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  • MIL-OSI USA: Symposium Generates Connections and Strategies for Rural ND Communities

    Source: US State of North Dakota

     Energy was high as over 100 attendees filled the North Dakota State Museum and Heritage Center auditorium for the inaugural North Dakota Rural Planning Symposium. 

    “Rural North Dakota is evolving, and planning is key to ensuring communities remain vibrant and sustainable,” says Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilken. “Events like this help our rural community developers connect, share ideas, and move us forward in continuing to build strong, resilient towns throughout the state.”

    The rural community planning event, hosted by the Commerce Office of Community Development & Rural Prosperity, drew community developers, policymakers, and industry leaders from all corners of the state, with all eight regions represented. 

    “Ellendale is adapting to changing economic and demographic conditions through innovative solutions,” said Nicole Kempf, City Auditor. “The growth and prosperity opportunities in collaboration with Applied Digital has assisted with housing efforts and are creating positive changes in our community. It was inspiring to hear the actionable solutions shared today, and I’m eager to implement them in Ellendale.” 

    Following a social event the evening prior, the symposium kicked off with a brief presentation by international speaker Becky McCray, Rural Development Expert and Co-Founder of SAVEYOUR.town. 

    “North Dakota communities possess a remarkable sense of identity,” McCray observed. “Their strong community spirit and love for the outdoors are invaluable assets. Many communities are actively leveraging these strengths, while also fostering strong collaborations with neighboring towns.”

    The event continued with discussions on rural development funding opportunities, mobilizing volunteers and advocates, and a workshop on building idea-friendly communities 

    For more information on the Commerce Office of Community Development & Rural Prosperity, visit Community Development and Rural Prosperity.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prison Term of 18 Years Handed to Man Who Sexually Abused 13-Year-Old

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Damion Brown, 33, of Washington D.C., was sentenced today to 18 years in prison and lifetime supervision, for sexually abusing the 13-year-old daughter of his long-time girlfriend in February of 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                The defendant was convicted on May 7, 2024, by a Superior Court jury of ten felony charges, including first-degree sexual abuse and first-degree child sexual abuse following a multi-day jury trial. The Honorable Judge Anthony Epstein also ordered Brown to stay away and have no contact with the victim or her mother.

                According to the government’s evidence, on February 24, 2023, the 13-year-old victim was home alone with the defendant, who was the victim’s mother’s live-in boyfriend. While the victim was changing clothes, the defendant came into her room and began hugging and kissing her and pushed her onto her bed. The defendant performed a number of sexual acts on the child, then left the room laughing. The victim immediately left the apartment and reported to her aunt, who called the police. The defendant was still in the apartment when police arrived.

                Subsequent DNA testing determined that the defendant could not be excluded from the positive results of DNA found on the victim after the abuse.           

                In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Martin and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, including Victim Advocate Veronica Vaughn; former Forensic Child Interviewer Tracy Owusu; Paralegals ReShawn Johnson and Garcia Clarke; and Katina Washington-Adams, who assisted with witness travel, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Folse and Robert Platt, who prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: CarePilot and Community Hospital Corporation Forge Strategic Partnership Following Successful Pilot of Ambient AI Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. and PLANO, Texas, Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CarePilot, a leader in AI-driven medical documentation for community healthcare, today announced a new strategic partnership with Plano, TX based Community Hospital Corporation (CHC) following a successful pilot of CarePilot’s ambient AI technology in several CHC facilities. Under this partnership, CHC plans to deploy and distribute CarePilot’s AI scribe solution across their managed and affiliated hospitals nationwide.

    • CarePilot’s ambient AI technology transforms spoken clinical conversations into comprehensive, structured documentation, enabling clinicians to focus on delivering patient care rather than on administrative tasks. This partnership is expected to streamline clinical workflows and ultimately enhance the patient experience throughout CHC’s extensive network.

    “We’re excited to work with CarePilot to bring AI to community health care and improve the experience for our patients and providers,” said Joe Ford, Regional Vice President of Information Technology at CHC.

    CHC is renowned for its support of community-based hospitals nationwide. The organization is either directly responsible for or supports the day-to-day operations of 23 hospitals across the country.  Additionally, CHC Consulting, CHC IT management, Telecom and Supply chain programs extend its influence to over 200 network hospitals. This broad reach positions CHC as a pivotal force in enhancing community health care delivery across diverse regions. By integrating CarePilot’s AI solution, the partnership aims to reduce administrative burdens on clinicians, optimize clinical documentation, and foster more meaningful interactions between healthcare providers and their patients.

    “We’re committed to bringing cutting-edge technology to rural and community hospitals. Our collaboration with CarePilot and their ambient AI platform is a testament to that commitment. By automating documentation in ambulatory, ED, and inpatient settings, and ensuring seamless compatibility with various EHRs, we’re not only improving operational efficiency, but also making this advanced technology accessible to our dedicated healthcare professionals, ultimately driving better patient outcomes in the communities we serve.”

    About CarePilot
    CarePilot is at the forefront of AI-driven documentation solutions for community healthcare. Its cutting-edge AI scribe technology converts clinical conversations into detailed clinical notes, reducing the administrative burden on providers and allowing them to focus on what truly matters—patient care. Designed for seamless integration into existing clinical workflows, CarePilot’s solution is transforming the landscape of clinical documentation across community health settings.

    About CHC Community Hospital Corporation
    Community Hospital Corporation owns, manages and consults with hospitals through CHC Hospitals, CHC Consulting and CHC ContinueCARE with the purpose to collaborate with partners and bring innovative solutions to support the vibrancy and accessibility of community healthcare. Based in Plano, Texas, CHC provides the resources and experience community hospitals need to improve quality outcomes, patient satisfaction and financial performance.

    For more information, please visit www.carepilot.com or www.chc.com.

    CONTACT:
    Joseph Tutuera, CEO
    sales@carepilot.com
    6550 Sprint Parkway
    Suite 200
    Overland Park, Kansas, 66211, USA

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Tiny splendid peacock spiders have the fastest known jump among their kin – new study

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ajay Narendra, Associate Professor of Insect Neuroethology, Macquarie University

    Pranav Joshi

    Jumping spiders – one of the largest spider families – get their name from the extraordinary jumps they make to hunt prey, to navigate and also to evade predators.

    Male jumping spiders also jump to escape from cannibalistic females and competing males. So they are under tremendous pressure to jump efficiently and rapidly.

    We studied the jumping abilities of miniature male and female Australian peacock spiders. We found that the males – incredibly light creatures, weighing just 2 milligrams – have the highest acceleration among any known jumping spider.

    Our study is the first to explore and identify differences in how male and female jumping spiders undertake their impressive jumps. It’s now published in the Journal of Experimental Biology.

    A male Australian splendid peacock spider.
    Pranav Joshi

    Unique hydraulics

    Jumping is an energetically “expensive” movement strategy. To perform it, animals have to launch themselves from a surface by coordinating the movement of numerous body parts.

    Some invertebrates, like ants, jump with the help of their muscles. Others, like fleas, use energy stored in internal structures that are rapidly released to trigger a leap.

    Jumping spiders are different – they use a unique semi-hydraulic system. They don’t have muscles to extend their legs and power the jumps. Instead, they extend their legs by increasing the pressure of the haemolymph (fluid analogous to blood in invertebrates) in their legs, which triggers the jump.

    Peacock spiders are well known for the elaborate courtship display males carry out to court females. It has captured the attention of biologists and non-scientific audiences alike. The display includes extending and waving their third pair of legs and opening the colourful flap-like extensions on the abdomen.

    The quantitative description of jumping movements, known as jump kinematics, has only been conducted for four of the 6,000+ jumping spider species known worldwide. On top of this, scientists have never investigated differences in jump dynamics in male and female spiders.

    Because male and female peacock spiders differ strongly in size from each other, they present a unique opportunity to identify sex-specific differences in jump kinematics.

    Spiders on campus

    We studied the Australian splendid peacock spider (Maratus splendens) found both on the Macquarie University campus in Sydney and in the surrounding area.

    The females weighed more than twice as much as males, and the heaviest female was 6.6 times heavier than the lightest male. We scanned male and female specimens using micro-computed tomography and carried out a 3D reconstruction to determine the centre of mass of each sex.

    Micro CT reconstruction of the male of the Australian splendid peacock spider with centre of mass highlighted by a circle.
    Ajay Narendra

    We then filmed the jumps of male and female spiders using a high-speed camera, and tracked the animals’ centre of mass during each jump. From this, we measured a suite of kinematic measures, including jump take-off angle, acceleration, and g-force.

    We found that these lighter male peacock spiders have a distinct jump choreography and kinematics compared to the heavier females.

    High, fast and steep

    We discovered that the splendid peacock spiders accelerated at 127.8 m/s² – more than twice as fast as the previous highest known acceleration in jumping spiders.

    This rapid acceleration may have evolved to escape from predators or to track and capture fast-moving prey in their natural environments.

    Though the lighter males accelerated faster, after controlling for body mass we found that acceleration in males was slower compared to females. Males and females experienced accelerations equivalent to 13.03 times and 12.5 times the force of gravity, respectively.

    Interestingly, the jumps of males were at a steeper angle than those of females, which is likely an adaptation to rapidly escape from females and other males.

    A question that remained was which of the four pairs of legs powered this rapid jump. To figure this out, we tracked multiple joints on all of the spiders’ legs throughout the jump.

    We found that the joint on the third pair of legs had an extremely acute angle before jumping, and rapidly changed to something like a straight angle after attaining maximum acceleration. Our results show that it’s the third pair of legs that propels the splendid peacock spider into its impressive jumps.

    Ajay Narendra receives funding from Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Tiny splendid peacock spiders have the fastest known jump among their kin – new study – https://theconversation.com/tiny-splendid-peacock-spiders-have-the-fastest-known-jump-among-their-kin-new-study-247241

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Inflation is heating up again, putting pressure on Trump to cool it on tariffs

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jason Reed, Associate Teaching Professor of Finance, University of Notre Dame

    Inflation is building again; but the housing industry may find it harder to do so as a result of Trump tariffs. Win McNamee/Getty Images

    Inflation figures released on Feb. 12, 2025, will come as a disappointment to Americans who hoped President Donald Trump would be true to his word on bringing down prices “on Day One.” It will also put pressure on the new administration to be wary of policies that may heat up inflation – and that includes tariffs.

    The consumer price index, which measures the change in prices paid by consumers for a representative basket of goods and services, rose unexpectedly from December to January by 0.5%. It means consumers are paying around 3% more on item prices than they were a year ago.

    Economists had been expecting the pace of inflation to slow in January.

    The news isn’t good for anyone concerned. It means inflation remains above the Federal Reserve’s long-run target of 2% – making it harder for the central bank to cut rates at its next meeting on March 19. At its last meeting, the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee kept its benchmark federal funds rate unchanged at a range of 4.25-4.50%.

    Following the release of the latest inflation data, markets have a stronger conviction that the Fed will again hold rates steady when it meets in March.

    It also means more pain for consumers. Higher interest rates set by the Fed play a large role in determining rates for mortgages, credit cards and auto loans. If January’s rate of inflation were to continue throughout 2025, consumers would see a painful 6.2% annualized inflation rate.

    And although it would be churlish to link the latest jump in inflation to an administration just weeks old, it does put into focus the current slate of Trump economic policies. Economists have long warned that imposing tariffs on imports and cutting taxes does little to curb inflation – rather, they may contribute to faster price increases.

    Already, China has been hit by a 10% tariff on all products. Trump has also proposed a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, and he mulled imposing new tariffs on Canada and Mexico – two of the United States’ largest trading partners.

    I believe that if these wide-ranging tariffs come into effect, the Federal Reserve will have no choice but to keep rates elevated for the remainder of 2025.

    Revving up for higher car costs

    One of the largest drivers of inflation in January was rent increases, which accounted for nearly 30% of all items increase. Rents jumped 4.6% from a year earlier.

    If Trump’s tariffs on Canadian imports, like lumber, take effect, Americans can expect continued price increases in the homebuilding sector. Supply and demand imbalances remain a key driver for higher prices, so fewer houses being built due to higher materials cost will likely lead to higher rents.

    Consumers saw better news on new vehicle prices, which remained flat over the month and showed slight declines from a year ago.

    This is even as demand for new cars increased 2.5% over 2024. In January 2025, the number of new vehicles sold topped the same month a year earlier for the fifth month in a row.

    But as with homebuilding, any tariffs on the import of car parts or materials will impact the auto industry. Carmakers may have breathed an immediate breath of relief when Trump delayed new tariffs on Canada and Mexico. But if deals aren’t reached by the March 1 deadline, industry analysts expect immediate impacts on top sellers.

    And any higher cost of new cars will have a knock-on effect on used cars, which saw prices jump 2.2% in January – it’s largest increase since May 2023.

    Increased prices are no yoke! (groan)

    Of course, not all inflationary pressures are in the purview of government.

    The transportation sector, which includes insurance and parking fees, increased by 8% over the year. Insurance prices soared almost 12%, on the back of last year’s 20.6% increase in prices, while parking fees increased by almost 5% as a result of more expensive repairs and more dangerous driving behaviors.

    Meanwhile, with bird flu continuing to spread, egg prices rose a shocking 15.2% in January, and are 53% more expensive than at this time last year.

    All in all, voters who cited inflation as the main reason they were backing Trump may be feeling a little uneasy – the administration is only a few weeks old, but for one reason or other, Americans are experiencing ever higher prices with little relief in sight.

    Jason Reed 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. Inflation is heating up again, putting pressure on Trump to cool it on tariffs – https://theconversation.com/inflation-is-heating-up-again-putting-pressure-on-trump-to-cool-it-on-tariffs-249815

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five best articles in Russian for 12.02.2025

    MIL Analysis : Here are the top five Russian language articles published today. The analysis consists of five articles that are prioritized at the moment.

    Today’s analysis shows economic productivity and the hot topic of cybersecurity of citizens from fraudsters.

    Rosneft is expanding contactless fuel payment and has already introduced this system at gas stations in Khakassia. The Moscow subway held the first training sessions with guide dogs this year, 12 future service dogs started their training. Also, free cyber sports tournaments will be held in Moscow, in which everyone can take part.

    You can read one of the articles below.

    1. Financial news: February 14 at 15:00 will be held a press conference on the results of the meeting of the Board of Directors on monetary policy.

    The event will be attended by the Chairman of the Bank of Russia Elvira Nabiullina and Deputy Chairman of the Bank of Russia Alexei Zabotkin.

    Elvira Nabiullina will make a statement on monetary policy and medium-term forecast.

    2. Financial news: Interview with German Zubarev “Komsomolskaya Pravda”.

    “Safe accounts” to save money does not exist

    One hundred million rubles. That’s how much financial fraudsters swindle from Russians every day. And this is only official data. Last year, the law that will allow to limit the losses started to work. Cellular operators block suspicious numbers, banks suspend payments and freeze accounts. But criminals still find the keys to our piggy banks.

    3. “Rosneft” introduced contactless fuel payment services at its filling stations in Khakassia.

    “Rosneft continued joint work with the Yandex Fueling Service to expand the geography of contactless fuel payment. The service became available at all Rosneft filling stations in the Republic of Khakassia. It is already possible to refuel a car using the mobile application at 95% of the network’s stations in almost all regions where the Company operates.

    4. Moscow Metro held the first classes with guide dogs this year.

    Moscow Metro

    The Moscow Metro held the first training sessions with guide dogs this year, with 12 future service dogs starting their training.

    Since 2014, more than 400 guide dogs have been trained in the subway under the guidance of inspectors from the Passenger Mobility Center and specialists from the Guide Dog Training School of the All-Russian Society for the Blind.

    5. “Moscow cybersport”: free online tournaments begin in the capital.

    Free online cybersport tournaments are starting in Moscow. During 2025 at least 135 online competitions will be held on the cybermos.ru platform. The first meetings are scheduled for February 14-16.

    Learn more about MIL’s content and data services by visiting milnz.co.nz.

    Regards MIL!

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Science reforms: Save Science Coalition releases latest toll of science roles in wake of further cuts at Callaghan Innovation

    Source: Save Science

    Over 200 science roles have been cut from the sector since July last year, bringing the total number of roles lost in the government science sector to approximately 570. That is despite the Government trumpeting science as a key to economic growth.
    New figures released by the Save Science Coalition, a group of 30 scientific societies and unions, include an additional proposed 63 roles to be disestablished at Callaghan Innovation as the latest casualties of Government cuts. Staff at Callaghan Innovation were made aware of the proposal on Wednesday.
    “The latest cuts at Callaghan Innovation are a direct result of Government decisions to remove the majority of the organisation’s funding by 30 June this year,” explained Dr Lucy Stewart, spokesperson for the Save Science Coalition.
    “This isn’t stopping – we are expecting hundreds of additional jobs to be lost. We are aware of continuing restructuring occurring at Callaghan Innovation, AgResearch and Manaaki Whenua. This is on top of the Government’s proposed restructure of the science sector, which may result in yet further job losses unless the Government makes a clear plan to retain staff through this process.”
    “The Science System Advisory Group report highlighted that retention of the skilled workforce in this sector was of utmost importance. So far, it is difficult to see how the Government is upholding this principle when we are seeing job cuts continue even after the publication of the much-awaited report.”
    The Save Science Coalition also emphasised that funding the sector is critically important.
    “The Science System Advisory Group announcements included no additional funding for the sector, either to fund the reform programme or the ongoing science. While the reforms may help reduce unproductive competition between agencies, which is a positive thing, the benefits of the changes can only fully be realised if there is appropriate funding made available,” explained Stewart.
    “Merging and rebranding institutions costs money, but according to Cabinet papers the proposed changes are to be funded out of existing allocations. Furthermore, there is no commitment to retaining current scientific expertise, at the same time as the Government talks about wanting to attract new talent to our country. We know many researchers have already been forced to relocate offshore.”
    “The Cabinet papers noted that Aotearoa New Zealand receives a return of $3.50 for each dollar invested in science, innovation and technology. For science to be the solution to New Zealand’s economy, as the Prime Minister has so keenly told us, then he needs to front up and invest in it.”
    The Save Science Coalition has written to Science Minister Dr Shane Reti to discuss these matters.
    The Save Science Coalition was set up in May 2024 and completed a report documenting the cuts to science funding and staffing which was released in July 2024. The group has now released an update to the report, detailing additional cuts made between July 2024 and February 2025. The Coalition has also published its collective response to the reforms announced in January 2025.
    The Save Science Coalition’s goals are:
    – to oppose cuts to science funding and science staff across government institutions
    – to highlight and catalogue what is being lost through the current cuts
    – to defend support for world-leading indigenous research including mātauranga Māori
    – to make the case for a foundation of support for public science and re-committing to a target of 2% of GDP to be invested in research and development in Aotearoa New Zealand.
    Current Save Science Coalition member organisations are:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BusinessNZ – Growth plan endorsed

    Source: BusinessNZ

    BusinessNZ has endorsed the Going for Growth plan released by the Minister for Economic Growth, outlining actions to be taken or underway to lift economic and productivity growth.
    BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich said the proposed reform of taxation, savings and competition policy offered potential for invigorating the economy, and individual businesses stood to gain from the reforms.
    “For example, efforts towards promoting global trade and investment will be a significant boost for NZ exporters, while domestic businesses will gain from the reform of procurement rules that will give more ability for firms to tender for government business.”
    Katherine Rich said the plan’s focus on innovation and AI was well-placed.
    “Recent analysis by Accenture and Microsoft indicates the potential for annual GDP growth of up to $100 billion by 2038, based on greater uptake of AI by NZ businesses.
    “We would expect the Going for Growth plan to stimulate a more productive business environment, allowing businesses to invest in digital and AI technologies, to drive even further productivity and economic growth,” Mrs Rich said.
    The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Four charged over alleged aggravated armed robbery at Perth

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Four charged over alleged aggravated armed robbery at Perth

    Thursday, 13 February 2025 – 10:17 am.

    Four people have been charged over a targeted armed robbery at Perth.
    Police received a call from the victim of the alleged robbery on Tuesday evening after four people known to him forced their way into his residence.
    The victim was physically assaulted by one offender who was in possession of a baseball bat, but not seriously injured.
    The alleged offenders then left the scene with the victim’s vehicle, wallet and phone and a large amount of his property.
    Police quickly responded, and located the stolen vehicle a short time later at a Newnham residence.
    Four people – including a 32 Newnham woman, 29 year old Westbury man, 35 year old Newnham man, and 20 year old Launceston man, were located with the vehicle and arrested by police.
    All four have been charged with aggravated armed robbery and motor vehicle stealing and appeared in the Launceston Magistrates Court yesterday.
    They are due to appear again on March 11.
    Police would like to reassure the public this was a targeted incident involving people known to each other and there was no threat to the wider community.
    Investigations are ongoing.
    Anyone with information should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Perryton Coach Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Sexual Abuse of Teenage Student

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

    A Perryton ISD coach who sexually abused a 15-year-old student was sentenced today to 30 years in federal prison, announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad Meacham.

    Cole Underwood, 29, was charged via criminal complaint in June 2024 and indicted later that same month. In September 2024, he pleaded guilty to enticement of a minor. He was sentenced Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Kacsmaryk to 30 years in federal prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release. He will also be required to register as a sex offender. 

    According to court documents, Perryton ISD’s superintendent reached out to law enforcement in May 2024 to report a possible inappropriate relationship between Mr. Underwood and a female student. According to the superintendent, surveillance video allegedly showed Mr. Underwood meeting with the girl alone after hours, despite being given a specific directive not to be alone with her.

    Agents reviewed the footage and observed Mr. Underwood propping an exterior door open and then shutting off lights. Approximately 15 minutes later, the girl entered the darkened building through the propped door and walked into Mr. Underwood’s office.

    In interviews with law enforcement, the child said Mr. Underwood had sex with her in his office more than a dozen times between February and May.

    She said that after she added him as a contact on Snapchat, he established a personal friendship with her, and even invited her to his office to confide in him. She said that Mr. Underwood began messaging her in a flirtatious and sexual manner in December, and eventually used Snapchat to arrange sexual encounters.

    A search of the girl’s cell phone revealed multiple late-night conversations – some lasting more than six hours – between her and Mr. Underwood, who allegedly occasionally referred to the child as “wifey” and told her he loved her.

    At Thursday’s sentencing hearing, the student detailed how the situation escalated from the defendant acting as a confidant during a stressful period to isolating her and continually pressuring her for sex:

    “I had no idea that he was slowly in the process of grooming me, I genuinely thought that he actually cared about me,” she said in a victim impact statement. “I didn’t know how to stop it… He convinced me to shut everyone out. I felt like I seriously had no one but him.”

    “I hope if there is a girl out there who is going through what I have been through, she has the chance to hear my story to know it’s okay to speak up. There are people who want to help,” she bravely added. “Just because you have one bad chapter does not mean your story is over.”

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office – Amarillo Resident Agency, the Ochiltree County Sheriff’s Office, and the Perryton Police Department conducted the investigation with the full cooperation of the Perryton Independent School District. Assistant U.S. Attorney Callie Woolam is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Hampshire Registered Sex Offender Sentenced for Attempting to Purchase a Gun in Maine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Brandon Pinard checked “No” on ATF form to having a felony conviction despite 2013 conviction in Massachusetts

    PORTLAND, Maine:  A New Hampshire man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for making false statements to acquire a firearm.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Brandon Pinard, 33, to time served, approximately 9 months, followed by three years of supervised release. Pinard pleaded guilty on November 19, 2024.

    According to court records, in May 2024, the Seabrook (N.H.) Police Department received a firearms denial notice showing that Pinard was denied a purchase of a long gun in Bath, Maine. When attempting to purchase the Daniel Defense DDM4 assault rifle, Pinard listed a Dover, N.H. address and checked “No” next to the question on the ATF Form 4473 that read, “Have you ever been convicted in any court, including a military court, of a felony, or any other crime for which the judge could imprison you for more than one year, or are you a current member of the military who has been charged with violations(s) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and whose charge(s) have been referred to a general court-martial?” At the time of the attempted purchase, Pinard was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a 2013 conviction in Massachusetts for a felony sex offense. He had been a registered sex offender in Seabrook since relocating from Dover in November 2022. 

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case with assistance from the Seabrook (N.H.) Police Department.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wisconsin Rapids Man Sentenced to 9 Years for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Illegally Possessing Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Bradly Rosenthal, 42, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty and was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to nine years in federal prison for possessing methamphetamine intended for distribution and possessing two loaded firearms as a felon.

    Rosenthal sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant three times in February 2024. On March 13, 2024, law enforcement received a report of suspected drug activity at a car wash located in Nekoosa, Wisconsin. Officers responded to the car wash where they encountered Rosenthal. After a K9 alerted to the presence of illicit substances, law enforcement searched Rosenthal’s vehicle and found 266 grams of methamphetamine, two loaded firearms, a Taser, $2,000, and drug distribution paraphernalia. Rosenthal is prohibited from legally possessing firearms because of a prior felony conviction.

    At sentencing, Judge Conley expressed concern at Rosenthal’s “repeated serious crimes,” which include prior drug trafficking and firearms offenses, and his continued “endangerment of others.”

    The charges against Rosenthal were the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI Central Wisconsin Drug Task Force and the Wisconsin Rapids and Nekoosa Police Departments. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also assisted with the case. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from local agencies including the Dane County and Clark County Sheriff’s Offices and the Fitchburg, Madison, Sun Prairie, and La Crosse Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Remington and Megan Stelljes prosecuted this case.

    This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Child Predator Sentenced to 84 Months’ Imprisonment

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Randall Walker Holland, 51, of West Jordan, Utah, was sentenced today to seven years’ imprisonment and a life term of supervised release after he admitted to distributing images of child sexual abuse.

    According to court documents and statements made at Holland’s change of plea and sentencing hearing, from May 2, 2024 thru May 9, 2024, Holland used his cellphone to communicate via social media and text messaging with an individual he believed had access to, and was abusing, a 12-year-old victim. The individual Holland was communicating with was an undercover officer.  During Holland’s communication he sent over 1,000 videos files of child sexual abuse materials to the undercover officer. Holland also discussed his interest in engaging in sexual acts with the 12- year-old victim. When Holland arrived at the meeting location, he was arrested by law enforcement.

    United States Attorney Trina A. Higgins of the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case was investigated by the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol A. Dain of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Inmate Sentenced to One Year for Possessing Methamphetamine in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Marco Cota-Tamaura, 44, Oxford, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to one year and one day in federal prison for possessing methamphetamine in prison. Cota-Tamaura pleaded guilty to this charge on December 2, 2024.

    On March 22, 2024, Cota-Tamaura was serving a prison sentence at the Federal Correctional Institution, Oxford, Wisconsin (FCI Oxford). During a drug test that day, he tested positive for methamphetamine and then prison staff found him in possession of methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is prohibited in federal prisons.

    At the sentencing hearing, Judge Conley expressed disappointment that Cota-Tamaura abused his placement at FCI Oxford after achieving a reduced security level during his current prison term. He noted that Cota-Tamaura’s possession of methamphetamine presented a grave risk to inmates and guards, and that this justified adding a year to Cota-Tamaura’s current sentence.

    The charge against Cota-Tamaura was the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ayala prosecuted this case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Ponce De Leon Foundation Grant Awarded in the Amount of $610,000 to Nonprofits

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRONX, N.Y., Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Board of Directors of the Ponce De Leon Foundation is pleased to announce it has awarded $610,000 to nonprofits that are making a difference in our communities. Since its inception in 2017, the Foundation has provided over $2.4 million in grants.

    Madeline V. Marquez, Executive Director of the Ponce De Leon Foundation, stated, “Year after year our grant applications increase, and it is evident the immense needs in our communities. We pride ourselves in ensuring all our focus areas are recognized and that we spread our funds equitably as we continue to support and strengthen the impact to our organizations.”

    Carlos P. Naudon, President and Director of the Ponce De Leon Foundation, stated, “The mission on corporate social responsibility remains, we live it, breathe it and stay true to it. Once again overjoyed in serving our communities.”

    Steven A. Tsavaris, Chairman of the Ponce De Leon Foundation added, “Partnership is key, especially when missions align. Humbled by these impactful groups and organizations.”

    ACE Programs: $25,000 for the Expansion of Services for Low-Income, Independently Housed Individuals in Western Queens Project

    Act Now Foundation, Inc.: $20,000 for the Alzheimer’s Care Project

    Andromeda Community Initiative: $30,000 for Constructive Career

    Brooklyn Youth Sports Club Inc: $30,000 for Brooklyn Youths Sports Club Program.

    Creative Art Works: $15,000 for Public Art Youth Employment Programs.

    Daniel’s Music Foundation: $20,000 for Disability Awareness.

    Education Through Music: $30,000 for Music Education Program.

    Girls Incorporated of New York City: $30,000 for the Project Accelerate.

    Hope Kids NY.: $25,000 for the Ready, Set, Go to College Program.

    Housing Partnership Development Corp: $30,000 for Homeownership Counseling & Education program.

    I Challenge Myself Inc: $10,000 for Cycling Smartly in The Bronx program.

    Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning Inc: $20,000 for JCAL Riddim Section.

    Neighborhood Self Help by Older Persons Project Inc (SHOPP): $30,000 for Senior Community Assistance.

    New Heights Youth Inc: $25,000 for College Bound Program.

    New York Women’s Chamber of Commerce: $30,000 for the ContractHer Program.

    Palisades Emergency Residence PERC: $15,000 for Technology Access Program.

    Part of the Solution (POTS): $30,000 for the ESOL Support Program.

    Princeton Center for Leadership & Learning: $30,000 for Connecting Gardening, Science & Literacy

    Project Hope Charities, Inc: $30,000 for Food Pantry Project.

    Regional Aid for Interim Needs Inc RAIN: $30,000 for Cucina Dolores Mobile Food Kitchen Project.

    Spanish Speaking Elderly Council RAICES: $30,000 for Mindful Journey Program.

    The HOPE Program Inc: $30,000 for Digital Literacy for Low-Income New Yorkers Program.

    Union City Music Project, Inc: $15,000 for the 2025 After School Orchestral Music Education Program.

    The Young People’s Chorus of New York City: $30,000 for YPC South Bronx Community Chorus Program.

    About the Ponce De Leon Foundation: The Ponce De Leon Foundation is a private 501(c)3 charitable corporation launched in 2017 with a generous gift of stock and cash from Ponce Bank. As the bank has grown, so has the foundation, and when Ponce Bank became a fully public entity in January of 2022 additional funds were donated. Ponce De Leon Foundation’s mission remains, to improve the quality of life in the communities in which Ponce Bank maintains full-service branches. With these gifts, Ponce Bank made clear its commitment to continue its tradition of supporting the communities it serves. For further information on the Ponce De Leon Foundation, you can send an email to Grants@Poncedeleonfoundation.org.

    About Ponce Bank: Ponce Bank is a subsidiary of Ponce Financial Group, Inc., a NASDAQ company trading under the symbol PDLB. Ponce Bank is a federally chartered stock savings association headquartered in the Bronx, New York. The Bank’s business is conducted through the administrative office, 13 branch banking offices and 5 mortgage loan centers. The banking offices are located in the Bronx (4 branches), Manhattan (2 branches), Queens (3 branches), Brooklyn (3 branches), and Union City, New Jersey (1 branch). Mortgage centers are located in Queens, (Flushing, Jamaica and Astoria) Brooklyn (Marine Park), and Bergenfield, New Jersey. The primary market area currently consists of the New York City metropolitan area. www.poncebank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: THE ANNOUNCEMENT on the holding of the extraordinary general meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE ANNOUNCEMENT
    on the holding of the extraordinary general meeting

    of a joint stock company:

    ZTS Sabinov, a. s., registered seat: Hollého 27, 083 30 Sabinov, ID No.: 00 590 797, registered in the Commercial Register of the District Court of Prešov, Sec.: Sa, Ins. No.: 76/P
    (hereinafter referred to as the “Company“)

    The Board of Directors of the Company, in accordance with § 184 et seq. of Act No. 513/1991 Coll., the Commercial Code, as amended (hereinafter referred to as the “Commercial Code“), convenes

    EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING
    OF THE COMPANY,

    to be held on 19.03.2025 at 08:00 a.m. at the registered seat of the Company, at Hollého 27, 083 30 Sabinov, with the following agenda:

    1. opening of the Extraordinary General Meeting and election of its bodies (chairman, recorder, verifiers of the minutes and scrutineers);
    1. deciding on changes to the Articles of Association of the Company;
    1. deciding on the termination of trading with all shares of the Company on the Bratislava Stock Market and on the fact that the Company ceases to be a public joint stock company and becomes a private joint stock company;
    1. deciding on the conversion of the type and form of all shares of the Company from book-entry bearer shares to registered paper shares;
    1. deciding on the approval of the process of conversion of all shares of the Company and the issuance of new shares;
    1. deciding according to § 161a of the Commercial Code;
    1. deciding on changes to the Articles of Association of the Company effective as of the date of the announcement of the mandatory takeover bid for the shares of the Company;
    1. closing.

    Registration and presentation of shareholders will take place at the premises of the Company from 07:00 a.m. to 07:55 a.m., personally arranged by authorized persons of the Company. Registration and presentation will close five (5) minutes prior to the commencement of the Extraordinary General Meeting.
    The decisive date for exercising the shareholder’s rights under Section 180(1) of the Commercial Code in the case of shares of a public joint-stock company is the third day preceding the date of the Extraordinary General Meeting, i.e. 16.03.2025.
    The person attending the Extraordinary General Meeting shall be required to prove their identity at the time of registration and presentation. In the case of the personal attendance of a person who is a shareholder:

    1. natural person shall present their valid identity document at the time of presentation and registration;
    1. legal entity shall hand over the original or an officially certified copy of a up to date extract from the commercial register or from a similar register, not older than 90 days, to the person in charge of the presentation and registration of shareholders; if the shareholder (legal entity) is not registered in such a register, the original or an officially certified copy of a up to date proof of the legal personality of such entity shall be handed over, including a document certifying who is authorized to act on behalf of the legal entity; at the same time, the natural person acting on behalf of the shareholder (legal entity) shall present their valid identity document;

    Shareholder may participate in the Extraordinary General Meeting represented by an authorized representative on the basis of a written power of attorney with the officially verified signature of the shareholder. In the case of a shareholder being represented by a representative, the representative shall:

    – shall hand over the original of the written power of attorney with the officially verified signature of the shareholder or an officially verified copy thereof at the time of registration and presentation to the authorized person of the Company;

    – shall hand over the original or an officially certified copy of the documents to be presented or handed over by the shareholder to prove the identity of the shareholder (except for the identity document to be presented) and the circumstances relating to the proceedings and the subject matter of the Extraordinary General Meeting;

    – shall present their valid identification document at the time of presentation and registration;
    Provided that the shareholder, holder of bearer shares, established, as a security covering the respective expenses, a pledge over at least one share of the company pursuant to Section 184(3) of the Commercial Code, shall have the right to request sending a copy of the draft amendment of the Articles of Association of the Company at his own expense and risk to the address given by them. The shareholder shall have the right to request information and explanations at the Extraordinary General Meeting that are relevant to the subject matter thereof. The Board of Directors is obliged to provide the shareholder with the information in writing no later than 15 days after the Extraordinary General Meeting.

    The Board of Directors of the Company, in accordance with Section 184(6) of the Commercial Code, hereby notifies the shareholders of the substance of the proposed changes to the Articles of Association of the Company, which changes are to be subject to decision in accordance with items 2. and 7. of the proposed agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting:

    • establishment of the shareholders’ right to decide on the conversion of the form of shares of the Joint Stock Company (agenda item 2);
    • change in the details of the type and form of the shares as a result of the conversion of the shares of the Company (agenda item 7);
    • establishing the obligation of the Company to keep a list of shareholders holding registered shares (agenda item 7);
    • regulation of the rights and obligations of shareholders holding registered paper shares in accordance with the provisions of the Commercial Code (agenda item 7);

    Information for Shareholders of the Company:

    • shareholder has the right to attend and vote at the Extraordinary General Meeting. The number of votes of a shareholder corresponds to the ratio of the nominal value of his shares to the amount of the share capital of the Company, whereby one vote shall be cast for every EUR 16.00 of the nominal value of the shareholder’s shares;
    • shareholder attends the extraordinary general meeting at his own expense;
    • shareholder has the right to request information and explanations at the Extraordinary General Meeting concerning the Company’s affairs or the affairs of persons controlled by the Company, which matters are related to the subject matter of the Extraordinary General Meeting, and the shareholder is obliged to exercise this right no later than the decisive date specified in this announcement, i.e. no later than 16.03.2025;
    • shareholder has the right to request copies of the draft Articles of Association or to have them sent to the address provided by the shareholder at the shareholder’s own expense and risk;
    • at the request of a shareholder or shareholders holding shares with a nominal value of at least 5% of the share capital, the Board of Directors shall include the matter specified by them in the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting. The Extraordinary General Meeting shall be obliged to discuss the matter in such a case. The request for the addition to the agenda must be supported by reasons or be accompanied by a draft resolution of the extraordinary general meeting, otherwise the extraordinary general meeting may not take such a request into consideration; if the request for the addition of the matter to the agenda of Extraordinary General Meeting is received after the publication of the announcement of the Extraordinary General Meeting, the Board of Directors shall send or publish the addition to the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting in the manner prescribed by law and specified in the Articles of Association for convening Extraordinary General Meetings at least 10 days before the Extraordinary General Meeting, i.e. no later than on 09.03.2025; if such publication of the addition to the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting is not possible, the specified matter may be included in the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting only in the presence and with the consent of all shareholders of the Company; the Board of Directors shall be obliged to send or publish the notification of the addition to the agenda within 10 days before the Extraordinary General Meeting in each case if it is received by the shareholder or shareholders holding shares with a nominal value of at least 5% of the share capital not later than 20 days before the Extraordinary General Meeting, i.e. not later than 27.02.2025;
    • shareholder may participate in the Extraordinary General Meeting represented by an authorized representative on the basis of a written power of attorney with the officially verified signature of the shareholder, a specimen of which is attached as Annex 1 to this announcement; the original of the written power of attorney or an officially verified copy thereof shall be handed over by the authorized representative to the persons in charge of the registration and presentation of the shareholders at the Extraordinary General Meeting no later than the beginning of the Extraordinary General Meeting, which persons shall present the power of attorney to the recorder of the Extraordinary General Meeting; the original of the written power of attorney or a certified copy thereof may be substituted by the verification of the ordinary copy of the written power of attorney by the recorder of the Extraordinary General Meeting – the verification by the recorder of the Extraordinary General Meeting shall be carried out on the basis of the presentation of the original of the document and its ordinary copy, while the verification of the ordinary copy shall be marked thereon and shall be retained for the purposes of the records of the Company; the original of the document shall be returned to the person who presented it;
    • Company accepts shareholder’s notices of appointment, change or revocation of a power of attorney, accompanied by documents proving the indicated legal facts (i) in person at the registered office of the Company, (ii) by means of paper delivery to the registered office of the Company, alternatively (iii) by electronic means in favor of the e-mail address: griad@ztssabinov.sk; the authorized person is obliged to present the original officially certified written power of attorney at the time of registration and presentation of the shareholders at the Extraordinary General Meeting;
    • if a shareholder has granted a written power of attorney to more than one person to exercise the voting rights attached to the same shares at a single extraordinary general meeting, the Company shall enable to vote to that representative who has been entered the earliest in the list of attendees at the extraordinary general meeting;
    • if several shareholders have granted a written power of attorney for representation to one representative, the latter may vote separately for each shareholder duly represented at the Extraordinary General Meeting;
    • shareholder may grant a written power of attorney to a member of the Supervisory Board of the Company exclusively stipulating the specific instructions for voting on each resolution or item on the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting on which the member of the Supervisory Board, as representative, is appointed to vote on behalf of the shareholder;
    • shareholder’s voting and participation in the Extraordinary General Meeting cannot be carried out by means of postal services prior to the Extraordinary General Meeting, nor by electronic means, as such voting or participation in the Extraordinary General Meeting is not provided for in the Articles of Association of the Company;
    • Company shall make available to shareholders on the Company’s website www.ztssabinov.sk (electronically) at least 30 days prior to the Extraordinary General Meeting:
    • full text of all documents to be discussed in the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting;
    • total number of shares and voting rights attached to the shares as of the date of publication of the announcement of the Extraordinary General Meeting;
    • draft resolutions, if any, of the Extraordinary General Meeting according to the individual items on the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting and the opinion of the Board of Directors on each item on the agenda of the Extraordinary General Meeting for which no draft resolution is submitted;
    • specimen of the written power of attorney form that may be used for the voting of representatives;
    • full texts of the documents (in particular the draft Articles of Association) and drafts of any resolutions of the Extraordinary General Meeting to be discussed at the Extraordinary General Meeting are made available to shareholders in hard copy form for inspection at the registered office of the Company within 30 days prior to the Extraordinary General Meeting, on working days between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.;
    • Company publishes information pursuant to a special regulation by means of the Internet, on its website at www.ztssabinov.sk ;

    SAMPLE POWER OF ATTORNEY
    for representation at the Extraordinary General Meeting

    POWER OF ATTORNEY

    The undersigned Principal

    Full name/Business name: ………………………………
    Address / Registered office: …………………………….
    Date of birth / Company ID: ……………………………
    Registered in     1: …………………………………………….
    Acting through1: …………………………………………..

    as the owner of ………. dematerialized shares of the issuer ZTS Sabinov, a. s., with its registered office at Hollého 27, 083 30 Sabinov, Company ID: 00 590 797, registered in the Commercial Register of the District Court Prešov, Section: Sa, Insert No.: 76/P, in bearer form, ISIN: ……………………………., with a nominal value of 16 EUR per share.

    (hereinafter referred to as the “Principal“),

    hereby authorizes

    the Authorized Representative
    Full name/Business name: ……………………………….
    Address/Registered office: ……………………………….
    Date of birth/Company ID: ……………………………….
    Registered in1: ……………………………………………..
    Acting through1: ……………………………………………
    (hereinafter referred to as the “Authorized Representative”)

    to represent the Principal at the Extraordinary General Meeting of ZTS Sabinov, a. s., with its registered office at Hollého 27, 083 30 Sabinov, Company ID: 00 590 797, registered in the Commercial Register of the District Court Prešov, Section: Sa, Insert No.: 76/P (hereinafter referred to as the “Company“), which will be held on March 19, 2025, at 08:00 AM at the registered office of the Company (hereinafter referred to as the “Extraordinary General Meeting“), in accordance with the provisions of Section 31 et seq. of the Civil Code, and within the agreed scope of authorization.

    The Authorized Representative is entitled to exercise all rights and fulfill all obligations at the Extraordinary General Meeting, which are granted to the Principal as a shareholder of the Company under the legal framework of the Slovak Republic and the Articles of Association of the Company. In particular, but not exclusively, the Authorized Representative is entitled to vote, submit proposals, and request information on behalf and in the name of the Principal.

    I hereby grant this power of attorney in relation to the shares owned by the Principal as a shareholder of the Company, which are registered on the following securities accounts2:

    1. Securities account number:…………, number of shares owned by the Principal and registered on the specified securities account: ………………;
    2. Securities account number: ………, number of shares owned by the Principal and registered on the specified securities account: ……………;
    3. Securities account number: …………………, number of shares owned by the Principal and registered on the specified securities account: ………………;

    If this power of attorney is granted to an Authorized Representative who is a member of the Supervisory Board of the Company, the Authorized Representative is entitled to exercise all rights at the Extraordinary General Meeting, which the legal system of the Slovak Republic and the Articles of Association of the Company grant to the Principal as a shareholder of the Company, under the following conditions3:

    • For agenda item(s) no. ……………….., the Authorized Representative is obliged to vote in favor;
    • For agenda item(s) no. ……………….., the Authorized Representative is obliged to vote against;
    • For agenda item(s) no. ……………….., the Authorized Representative is obliged to abstain from voting.

    This power of attorney is granted for the duration of the Extraordinary General Meeting.

    By signing this document, the Authorized Representative unconditionally confirms that they have been acquainted with the Articles of Association of the Company by the Principal and are aware of their obligations arising from this power of attorney.

    The Authorized Representative is not entitled to delegate this authorization to another person (prohibition of substitution).

    This power of attorney shall be governed by the legal system of the Slovak Republic.

    On behalf of the Principal:
    In __________________, on __________.2025

    full name / business name:  

     
    position1:  

     
    signature:  

     

     

     

    (officially certified signature)

     

     

     

    On behalf of the Authorized Representative:
    In __________________, on __________.2025

    full name / business name:  

     
    position1:  

     
    signature:  

     

     

     

    (officially certified signature)

     

     

     

    ZTS Sabinov, a. s. accepts notifications regarding the granting of power of attorney, changes to an already granted power of attorney, and revocation of power of attorney also via email at griad@ztssabinov.sk in PDF document format.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: $TOCKHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Continues To Investigate The Merger – ENFN, VCSA, ACCD, AVAV

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Monteverde & Associates PC (the “M&A Class Action Firm”), has recovered millions of dollars for shareholders and is recognized as a Top 50 Firm by ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. We are headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City and are investigating:

    • Enfusion, Inc. (NYSE: ENFN), relating to the proposed merger with Clearwater Analytics. Under the terms of the agreement, Enfusion shareholders will receive $5.85 per share in cash and $5.40 per share in Clearwater Class A Common Stock.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/enfusion-inc-enfn/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • Vacasa, Inc. (NASDAQ: VCSA), relating to the proposed merger with Casago. Under the terms of the agreement, Casago will acquire all outstanding shares of Vacasa held by public stockholders at a price of $5.02 per share.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/vacasa-inc-vcsa/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • Accolade, Inc. (Nasdaq: ACCD), relating to the proposed merger with Transcarent. Under the terms of the agreement, Transcarent will acquire Accolade for $7.03 per share in cash.

    Click here for more https://monteverdelaw.com/case/accolade-inc-accd/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    • AeroVironment, Inc. (NASDAQ: AVAV), relating to the proposed merger with BlueHalo LLC. Under the terms of the agreement, AeroVironment shareholders will own approximately 60.5% of the combined company.

    ACT NOW. The Shareholder Vote is scheduled for April 1, 2025.

    Click here for more information https://monteverdelaw.com/case/aerovironment-inc-avav/. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

    NOT ALL LAW FIRMS ARE THE SAME. Before you hire a law firm, you should talk to a lawyer and ask:

    1. Do you file class actions and go to Court?
    2. When was the last time you recovered money for shareholders?
    3. What cases did you recover money in and how much?

    About Monteverde & Associates PC

    Our firm litigates and has recovered money for shareholders…and we do it from our offices in the Empire State Building. We are a national class action securities firm with a successful track record in trial and appellate courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. 

    No company, director or officer is above the law. If you own common stock in any of the above listed companies and have concerns or wish to obtain additional information free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

    Contact:
    Juan Monteverde, Esq.
    MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC
    The Empire State Building
    350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4740
    New York, NY 10118
    United States of America
    jmonteverde@monteverdelaw.com
    Tel: (212) 971-1341

    Attorney Advertising. (C) 2024 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC (www.monteverdelaw.com).  Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Parker Scheduled to Present at Barclays Industrial Select Conference on February 19 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CLEVELAND, Feb. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Parker Hannifin Corporation (NYSE: PH), the global leader in motion and control technologies, today announced that it is scheduled to present at the Barclays Industrial Select Conference in Miami Beach, Florida on February 19, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern time. A live webcast of the presentation will be accessible on Parker’s investor information website at investors.parker.com and will be archived on the site. 

    Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies. For more than a century the company has been enabling engineering breakthroughs that lead to a better tomorrow. Parker has increased its annual dividend per share paid to shareholders for 68 consecutive fiscal years, among the top five longest-running dividend-increase records in the S&P 500 index. Learn more at www.parker.com or @parkerhannifin.

    ###

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Establishes One Voice for America’s Foreign Relations

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    A UNIFIED VOICE FOR AMERICA’S FOREIGN RELATIONS: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order establishing one clear, unified voice for America’s foreign relations.
    The Order reaffirms that all individuals involved in implementing the President’s foreign policy do so under his authority and direction.
    It reasserts the Secretary of State’s authority over Foreign Service Officers, Civil Service Officers, or other staff, under the supervision of the President.
    It directs the Secretary of State to reform the foreign service in areas such as recruiting, performance, evaluation, and retention standards to ensure only the most qualified and committed individuals represent American interests abroad.
    The Secretary of State is tasked with ensuring the faithful and effective implementation of the President’s foreign policy agenda, in accordance with applicable law.
    The Order empowers the Secretary of State to revise or replace the Foreign Affairs Manual and any other procedural documents that guide the operations of the foreign service.
    ALIGNING DIPLOMACY WITH AMERICA’S INTERESTS: President Trump is committed to safeguarding the integrity of U.S. foreign policy by ensuring that America’s interests are prioritized through a unified diplomatic voice, with related personnel held accountable to the President’s vision.
    This Executive Order reaffirms the constitutional authority of the President over foreign policy, duly ensuring that diplomatic actions align with President Trump’s directives.
    The personnel procedures of agencies charged with implementing the President’s foreign policy must provide an effective and efficient means for ensuring that officers and employees faithfully implement the President’s policies.
    The Order guarantees a strong and effective approach to international relations that always serves U.S. interests first.
    No longer will America be taken advantage of by foreign nations or by rogue actors who undermine our sovereignty or security.
    KEEPING HIS PROMISE TO PUT AMERICA FIRST: This Executive Order builds on bold actions already taken by President Trump and reinforces his promise to put America first in every aspect of foreign relations.   
    On Day One, President Trump signed an “America First Policy Directive” to the Secretary of State that declared that the United States’ foreign policy must always put the interests of America and its citizens first.
    President Trump was elected to achieve peace through strength and ensure foreign policy reflects U.S. values, sovereignty, and security.
    This Executive Order solidifies President Trump’s commitment to accountability and effectiveness in America’s diplomatic service.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Strongly Condemning Killing of Tunisian Peacekeeper in Central African Republic, Secretary-General Urges Authorities to Spare No Effort to Identify Perpetrators

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Press Release

    SG/SM/22552

    The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

    The Secretary-General strongly condemns the killing of a Tunisian peacekeeper of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) during the night of 11 February by an unidentified armed person near the village of Zobassinda on the Ndele-Akursoubak axis, in Bamingui-Bangoran prefecture.  The peacekeepers were attacked while conducting a long-range patrol to protect civilians.

    The Secretary-General expresses his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen peacekeeper and to the Government and the people of Tunisia.

    The Secretary-General recalls that attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law.  He calls on the Central African authorities to spare no effort in identifying the perpetrators of this tragedy so that they can be brought to justice swiftly.

    The Secretary-General reaffirms the solidarity of the United Nations with the people and Government of the Central African Republic.

    Central African Republic
    Peacekeeping

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: United nations Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai: 35 UN entities, 15 Secretariat Departments, Offices to Gather under Theme “United for a Better Future”

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Two months from today, the United Nations will welcome visitors to a dedicated pavilion in the Empowering Zone of Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan under the theme “United for a Better Future”.  The United Nations Pavilion is proud to host exhibits and programming that represent the work of 35 UN entities and 15 UN Secretariat departments and offices.

    The United Nations pavilion will feature highlights of eight decades of impact, current efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and to address global challenges and humanitarian crises, as well as a vision of a sustainable future that is possible only through collective action and multilateral collaboration.  The UN Pavilion will also host special weekly exhibits and events aligned with the Expo’s theme weeks, United Nations international days and other priorities to promote sustainable development, human rights, climate action and peace and security.  Visitors can also purchase UN and SDG-related merchandise at the giftshop located inside the pavilion.

    Confirmed participating UN entities include:

    • United Nations Secretariat
      • Department of Global Communications
      • Department of Economic and Social Affairs
      • Department of Peace Operations
      • Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs
      • Development Coordination Office
      • Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
      • Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
      • United Nations Global Compact Office
      • United Nations Mine Action Service
      • United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs
      • United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction
      • United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
      • United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs
      • United Nations Road Safety Fund / Special Envoy for Road Safety
      • United Nations Youth Office
    • Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
    • International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
    • International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
    • International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
    • International Labour Organization (ILO)
    • International Maritime Organization (IMO)
    • International Organization for Migration (IOM)
    • International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
    • International Trade Centre (ITC)
    • Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)
    • United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
    • Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
    • Statistical Institute for Asia and the Pacific)
    • United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF)
    • United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
    • United Nations Development Programme
    • United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
    • United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women)
    • United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
    • United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
    • United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)
    • United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
    • United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
    • United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
    • United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
    • United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD)
    • United Nations University (UNU)
    • United Nations Volunteers programme (UNV)
    • United Nations Water*
    • Universal Postal Union (UPU)
    • World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism)
    • World Food Programme (WFP)
    • World Health Organization (WHO)
    • World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)

    The UN Pavilion will also host prominent guest speakers, including senior UN officials, leading experts, celebrities and advocates, who will share their insights and experiences on global challenges and solutions.

    “In the year that the United Nations will turn 80 years old, the UN Pavilion presents key milestones since 1945 that have reshaped values and the world as we know it.  We will also showcase examples of the UN in our daily lives and a vision of a world in which everyone thrives in peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet,” said Maher Nasser, Commissioner-General of the United Nations at Expo 2025.  “It is our hope that our pavilion will serve as a dynamic platform for learning, collaboration and inspiration for action.” 

    The video interview of Mr. Nasser is available at www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MBS_DOB_k8.

    Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, will run from 13 April to 13 October and is expected to attract over 28 million visitors.  The UN Pavilion will be open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

    For additional information about the United Nations presence at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, please contact Naomi Ichikawa, UN Department of Global Communications (New York), at email:  nichikawa@un.org.

    __________

    * UN Water is a coordination mechanism, comprising United Nations entities (members) and international organizations (partners) working on water and sanitation issues.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Ruling out compensation for Golden Mile businesses will put Wellingtonians’ jobs at risk

    Source: Business Central

    The decision to rule out compensation for businesses on the Golden Mile will put jobs and livelihoods at risk, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce warns.
    A three-year redevelopment of Courtenay Place is set to begin in April, the Wellington City Council confirmed today. In doing so, the Council rejected calls to offer compensation or rent relief while major construction is taking place.
    Wellington Chamber of Commerce CEO Simon Arcus says it’s far too early to rule out forms of business support:
    “Businesses are the heartbeat of our central city – without them, there would be no Golden Mile at all.
    “We all know the city centre needs an upgrade, but construction of this size and scale will pose huge risks to businesses – and that means jobs will be at stake.
    “It’s hugely concerning to hear the Council say they won’t consider compensation for business. The lesson of the City Rail Link in Auckland is that projects like this drive businesses to the brink.
    “That’s why Auckland offers compensation to business in the form of rent relief,” Arcus said.
    The $12m Targeted Hardship Fund was set up in 2021 to help businesses affected by construction. Arcus said it offers a proven model Wellington City Council could adopt.
    “We already have the solution. Let’s get together and make it work,” Arcus said.
    “The question always comes down to funding, but central city businesses already pay millions of dollars into a fund for moments like this.”
    The Downtown Targeted Rate – also known as the Downtown Levy – is an extra charge on central city businesses worth more than $17m a year.
    “That fund was set up at the request of business to help the central city economy,” said Arcus.
    “Instead, it’s being used to subsidise Council facilities like Tākina Convention Centre and the Carter Observatory. Is that really the right way to use that money at a time when businesses are at risk?
    “It’s also troubling read reports the Council is planning to let out empty shopfronts on a month-to-month basis. We should be doing all we can to keep people in business, not planning what to do when they’re gone.
    “We do believe Golden Mile needs a refresh, and we want to work with the Council on a vision we can all get behind,” he said. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Māori descent population: 2023 Census

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Māori descent population: 2023 Census – 13 February 2025 – Māori descent population: 2023 Census provides information and data on Māori descent population concepts through a number of different products, such as Aotearoa Data Explorer tables, an infographic, and a methods paper, Māori and iwi population concepts in the 2023 Census.

    Māori descent statistics tell us about the number of people usually living in New Zealand who descend from Māori. These statistics provide important insights into the needs and outcomes for Māori, and help determine the number of Māori and general electorates and their boundaries.

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1B Telephone Road upgrade work set to begin

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Construction is set to start next week on an upgrade to the rail crossing on State Highway 1B Telephone Road, east of Hamilton, which will reopen to traffic by the middle of the year, Minister of Transport Chris Bishop says.
    “Economic growth and productivity are a priority for the Government, and I’m pleased this upgrade work is finally getting underway to enable the road to reopen to vehicles and freight,” Mr Bishop says.
    “The package of improvements being delivered will see the road level raised, and new escape lanes built. The road surface will be raised by up to 410mm over a distance of 90 metres on Telephone Road north of the rail crossing and on Telephone Road/Holland Road/Marshmeadow Road south of the rail crossing.
    “Escape lanes built on the north side of Holland Road, will ensure longer vehicles heading south do not stack across the rail line as they wait to turn into Holland Road. For vehicles travelling east on Holland Road and wanting to turn left into Telephone Road, the escape lane provides a safe place to wait if access to Telephone Road is blocked by a train.
    “Safety at the intersection will also be improved with more line marking and signage, including new electronic warning signs when a train is approaching.  
    “As part of the upgrade involves raising the road level, from Wednesday 19 February the intersection of Telephone Road, Holland Road and Marshmeadow Road will be closed to all traffic until the end of construction. This is expected to take around 3 months. 
    “I appreciate the patience of the local community, and strong advocacy of local MP Tim Van de Molen, to bring us to this important milestone. I also want to thank NZTA, KiwiRail, and Waikato District Council for their work to find a pragmatic and cost-effective solution. I look forward to this work being completed as soon as possible, so we get traffic moving over the rail crossing once again.”
    Notes to Editor:

    The rail crossing on SH1B Telephone Road was previously considered one of the most dangerous in New Zealand. The crossing was not level, resulting in low vehicles scraping rail and, in April 2022, dislodging a section of track. The distance between the rail and the intersection was also short, resulting in a high collision risk as cars wait to turn onto Holland Road. Both of these risks are being addressed in this work, enabling a safe reopening of the crossing. 
    As a result of an incident in April 2022 KiwiRail and NZTA decided to immediately close the rail crossing until it could satisfy the safety requirements to reopen. Since then, SH1B traffic has been required to detour along Holland Road, Waverley Road and Seddon Road, adding approximately 10 minutes to through journeys. 
    Following the closure, NZTA commissioned a detailed report on the future options for the crossing from consultants WSP. The report explored a range of options from low-cost interventions such as barrier arms, limited access to light vehicles and judder bars, to more complex options that involved significant engineering work to reconfigure the rail crossing and adjacent intersection.  
    NZTA remained committed to investigating practical and affordable solutions to allow the Telephone Road railway crossing to reopen and continued to work with KiwiRail. This led to the new design which met requirements to allow the rail crossing to reopen.  
    Another important factor in the new design meeting safety requirements is the reduction in traffic volumes, particularly the lower number of trucks, using SH1B following the completion of the Hamilton section of the Waikato Expressway.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cousins reunite in Grampians fire fight

    Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority

    Terence Dwyer and Stephen Walls

    It was a bittersweet reunion for two firefighter cousins who crossed paths while battling the Western Victoria fires, with one lending a hand from ACT and the other a local to the region.

    Recently retired CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer from Grampians region, Stephen Walls stepped into a familiar role as the night Deputy Incident Controller at the Horsham Incident Control Centre on 6 February while ACT Rural Fire Service firefighter and cousin Terence Dwyer was on the fireground finishing his final shift for the week. 

    Having had experience in a level three control role for over 20 years and as a current volunteer firefighter with Newstead Fire Brigade, Stephen was happy to offer his support and expertise in an area he was well accustomed to.

    “When my first night shift started, the Little Desert fire was making a bit of a run to the east on the northern border and ran around 6km in an hour which required a few hours of work and back burning overnight to round that up to reduce the risk to the community,” Stephen said.

    “The night shift Incident Management Team (IMT) that I was part of was managing the fire overnight and preparing the shift plans for the following day. A big part of this is trying to allocate resources appropriately for the day and debriefing with day shift crews returning in.

    “We had interstate crews in a base camp in Horsham and some FFMVic crews in Halls Gap, so we were trying to manage the deployments to make sure people didn’t have to travel large distances, given one side of the fire to the other was the best part of two hours.”

    Although a fleeting exchange, it was the first time Stephen and Terence had worked on the same fire together.

    “Our grandmother’s family comes from Gymbowen in the Wimmera, immediately south of the Little Desert fire, and was somewhat under threat when it was a making a run,” Stephen said.

    “We crossed paths at the base camp on my first night, just as he was returning from the fire edge, so it wasn’t really a social catch up, but more a debrief,” Stephen said.

    “I waved him and the other interstate firefighters from ACT and NSW off in the morning from Horsham.

    “Terence visits the area more regularly than I do with his family, but we’ve still got many family and friends down that way, so it was nice to reconnect there, albeit the circumstances.”

    As a local tradesman and volunteer for 23 years in ACT with a specialty in remote firefighting, Terence was pleased he saw Stephen while assisting an area that means a lot to their family.

    “I messaged Stephen to let him know I was heading down there, as he is great at making an effort when he in my neck of the woods, and he just happened to say he was too,” Terence said.

    “I really enjoyed the deployment down to the Grampians, we were very well looked after at the base camp.

    “We were in a strike team of five Ultra Light tankers and worked predominantly along the Western edge of the Grampians, patrolling, mopping up and dealing with some spot overs.

    “It was very interesting to work in different types of country and we enjoyed chatting to other crews on the fireground from different parts of the region and worked well with crews from South Australia forestry.

    “It was nice to see the improvement in the fire while we were there, as the Wimmera dealt with some difficult weather conditions both through the high temperatures and some bad storms.”

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals in Maine Arrest a Florida Man in Bangor for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Bangor, ME — A Florida man was arrested in Bangor, ME today by the U.S. Marshals Service Maine Violent Offender Task Force (MVOTF) for failing to register as a sex offender.

    Christopher David Peet, 34, was arrested today on a warrant issued on January 9, 2025 from Pasco County, FL for failure to register as a sex offender. Peet’s requirement to register as a sex offender stems from a 2014 conviction in NY for incest – 3rd degree. Peet also has a prior 2020 conviction for failure to register as a sex offender in FL. The conviction in 2014 designated Peet as a lifetime offender in the State of Florida.

    The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in the Middle District of Florida requested the assistance Marshals Service in Maine with locating and apprehending this fugitive.

    Through a collaborative law enforcement effort, authorities developed information which led investigators to Bangor, ME. USMS Task Force members were able to identify Peet at a residence in Bangor and were able to safely apprehend him without incident. Peet is charged as a fugitive from justice and will be arraigned in Maine pending his extradition back to Florida.

    The USMS in Maine received significant assistance from the USMS Middle District of Florida. The USMS Maine Violent Offender Task Force is comprised of members of the U.S. Marshals Service, Maine Department of Corrections, Biddeford Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Maine National Guard Counter Drug Task Force.

    If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of any state or federal fugitive please contact the United States Marshals Service, District of Maine at MED.TIPLINE@usdoj.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – Household spending flat in January as Aussies take a break after stronger fourth quarter – CBA

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

    Spending stalled at 153.4 in January, following a strong sales spending to finish 2024.

    The monthly CommBank Household Spending Insights (HSI) Index was flat in January, unchanged at 153.4, as consumers took a breather from opening their wallets following sale activity in the final months of 2024.  

    Modest spending increases were seen across six of the 12 spending categories, with the most notable uplifts seen in spending on Motor vehicles (+1.5 per cent), Insurance (+1.2 per cent), and Health (+1.0 per cent).  

    The biggest spending falls in January were in Education (-1.8 per cent), driven by reduced spending on universities, Hospitality (-1.0 per cent) and Household Goods (-0.9 per cent).

    “The flat January HSI result was somewhat expected following the spike in spending we saw in the last three months of 2024 off the back of Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Boxing Day sales. Essentials made up the three highest spending categories in the month as consumers pulled back on discretionary spending,” CBA Senior Economist Belinda Allen said.

    “We expect the RBA to lower interest rates at their first meeting of the year next week which will help provide a boost to consumer spending over the coming months. We anticipate a total of 100 basis points of monetary policy easing throughout 2025 to drive an improvement in the consumer spending pulse.”

    On an annual basis, homeowners with a mortgage (+3.0 per cent) have surprisingly seen a larger increase in spending compared to those who own their home outright (+2.8 per cent), while renters continue to lag (+2.0 per cent).

    “The increase in spending by those with a mortgage can be attributed to the fact that not only are this cohort likely at a stage of life where they’re spending on essential items, they’re still dedicating a significant share of their wallet to recreation and entertainment,” Belinda Allen concluded.

    The CommBank HSI index tracks month-on-month data at a macro level and is based on de-identified payments data from approximately 7 million CBA customers, comprising roughly 30 per cent of all Australian consumer transactions.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Pens Op-Ed in The Hill: RFK Jr. is the Health Revolution America Needs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. penned an op-ed in The Hill highlighting how President Donald Trump’s Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) nominee, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is the right man to lead the health revolution that America needs to become healthy again.

    You may click HERE or on the image above to read Senator Marshall’s full op-ed. 
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s op-ed include: 
    “For decades, American health outcomes have declined as we continue to throw money at the problem. It’s safe to say that what we are doing is not working. Our healthcare system has devolved into “sick care” — treating the disease as opposed to preventing it.”
    “I don’t agree with Kennedy on everything, but no one agrees with their colleagues 100 percent of the time. Even in my medical practice, doctors debated treatment decisions. That’s how science works — through questioning, reviewing and challenging available scientific studies and utilizing some common sense that comes with years of experience from medical practice.”
    “Kennedy and I agree that we should always scrutinize medical interventions to ensure they are necessary, safe and effective. This means holding the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention accountable for studying the risks, benefits, efficacy and side effects of vaccines — just as we do for all other drugs. Parents and doctors should have clear, unbiased data to make informed decisions together.”
    “Just as Trump was elected because Americans wanted a disruptor, I believe Kennedy is the disruptor our healthcare system needs. He will turn NIH, CDC, Medicare and Medicaid away from their disease-treatment mindset and toward prevention. This is not complicated. It’s common sense.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Scott, Colleagues, File Bicameral Amicus Brief – Medina v. Planned Parenthood

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Congressman Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) in filing an “amicus curiae” (or “friend of the Court”) brief in the case of Medina v. Planned Parenthood. The brief supports South Carolina’s determination that Planned Parenthood does not qualify to receive Medicaid funding. The South Carolina Republicans were joined by 14 other senators and 76 other members of the House of Representatives.
    “The purpose of Medicaid is to provide essential healthcare services to parents and children in underserved communities where access to quality medical care can be limited,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Using taxpayer dollars to fund abortion not only diverts resources away from Medicaid’s mission, but undermines the intent of both the law and the program itself. I’m proud to join my colleagues from South Carolina in standing up for the right to life and against this government overreach.”
    “As a pro-life state, South Carolina taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize the abortion industry,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “I am grateful for the support of members of the South Carolina delegation and the many other members of Congress who recognize the importance of this case and are standing with South Carolina as we defend our values.”
    “Most Americans oppose their hard-earned tax dollars being used to subsidize abortion,” said Senator Lindsey Graham. “I am honored to join my South Carolina Republican colleagues and lend our voices to Governor Henry McMaster’s effort to make sure Medicaid funding cannot be used by Planned Parenthood in South Carolina in any fashion.”
    “Private parties like Planned Parenthood have no right to undermine congressional intent by forcing states to say that Planned Parenthood is a qualified Medicaid provider,” said Rep. Norman. “South Carolina has every right to determine what qualifies and disqualifies Medicaid healthcare providers operating within our state. That was precisely the intent of Congress. My hope is the Court will see this lawsuit for what it truly is: a misguided attempt to undermine that authority.”
    Background Under federal law and guidance, states administer Medicaid plans, including deciding which medical providers qualify to receive payments for certain services. In 2018, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster ordered the state’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to deem abortion clinics unqualified to receive Medicaid funding based on their far Planned Parenthood’s largest federal funding source, providing $1.5 billion in reimbursements nationwide over three years. 
    Following South Carolina’s determination, Planned Parenthood and one of its clients sued the DHHS Director in federal court claiming a right to force DHHS to reverse that decision. There have been four appeals, each of which Members have supported with similar briefs. 
    This brief has the support of Alliance Defending Freedom, Americans United for Life, Catholic Vote, Family Research Council, Students for Life, and Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.
    The full text of the brief can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Scott, Rosen Introduce Antisemitism Awareness Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) introduced the Antisemitism Awareness Act, which directs the Department of Education to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of antisemitism when investigating antisemitic acts on campus. This bill ensures that the Department of Education has a clear definition of antisemitism when determining whether an antisemitic incident on campus crosses the line from free speech into harassing, unlawful, or discriminatory conduct. Congressmen Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) are leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives. 

    “In the continued aftermath of the October 7th attacks on Israel by Hamas and Iran, we have seen college campuses across our nation become hotbeds of antisemitism where Jewish students’ rights are being threatened,” said Senator Scott. “It’s critical the Department of Education has the tools and resources it needs to investigate antisemitism and root out this vile hatred wherever it rears its ugly head. There can be no equivocating when it comes to the issue of anti-Jewish violence and harassment.”

    “Antisemitism is on the rise across the nation, particularly on college campuses, and Congress has a responsibility to do everything in its power to fight back against this hate,” said Senator Rosen. “I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation today with Senator Tim Scott to help protect Jewish students from antisemitic bigotry. I’ll keep working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get this bill passed and signed into law.”

    “The House overwhelmingly passed my bipartisan Antisemitism Awareness Act last session, and today I am proud to reintroduce this critical legislation in the new Congress. Since the horrific terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7th, 83% of college students said they witnessed or experienced antisemitism on campus,” said Congressman Lawler upon introducing the House version of the bill. “This is unacceptable. No person should feel unsafe, targeted, or ostracized because of their faith – and the Antisemitism Awareness Act will stop it from happening. When I met with Jewish students at Columbia University last spring, their fear was palpable. Many wondered if they could ever feel safe on campus again. They deserve better—as does every student, and that’s what this bipartisan bill will accomplish.”

    “Since the heinous October 7 attacks on Israel, we have seen an explosion of antisemitic violence and intimidation on college campuses and in communities across New Jersey and the nation. Far too many in our community no longer feel safe in their own homes or classrooms,” said Congressman Gottheimer. “That’s why I’m reintroducing the Antisemitism Awareness Act, which will give state officials and law enforcement a clear framework for identifying and addressing antisemitism to hold harassers accountable. Our bipartisan bill adopts the most widely recognized definition of antisemitism in the world, already used by more than 40 countries and 35 states. Hate and discrimination have no place in New Jersey or the country, and we must act now to protect our Jewish students and families from threats, intimidation, and violence.”

    “The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations thanks Sens. Scott and Rosen for re-introducing the Antisemitism Awareness Act (AAA). It comes at an important time–Since Hamas’s October 7th attack on Israel, there has been a dramatic increase in antisemitism on college campuses. We continue to see university administrators show they have little understanding of how to identify antisemitism.  The AAA will adopt the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism into U.S. law, enabling university leaders to support Jewish students and accurately determine – and discipline those who engage in—antisemitic discrimination on college campuses. The Conference of Presidents urges swift passage of AAA,” said Stephanie Hausner, COO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations (COP). 

    “Antisemitism isn’t just a Jewish problem. It’s everyone’s problem. Despite the hollow arguments of some, this legislation neither outlaws antisemitism nor is it anti-Christian. The Antisemitism Awareness Act, like President Trump’s 2019 executive order combatting antisemitism and his order last month doubling down on the same,  provides students, parents, teachers and administrators alike with a clear definition of the world’s oldest and most prevalent hatred. Advancing this legislation is  important in making American campuses safe and welcoming for all. We must defeat the vile cancer of antisemitism and defining it under US law is a critical step in that righteous effort,”said CUFI Action Fund Chairwoman Sandra Hagee Parker.

    “As ADL data shows, antisemitism is at crisis levels in the United States, creating the urgent need for decisive action,” said ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt. “The Antisemitism Awareness Act makes clear that antisemitism, including anti-Zionist harassment, has no place in our schools or society and, importantly, reinforces the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism as a critical tool for the U.S. Department of Education. We urge Congress to act swiftly and send a powerful message that combating antisemitism remains a national priority and deeply appreciate the effort by Senators Tim Scott and Jacky Rosen to quickly reintroduce this bipartisan bill.”

    “According to American Jewish Committee’s upcoming State of Antisemitism in America 2024 Report, three in ten American adults are either unsure of what antisemitism means or never heard the term. This number jumps for young Americans (ages 18-29): 41% of young Americans are unsure of what antisemitism means or never heard the term, while, at the same time, young American Jews (ages 18-29) are more likely to have experienced antisemitism in the past year than Jews ages 30 and older. These numbers show why it is critical to have a clear understanding of what antisemitism is and why it matters for American society because to even begin to solve the problem of antisemitism, there must be clarity about what it is and what it isn’t. The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism is a clear and concise description of antisemitism in its various forms. AJC has supported efforts by both Republican and Democratic Administrations to use this definition at the Department of Education when investigating Title VI complaints. We applaud Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) for introducing the Antisemitism Awareness Act, for prioritizing the continued use of this important educational tool and ensuring the safety of Jewish students across the country,” said Ted Deutch, CEO of American Jewish Committee.

    “As antisemitic incidents continue to rise, Jewish Federations of North America are grateful to Senators Tim Scott (R-SC) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) for introducing the Antisemitism Awareness Act today. This bill provides a clear framework for identifying antisemitism, offering concrete examples to help distinguish between constitutionally protected speech and targeted attacks against Jewish individuals. Congress must act now to send a strong message that antisemitism has no place in our society,” said Karen Paikin Barall, Vice President, Government Relations, Jewish Federations of North America.

    Joining Senators Scott and Rosen in cosponsoring the legislation are Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.), Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), and Gary Peters (D-Mich.).

    In addition to introducing the Antisemitism Awareness Act during the 118th Congress, Senator Scott has worked relentlessly to push back on the alarming rise of blatant and vile antisemitism on college campuses by:

    • Leading a resolution to condemn the explosion of antisemitism on U.S. college campuses, call out university presidents who have enabled and refused to take action against this antisemitism, and urge the Biden Department of Education to take necessary actions to ensure that colleges and universities are complying with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to protect Jewish students;
    • Calling on the president of Columbia University to resign over rampant antisemitism on campus;
    • Introducing the Stop Antisemitism on College Campuses Act to defund colleges and universities that enable violent antisemitism on their campuses; and
    • Forcefully condemning antisemitism and supporting Israel’s right to self-defense in a speech at the Orthodox Union’s Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill.

    MIL OSI USA News –