read more on the AI Action Summit here: https://europa.eu/!fnXHKg
Find European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s speech here: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/home/en

Follow us on:
-X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
-Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

Visit our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfIVRmShlis

MIL OSI Video –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Repatriation and Memorial Service Of SANDF Members from DRC

Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)

Repatriation and Memorial Service Of SANDF Members from DRC

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vOZ08WDwoA

MIL OSI Video –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Repairs to start on listed Council House

Source: City of Plymouth

Works to repair and protect the historic Council House building are starting this week.

The works will stabilise precast cladding panels on the Grade 2 listed building, which surveys show are deteriorating due to age and weather exposure.

Additional fixings will be installed on the panels and the joints between them sealed to help prevent water getting in.

A decision to allocate funding from the Council’s capital programme for the works will also allow further investigations and regular inspection of the panels.

Further scaffolding is being erected and the works are likely to take 18 weeks to complete. The building will remain open to the public throughout and meetings and events will not be affected. However, parking will not be available at the front of the building during the works.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member with responsible for assets, said: “We need to care for public assets and these works are essential to protect both this important public building and the people using it. The listed status means the works will be carried out carefully and sensitively.

“We’ll be making sure disruption to the many users of the building is kept to an absolute minimum.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tickets selling fast for the magical Beauty and the Beast

Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

Tickets selling fast for the magical Beauty and the Beast

13 February 2025

Much Ado Stage School are preparing to take to the stage at the Alley Theatre for a spellbinding performance of Beauty and the Beast.
The local group will perform the timeless classic from 20th-22nd February. From the enchanted castle to the charming village, this magical production promises to transport audiences of all ages to a world filled with love, bravery, and enchantment.
Beauty and the Beast tells the story of Belle, a young woman who finds herself trapped in an enchanted castle, and the Beast, a prince cursed to live in his monstrous form. Together, they embark on a journey that will change their lives forever. Featuring memorable songs, dazzling choreography, and a talented cast, Much Ado Stage School’s performance is a delightful experience for families, theatre lovers, and fans of the classic fairytale.
Under the direction of Rois Kelly, Much Ado Stage School’s talented cast, featuring local performers, will bring to life this enchanting story with stunning costumes, set designs, and powerful performances. Playing ‘The Beast’ is Kevin Connor and playing the beautiful ‘Belle’ is Lucy Harper.
Rois explained: “We are really excited to see the months of work come together to produce a showstopper with such a stellar cast, with heart-warming moments, humorous twists, and spectacular musical numbers, Beauty and the Beast will certainly captivate audiences in Strabane”.
Beauty and the Beast is showing from Thursday 20th- Saturday 22nd February at 7.30pm each evening and a matinee performance on Saturday 22nd February at 2.30pm. Tickets are £15 each. Tickets are selling fast, with limited availability for some performances so make sure to get yours now at www.alley-theatre.com or call the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 71 384444.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council Leader reacts to new Government funding for new towns

Source: City of Manchester

Manchester has been allocated £1.5m by the Government to support the next phase of regeneration in Collyhurst in north Manchester – part of the major Victoria North regeneration programme.

Leader of the Council Cllr Bev Craig said:

“We welcome the news that the new Government wants to work with us to help us build more homes and create more jobs for Manchester residents.

“Victoria North represents one of the most ambitious urban regeneration programmes in Europe and will see more than 15,000 homes built in the next decade, along with a range of employment, social, community, cultural and neighbourhood uses. Its delivery will transform 390 acres of brownfield and underutilised land in some of the most deprived wards of Manchester, creating a new town in Manchester, interconnected by quality green spaces which will open up and celebrate the River Irk.

“Already, hundreds of homes have been built as part of the regeneration programme, including 130 new council homes in Collyhurst that will be available to residents very soon, alongside a new community park.

“This £1.5m Government funding will help to unlock a key element of the vision for Collyhurst by supporting the development of a business case for a new Metrolink stop at Sandhills, that will better connect the Collyhurst neighbourhood to the wider city and region, linking our residents to employment and other services and opportunities.

“Investment in a new Metrolink stop in this community would be an important driver to deliver the ambitious next phase of the Collyhurst regeneration story, which looks build more than 2,500 new homes – including significant council and social housing – new shops, and further education and medical facilities.

“We look forward to working closely with this Government in the coming months to realise the potential of Collyhurst, Victoria North and the wider area of North Manchester. Together with the news around the North Manchester General Hospital green light, this shows that Manchester is a priority for the new Government.”

Find out more about the regeneration of Collyhurst

Find out more about the Victoria North regeneration programme

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Next step for market proposal

Source: City of Leicester

A PROPOSAL to return Leicester Market to its original site and create a major new event space around it is to proceed to the next stage.

City Mayor Peter Soulsby met with market trader representatives this morning (Thursday 13 February) to advise them that he intends to move forward with the scheme, creating a food-focused market next to the existing Food Hall, together with a versatile space that would become a focal point for outdoor events in the city.

Final designs, new planning applications and detailed costs will now be drawn up, prior to a formal decision being taken. Subject to planning permission, work could start on site this summer – and market traders could be operating from the new market building by the end of 2026.

“This proposal would give Leicester Market a fresh start and a sustainable future – and would give the traders what they wanted: a return to the site where they’ve stood for generations,” said the City Mayor.

“But it’s also a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reopen the market place as a wonderful flexible space – as it was for hundreds of years.

“The scale of the space, and the quality of the surrounding architecture, make it a very special site and my hope is that our investment in this scheme will act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the wider area.”

The proposal to create a new market building, housing 48 stalls that could be fully dismantled if necessary, and a new event space for Leicester was welcomed by most of those who took part in a formal consultation last year.

More than 1,600 (1,667) people gave their views in the online consultation, which was launched in October and ran for six weeks.

Of those responding, 60% (1,008) supported the proposal, 38% (639) did not, and a further 20 respondents (1%) did not express a preference.

“I’m grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation, as their views showed there’s support for the proposal,” said the City Mayor.

“My focus now is on progressing this scheme, ahead of a formal decision. Our project team will now be developing the designs and preparing the planning applications, with a view to getting this important site redeveloped and open for business as quickly as possible.”

A planning application for the new square is due to be submitted next month (March), with plans for the new building expected to be submitted in July.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Great turn out for school apprenticeship show

Source: City of Coventry

As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, the Apprenticeship Team at Coventry City Council hosted more than 25 employers for a School Apprenticeship Show.

The event held this week at Coventry Rugby Club brought together over 300 students.

Severn Trent, Coventry University, BUUK infrastructure, Land Rover and West Midlands Police were just a few of the organisations promoting the wealth of apprenticeship opportunities available.

The show provided an invaluable platform for young people to explore career pathways, engage with employers, and gain insights into how apprenticeships can be a direct route into skilled employment.

Employers from sectors such as construction, healthcare, digital, engineering, and the public sector were on hand to share information, answer questions, and inspire the next generation of apprentices.

Cllr Richard Brown, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources at the Council, said: “I’m really pleased that our own apprenticeship team is helping to bring together so many great organisations and so many young people.

“Events like this are such a great way to highlight the different career options that apprenticeships can be the springboard to.”

Zak Bhana, Apprenticeship and Career Pathways Advisor, at Coventry City Council, said: “The event was a real success. It was great to see so many Coventry-based employers getting involved and informing students about the different apprenticeship career pathways they have available.

“Apprenticeships provide fantastic opportunities for young people to earn while they learn, and this event highlighted just how many options there are locally.”

The Apprenticeship Show aligns with the Council’s commitment to supporting young people into meaningful careers and ensuring local businesses can connect with the talent they need.

A huge thank you to all the employers, students, and schools who took part in making this event such a success. If you’d like to find out more about apprenticeships in Coventry, please visit our Apprenticeships Hub or contact the team at coventry.gov.uk/apprenticeships

Published: Thursday, 13th February 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Preserve the house of William Blake as a national cultural centre
Source: Mayor of London

William Blake, author of ‘Jerusalem’, regarded as the unofficial national anthem, is internationally revered as a Poet, Artist, and Visionary. He lived at 17 South Molton Street in London for 17 years in two humble rooms in which he produced his most famous and influential illustrated works.

Today, the London Assembly has called for the site to become a cultural and educational hub and visitor centre, boosting the local and London economy.

Marina Ahmad AM, who proposed the motion, said:

“Preserving our heritage is vital to our cultural identity, well-being, and economic growth. William Blake—renowned poet, artist, and visionary—lived and created some of his most influential works at 17 South Molton Street. Yet, this historic home is at risk of being lost.

“We have a unique opportunity to transform Blake’s last remaining London residence into a world-class cultural and educational hub, honouring his legacy while boosting the local economy. The homes of Mozart, Rembrandt, and Burns are thriving visitor attractions – let’s do the same with William Blake’s house.

“I ask the mayor to meet with the William Blake Fellowship, engage with the Grosvenor Group, and rally key stakeholders to support this vision. If action is not taken now, we risk losing this opportunity forever. Let’s secure Blake’s legacy for generations to come.”

The full text of the motion is:

This Assembly recognises that preserving our heritage is important to the cultural, well-being and economic growth of our country.

William Blake, author of ‘Jerusalem’, regarded as the unofficial national anthem and sung at the 2012 Olympics and by all main political parties, is internationally revered as a Poet, Artist and Visionary.

Last year international Blake exhibitions in Los Angeles, the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge and in Europe attracted thousands of visitors. Blake is on the National Curriculum taught in UK Primary and Secondary schools.

William Blake lived in 17 South Molton Street in London for 17 years in two humble rooms in which he produced his most famous and influential illustrated works, now in 56 galleries and private collections around the world. The home is a Georgian townhouse similar to Handel House or Charles Dickens’ houses and has been cherished as The House of William Blake even when Blake still lived there in 1803, all the way up to present day.

The building is listed with English Heritage as ‘more than of special interest’ to the nation and since the 1970’s has had a City of London blue plaque. Blake’s unique contribution to the arts and humanity should be proudly celebrated by his home city with this site becoming a cultural and educational hub and visitor centre which would boost the local and London economy.

The William Blake Fellowship has been liaising for many months with the company who owns the property. The company’s plan is to renovate it as a private residence sold on the commercial market. It is instead now the time for this property to become a cultural hub, honouring and celebrating the life and works of William Blake.

This would draw from the success of long standing historic houses in other European cities such as Mozart’s House in Vienna, Rembrandt’s House in Amsterdam, Dante’s House in Florence, nearby Handel House in London and Robert Burns’s House in Scotland, the legacy of which generates £200 million a year to the Scottish economy. The Fellowship has produced ample evidence of the social, cultural and economic value of this property being repurposed as a world class cultural visitor centre.

The House of William Blake’s proposal is supported by the Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries Justine Simons OBE, Lord Vaizey of Didcot, Rachel Blake, MP for Cities of London and Westminster, Westminster Council, Dee Corsi, Chief Executive Officer of New West End Company, a business partnership of 600 UK and international retailers, Mayfair residents and English Heritage.

The Fellowship has submitted an application for Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funding and are soon meeting with Westminster Council to discuss its pre-app planning submission for the process of changing the use of the building from a private residence to a cultural centre.

However, the current owners of the building, although also supportive of the proposal in principle, are continuing with their planned renovation and marketing of Blake’s home as a private residence.

The Fellowship retains the ambition to open a centre in 2027, which would mark both 200 years since Blake’s death and 270 years since his birth. If the property is continued to be developed as a luxury apartment, the opportunity to create a dedicated centre to William Blake at his last remaining London home will be lost for good.

This Assembly resolves to:
- Call on the Mayor to meet with the William Blake Fellowship to be updated on the current status of plans for the House of William Blake.
- Convey the importance and need for this venture to the Grosvenor Group and board, as well as their Chair, the Duke of Westminster, and request the pausing of the ongoing commercial renovation work so that the House of William Blake proposal can continue to the next stages of development.
- Call for Grosvenor Group to develop and work with the relevant public and private partnerships to enable the creation of the centre to go forward.
- Call a meeting with key stakeholders (listed above) to discuss working together in the same way that the Government, councils and institutions of other major European cities have partnered to create the houses of Rembrandt, Mozart and Robert Burns as international cultural visitor attractions.
- Write to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy MP, and the Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and Tourism, Sir Chris Bryant MP, to convey the importance of the House of William Blake being preserved as a national cultural centre.
The meeting can be viewed via webcast or YouTube.

Follow us @LondonAssembly
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Assembly wants re-evaluation of increase in employer’s National Insurance contributions

Source: Mayor of London

The London Assembly has today called on the Mayor of London to lobby the Chancellor to re-evaluate the current increase in employer’s National Insurance contributions and the additional £7bn in costs on employers arising from the Government’s Budget.

This follows concerns raised by industry bodies including the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as major retailers including Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Morrisons.

Alessandro Georgiou AM, who proposed the motion, said:

“The impact of the raise in employer’s National Insurance Contributions on Londoners could not be clearer in the threatened job-losses in the capital.

“I am pleased that the Assembly has backed my motion calling on the Mayor to lobby the Chancellor to review this, and I hope that the Mayor will share in our concerns about the impact on businesses and Londoners by extension.

“£7bn is a large bill for businesses to swallow – now is the time for the Mayor to come out and oppose it.”

The full text of the motion is:

This Assembly wishes to express its concern regarding the impact of the Government’s Autumn Budget, including the decision to increase employer’s National Insurance contributions. Decisions taken by this Government have let to economic uncertainty, market turmoil, additional business costs and higher borrowing costs.

This Assembly regrets that costs have risen significantly for employers, and many have been forced to reduce their workforce as a result of the Budget, with Londoners bearing the brunt of redundancies and higher prices.

This Assembly notes the concerns of industry bodies such as the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry who found only 1 in 4 business leaders are confident that the Government will deliver growth.

This Assembly also notes recent job cuts announced by major retailers including: Sainsbury’s (3000 cuts), Tesco (400 cuts), Morrisons (200 cuts), WH Smith, River Island, Schuh, Currys and Next, as well as the comments made by Simon Roberts, Sainsbury’s Chief Executive, who just days after the Budget announcement said, “There will be difficult decisions to take as a result”.

This Assembly calls on the Mayor to lobby the Chancellor to re-evaluate the current increase in employer’s National Insurance contributions and the additional £7bn in costs on employers arising from the Budget, to better support Londoners and their job security.

The meeting can be viewed via webcast or YouTube.

Follow us @LondonAssembly

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sidcup bypass speed limits need to be investigated
Source: Mayor of London

The London Assembly has called on the Mayor of London to launch an independent investigation into temporary speed limits put in place on the A20 at the Sidcup bypass between October 2023 and October 2024.

In a motion agreed today, the Assembly noted campaign groups’ concerns that:
- Signage was insufficient and followed the wrong chapter of the signage manual
- The signage installed was potentially hazardous with the top of the mounting post not fully covered by the sign
- There are allegations that the traffic order (0622) was not published on the Transport for London (TfL) website or in compliance with statutory instruments
Thomas Turrell AM, who proposed the motion, said:

“There are serious questions to be raised about whether TfL have followed due procedure, and for that reason they cannot be allowed to mark their own homework in investigating what has happened.

“The Assembly has spoken clearly: the Mayor should call an independent investigation, so that we might learn lessons from this and avoid the mistakes made with the A20.

“This has affected drivers who say that they couldn’t possibly have known they were breaking the rules, and we owe it to them to thoroughly investigate this issue.”

The full text of the motion is:

This Assembly calls on the Mayor of London to launch an independent investigation into the implementation of the temporary speed limits on the A20 at the Sidcup by-pass, which were in place between October 2023 and October 2024.

This Assembly notes the concerns raised by campaign groups which include:
- Allegations that the traffic order (0622) was not published on the Transport for London (TfL) website or in compliance with statutory instruments, and that the Officer named on the order does not appear on the Audit record, and concerns at the possibility that the wrong Officer signed off on the order altogether.
- Signage being insufficient and following the wrong chapter of the signage manual.
- Concerns that the signage installed was potentially hazardous with the top of the mounting post not fully covered by the sign.
This Assembly believes that TfL cannot be allowed to mark their own homework on this issue and therefore calls on the Mayor to launch an independent investigation into these concerns so that lessons can be learnt and the mistakes seen with the A20 are not repeated.

The meeting can be viewed via webcast or YouTube.

Follow us @LondonAssembly
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor of London urged not to use Green Belt to meet housing targets
Source: Mayor of London

The Mayor of London has been urged to work with the government to ensure that London’s Green Belt is not put at risk to meet the new housing targets.

A London Assembly motion, agreed today, expresses concerns that the target of 87,992 new homes per year in the capital may not be achievable on brownfield sites alone, and notes that the Greater London Authority has said that Green Belt land release “appears unavoidable given the changes to national policy”.

The motion also notes that the Government’s top-down targets do not take into account the type of housing Londoners need, especially family-sized homes in many areas, focusing instead on overall unit numbers.

The Assembly has therefore called on Sir Sadiq Khan to lobby the Government to:
- Ensure that London’s housing targets are deliverable on brownfield land
- Replace blanket unit-based targets for each area with housing-type targets, such as habitable room targets
- Bring forward measures to incentivise, and remove obstacles from, schemes with planning permission being built out in a timely manner.
Thomas Turrell AM, who proposed the motion, said:

“London’s lungs, our greenbelt, is at risk from the implications of the NPPF, despite us having a wealth of brownfield sites in the city to utilise to meet housing targets.

“There are also concerns about meeting the need for family housing in our city, rather than just dozens of high-rise flats.

“The Assembly has backed this motion now calling on the Mayor to lobby for an amended NPPF to reflect these concerns which we share.”

The full text of the motion is:

The Assembly notes the publication of the Government’s new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in December 2024, and the housing need figures published alongside it, including a total of 87,992 homes per year in London. The Assembly is concerned about the significant increases imposed on many London boroughs, and whether these are deliverable, in view of the availability of land, material and labour.

The Assembly is concerned as to whether such high targets would be achievable on brownfield sites alone, and notes that the Greater London Authority (GLA) has already started contacting London boroughs about undertaking reviews of the Green Belt. Whereas the current and previous Mayors have been strongly supportive of protecting London’s Green Belt through the London Plan and in planning decisions, it is notable that in a recent submission to a planning inspector on a local plan, the GLA has said that Green Belt land release “appears unavoidable given the changes to national policy”.

In addition, such top-down targets do not take into account the type of housing Londoners need, especially family-sized homes in many areas, focusing instead on overall unit numbers. The Assembly also notes that, according to the Planning London Datahub, there are over 800,000 homes in London with planning approval that have not yet been completed, including over 500,000 that have not yet been started.

The Assembly therefore calls on the Mayor to lobby the Government to:
- Ensure that London’s housing targets are deliverable on brownfield land and do not put the Green Belt at risk.
- Replace blanket unit-based targets for each area with housing-type targets, such as habitable room targets.
- Bring forward measures to incentivise, and remove obstacles from, schemes with planning permission being built out in a timely manner, including social, accessible and affordable housing schemes.
The meeting can be viewed via webcast or YouTube.

Follow us @LondonAssembly
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Commonhold V Leasehold – Assembly wants pilot project

Source: Mayor of London

The London Assembly has called on the Mayor to introduce a commonhold pilot project on Greater London Authority (GLA) land, to help provide Londoners with an alternative to leasehold homes.

In a motion agreed today, the Assembly also urged the Mayor to lobby the Government to introduce legislation to develop commonhold as an alternative to leasehold “as soon as possible”.

The motion notes that commonhold is a better alternative to leasehold, with each unit-holder owning the freehold of their home, along with a share of the commonhold association which owns and manages the common parts of the property.

Andrew Boff AM, who proposed the motion, said:

“The Mayor’s manifesto commitments included support for commonhold as an alternative to leasehold, and now the Assembly has iterated that he should be lobbying for changes in the law to provide this.

“This is the better alternative to leasehold, and would bring us into line with international standards – now the onus is on the Mayor to ensure this happens.”

The full text of the motion is:

The Assembly notes that London has the highest proportion of leaseholders in the country. In 2022/23, 36% of London’s homes were leasehold, more than double the proportion in the rest of England. 62% of London’s flats are leasehold, comprising just over 1.3 million. London leaseholders typically pay higher service charges, with the median annual service charge £1,450 in 2022/23, compared with £1,222 across England. In 2023, 20% of London leaseholders paid more than £4,000 per year in service charges.

The Assembly notes that commonhold offers a better alternative to leasehold, with each unit-holder owning the freehold of their home, along with a share of the commonhold association which owns and manages the common parts of the property. Similar forms of flat ownership are used around the world, with England being one of the only countries still to use the leasehold system.

The Assembly also notes that the Mayor’s 2021 and 2024 election manifestos both gave strong support for commonhold as an alternative to leasehold, with the Mayor pledging in 2021 to “pilot a commonhold scheme to show how this form of ownership can become the new national standard for new flats” and in 2024 to “continue to campaign for an end to the feudal leasehold system and its replacement with commonhold”.

The Assembly resolves to strongly support the development of commonhold as an alternative tenure to leasehold, and calls on the Mayor to lobby the Government to legislate for this as soon as possible.

The Assembly also calls on the Mayor to introduce a pilot commonhold project on Greater London Authority (GLA) Group land, to ensure that new flats developed for sale on GLA Group land are either commonhold or freehold, and to use GLA housing funds to promote commonhold or freehold schemes where possible, rather than leasehold.

The meeting can be viewed via webcast or YouTube.

Follow us @LondonAssembly

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Head of Commercial Real Estate Investment Firm Pleads Guilty in $62.8M Investment Fraud Scheme

Source: US State of Vermont

A New York man pleaded guilty yesterday in the Northern District of Georgia for his role in a scheme to defraud investors in connection with two commercial real estate investments.

According to court documents, Elchonon “Elie” Schwartz, 46, of New York City, engaged in a scheme to defraud investors who sought to invest in commercial real estate through the crowdfunding commercial real estate investing website CrowdStreet Marketplace (CrowdStreet). Beginning May 2022, Schwartz solicited investments through CrowdStreet for a large commercial real estate complex in Atlanta and ultimately raised approximately $54 million from about 654 investors. Beginning in November 2022, Schwartz solicited investments again through CrowdStreet in connection with a mixed-use building in Miami Beach, Florida, and ultimately raised approximately $8.8 million from about 167 investors. In total, Schwartz raised approximately $62.8 million from investors through CrowdStreet.

As part of the investment solicitation process, Schwartz executed agreements that stated, in part, that the funds raised from CrowdStreet investors would be held in segregated bank accounts controlled by Schwartz. In the documentation provided to CrowdStreet investors, Schwartz represented that he would only use the investors’ money to fund the investment in each property and that he had a fiduciary duty to safeguard the funds and to prohibit commingling or use of the money that did not benefit each investment.

Contrary to these representations, however, Schwartz misappropriated and converted the CrowdStreet investor funds for his own use. Schwartz directed substantially all the CrowdStreet investor money into his personal bank, personal brokerage account, and accounts for unrelated commercial real estate investments he controlled. For example, Schwartz used the CrowdStreet investor funds to purchase luxury watches, to invest in stocks and options in his brokerage account, and to pay for payroll expenses for his unrelated commercial real estate businesses. Ultimately, in mid-July 2023, the two corporate entities that Schwartz had formed to receive funds from CrowdStreet investors both filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Schwartz pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 19 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. for the Northern District of Georgia, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke of the FBI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.

The FBI Atlanta Field Office investigated the case. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Enforcement provided valuable assistance in the investigation.

Trial Attorney Matthew F. Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Connors for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case. Former Assistant U.S. Attorneys David O’Neal and Christopher Huber for the Northern District of Georgia provided substantial assistance with the investigation and prosecution.

MIL OSI USA News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Winners of EU translation contest for secondary schools announced

Source: European Union 2

The 27 winners of ‘Juvenes Translatores’, the European Commission’s translation contest for secondary schools, have been announced. Some 3070 pupils tried their hand at translating a text between any two of the EU’s 24 official languages. There was one winner for each EU country.

MIL OSI Europe News –

February 14, 2025
MIL-OSI: Integration of Emerging Technologies for Military Drone Market Presenting a Significant Growth Opportunity

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PALM BEACH, Fla., Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – The surge in global defense budgets has had a significant impact on the Global Military Drone Market. As political tensions rise worldwide, nations are investing in cutting-edge unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to bolster their defense and security capabilities. Increased defense expenditure has allowed countries like the United States, China, and other NATO members to allocate substantial funds to advanced drone programs, enhancing surveillance, supporting combat missions, and improving autonomous drone features. A recent report from an industry expert said that: “The growing demand for real-time intelligence in dynamic, complex military environments has significantly increased the need for sophisticated drones equipped with advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Military drones are now integrated with cutting-edge technologies such as high-resolution cameras, infrared sensors, and other advanced systems that enhance situational awareness for both tactical operations and comprehensive intelligence gathering. For instance, the Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Global Hawk is capable of surveying over 40,000 square miles in a single day, providing extensive monitoring of large areas. This level of surveillance is invaluable for sustained military operations in regions like Ukraine and other conflict zones, where real-time intelligence is crucial for strategic decision-making and operational effectiveness.” Active Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV), Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX), Unusual Machines (NYSE: UMAC).

The article continued: “The integration of emerging technologies into military drones presents a significant growth opportunity for the market. Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, autonomous navigation systems, and advanced sensors are revolutionizing the capabilities of military drones. AI-driven systems, for instance, can enable drones to analyze vast amounts of real-time data, enhancing decision-making and targeting accuracy. Autonomous navigation allows drones to operate with minimal human intervention, improving operational efficiency and reducing the risk to personnel. For example, the U.S. military has incorporated AI into its MQ-9 Reaper drones to enhance autonomous targeting and surveillance capabilities, allowing for more precise missions in complex environments.”

ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Subsidiary Develops and Tests Proprietary Drone Communications System Enabling Secure and Reliable Communications for US Defense Applications – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS and Quantum Computing solutions, announces that its subsidiary ZenaDrone has developed and is currently testing a proprietary drone communications management system called “DroneNet” that enables direct and secure drone communications in situations without reliable internet, cellular or satellite communications. The internally developed system is specifically built for use with the Company’s ZenaDrone 1000 and IQ series of drone products. A drone communications system is a two-way link between a drone and its base station used to direct the drone and relay real-time drone video and sensor data.

“We believe our proprietary DroneNet communications system will improve both the reliability and performance of our drones ensuring we are not dependent on third-party products with compatibility issues. This internal development ensures we gain more customization of our products, cost management, and control of our supply chain, all of which results in what we believe to be superior drone solutions. Once we’ve tested this initial version, our plan for future advancements includes developing and testing our own microchips with multilayer encryption suitable for NDAA-compliant use required for US Defense applications,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

Drones used by the military for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance applications require reliable communications systems for uninterrupted data transmission, mission effectiveness, and operational security. Drones must relay real-time video, sensor data, and telemetry to command centers, allowing defense operators to make time-sensitive decisions. This is especially critical for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, where drones operate over longer distances often in harsh or contested environments. Without secure and resilient communications links, drones risk losing control, can face signal jamming, or data latency, which can compromise mission success. Advanced proprietary communication solutions, using satellite and 4G help ensure connectivity in GPS-denied or high-interference environments and can safeguard data against jamming and cyber threats.

The ZenaDrone 1000 is an autonomous drone, in a VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) quadcopter design with eight rotors; it is considered a medium-sized drone measuring 12X7 feet in size. It is designed for stable flight, maneuverability, heavy lift capabilities up to 40 kilos, incorporating innovative software technology, AI, sensors, and purpose-built attachments, along with compact and rugged hardware engineered for industrial and defense use. Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

Other recent developments in the markets include:

AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV), through its wholly owned subsidiary Arcturus UAV, has recently been awarded a contract by the Danish Defense Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO) with a contract ceiling value of $181 million to deliver the JUMP^® 20 medium uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) to the Danish Armed Forces. This 10-year program of record will equip the Danish Army with JUMP 20 systems to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, reinforcing AV’s position as a global leader in advanced autonomous solutions.

JUMP 20 is a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL), fixed-wing UAS with 13+ hours of endurance and an operational range of 185 km (115 mi). Runway independent, the system is easily storable and transportable, and can autonomously launch and land at speed without personnel intervention, making it ideal for on-the-move operations.

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a Technology Company in Defense, National Security and Global Markets, recently announced a $34,856,449 award modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract from the U.S. Marine Corps. The expanded scope is to support the XQ-58A Unmanned Aerial Systems mission systems and subsystems integration for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Unmanned Aerial System Expeditionary (MUX) Tactical Aircraft (TACAIR).

Since 2022, Kratos and its industry partner, Northrop Grumman, have been working with the U.S. Marine Corps to define operational requirements for the MQ-58 Valkyrie variant. The team recently demonstrated advanced collaborative capabilities during the Penetrating Affordable Autonomous Collaborative Killer Portfolio (PAACK-P) program, which is transitioning to MUX TACAIR in 2025. The modification contract provides the additional non-recurring engineering and material to support the planned spiral developmental efforts, as well as additional flight tests for the continuing capability enhancement of the Valkyrie system.

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) has recently introduced AMORPHOUS™, its new software that features a single user interface to operate thousands of autonomous assets simultaneously. Designed with an open architecture, this software enables the United States and allied militaries to control a mix of uncrewed platforms, payloads and systems, even if another manufacturer produces them.

AMORPHOUS, which stands for Autonomous Multi-domain Operations Resiliency Platform for Heterogeneous Unmanned Swarms, includes an intuitive and distributed command-and-control interface to give operators the flexibility to conduct a wider array of intricate military missions. This collaborative autonomy at scale will provide warfighters with a decisive overmatch capability.

Unusual Machines (NYSE: UMAC) has recently announced the signing of a binding agreement to acquire of Aloft Technologies, Inc. (https://www.aloft.ai/), the leading FAA-approved provider of unmanned aerial system (UAS) services to enterprise, public safety, and government customers. The acquisition is almost all in stock, valued at $14.5M.

The proposed acquisition brings together companies that share commitment to strengthening the U.S. drone industry. Aloft Technologies has long been recognized as the leader in the drone fleet and airspace management sector, powering more than 70% of all FAA-approved Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) airspace authorizations in the United States. Aloft has provided more than more than 1.6 million authorizations in total, with 400,000 authorizations provided in 2024.

Aloft has been able to leverage the data collected through millions of safe flights and airspace interactions to launch Air Boss, their new real-time UAS air traffic management (UTM) software. With the FAA forecasting more than 3 million drones in the airspace by 2028, outnumbering traditional aircraft more than 10-to-1, the coordination and integration of all aircraft is critical to national security and the national economy.

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DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM has been compensated fifty four hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by ZenaTech, Inc. by the Company. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

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SOURCE: FN Media Group

The MIL Network –

February 14, 2025