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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Transfers and purchases via SBP break records: 2024 results

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    The number and volume of transactions made through the Fast Payment System (FPS) in 2024 doubled compared to the previous year. In total, more than 13.4 billion transactions worth 69.5 trillion rubles were processed through the FPS last year, according to data Bank of Russia.

    The average number of transactions via the SBP per day has been steadily growing from quarter to quarter. In the last quarter, 45 million transactions were carried out daily. A year ago, the average was 26 million such transactions per day.

    Every fourth transaction in the SBP is a payment for goods or services. The popularity of this payment method grew throughout the year. By the end of the year, 5 out of 10 residents of the country preferred to pay through the SBP.

    The number of trade and service enterprises accepting payments via the SBP amounted to approximately 2.2 million by the beginning of 2025.

    In 2024, the indicators for the number and volume of payments that citizens received, including in the form of cashback, from insurance companies, brokers and other legal entities also increased. In total, more than 200 million transfers from companies were sent to citizens for a total amount of over 1 trillion rubles.

    Preview photo: JSC “NSPK”

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV.KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23333

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Houston Man Indicted for Employment Tax Crimes

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A federal grand jury in Houston returned an indictment today charging a Texas man with not paying to the IRS taxes that his company withheld from employees’ paychecks.  

    According to the indictment, Joseth Limon, of Harris County, allegedly owned Platinum Employment Group Inc., a company that supplied laborers to businesses in the Houston area. The indictment alleges that between 2016 and 2018, Platinum paid its employees over $3.5 million in wages and withheld over $450,000 in taxes from their paychecks. During that period, however, Limon allegedly did not pay the IRS those withheld taxes and did not file any employment tax returns, as required by law.

    If convicted, Limon faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Curtis Weidler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Air Force Wargaming Institute hosts tabletop exercise for the Department Level Exercise series 2025

    Source: United States Air Force

    The Department Level Exercise series, part of the DAF’s Reoptimization for GPC, is the integration of several disparate major command exercises, intended to synchronize and evolve operations to deter competitor aggression where able, and to defeat threats to national security when necessary.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Emphasis on leadership, sustainability, youth engagement and digitalisation as International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidential candidates present plans for global sports

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    LAUSANNE, Switzerland, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The seven candidates running to become the next President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) are hoping that with their 15-minute presentations at the Olympic House on Thursday, 30 January, they have been able to convince the IOC membership of their capabilities to lead the biggest sports organisation in the world. 

    Although they were unable to read the room during the in-camera meeting, especially as their audience was barred from asking questions, the candidates appeared satisfied with their campaign pitches. 

    BEHIND CLOSED DOORS There will be no other opportunities for presentations before the election scheduled for 20 March in Greece. Speaking to the media after giving their presentations behind closed doors, some of the candidates believe the current election process requires a review. 

    Prince Feisal Al Hussein of Jordan, who was the first to appear before the press, said: “If I’m President, I think I would have more flexibility in the rules… We are part of a global sports community and the world has the right to know who is running and what they stand for.” 

    Below are excerpts from the candidates’ interaction with the media at the Château de Vidy, the historical building next to Olympic House, where the presentations took place. 

    HRH PRINCE FEISAL AL HUSSEIN  

    PRESENTATION: It was an honor to deliver my speech to my fellow IOC members, where I laid out my vision for the future blueprint of the Olympic Movement centered on consensus leadership. My speech was structured around three strategic imperatives that are in my manifesto; inspiring imagination, ensuring integrity and developing inclusion. 

    EXPERIENCE DEALING WITH HEADS OF STATE, AN ADVANTAGE?: Absolutely, yes. I think I’ve learned from the experience of not just learning how to deal with people, but by consensus. At the end of the day, all leaders are human beings, and the ability to find a common ground upon which you can build an understanding is a key benefit from the experience that I’ve had just being who I am. 

    DEALING WITH THE IOC’S BIGGEST CHALLENGE: One of the things we have to face and we have to deal with literally focuses on the issue of integrity. When you see the global community, the youth in particular have lost their trust in global institutions, and the IOC is a global institution, so we need to regain both the trust and the sense of relevance with the youth of this world. They are our future movement. And I think this is one of the key areas I would focus on as IOC president. 

    CONFIDENCE IN WADA DESPITE WITHDRAWAL OF US FUNDING: It’s not for me to comment on the policies of the United States. We (the IOC) are an institution that helped establish WADA and I think it has been doing a terrific job in dealing with the issue of doping. We’ve seen such a large reduction of doping incidents in the Olympic Games, and I think this means that they have been effective, and we will continue to support that. 

    DEALING WITH BOXING AHEAD OF LA28: I would love to see boxing back on the programme. It is one of the oldest Olympic sports, and I just hope that we can find a global Federation that can take on that responsibility of organising boxing in LA. 

    RUSSIA’S RETURN TO THE OLYMPIC MOVEMENT: There’s nothing I’d like more than to be able to have the whole world at the Olympic Games, I think that’s what our objective is. But I also recognise that there are certain limitations and concerns. Right now, to my understanding, the exclusion of Russian athletes is based on a violation of the Olympic Charter. As President of the IOC, my role and responsibility is to uphold the Olympic Charter. And as long as nobody is in violation, then there is no reason for sanctions. And I would very much like to find a mechanism where we can reintroduce Russia. The world is stronger when we are all together. And I think that is what the Olympic Games does.  

    MR DAVID LAPPARTIENT  

    PRESENTATION: I hope that I have convinced my colleagues that I can be a real leader for the IOC. 

    RUSSIA’S RETURN TO THE OLYMPIC MOVEMENT: Russia shouldn’t be indefinitely suspended by the IOC. This is a country of sport, so our objective would be to have them come back into the fold. However, there are reasons why the IOC suspended the NOC of Russia… So it is obvious then that these subjects should be dealt with before decisions can be taken.  

    THE OLYMPIC GAMES IN AFRICA: The IOC is on the five continents. Sport is universal, and African athletes are exceptional, but Africa has until today, never hosted the Olympic Games, they of course, are going to have the Youth Olympic Games. I suggest that the Olympics should take place in Africa, not fixing a specific date. But the idea is, nonetheless, that during this coming mandate or two mandates, we would like Africa to host the Olympic Games, because Africa deserves the Olympic Games.  

    BIGGEST CHALLENGE: One of the challenges will be the instability of the world. It’s becoming more and more difficult, and sure we’ll have some crises to face in the future. This is why we need to source strong leadership. Climate change is also an issue. We also saw what happened in the winter time in Los Angeles, and it’s also the result of climate change. Another key challenge will be digitalization. The world is completely changing, disrupting. But what I also tried to explain this morning is how we can turn all these challenges into opportunities. We have opportunities to bring the world together. This is what we want. This is our vision. This is the ideal of the Olympic movement. We can also properly address the issue of climate change. This is what Paris has done. We also have the potential Olympic Esports Games, that’s also a way to interact with the younger generation. We can also reach a wider audience with digitalization.  

    MR JOHAN ELIASCH 

    TRACK RECORD: In a world of division and disruption, we need hope more than ever before. I’m standing because I believe that I have a proven track record and experience to deliver. I have successfully run large international corporations, led important commercial and political negotiations across business, sport, media and entertainment, foreign affairs, technology, and a lot of areas. I’ve been very active in climate action, preserving millions of acres of rainforest. In the last four years, I’ve led the transformation of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation. We oversee more than half of the medal events in the Olympic Winter Games. So I think that’s a perfect and perfect trip for the presidency. I know what it takes to lead and drive change. This is not a popularity contest. 

    RUSSIA’S RETURN TO THE OLYMPIC MOVEMENT: The individual, neutral athletes programme works very well. And I think it’s very important, because no athlete can choose where they were born. And the athletes must never be weaponized for political purposes. So I believe in this programme, and that we should make sure that also for Milano-Cortina, this is something that all the winter federations will adopt. 

    WHAT NEEDS TO CHANGE: Of course, we have to put the athletes front and centre. And we need to make sure that they have the best experience before, during, and after the Games. We have a very fast-changing landscape when it comes to digital, and we have to stay ahead of the curve here. We have a responsibility and a very strong voice when it comes to sustainability and this is an area which is very close to my heart, so this will certainly be at the forefront of my agenda. We also need to make sure that we uphold the magic of the Olympic Games. There is a lot of competition from other events and other sports and we need to make sure that we’re the best. 

    ENGAGING SPONSORS: Well, sponsorship is much more than just sticking your name to something. It’s about partnership. And this area is also changing very fast. Activations, people expect more here. We need to make sure that we deliver, that these partnerships are value-added for our sponsors. We have an incredible brand. But in today’s day and age, we also have to make sure that these partnerships are as attractive as possible. 

    BALANCING FUTURE OLYMPICS IN AFRICA, INDIA OR THE MIDDLE EAST WITH SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENTS: Here, for instance, the proposed rotation scheme of the Winter Olympics is very important. We have infrastructure in place to deliver the events. We need to make sure that we find solutions with the IFs to make sure that the capacity of investment is kept up. So we don’t have to retrace what already exists in places where it’s not going to go. Now, with the Middle East, with Africa, with India, it is essential that we are very strong and committed to no carbon impact on anything that we do. 

    MR JUAN ANTONIO SAMARANCH  

    THE IOC: I understand our organization as two different parts. On one hand, we are an extraordinarily big, large and efficient NGO – we distribute most of the money we generate in our business through the International Federation, National Olympic Committees and the organizing committees to the base of the world’s sports pyramid. So this is an NGO. Second, we need a powerful business machine to generate the necessary revenues to feed the NGO. So I have thrown my hat in the ring because I have significant experience on both sides. I’ve more than 25 years of experience in critical roles throughout the Olympic movement, and I’ve more than 25 years of experience in critical roles with my own company in the finance industry. 

    EMPOWERING IOC MEMBERS We must empower the members and ensure governance led by members and not by a selected few. 

    CHANGES In the 12 years of President Bach, we had to deal with so many complications and so many threats and managed to get the organization to move and evolve at a rapid pace. But that rapid pace of change that we implemented is no way near what is coming. I think we have a very important base, a very solid base, from the past, but the recipes of yesterday will not make it in the future. 

    LEGACY OF HIS FATHER, HELP OR HINDRANCE: My father left office 25 years ago and, as his son, I appreciate his legacy very much. His example is always with me, but the recipes of today have nothing to do with a presidency that ended years ago. Bear in mind, he joined the Olympic Movement more than 60 years ago. 

    PRESENTATION: I felt very good in the room, because I have something interesting to say, something I am passionate about. And I was so happy to have the opportunity to share that with my fellow members. So, it’s for them to decide. But my presentation is clear. I have a very clear programme. My manifesto is very much action-based and it leaves very little room for future surprises. 

    BIDDING PROCESS FOR OLYMPIC GAMES HOSTS: I think that we need to produce not a more traditional, but a better, new model that is more aligned to the current times, that would include a final decision in a significant participation of all IOC members. 

    MEDIA: I told my fellow IOC members this, ‘let’s refocus our relationship with the media. They are not our enemies. They are our allies.’ You (the media) shape the opinion of the world on the Olympic Games. This I intend, if I become IOC President, to maintain and you can hold me accountable for that if I am there. 

    MRS KIRSTY COVENTRY 

    THE OLYMPIC DREAM: My journey started as a nine-year-old girl watching the 92 Barcelona Olympic Games and just setting myself a dream and then finally realizing that dream in Athens getting to stand on the podium and win my first Olympic medal. In Athens, I won three medals and finally in my last event got to win the gold even though Zimbabwe was in a difficult situation. But when I got home to Zimbabwe, it was a time of three or four days of peace, so I really got to see the power of sport. 

    TODAY’S NINE-YEAR-OLD: The nine-year-olds in today’s world are not watching a television screen, they’re holding a phone and that phone is going to be their starting point to connect with us through online streaming platforms, and it’s going to be our chance to engage with them and ensure that we’re inspiring them, and to take it even further, we’re going to be developing and promoting applications that are going to allow them to train anywhere and everywhere in the world. And this is the world that we live in today, and let’s embrace it and walk that road together. 

    SUPPORTING AFRICAN ATHLETES: We need to find more ways of directly impacting and getting revenue to athletes before they become Olympians. That is generally the toughest thing most athletes find. From my own journey it was easy to get sponsorship once I’d won a medal. But getting to that medal was tough. 

    BACKING FROM BACH?: I have known President Bach since I came into the IOC, and I think being a fellow athlete, we share a lot of commonalities, a lot of common ideas and philosophies. But in this race, he’s the President. He has a vote, but he doesn’t vote, he chooses not to vote, and I do very firmly believe that he is being very fair to all candidates.  

    BEING A MOTHER OF A SIX-MONTH OLD AND A CAREER WOMAN: First and foremost, I want to be the best candidate to win, not just because of my gender or from where I come from. And I believe I’ve got a lot of expertise to bring to this role, to leading the organisation. 

    IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD: When I was stepping into my ministerial role seven years ago, I was pregnant with my first baby girl and had to quickly learn how to navigate and be a woman with a career as well as a mom and a wife and everything else. And it can be done. I’m very lucky to come from Africa because culturally we know and we firmly believe that it takes a village to raise a child. 

    PROTECTING WOMEN ATHLETES: As a female athlete, you want to be able to walk onto a level playing field always. It’s our job as the IOC to ensure that we are going to create that environment, and that we are going to not just create a level playing field, but we’re going to create an environment that allows for every athlete to feel safe. Along the road. We’re going to learn lessons, and we’re going to get stronger and we’re going to make better rules and regulations.  

    LORD SEBASTIAN COE 

    PRESENTATION: I enjoyed this morning’s process. I hope I was able to communicate my love for the movement. It’s something that I genuinely feel I’ve been training for for the best part of my life, or at least since the age of 11, when my father bought me my first pair of running shoes. I hope I was able to convey that, but I’m also hoping that I was able to convey the core pillars of my manifesto, my commitments and my pledges. 

    SUSTAINING IOC REVENUE: The world has changed and we do have to change with it – I’ve been in the sports marketing world for 30 years. Primarily we do need to adopt an audience first approach, which is in essence, to give them what they want, when they want it, and where they want it. Above all, for National Olympic Committees of all shapes and sizes, of some of the smaller International Federations, to enjoy that with a barrier-free physical and digital experience. 

    BIGGEST CHALLENGE FOR THE IOC: The biggest challenge faced by the International Olympic Committee is no different, and it is not unique from any National Olympic Committee, any sporting organization, any club, private or public. It is how do you continue to excite and engage with young people, and how do you utilize, optimize fully the use of cutting edge technology? And we talk a lot about technology, we actually run the risk of sounding a little bit analog, because I don’t think there’s anyone in this room that hasn’t recognized that the organizations they work in, they deliver services in, have gone through that digital transformation. But I do think that engaging, exciting and challenging tomorrow’s generation is going to be critical, because it’s that cohort that is ultimately going to be your future sponsors, your future thought leaders, your future governments, your future politicians. And we need to create amongst that group of people a lifelong bond for sport. So even if they don’t remain in sport as coaches, administrators, communicators, we at least have the opportunity for them to assume leadership roles wherever they are, and really fundamentally understand the nature of sport, and it is only that way that we will raise sport to the top of government agendas. Engaging with young people is the key to unlocking so many of the other interdependencies. 

    ELECTION RULES: I’ve been in politics for a long time. I’ve found it a fairly unproductive process to pick a fight with the returning officer in the process. The rules are the same for everybody. I do think we need to review them, and I’m sure that whoever succeeds in March will want to look at that amongst other things too. 

    MR MORINARI WATANABE 

    OLYMPIC GAMES IN FIVE CONTINENTS: I propose to stage the Olympic Games in five cities on five continents at the same time. It would allow the IOC to offer the best possible conditions for each sport, to reduce the financial burden on host cities, to offer greater potential for broadcast and commercial opportunities, sustainability with reduction of travel, and alleviate other hosting problems like governmental restrictions and war.  

    POTENTIAL OF SPORT: Paris 2024 was a historic success, thanks to all the athletes, thanks to the leadership of President Thomas Bach and thanks to the excellent work of the Paris Organizing Committee. However, I believe that we should not be satisfied and that we must build on the success of these Games. Because, in contrast to the spectacular Olympic Games, the situation of the NOCs is far from strong. As FIG President, I have visited 162 countries. I have seen with my own eyes the situation of our sport in each country. As a result I saw the reality. Economically, these countries are not wealthy. In many countries, their relations with the government are not good. The presence of sport in each country is not high enough. I used to be a gymnast myself. That’s why I believe sport has even greater potential. To unleash that potential I propose that the Games be held on all five continents at the same time. 

    WORLD SPORTS ORGANISATION: I also envision upgrading the IOC into a World Sports Organization, like the World Health Organization. If the IOC continues and expands its activities, it would remain independent of politics and uphold the barriers of democracy, transparency, and gender equality. As a World Sports Organization we must contribute to society. We must make a new business for sports. My vision is not focused on only the Olympic Games. We must see a wider view for sports. Sports can contribute to society. I believe the 21st century industrial revolution will be driven by sports and healthcare. So, which organization is best placed to lead this transformation globally? It is the IOC. 

    BICAMERALISM: I am proposing a two-chamber system; a House and a Senate because many IOC members have very good ideas, even non-IOC members. We must take these ideas and listen to these opinions to develop sports. We have to be open. There are many professionals, athletes, royalty, politicians, lawyers, bankers, and many others. If we work together, we can do anything. Let’s open the door to a new era. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Lysander Establishes Automatic Securities Disposition Plan in Units of Canso Credit Income Fund

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lysander Funds Limited (“Lysander”) today announced that it has established an automatic securities disposition plan (the “2025 ASDP”) with respect to its holdings of Class A units of Canso Credit Income Fund (“CCIF”), in accordance with applicable Canadian securities legislation and Lysander’s internal policies. The 2025 ASDP is expected to commence on April 1, 2025, and is designed to allow for an orderly disposition of the CCIF Class A units currently owned by Lysander. Class A units of CCIF are listed and traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) (TSX: PBY.UN). CCIF is a reporting issuer under the securities legislation in each of the provinces and territories in Canada. Lysander is the investment fund manager of CCIF.

    Under the 2025 ASDP, up to 1,722,297 Class A units of CCIF may be sold, at prevailing market prices, between April 1, 2025 and February 28, 2026. At the time of the establishment of the 2025 ASDP, Lysander was not aware of or in possession of any material non-public information about CCIF or its securities.

    Lysander has engaged its dealer, Portfolio HiWay Inc. (“PHW”), to administer the 2025 ASDP. Lysander has provided clear trading parameters and other instructions in writing to PHW, specifying the number of Class A units to be sold, the minimum trade price, and the dates and frequency of sales. The 2025 ASDP prohibits PHW from consulting with Lysander regarding any sales under the 2025 ASDP and prohibits Lysander from disclosing to PHW any information concerning CCIF that might influence the execution of the 2025 ASDP.

    The 2025 ASDP contains meaningful restrictions on the ability of Lysander to amend, suspend or terminate the 2025 ASDP that have the effect of ensuring that Lysander cannot benefit from material non-public information about CCIF.

    This announcement is made and will be available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca pursuant to the recommended practices set forth in Staff Notice 55-317 Automatic Securities Disposition Plans of the Canadian Securities Administrators. Information regarding transactions under the 2025 ASDP, as the case may be, may be accessed on SEDI at www.sedi.ca.

    About Lysander

    Lysander is the investment fund manager of CCIF. The head office of Lysander is located at 3080 Yonge Street, Suite 4000, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3N1.

    For further information on Lysander, please visit www.lysanderfunds.com, email manager@lysanderfunds.com or you can reach Lysander at 1-877-308-6979.

    Richard Usher-Jones
    President
    Lysander Funds Limited
    Tel. No. 416-640-4275
    Fax No. 416-855-6515

    You will usually pay brokerage fees to your dealer if you purchase or sell Class A units of CCIF on the TSX. If the Class A units are purchased or sold on the TSX, investors may pay more than the current net asset value when buying Class A units of CCIF and may receive less than the current net asset value when selling them. There are ongoing fees and expenses associated with owning units of an investment fund. An investment fund must prepare disclosure document that contain key information about the fund. You can find more detailed information about the fund in these documents. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

    Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

    This release contains certain information which, as presented, may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information involves statements that relate to future events and often addresses anticipated or expected future business and financial performance and contains words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, and “intend”, statements that an action or event “may”, “might”, “could”, “should”, or “will” be taken or occur, or other similar expressions both positive and negative and includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding the anticipated commencement and sale of Class A units under the 2025 ASDP.

    Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Lysander to control or predict, and which may cause Lysander’s or CCIF’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby. Such statements reflect the current view of Lysander with respect to future events, are subject to risks and uncertainties and are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Lysander as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant economic, market and financial uncertainties and contingencies. In making forward looking statements, Lysander may make various material assumptions, including but not limited to (i) the interests of investors in purchasing the Class A units; (ii) the expected price for the sales of Class A units; (iii) the ability of the dealer to sell the Class A units; and (iv) general business, market and economic conditions.

    Forward-looking information is developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein and in CCIF’s annual information form and continuous disclosure which are available on CCIF’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and neither Lysander nor CCIF undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as may be required by applicable Canadian securities laws. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Travel Advisory: RIDOT to Reduce I-295 Travel Lanes for Bridge Replacement Project in Smithfield and Cumberland

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Starting on Monday night, February 3, RIDOT will reduce the number of travel lanes on both directions of I-295 at the Douglas Avenue overpass in Smithfield from three lanes to two lanes as it begins a rapid bridge project to replace the Douglas Pike Bridge in Smithfield and the Diamond Hill Road Bridge in Cumberland. Both bridges carry traffic over I-295.

    Only the low-speed lane will be closed. No on-ramps or exits will be closed. The closures will be in place for approximately 10 months. RIDOT has implemented other lane reductions along the northern half of I-295 for bridge work and has not observed any significant traffic congestion from the temporary closures. The schedule is as follows:

    February 3: The low-speed lane in both directions of I-295 will be closed at the Douglas Pike Bridge at Exit 15. In the week following the traffic pattern change, RIDOT will install temporary barriers for the closure.

    Approximately Late February: The low-speed lane in both directions of I-295 will be closed at the Diamond Hill Road Bridge at Exit 22. In the week following the traffic pattern change, RIDOT will install temporary barriers for the closure. RIDOT will announce the exact closure date in the near future.

    The rapid bridge construction approach will save motorists up to two years of lane closures and shifts associated with conventional construction. During a series of four, 14-day periods this summer and fall, RIDOT will shift traffic on the bridges, placing all traffic on one side of the bridge while demolishing and replacing the other side. The process will be repeated until both bridges are completely replaced, with the goal of having all traffic on new structures by the end of the year. The entire $63.5 million project will be finished in spring 2026.

    The Douglas Pike Bridge is actually two separate structures, both built in 1971. One is rated as structurally deficient and the other is only 1 point away from being rated as deficient. It carries more than 22,400 vehicles per day. The Diamond Hill Road Bridge is rated as structurally deficient and carries more than 17,400 vehicles per day. It was built in 1963.

    All construction projects are subject to changes in schedule and scope depending on needs, circumstances, findings, and weather.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: RegEd Continues Expansion of Audit Management Capabilities in Support of FINRA’s Remote Inspections Pilot Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Raleigh, NC, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RegEd, the leading provider of RegTech enterprise solutions, has announced significant enhancements to its Audit Management solution to support the requirements of FINRA’s Remote Inspections Pilot Program, which began July 1, 2024. These enhancements enable firms to efficiently plan, track, and manage inspections—whether they opt into the pilot program or continue with traditional onsite inspections—while ensuring compliance with FINRA Rule 3110.18. 

    FINRA’s three-year Remote Inspections Pilot Program allows eligible firms to conduct branch office inspections remotely instead of through mandatory onsite visits, under specific conditions. Since the launch of the program in 2024, firms participating in the initiative have benefited from RegEd’s Audit Management solution, including Pilot Program enhancements, which has helped them efficiently conduct remote inspections while meeting compliance requirements. And as the industry’s only fit-for-purpose solution designed to meet the program’s requirements, RegEd will continue to ensure a seamless and effective approach to both remote and onsite inspections in 2025 and beyond. 

    Advanced Capabilities to Meet Dynamic Industry Requirements 

    With these enhancements, RegEd’s Audit Management solution enables firms to: 

    • Designate, track, and manage remote vs. onsite inspections. Firms can categorize and organize inspections based on their approach while ensuring clear tracking and reporting. 
    • Identify, remediate, and report on Significant Findings. Firms can define and track significant findings, ease the process of follow-up and management oversight, and ensure proper documentation. 
    • Enhance reporting flexibility. New features allow firms to meet quarterly regulatory reporting requirements under 3110.18, including tracking the number of onsite vs. remote inspections, findings, significant findings, and categories of significant findings. 
    • Leverage prior audit risk scoring for future risk assessments. Audit risk scores, past findings (e.g., WSP and recordkeeping violations), and historical data can be incorporated into pre-audit planning and scheduling. 
    • Access industry best practices for inspections. Firms can leverage RegEd’s Best Practices inspection module, developed in collaboration with leading industry inspection programs. 

    “Firms have each determined the right balance between onsite and remote inspections for their own inspection programs, and RegEd’s Audit Management enhancements ensure they have the tools to remain compliant and efficient—regardless of their approach,” said Adam Schaub, Vice President of Platform Product Management at RegEd. 

    For firms opting into the Remote Inspections Pilot Program, RegEd provides the necessary tools to manage remote inspections while meeting FINRA’s oversight and reporting requirements. For those continuing with onsite inspections, the solution streamlines scheduling, remediation, and compliance processes, making inspections more effective overall. 

    “The enhancements we’ve introduced help firms streamline their audit and inspection programs, whether they are conducted remotely or onsite,” said Rob Davis, Product Manager at RegEd. “By integrating advanced tracking, remediation, and reporting tools, we are equipping firms with the functionality they need to stay compliant while optimizing their inspection workflows.” 

    Commitment to Future Innovation 

    RegEd remains committed to supporting firms in both remote and onsite inspections with continuous innovation. Future updates will further enhance reporting flexibility, risk-based assessment tools, and automation capabilities to align with both FINRA’s Remote Inspections Pilot Program and broader compliance requirements. 

    About RegEd 

    RegEd is the market-leading provider of RegTech enterprise solutions with relationships with more than 200 enterprise clients, including 80% of the top 25 financial services firms. 

    Established in 2000 by former regulators, the company is recognized for continuous regulatory technology innovation with solutions hallmarked by workflow-directed processes, data integration, regulatory intelligence, automated validations, business process automation and compliance dashboards. The aggregate drives the highest levels of operational efficiency and enables our clients to cost-effectively comply with regulations and continuously mitigate risk. 

    Trusted by the nation’s top financial services firms, RegEd’s proven, holistic approach to RegTech meets firms where they are on the compliance and risk management continuum, scaling as their needs evolve and amplifying the value proposition delivered to clients. For more information, please visit www.reged.com. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    January 31, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed developments in eliminating the consequences of emergencies in the Black Sea

    During a working visit to Anapa, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko met with scientists and assessed innovative developments and technological solutions for eliminating the consequences of an emergency situation (ES) in connection with an oil spill in the Black Sea.

    The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that, on the instructions of President Vladimir Putin, a government commission headed by Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Savelyev has been created to coordinate the process of eliminating the consequences of the fuel oil spill. A separate direction on science is led by Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov.

    “Scientists said an important thing: they do not compete in technology, but complement each other and find symbiosis. Cooperation is extremely important, because President Vladimir Putin instructed us to develop technologies for the future so that we can quickly respond and help others. It is also necessary to solve current issues. Now we are faced with the task of defining clear steps for testing developments and scaling them in real conditions,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    At the experimental site, the Tyumen Industrial University demonstrated a technology for cleaning water areas using magnetically sensitive materials introduced by mobile means, including UAVs. Both ready-made powders and industrial waste are used.

    The Institute of Control Sciences of the Russian Academy of Sciences presented an autonomous robot for monitoring the surface, underwater and in the air. The robot detects objects using AI, conducts additional examination and can be used for environmental monitoring and other purposes.

    Sibur and the Chemistry Department of Lomonosov Moscow State University demonstrated samples of polyurethane foams and fibers to improve fuel oil collection using polymer networks and sorption materials.

    Kuban State University and Bauman Moscow State Technical University presented the results of research on the use of biopreparations and bacteria for the decomposition of fuel oil in the soil. For the additional purification of sands, it is planned to use oxidative methods and biopreparations.

    Tomsk State University presented the “Aeroshup” technology, based on the flotation principle. Air bubbles separate pollutants from the bottom of a reservoir, raising them to the surface for further collection. It is planned to adapt the technology to marine conditions using a remotely operated unmanned underwater vehicle (ROV) for work at depths of up to 100 m.

    Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Denis Sekirinsky noted that, on the instructions of the Government, the existing scientific and technical groundwork is being analyzed, and interaction with the operational headquarters is underway. The interdepartmental working group formed in the Ministry from leading scientists, business representatives and interested executive authorities works on a permanent basis, providing the necessary consultations to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources.

    “Today we presented key scientific and technical developments that we are beginning to test and apply to solve problems of eliminating the consequences of the accident. This experience will certainly be useful in the future if a similar incident occurs in one or another part of the world,” said Denis Sekirinsky.

    Krasnodar Region Governor Veniamin Kondratyev noted that a working group was created at the regional level, which included leading research centers of the region, Moscow and Sevastopol. In total, there are about 40 scientists, representatives of production and scientific enterprises and associations. Experts have already reviewed 84 proposals for cleaning contaminated sand and recycling petroleum products.

    “Among the solutions that have already been tested is the development of Skoltech scientist Vladimir Kalyaev, who was one of the first to arrive in the region – in Anapa, more than 10 km of protective sand embankments have already been covered with absorbent fabric. In the village of Voskresensky, an industrial installation called “Grokhot” is operating at the temporary accumulation site for oil-contaminated sand, and mechanized seeders are used on the beaches. We need to find a technology as soon as possible that will allow us to clean the soil in the beach area as efficiently as possible,” said Veniamin Kondratyev.

    In addition, Dmitry Chernyshenko held a meeting on the development and implementation of scientific solutions aimed at eliminating the consequences of an emergency situation in connection with an oil spill in the Black Sea.

    It was attended by the Governor of Krasnodar Krai Veniamin Kondratyev, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Maxim Korolkov, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Denis Sekirinsky, Vice President of the Russian Academy of Sciences Stepan Kalmykov, heads of scientific organizations and universities.

    The participants discussed the status of the implementation of the Government’s instruction on organizing the work on selecting promising solutions to eliminate the short-term and long-term consequences of oil spills. The heads of scientific organizations also heard reports on technologies for monitoring and forecasting the state of fuel oil pollution.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow Metro presents first map in Chinese

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Metro

    The Moscow Metro has unveiled a new Chinese-language metro map that makes navigation easier for tourists from China. The names of metro stations, the Moscow Central Circle, the Moscow Central Circle and other key transport facilities have been translated in collaboration with native speakers, ensuring linguistic accuracy and compliance with Chinese grammar rules.

    Moscow metro – Moscow Metro.

    To help Chinese visitors better understand station announcements, the names have been phonetically adapted to resemble their Russian counterparts. For example:

    米金诺 (Mǐ jīn nuò / Mi din nuo) – sounds like Mitino station 珀梁卡 (Pò liáng kǎ / Po lyang ka) – corresponds to Polyanka station

    The translation used the Palladium system, a specialized method for transcribing Chinese words into Russian.

    A unique Chinese-language subway map has been placed in the first and last carriages of the Chinese New Year theme train currently running on Line 3. Passengers can also get a mini version of the map for free at over 30 Live Chat information counters, and an electronic version is available for download.

    Many tourists from China come to Moscow. To make their travel around the city more convenient, we have developed a metro map in Chinese with translations of all metro stations, the Moscow Central Circle and Moscow City Ring Road, as well as key transport hubs – airports and railway stations. Improving passenger comfort remains our priority at the initiative of Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport.

    Moscow is also developing environmentally friendly transport, inspired by China’s experience

    Moscow’s ground transportation system is following global trends by introducing environmentally friendly electric buses following China’s example. Last year, innovative electric bus routes were introduced for the first time in 15 districts of the city.

    Since 2022, Moscow has been receiving electric buses with electric interior heating, and in 2024 they will arrive in an updated design. Each electric bus reduces CO₂ emissions into the atmosphere by more than 60 tons per year. Currently, the operation of electric bus routes is provided by 11 Mosgortrans bus depots, which support about 350 charging stations installed throughout the city.

    Moscow also actively exchanges experience with its Chinese colleagues. As part of international cooperation, last fall Mosgortrans hosted a delegation from the Hebei Transport Professional Technical Institute (HTVTI, China) at the Mitino electric bus depot. During the visit, Chinese specialists were able to see first-hand the work and unique features of Moscow’s public electric transport.

    Cooperation with our Chinese colleagues allows us not only to adopt advanced experience in the field of transport technologies and urban mobility, but also to share our own innovations, promoting the development of environmentally friendly transport in both China and Russia. Thanks to such international partnerships, Moscow is confidently moving towards its goal – the creation of a sustainable transport system that meets the challenges of the future.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Federal Treasury deposit auction to take place on 31.01.2025

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Application selection parameters
    Date of the selection of applications 31.01.2025
    Unique identifier of the application selection 22025036
    Deposit currency rubles
    Type of funds funds of the single treasury account
    Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units 10,000
    Placement period, in days 182
    Date of deposit 31.01.2025
    Refund date 01.08.2025
    Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating) Flotting
    Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum –
    Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds Ruonmds
    Minimum spread, % per annum 0.00
    Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special) Urgent
    Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units 1,000
    Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs. 5
    Application selection form (open or closed) Open
    Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
    Venue for the selection of applications PAO Moscow Exchange
    Applications accepted: from 12:00 to 12:10
    Pre-applications: from 12:00 to 12:05
    Applications in competition mode: from 12:05 to 12:10
    Formation of a consolidated register of applications: from 12:10 to 12:20
    Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful: from 12:10 to 12:30
    Submission to credit institutions of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement: from 12:30 to 13:20
    Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions: from 12:30 to 13:20
    Deposit transfer time In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

    RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

    RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a RUONIA rate value published on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

    DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

    Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MEEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: On 31.01.2025, the deposit auction of UK FRT LLC will take place

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    Parameters;

    The date of the deposit auction is 31.01.2025. The placement currency is RUB. The maximum amount of funds placed (in the placement currency) is 480,000,000.00. The placement period, days is 18. The date of depositing funds is 31.01.2025. The date of return of funds is 18.02.2025. The minimum placement interest rate, % per annum is 21.00. The terms of the conclusion are urgent or special (Urgent). The minimum amount of funds placed for one application (in the placement currency) is 480,000,000.00. The maximum number of applications from one Participant, pcs. 1. Auction form is open or closed (Open). The basis of the Agreement is the General Agreement. Schedule (Moscow time). Applications in preliminary mode from 12:00 to 12:10. Applications in competition mode from 12:10 to 12:15. Setting the cut-off percentage or declaring the auction invalid before 12:25.

    Additional terms

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.MO/N77289

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01/31/2025, 10-41 the values of the lower limit of the repo price corridor, the transfer rate and the range of interest rate risk assessment for the OZON security (OZON-adr) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    31.01.2025

    10:41

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on 31.01.2025, 10-41 (Moscow time), the values of the lower limit of the repo price corridor with settlement code Y0/Y1Dt (up to -20.0%), the transfer rate and the range of interest rate risk assessment (up to -7.92 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 47.59%) of the OZON security (OZON-adr) were changed.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 01/31/2025, 11-02 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the security RU000A0JVP39 (KAMAZ 12) were changed.

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    31.01.2025

    11:02

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC) on 31.01.2025, 11-02 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 80.35) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 877.13 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 26.25%) of the RU000A0JVP39 (KAMAZ 12) security were changed.

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MEEX.K.MO/N77292

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colchester County — Colchester County District RCMP charge man wanted on province-wide arrest warrant after he flees police

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    At approximately 10 a.m. on January 30,Colchester County District RCMP observed a vehicle in Lower Truro associated to a man who was wanted in relation to intimate partner violence related offences, and who has pending charges for multiple firearms offences.

    Officers attempted a traffic stop on Hwy. 236 in Lower Truro. The vehicle didn’t stop and continued at a high rate of speed. Officers followed the vehicle. The RCMP Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR) air services were called in to assist.

    Responding officers deployed spike belts on Hwy. 236 then on Hwy. 215 in East Hants to stop the vehicle. The suspect vehicle was damaged but was able to continue fleeing police.

    From Hwy. 215, the suspect vehicle accessed the shoulder of Hwy. 102 then traveled northbound in the southbound lanes. With the assistance of DNRR air services, the vehicle was observed attempting to turn around and head south in the southbound lane.

    At this time, the vehicle was intercepted on Hwy. 102 between Exit 11 and Exit 12 by the RCMP ERT and Police Dog Services. Officers safely arrested the driver, 38-year-old Stephen Joseph “Dakota” Maloney, and the passenger.

    Officers learned the passenger was a victim; they were released from custody. Maloney reported minor injuries and was transported to hospital by EHS.

    “We understand how unsettling it must’ve been for those travelling along Hwy. 102 and witnessed the suspect vehicle driving erratically in the wrong direction,” says Supt. Sean Auld, Officer in Charge of Support Services. “Our officers continually assessed the situation from a public safety perspective, and working in collaboration with DNRR, officers relied on their training to safely stop the vehicle and arrest the offender.”

    Maloney has been charged with:

    • Flight from Peace Officer
    • Dangerous Operation
    • Operation While Prohibited
    • Forcible Confinement
    • Failure to Comply with Order

    He appeared in Truro Provincial Court on January 30 and was remanded into custody pending future court appearances.

    The investigation, led by the Colchester County District RCMP with assistance of RCMP Police Dog Services, is ongoing.

    Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Colchester County District RCMP at 902-893-6820. To remain to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    File # 2025-134744

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four week firearms amnesty to take lethal convertible guns off the streets

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A firearms amnesty will get underway on Monday after new evidence emerged about the potentially lethal risk posed by a particular type of blank firing gun.

    The guns, known as ‘top-venting blank firers’ (TVBFs), are manufactured in Turkey. In their original form they pose little risk, but in recent years an increasing number have been converted and have been used in serious violence.

    Since 2021, more than 800 have been recovered in criminal circumstances across the UK.

    A converted TVBF was used in the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Sebastiaan James-Kraan in Ealing in June 2024.

    Three people charged in connection with Sebastiaan’s murder will stand trial in April.

    While no gun was ever recovered, forensic analysis indicates that a TVBF was also used in the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Tyler McDermott in Tottenham in April 2023.

    In June, four people were found guilty of Tyler’s murder.

    TVBFs can be handed in at police stations across London from Monday, 3 February until Friday, 28 February.

    This is part of a national amnesty taking place across the country over the same period.

    Detective Superintendent Tim Mustoe, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “We are increasingly concerned about the risk posed by these weapons if they fall into the hands of criminals and those intent on causing serious violence on the streets of London.

    “We’ve already seen their lethal potential in at least two cases here in London. We know they’ve also been used in many other non-fatal incidents too.

    “The majority of top venting blank firers in circulation were bought lawfully by people with no ill intent. However we now know what can happen if they’re converted to do harm which is why it’s important that we recover as many as we can.

    “I would urge anyone who has one of these weapons at home to do the responsible thing and hand it in at a police station. They will not face police action for possession of the gun at the point of surrender if they do so during the amnesty, but if they choose not to do so now and are found to have one of these guns at a later date, then the consequences will be quite different.”

    TVBFs are legal to buy in the UK without a licence, unless they are readily convertible.

    Tests by the National Crime Agency and police forces show models produced by four Turkish manufacturers – Retay, Ekol, Ceonic and Blow – are readily convertible and are therefore illegal.

    Anyone found to be in possession of one, after the amnesty period, could face up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

    During the Amnesty period, those handing in a Turkish manufactured TVBF will not face prosecution for the illegal possession and will not have to give their details.

    However, the weapons will be examined to determine if they’ve previously been used in serious violence or other criminality.

    Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe, the National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for the Criminal Use of Firearms, said: “The top-venting blank firers are used by criminals and can be converted into lethal firearms.

    “During the last two years, policing and the NCA have identified and disrupted several workshops used to convert these pistols into lethal weapons.

    “In the same period, large numbers of converted weapons were recovered across multiple locations, alongside thousands of rounds of blank calibre and modified ammunition.

    “One investigation recovered more than 400 converted weapons from a single crime group. There is a strong demand for them evidenced by the numbers imported and subsequent recovery from criminals.

    “Stopping the sale of these top-venting blank firers from being converted will go a significant way to help protect the public.”

    While TVBFs can be handed in at any police station during the amnesty, the Met is asking people to aim to go to one of these stations:

    • Edmonton
    • Chingford
    • Colindale
    • Wembley
    • Islington
    • Stoke Newington
    • Bethnal Green
    • Ilford
    • Lewisham
    • Bexleyheath
    • Croydon
    • Bromley
    • Kingston
    • Brixton
    • Acton
    • Charing Cross
    • Hammersmith

    Anyone intending to hand in a TVBF as part of the amnesty is encouraged to check the opening times of the relevant station on the Met Police website. To receive advice on how best to transport the weapon responsibly from home to the police station, phone 101 before travelling.

    If you know of people involved in illegal firearms activity, you should call the police on 101 or report the information to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    Every call to Crimestoppers is anonymous and potentially vital to preventing or solving serious crimes. Removing an illegally held firearm from circulation may just save someone’s life.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Houston Man Indicted for Employment Tax Crimes

    Source: United States Attorneys General 8

    A federal grand jury in Houston returned an indictment today charging a Texas man with not paying to the IRS taxes that his company withheld from employees’ paychecks.  

    According to the indictment, Joseth Limon, of Harris County, allegedly owned Platinum Employment Group Inc., a company that supplied laborers to businesses in the Houston area. The indictment alleges that between 2016 and 2018, Platinum paid its employees over $3.5 million in wages and withheld over $450,000 in taxes from their paychecks. During that period, however, Limon allegedly did not pay the IRS those withheld taxes and did not file any employment tax returns, as required by law.

    If convicted, Limon faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Curtis Weidler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brass: Week Three Under the Gold Dome

    Source: US State of Georgia

    The third week of the 2025 Legislative Session has wrapped up, and we’re staying focused on passing commonsense legislation that puts Georgia families, businesses and communities first.

    Last week’s snowstorm may have delayed budget hearings for a few days, but it didn’t slow us down. The General Assembly has been hard at work in joint sessions, carefully reviewing budget requests to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Passing a balanced budget is not only our constitutional duty—it’s the foundation of a responsible government that serves its people.

    One of the most crucial budget proposals this session is Governor Brian P. Kemp’s plan to return $1 billion in surplus funds to taxpayers directly. Thanks to years of conservative budgeting and fiscal responsibility, we can give back to the hardworking Georgians who keep our state running. This is just part of the $2.2 billion in statewide allocations designed to benefit families, businesses, and communities across Georgia. I’m proud to support Gov. Kemp’s efforts to strengthen our economy by putting money back where it belongs – in the pockets of hardworking Georgia taxpayers.

    Another key priority is ensuring communities hit hardest by Hurricane Helene have the necessary resources to rebuild. Gov. Kemp has proposed $614.72 million in recovery funding, including $150 million for the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help with debris removal and housing assistance. Another $300 million will go to the Georgia Department of Transportation to restore roads and infrastructure. Many rural counties are still reeling from this storm, and we’re committed to ensuring they get the support they need to recover and move forward.

    I’m excited to share that March 9th—12th is Multiple Sclerosis Week at the Capitol. This week, however, the Senate was honored to have several representatives from the Multiple Sclerosis Society, including my mother, Linda Brass, in the Senate chamber. Each year, members of the Society join us to recognize this week and bring attention to the medical condition. I commend the advocacy work conducted by the Multiple Sclerosis Society and their funding of $1 billion in research funding.  

    Finally, I encourage students ages 12 to 18 to apply for the Senate Page Program. This is an excellent way for young people to see firsthand how the General Assembly works. If you know a student who might be interested, they can apply here.

    As always, I’m here to listen. If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas about our work at the Capitol, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s an honor to serve you, and I appreciate your trust as we work together throughout the remainder of the 2025 legislative session.

    # # # #

    Sen. Matt Brass serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Rules. Sen. Brass represents the 6th Senate District, which includes Coweta and Heard, as well as parts of Carroll County. He can be reached by email at matt.brass@senate.ga.gov

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects Over $39 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2024

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman announced today that the Northern District of New York’s Asset Recovery Unit collected $39,262,324 in civil, criminal and forfeiture actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $14,085,025 was collected in criminal actions, $15,874,944 was collected in civil actions, and $9,302,354 was collected in asset forfeiture actions. 

    The Northern District of New York also worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $18,995,733 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $39,092 was collected in criminal actions and $18,956,641 was collected in civil actions.    

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

    Additionally, forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund can be used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.  In Fiscal Year 2024, $8,330,553 of the funds forfeited in prior years through criminal and civil judicial forfeiture actions in the Northern District of New York were applied to victim compensation. 

    United States Attorney Carla Freedman stated: “These are great results – every recovery of funds strikes a blow for justice. I created the Asset Recovery Unit shortly after I took office in 2021, and I am incredibly proud of its efforts to make sure that crime does not pay, that crime victims are compensated as much as possible, and that companies pay appropriately steep penalties when they defraud the government.”

    In May, $11.3 million was recovered as part of a civil settlement in United States ex rel. Elevation 33, LLC v. Guidehouse, Inc. and Nan McKay and Associates, for violations of the False Claims Act, for failing to meet cybersecurity requirements in a federally funded contract intended to ensure a secure online environment for low-income New Yorkers to apply for federal rental assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Guidehouse and its subcontractor, Nan McKay and Associates, admitted as part of a settlement agreement that neither satisfied their obligation to complete the required testing of the web site used to house applicants’ information, and the site was shut down within 12 hours after certain applicants’ personally identifiable information had been compromised.

    In February, the Northern District of New York restored $4,950,440 in funds forfeited from Richard J. Sherwood and Thomas K. Lagan, who were sentenced to both federal and state prison for stealing approximately $11.8 million from the estates of three sisters who died.  These funds were initially forfeited by the government through its criminal prosecutions of Sherwood and Lagan, and were restored in 2024 to the victims of the fraud by the Attorney General and the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section of the United States Department of Justice.  The victims include churches, Ukrainian-American civic organizations, a local hospital and a local university scholarship fund. 

    In September, the U.S. Attorney’s Office recovered $1 million from Derek R. Schwartz, who was sentenced this summer to 72 months in prison for conspiring with former ValueWise CEO Michael T. Mann to defraud companies that loaned millions of dollars to ValueWise subsidiaries.  These funds will be distributed to two financing companies that were victims of a sophisticated, years-long scheme.

    The Asset Recovery Unit is an initiative that works to deprive criminals of the proceeds of crimes, recovers property that may be used toward restitution, and enforces collection of criminal and civil debts owed to the United States or to victims of federal crimes.  The Asset Recovery Unit is comprised of Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa Fletcher, Elizabeth Conger and Melissa Rothbart, Paralegals Joshua Goodfriend, Marianne Meigs, Carly Clay, Erin Hyatt, Jiselle Cabezas, and Teilor Kaiser Clarey, and Investigative Analyst Jason Babiarz.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan National Sentenced for Conspiracy and Illegal Reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE –  A twice-deported Guatemalan national, described in court documents as being “the most consistent member” of an organized group of individuals that repeatedly stole high-end construction equipment, building supplies, and clothing from national retailer’s stores has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, after which he will be deported, having been convicted on charges of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property and illegal re-entry into the United States, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.

    As described in court proceedings, Marvin Estuardo Morales De Paz, 30, of Cranston, was one of as many as a dozen members of a Rhode Island-based conspiracy of individuals who traveled to home improvement and clothing stores in at least five states to commit thefts, then transported the stolen merchandise to Rhode Island to sell. Morales was present for nearly every theft and set prices for, and directed sales of, the stolen items.

    According to information presented to the court, the ring was involved in at least 35 documented thefts in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. It is estimated that members of the conspiracy stole more than $280,000 worth of merchandise. Tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of stolen goods was recovered from Morales’s residence when he was arrested on April 11, 2024.

    Morales was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Senior Judge William E. Smith to 30 months of incarceration to be followed by one year of supervised release. Morales will be turned over to ICE and faces deportation upon completion of his term of incarceration.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John P. McAdams.

    The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations agents in Providence, with the assistance of HSI agents in Boston, and Allentown, Pennsylvania, and the Providence, Coventry, Warwick, Smithfield, and Johnston, RI Police Departments; Boston, Norwood, Bellingham, Marlboro, Seekonk, Avon, Auburn, MA Police Departments; Montville and Fairfield, CT Police Departments; and the Parkesburg, Downingtown, Lebanon, Wyomissing, and Reading, PA, Police Departments; Nashua, NH Police Department; and Marlboro, NJ Police Department.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Resident Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking of Multiple Women

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on January 30, 2025, to 25 years in prison for his conviction of sex trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Eric Jefferson, 41.

    According to information presented to the Court, from in and around June 2019 to in and around April 2022, Jefferson coerced and forced at least four women to perform commercial sex work for his monetary gain. Jefferson provided the women with drugs for meeting clients and would withhold the drugs if the women—who were addicted to narcotics and could become ill with withdrawal symptoms—refused to meet with clients. Jefferson also used violence and threats of violence to coerce and force the women to engage in commercial sex work.

    “Eric Jefferson forced these women to earn money on his behalf, controlling the victims both through physical force and exploiting their dependence upon narcotics,” said Acting United States Attorney Rivetti. “Working with our law enforcement partners, we will aggressively prosecute human traffickers such as Jefferson in order to protect and rescue the most vulnerable victims in our district.”

    “Protecting the most vulnerable members of our community will always be among the highest priorities for the FBI,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “The message this sentencing sends is clear: the FBI and our partners will aggressively pursue criminals who think they can prey on others.”

    Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ranjan heard from the victims of the charged crimes and stressed the heinousness of Jefferson’s conduct and its devastating impacts upon the victims.

    Assistant United States Attorney DeMarr Moulton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jefferson.

    This prosecution is part of Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now), an umbrella coalition for law enforcement, community, and non-profit partners in the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This coordinated effort aims to end human trafficking through education and improved cooperation across agencies and service providers, thereby enhancing the office’s ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures 15-Year Sentence for Deadly 2022 DWI Crash that Killed Three People

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Laguna man was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for a fatal DWI crash on the Laguna Pueblo in 2022 that killed three members of the same family.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court documents, on August 7, 2022, Cody Allen Charlie, 38, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Laguna, was driving intoxicated at 116 miles per hour while using his cell phone when he crashed into another vehicle on Interstate 40, near mile marker 130. The impact caused the other vehicle to veer off the interstate and onto the shoulder, where it rolled over. All three occupants of that vehicle were killed in the crash. Instead of providing help to his victims, Charlie left his wrecked vehicle and ran from the scene.

    Upon his release from prison, Charlie will be subject to five years of supervised release. He must also make full monetary restitution to the victims of his crimes. As part of his supervised release, Charlie will be subject to alcohol and substance-abuse monitoring, and he must also complete mental-health and substance-abuse programs. As a convicted felon, Charlie is no longer permitted to own or possess a firearm.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.

    The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case with assistance from the Laguna Police Department and New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany DuChaussee and Zachary C. Jones are prosecuting the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton, Kentucky Man Sentenced to Over Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Handgun

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Bowling Green, KY – An Edmonton, Kentucky, man was sentenced this week to 5 years and 11 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Aaron Dale McKinney, 48, was sentenced to 5 years and 11 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. On February 23, 2023, McKinney possessed a Springfield Armory (HS Produkt), model XD-45, 45 caliber semiautomatic pistol, and ammunition. He was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.

    On May 25, 2021, in Metcalfe Circuit Court, McKinney was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, first degree, third or more offense (methamphetamine).

    On September 26, 2017, in Metcalfe Circuit Court, McKinney was convicted of manufacturing methamphetamine, first offense.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Kentucky State Police.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Members of Violent Gang Sentenced to Prison for Racketeering and Drug Trafficking

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    BOSTON – Two members of the violent Boston-area gang, Cameron Street, were sentenced to prison yesterday for their roles as drug traffickers operating on behalf of the criminal enterprise. During the investigation, 21 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were allegedly seized from 11 of the defendants.

    James Rodrigues, a/k/a “Bummy,” 34, of Boston, was sentenced this morning by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 42 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. On Jan. 16, 2025, Rodrigues pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise (more commonly referred to as RICO or racketeering conspiracy) and conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (crack cocaine).

    This afternoon, Judge Young sentenced Devante Lopes, a/k/a “D-Lopes,” 31, of Boston and Quincy, to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In May 2024, Lopes pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy; conspiracy to distribute marijuana; and possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

    Over the course of a two-year investigation, Rodrigues and Lopes were identified as Cameron Street members who were primarily involved in drug trafficking. Specifically, Rodrigues worked with other Cameron Street members to distribute hundreds of grams of cocaine and cocaine base (crack cocaine) from a stash house in Somerville. During the investigation, law enforcement made a series of controlled purchases from Rodrigues and other Cameron Street members. This included two separate occasions in which Rodrigues sold 48 grams of crack cocaine and 50 grams of crack cocaine, respectively, to a cooperating witness. During a search of the Somerville stash house in April 2022, 398 grams of cocaine along with packaging materials, two hydraulic presses, a digital scale, a cell phone and $14,986 in U.S. currency were seized.

    Lopes was a significant drug trafficker who, from 2019 through 2020, regularly used the mail to import large quantities of marijuana from California to Boston and neighboring cities. In exchange, Lopes shipped packages containing between $40,000 to $50,000 in cash. One of the packages intended for Lopes was intercepted by law enforcement and found to contain 2.6 kilograms (2,637 grams) of marijuana. Over the course of the investigation, a total of 24 packages of similar size were tracked as having been shipped from various address in California to Lopes. As a result, it is estimated that Lopes received 56.6 kilograms of marijuana.

    During a search of Lopes’ residence in April 2022, 800 grams of cocaine was seized from inside a bench by his bed along with digital scales, plastic bags commonly used for street-level sales, a bag of pink pills, a money counter, an empty Glock firearm box and a round of ammunition next to Lopes’ bed. During the search of Lopes’ apartment, remote cameras were discovered inside each room as well as two hidden compartments. One of the hidden compartments was concealed inside a shelf and contained approximately $5,000 in cash, a box of ammunition and foam cut-outs for a firearm. The second hidden compartment was found inside a mirror and contained a foam insert:

    A subsequent examination of Lopes’ cellphone revealed messages, images and videos connecting Lopes to members of Cameron Street, unlawful firearm possession and drug trafficking proceeds:

    According to court documents, the Cameron Street gang is a violent criminal enterprise whose members and associates are involved in a variety of criminal activities – including murders, attempted murders, armed robberies, carjackings, home invasions, human trafficking, as well as drug and firearms trafficking, among other offenses – in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston and surrounding areas. It is alleged that Cameron Street members use violence against rival gangs and witnesses, typically with the use of firearms, to maintain and enhance their status and the overall reputation of the gang, as well as to protect the gang’s power, reputation and territory. Members engage in drug trafficking activity and distributed kilograms of cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine), oxycodone and marijuana throughout Massachusetts.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the cases.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants named in the indictment are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
        
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What has Brexit meant for the people of Scotland?

    Source: Scottish National Party

    With five years having passed since Scotland was dragged out of the EU as part of the UK, what has Brexit meant for people in Scotland?

    Brexit means…your weekly shop costs more than ever.

    Brexit means our NHS is missing out on thousands of doctors and nurses from the EU.

    Brexit means waiting in longer queues to travel abroad, and it has become much more difficult for anyone in Scotland to live or work in the EU – with touring musicians calling it a ‘catastrophe’.

    Scotland voted to stay in the EU.

    Scotland didn’t vote for Brexit.

    But the UK Government decided Scotland must Brexit.

    Brexit means there’s less public money, due to businesses losing revenue.

    Brexit means businesses who relied on buying goods from the EU, or selling to the EU, are having a really tough time of it.

    Thousands of businesses have had to close.

    Some politicians told us to  “vote No to stay in the EU” back in 2014. Bet they wish they could scrub those clips from the internet.

    Brexit means Scotland’s economy has lost out on billions of pounds due to trade barriers, with analysis showing exports have dropped by over 7%.

    Brexit means Nigel Farage is no longer the European Parliament’s problem. He’s now the UK’s problem.

    As he’s now the bookies’ favourite to be the next Prime Minister, he could soon be Scotland’s problem too.

    And Scotland didn’t vote for any of this.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Blockmate subsidiary Hivello commences token sale

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blockmate Ventures Inc (TSX.V: MATE) (OTCQB: MATEF) (FSE: 8MH1) (“Blockmate” or the “Company”) is pleased to confirm that its subsidiary, Hivello Holdings Ltd has commenced a public token sale event for its native token.

    The Hivello platform offers its users a passive income stream in exchange for their unutilized computing power to third party networks.

    Blockmate will not be directly issuing any tokens or receive any proceeds from the public token sale.

    The token will be issued by the Swiss-based HVLO Association, under licence from Hivello Holdings Ltd.

    Key details of the $HVLO token are outlined in the media release published by Hivello below.

    Hivello Announces Public Token Sale on DAOMaker, HyperGPT, & EclipsePad

    London & Amsterdam, January 28, 2025 – Hivello, the innovative DePIN mining platform, is thrilled to announce the public token sale of its native token, $HVLO, set to commence on January 31, 2025. The sale will be hosted on three prominent launchpads: DAOMaker, HyperGPT, and EclipsePad, offering participants equal opportunities to invest in the future of decentralized physical infrastructure networks.

    The $HVLO token sale is structured as a fair launch, ensuring that every participant receives the same terms. This approach underscores Hivello’s commitment to decentralization and fairness in the rapidly evolving Web3 landscape.

    Key Details of the $HVLO Token Sale:

    • Public Sale Start Date: January 31, 2025
    • Launchpads: DAOMaker, HyperGPT, EclipsePad
    • Token Unlock Schedule:
      • 25% of tokens will be unlocked at the Token Generation Event (TGE).
      • A one-month cliff will follow the initial unlock.
      • The remaining tokens will vest over a period of five months.
      • Team tokens will remain locked for nine months, ensuring alignment with the community’s long-term interests.

    Hivello’s unique approach to DePIN mining allows users to earn rewards by connecting unused computer resources to decentralized networks. The platform’s aspirational goal to integrate with every reputable DePIN positions it as a future leader in the DePIN ecosystem.

    “We are incredibly proud of the vibrant community that has grown around Hivello. Decentralization is not just a technological advancement; it’s a fundamental shift towards empowering humanity. With the upcoming token sale, our community now has the opportunity to take a stake in Hivello’s future, further aligning our shared vision of making DePIN mining so intuitive and accessible that onboarding the next 100 million users becomes a given,” said Domenic Carosa, Chairman and Co-founder of Hivello.

    Participants interested in the $HVLO token sale can find more information and the official launchpad links here: https://www.hivello.com/HVLO-token

    The token is being issued by HVLO Association (Switzerland) under licence from Hivello Holdings Ltd.

    (ENDS)

    About Blockmate Ventures Inc.
    Blockmate Ventures is a venture creator focussing on building fast growing technology businesses relating to cutting edge sectors such as blockchain, AI and renewable energy. Working with prospective founders, projects in incubation can benefit from the Blockmate ecosystem that offers tech, services, integrations and advice to accelerate the incubation of projects towards monetization. Recent projects include Hivello (download the free passive income app at www.hivello.com) and Sunified, digitising solar energy.

    The leadership team at Blockmate Ventures have successfully founded successful tech companies from the Dotcom era through to the social media era. Learn more about being a Blockmate at: www.blockmate.com.

    Blockmate welcomes investors to join the Company’s mailing list for the latest updates and industry research by subscribing at https://www.blockmate.com/subscribe.

    About Hivello
    Hivello is an aggregator of DePIN projects that allows any user to participate in a variety of DePIN networks with just a few clicks. This eliminates the technical hurdles that many users face when trying to join these networks, and allows users to generate an extra source of income by mobilizing their idle computers. We aim to create a simple app that allows users to contribute their computer resources with no technical knowledge required.

    For more information about Hivello and to stay updated on its developments, visit www.hivello.com

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Justin Rosenberg, CEO
    Blockmate Ventures Inc
    justin@blockmate.com
    (+1-580-262-6130)

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release

    Forward-Looking Information
    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on the assumptions, expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained herein. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Blockmate disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thinking of setting up a CIC? Take a look at our recent webinar

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    “From idea to Impact: Your Guide to setting up a CIC”. Take a look at our most recent joint webinar with the Business Support Service

    Picture advertising a webinar

    Take a look at our most recent joint webinar with the Business Support Service where they provide an insight to the free advice and guidance they can offer to you throughout your business journey; alongside a detailed explanation of how the CIC model operates and some great tips on how to complete a successful CIC application.

    “From idea to Impact: Your Guide to setting up a CIC”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dedicated team to serve businesses amongst DWP overhaul of employer support to Get Britain Working

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Ministers are encouraging UK businesses to work with Jobcentres to fill the thousands of jobs currently vacant as the UK goes for growth, the Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall set out today (30 January).

    • Following the Chancellor’s growth speech yesterday, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall visited fast growing UK retailer B&M – who successfully filled almost 3,000 vacancies using local jobcentres in 2024. 
    • The Work and Pensions Secretary has today set out overhaul the DWP’s approach to supporting employers to Get Britain Working again as part of Plan for Change.
    • Comes as just one in six businesses has ever used a Jobcentre to recruit with the latest data showing tens of thousands of vacancies in key sectors. 
    • New DWP team have built partnerships with 37 new industry leaders in just a few week as department transforms Jobcentres.

    It comes as the Work & Pensions Secretary visits B&M – a retailer that has had huge success using the Jobcentre network. As a fast growing UK retailer, B&M has filled almost 3,000 vacancies through the jobcentre network, with over 85% of new recruits coming directly through the DWP – benefiting jobseekers and the businesses’ growth. 

    The DWP has hit the ground running to reset engagement with employers through new teams to support employers, with dedicated account managers and a focus on growing the number of Jobcentre training programmes tailored to employer’s needs.

    As B&M has opened new stores across the country, it has teamed up with the local DWP team to run information sessions – offering interested candidates a guaranteed interview. 

    Over 73,000 jobs have been added to the labour market since the start of this Parliament according to the ONS, with new announcements in the Chancellor’s speech yesterday expected to add thousands more roles to the UK jobs market – including over 100,000 jobs in the local area around Heathrow. 

    However, new figures show only 1 in 6 employers surveyed reported using the JobCentre Plus network to hire for their business – highlighting the need for genuine reform. 

    That’s why as part of the Get Britain Working plan, the government will reform jobcentres by bringing it together with the National Careers Service to ensure people have better access to training and address local skills gaps and help train the workforce businesses need.

    The reforms to get Britain working and modernise the employment support offer are just one part of the Government’s Plan for Change, which will lay strong foundations to kickstart economic growth and break down barriers to opportunity across the country. 

    Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said: 

    To get Britain growing again, we need to get Britain working again.  

    As the HR department for the Government’s growth mission, our job is to work with businesses to meet their recruitment needs.

    To help employers grow, hire new staff, and boost opportunity in every corner of the country, we are determined to change our approach

    As part of reforming Jobcentres we will overhaul our service to better meet employer’s needs – turning the DWP into a genuine public employment service. So businesses can fill jobs and people can build a better life for themselves and their families.

    A B&M spokesperson said:

    There is a wealth of talent and experience in Jobcentres across the UK. We encourage other businesses to get in touch with their local Jobcentre and discover the talent that’s available in their community.

    The new dedicated team set up to support businesses of all sizes across the country with their recruitment needs has already added 37 new employers to the department’s roster in recent weeks, with notable names including Home Bargains, KFC and Swissport. 

    In a letter to CEOs from 10 of the UK’s top businesses, DWP ministers said that at a time when recruitment can be a major cost, the DWP “provides a service to help businesses grow and support people into work.

    To help other businesses replicate B&M’s success, the department is transforming its service for employers by:

    1. Hosting summits with employers and stakeholder representatives across sectors crucial to growth – including construction, social care and clean energy in the next three months. 
    2. Boosting the number of training programmes in these sectors on offer at Jobcentres to upskill jobseekers and provide employers with the work ready staff they need.   
    3. Serving employers through a dedicated team with highly experienced experts to provide recruitment support, including designing tailored campaigns to tackle large numbers of vacancies. 
    4. Providing an account manager for employers to get more information about how the JCP can help them and provide recruitment support – following feedback from businesses that they wanted an establish a single contact. 
    5. Commissioning Sir Charlie Mayfield to lead an independent review into the role of employers in reducing health-related inactivity and promoting healthy and inclusive workplaces – which is already underway.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at ultraprocessed food consumption and obesity in Canadian children

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in JAMA Network Open looks at UPF consumption and obesity in Canadian children. 

    Dr Ian Johnson, Nutrition researcher and Emeritus Fellow, Quadram Institute, said:

    “This study is consistent with previous work suggesting an association between consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and obesity, and it is interesting to see the link established at such an early age (although the study only seems to find a link in boys, not girls).  However, as with most such studies, and as the authors themselves seem to acknowledge, the general nature and poor specificity of the definition of UPF makes it very difficult to establish any causal mechanism.”

    ‘Ultraprocessed Food Consumption and Obesity Development in Canadian Children’ by Zheng Hao Chen et al. was published in JAMA Network Open at 16:00 UK time on Friday 31 January 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.57341

    Declared interests

    Dr Ian Johnson: “No conflict of interest.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch to Serve as Ranking Member of Rural Development and Energy Subcommittee on Agriculture; Constitution Subcommittee on Judiciary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch well-placed to bring vital resources to rural communities, enforce and protect constitutional rights and liberties
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today announced that in the 119th Congress, he will serve as Ranking Member on the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, as well as the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution. Serving as Ranking Member on these subcommittees position the Senator to continue his work addressing issues that matter to Vermonters—including supporting rural development programs and bolstering buildout of renewable energy and rural broadband, in addition to protecting constitutional rights and civil liberties. 
    “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as Ranking Member on these subcommittees to elevate the voices of Vermonters, support our rural communities, and safeguard our most important freedoms.  
    “I will focus my work on the Rural Development Subcommittee on strengthening rural America’s economy, supporting our farmers, and cutting costs for families. That includes securing wins for Vermonters in the upcoming Farm Bill and fighting to restore the Affordable Connectivity Program, which is a vital lifeline that helps millions of people access and afford high-speed internet. All of us, whether from red or blue states, should agree that lowering costs and protecting our freedoms is a top priority.   
    “At a time when Americans’ basic rights are under attack, I’m also committed to fighting against every attempt to undermine our constitutional protections. As Ranking Member of the Constitution Subcommittee, I’ll fight to preserve the most important pillars of our democracy and lead efforts to protect civil rights and give the American people a more active voice in our democracy. I’ll also push back against executive overreach and any action the Trump Administration takes to undermine the separation of powers, which is vital to preserving our system of checks and balances. 
    “I look forward to working across the aisle and working to achieve bipartisan results with Subcommittee Chairs Ernst and Schmitt to deliver results for Vermonters.” 
    As Ranking Member of the Rural Development, Energy, and Credit Subcommittee, Senator Welch will play a key role in the preparation of the 2025 Farm Bill, working to deliver for Vermont families and uplift rural communities. The Rural Development Subcommittee also oversees many of the programs in USDA’s Rural Development mission area, including renewable energy, economic development, and housing, pressing issues for many Vermont communities. In his capacity as Ranking Member of the Constitution Subcommittee, Senator Welch will be a leading voice in and pushing back against attempts to undermine vital civil rights protections and enforcing separation of powers.  
    Senator Welch’s Committee and Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress include: 

    Jurisdiction: Oversight of USDA’s Rural Development mission, including facilities, utilities, loans; Building out rural broadband; Advancing rural America’s access to affordable renewable energy. 

    Jurisdiction: Constitutional Amendments; Oversight of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice; Enforcement and Protection of Constitutional Rights; Statutory Guarantees of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties; Separation of Powers; Federal-State Relations; and Interstate Compacts. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Announces Subcommittee Assignments for the 119th Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    January 31, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his subcommittee assignments for the 119th Congress.

    “President Trump’s re-election provides a historic opportunity to get our country back on track,” said Ricketts. “On these subcommittees, I’ll work to unleash American energy, extend the Trump tax cuts, and restore American strength on the world stage.”

    Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee

    • Member, Subcommittee on Economic Policy
    • Member, Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection
    • Member, Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance

    Environment and Public Works Committee

    • Chairman, Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and Water
    • Member, Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure
    • Member, Subcommittee on Clean Air, Climate, and Nuclear Innovation and Safety

    Foreign Affairs Committee

    • Chairman, Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific and International Cybersecurity Policy
    • Member, Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation
    • Member, Subcommittee on State Department and USAID Management, International Operations and Bilateral International Development

    BACKGROUND

    U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs is responsible for matters related to banks and banking, price controls, deposit insurance, foreign trade promotion, export promotion and controls, and federal monetary policy. It has jurisdiction over financial exchanges, markets, and derivates, financial aid to commerce and industry, issuance of redemption of notes, and currency and coinage issues. Additionally, the Committee is responsible for public and private housing, urban development, mass transit, and government contracts. This includes oversight of the Federal Reserve System, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Export-Import Bank, and the Federal Housing Administration.

    U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works is responsible for legislation and oversight of the natural and built environment and for studying matters concerning environmental protection and resource conservation and utilization. This includes oversight of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

    U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations is instrumental in developing, influencing, and overseeing U.S. foreign policy. The Committee considers, debates, and reports important treaties and legislation involving everything from foreign aid to arms sales to international organizations like the United Nations. It overseas the U.S. State Department and holds jurisdiction over all diplomatic nominations, including the U.S. Secretary of State. Ricketts will be the second highest ranking Republican on the Committee.

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