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  • MIL-OSI USA: Armstrong: Senate confirmation of Burgum as Interior Secretary is good for North Dakota and the nation

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Gov. Kelly Armstrong released the following statement today after the U.S. Senate voted to confirm former Gov. Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior, making him the second North Dakotan to hold the position. Armstrong reached out to Burgum to congratulate him on his confirmation.

    “The strong support Governor Burgum received throughout the confirmation process speaks volumes about his unique qualifications to serve as Secretary of the Interior,” Armstrong said. “His background in energy, tribal relations, national parks and other public lands makes him the right person at the right time to lead the Department of the Interior, which touches every aspect of our lives in North Dakota. Doug understands that safe, responsible development of our nation’s abundant natural resources is key to curbing inflation, growing the economy and paying down our national debt for future generations. He will be an incredible asset to the Trump administration and, as chair of the National Energy Council, will help usher in a new era of U.S. energy dominance that benefits all Americans with reliable, affordable power.”

    As Interior Secretary, Burgum will lead the U.S. Department of the Interior, a Cabinet-level agency that manages the nation’s natural and cultural resources. The department employs approximately 70,000 employees in 11 technical bureaus: the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Survey, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation & Enforcement, and the federal bureaus of Indian Affairs, Indian Education, Land Management, Ocean Energy Management, Reclamation, Safety & Environmental Enforcement, and Trust Funds Administration. The department provides access to more than 500 million acres of public lands, 700 million acres of subsurface minerals, and 1.7 billion acres of the Outer Continental Shelf.

    Trump also has appointed Burgum to chair the newly created National Energy Council. As chairman, Burgum will also have a seat on the National Security Council.

    Burgum is the first native North Dakotan to lead a U.S. Cabinet agency since former Gov. Ed Schafer led the U.S. Department of Agriculture in 2008-2009 and the second North Dakotan to serve as Interior Secretary. Kintyre, N.D., native Tom Kleppe served as Interior Secretary in 1975.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Dakota Development Fund Invests in Innovation, Child Care, and Economic Growth

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The North Dakota Department of Commerce announced today that four companies were approved for a total of $3 million in funding in Q4 through the North Dakota Development Fund Inc. (NDDF).

    “The NDDF continues to play a pivotal role in advancing North Dakota’s economy by backing innovative projects and community-focused initiatives,” said Shayden Akason, Head of Investments and Innovation at the North Dakota Department of Commerce. “These strategic investments not only address key needs but also foster long-term economic stability and opportunity.” 

    Funding highlights: 

    • Airtonomy Inc., DBA Thread received a $2 million investment for working capital. 
    • Little Miracles Learning Center LLC was approved for a $340,000 loan to expand an existing child care facility and increase capacity. 
    • A $1 million SAFE investment for working capital was approved for Checkable Medical Incorporated. 
    • Shining Lights Children’s Program LLC was approved for a $160,000 loan to purchase a property for expansion. 

    The North Dakota Development Fund, created in 1991, provides flexible funding for new or expanding North Dakota businesses and manages the Child Care Loan Program. 

    More information about the NDDF can be found at belegendary.link/North-Dakota-Development-Fund. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Hampshire Congressional Delegation, Community Organizations and Granite Staters Speak Out About Devastating Impact of Trump’s Cut to Federal Grants and Loans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), as well as U.S. Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), joined Manchester School District Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel, Strafford County Community Action Partnership CEO Betsey Andrews Parker, Amoskeag Health CEO Kris McCracken, Professional Firefighters of NH and other New Hampshire organizations for a virtual event to outline the ways that President Trump’s halt of nearly all federal grants and loans is impacting New Hampshire families and communities. 
    You can watch the full press conference here.
    “We’ve got millions of people across the country, and thousands in New Hampshire, who have no idea if they’re going to be able to get the services that they’re depending on because the White House has been so confused about what they’ve done and they haven’t been able to issue any clear answers,” said Senator Shaheen. “We need to see the President repeal these executive orders because what he has done is not going to help people lower their food prices, pay their rents, get the child care that they need or the health care that they need for their families.”
    “President Trump’s illegal cut of federal funds includes grants for police officers, firefighters, our efforts to crackdown on fentanyl, special education programs, small business loans, community health centers, homeless shelters for veterans…virtually every aspect of American life. The White House keeps sowing chaos and confusion about the status of this funding. But make no mistake. People’s safety, their jobs, their health, our fire and police departments…shouldn’t hang in the balance subject to the confused wordings and impulsive whims of the next tweet or memo,” said Senator Maggie Hassan.
    “The actions taken by the Trump Administration to freeze federal funds will have a devastating impact on communities across New Hampshire and will significantly hurt our state’s ability to address housing concerns, fight addiction, preserve public safety, and make sure that Granite Staters have what they need. These federal funds are more than just lines on a spreadsheet in Washington D.C. This is about people here in New Hampshire and the ability of our communities to come together to help those in need and build a stronger future for us all. This fight is not over, and my message to Granite Staters is that we will do all that we can to protect these resources and ensure that our communities remain healthy, strong, and safe,” said Congressman Pappas.
    “This week I’ve traveled across the Second District — from the North Country to Nashua and from Keene to Concord. I’ve talked to our workers, teachers, police officers, firefighters, health care providers, small businesses, mayors, and town managers. The through line of every conversation has been an intense concern about the wide-ranging and devastating impacts that losing the federal funding promised to New Hampshire will have on our way of life,” said Representative Maggie Goodlander. “Real people right here in New Hampshire are paying the price for President Trump’s lawless, chaotic efforts to cut off federal funding. That is unacceptable. I will never stop fighting with every possible tool to deliver for New Hampshire.”
    “Our priorities have not changed.  We will continue to provide services to our clients and support our team until we are directed otherwise.  We will adapt to the changing landscape so clients that depend on our agency for services such as childcare, fuel assistance, transportation, and food can continue to access these resources. We greatly appreciate the support of the New Hampshire delegation during this challenging time.” said Betsey Andrews Parker, CEO Community Action Partnership of Strafford County.
    “The Portsmouth Police Department depends on federal grants to fund programs impacting local, seacoast, and statewide communities. Locally, federal grant funds are utilized for bulletproof vests for officers and enforcement patrols on our roadways, which include speed, distracted driving, DUI, and pedestrian/bike enforcement. With the help of federal dollars, we offer victim witness advocate services, staff training, and law enforcement equipment such as body-worn cameras and investigative equipment… the loss of these funds would reduce staff, significantly impact investigations into internet-based sexual crimes against children that have skyrocketed and continue to climb, and impact services for victims of crime, roadway safety, and the safety of our officers,” said Mark Newport, Chief of Police, Portsmouth Police Department in a letter.
    “Uncertainty makes development difficult. While we work in a field rife with uncertainty, we know we can rely on our funding sources to be steady, when we have the funding we can move forward. It upsets our ability to commit to community projects when we cannot know whether or not the funding we have been awarded to build housing will actually be available to us when the time comes to call on those funds. In a relatively high-risk development environment, in a critical need area for our communities, we need the federal funds to be stable. Being left without promised funds on a project could easily mean the financial collapse of the project, a loss of years worth of time and effort. Depending on the projects size, it could have a major impact on our ability to operate,” said Harrison Kanzler, Executive Director, AHEAD Inc.
    “As NH’s only center for independent living, serving thousands of individuals living with a disability, the consequences of EO-M-25-13, would have caused thousands of Granite Staters living with a disability to be left without critical services.  These services are in place to provide and assist with daily needs, including transportation, personal care, education, and workforce training.  The very services provided by GSIL and funded by federal grants, such as benefits counseling, workforce readiness, and transition services are an integral part in the promotion of living independently,” said Deborah Ritcey, MPA/HA, President & Chief Executive Officer, Granite State Independent Living (GSIL).
    “As a private non-profit community development corporation that is focused on providing affordable housing for granite staters, we have worked with numerous federal programs over the past thirty years, and the one thing we need to keep doing our work is consistency and reliability.  So when we are faced with distractions that cause chaos and confusion throughout our sector, it makes the difficult work of building affordable housing even that much more challenging,” said Robert Tourigny, Executive Director, NeighborWorks Southern New Hampshire.
    “While we were relieved that the Administration intended to exclude rental assistance from the spending freeze, funding that we rely on to provide self-sufficiency services to working families, build new affordable housing, and reduce our energy costs were all targeted. On behalf of the nearly 930 senior, disabled and working families we serve, we are grateful to all of the individuals, organizations and elected officials across the country for their advocacy,” said Joshua Meehan, Executive Director, Keene Housing.
    “Federal funding is a lifeline for Community Health Centers, which deliver comprehensive primary care, mental and behavioral health, dental, and other essential primary care services to over 330,000 patients across New Hampshire and Vermont. With the uncertainty around the status of health centers’ federal grant funding, we are extremely concerned about the ability of their patients to access the services they need,” said Tess Kuenning, President & CEO of Bi-State Primary Care Association.
    “Ammonoosuc Community Health Services is a federally qualified health center that integrated primary preventive services in the rural White Mountains of Northern New Hampshire to nearly 10,000 patients a year, across five strategically located care delivery sites. In fact, we serve 1 out of every 3 residents within our service area.  Our patients receive care that is nationally recognized.  Our outcomes for patient with depression or diabetes exceeds national healthy people goals since 2009, top two FQHC for colorectal cancer screening (2018), top 16 FQHC in overall cancer screening (2023).  All accomplished in a financially responsible manner where our annual financial audit has always been free of any concerns and 95% of our patients recommend us to friends, family and neighbors who need care. All in all we govern ACHS in a responsible and predictable manner.  As an FQHC we provide services to everyone, regardless of social and economic status. The President’s unprecedented and unannounced freeze on nearly all federal funding meant an immediate freeze on nearly $180,000 in monthly drawdown payments and catapulted my staff into 24 hours of uncertainty and chaos while we tried to get clarification from the administration. Clarification that never came. This type of governing is categorically not a responsible way to govern, has real world impacts, and wasteful in diverting critical resources away from our core mission of providing outstanding health care services to those in our community who need it most. As the CEO and steward of ACHS, The People’s Health Center, I take responsible governance seriously and I expect those elected by the people to take their responsibility seriously as well,” said Ed Shanshala, CEO, ACHS.
    On Wednesday night, Shaheen spoke on the Senate floor to condemn the Trump administration’s order to take away federal grants and loans that families, seniors and small businesses in all 50 states rely on for critical, often life-saving services. Shaheen illustrated the chaos caused by the extreme order by sharing the stories of many Granite Staters she has heard from in the past two days.
    On Monday, the Trump administration’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) announced a sweeping executive order pausing almost all forms of federal assistance to states, nonprofits, non-governmental organizations and more. Senator Shaheen immediately condemned the move and emphasized the impact it will have on communities. The full list that agencies were directed to review encompasses over 2,600 assistance programs, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP), Women, Infants and Children (WIC), community health centers, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), transportation and highway funding, energy assistance programs, water infrastructure funding, State Opioid Targeted Response grants, GI Bill, veteran compensation for service connected disabilities, Section 8 housing vouchers, school breakfast and lunch, Title I education grants, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Head Start.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: ESET Triumphs as AV-Comparatives’ 2024 Product of the Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRATISLAVA, Slovakia, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, is proud to announce that ESET HOME Security Essential has been named AV-Comparatives’ Product of the Year for 2024. This prestigious award recognizes ESET HOME Security Essential for Windows for its outstanding performance and reliability in protecting consumers against a wide range of cyber threats.

    In 2024, AV-Comparatives subjected 16 consumer security products for Windows to rigorous testing, evaluating their ability to protect against real-world Internet threats, identify recent malicious programs, defend against advanced targeted attacks, and provide protection without slowing down the PC. ESET HOME Security Essential emerged as the top performer, receiving the highest Advanced+ Award in all seven tests conducted throughout the year.

    As stated in the AV-Comparatives’ Summary Report 2024, “Reviewers were impressed by the clean, intuitive user interface designed for non-expert users, as well as the extensive customization and scan options available for power users.”

    Although the majority of vendors make auto-renewal mandatory, the report points out that, most commendably, ESET is among those vendors who do not impose auto-renewal on users. The report further highlights ESET HOME Security Essential as a well-designed and easy-to-use security product that provides safe default settings and essential features easily accessible to all users.

    Andreas Clementi, founder and CEO of AV-Comparatives, commented on ESET’s recognition: “ESET’s performance throughout our 2024 tests has been consistently strong, earning high ratings across multiple categories. The awards reflect the product’s reliability in malware protection, usability, and system performance. ESET HOME Security Essential demonstrated a well-balanced approach, providing effective security without imposing a significant burden on the system, which many users will appreciate.”

    “We are honored to be recognized as AV-Comparatives’ Product of the Year for 2024. This award is a testament to our commitment to providing high-performance, technologically advanced security solutions that protect digital lives of our customers without compromising their device performance. We will continue to innovate and enhance our products to address real-life cybersecurity and privacy needs of our users, so they can enjoy the full potential of themselves and their technology in a secure digital world,” said Viktória Ivanová, Vice President of Consumer and IoT Segment at ESET.

    ESET HOME Security for Windows is designed to offer high-performance protection with low system impact, utilizing multilayered technologies that go beyond basic antivirus capabilities.

    Discover more about ESET HOME Security solutions here.

    About ESET

    ESET® provides cutting-edge digital security to prevent attacks before they happen. By combining the power of AI and human expertise, ESET stays ahead of known and emerging cyberthreats — securing businesses, critical infrastructure, and individuals. Whether it’s endpoint, cloud, or mobile protection, our AI-native, cloud-first solutions and services remain highly effective and easy to use. ESET technology includes robust detection and response, ultra-secure encryption, and multifactor authentication. With 24/7 real-time defense and strong local support, we keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. An ever-evolving digital landscape demands a progressive approach to security: ESET is committed to world-class research and powerful threat intelligence, backed by R&D centers and a strong global partner network. For more information, visit www.eset.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Humans Group 2024 Financial and Operational Results: Fintech Service Humans Pay is a Key Growth Driver with 60% YoY Revenue Increase

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Humans Group recorded significant growth across all key metrics: turnover, revenue, and customer numbers. The active user base of its super app ecosystem grew to over 2.3 million people by the end of 2024, a 28% year-on-year increase.

    TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Humans Group of companies has published its final report on its activities in Uzbekistan for 2024. Turnover reached UZS 17,777 billion, and gross revenue totaled UZS 515.4 billion. Net revenue increased by 9.82% compared to the previous year.

    Ecosystem Growth

    The Humans super app provides unique, market-leading services for the Uzbek market. It combines mobile services, a fintech service called Humans Pay, Humans Yaxshi, a grocery delivery service from local markets, and Humans Market, a marketplace for buying everyday goods. The ecosystem also includes a cashback program.

    The active customer base of the Humans ecosystem is steadily growing, providing a positive outlook for further market expansion. At the end of 2024, the customer base of the Humans ecosystem exceeded 2.3 million users, reflecting a 28.01% increase compared to 2023.

    Customers are increasingly using the Humans app as a super app to meet their daily needs. As of December 2023, nearly 88% of customers active within the past 30 days used only mobile services. By September 2024, this share had decreased to 84.6%. Currently, more than 1.25 million customers are combining at least two services within the super app.

    Vlad Dobrynin, CEO and founder of Humans Group, said: “The addition of new services to the ecosystem consistently leads to an increase in the number of active users and a rise in transaction frequency. In 2025, we plan to offer new convenient products to our customers, such as a ‘buy now, pay later’ service and a microloan service.”

    “We will also launch a social platform for targeted peer-to-peer assistance to those in need. Further, we will continue to expand the range of products in the Humans Market marketplace and increase the Humans Yaxshi delivery area to 50 cities in Uzbekistan.”

    Humans Pay: A Key Driver of Net Revenue Growth

    Fintech remains one of the main drivers for the development of the Humans super app. Net revenue of the Humans Pay payment and transfer service reached UZS 133.1 billion in 2024, an increase of 59.98% compared to 2023. The number of unique clients of the Humans Pay service exceeded 701,410 in the first three quarters of 2024, a 21.27% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

    Alongside user growth, there has been a corresponding increase in transactions. Clients are using the Humans Pay service more frequently, making more transactions, and transferring larger amounts of money. In the first three quarters of 2024, the total volume of card-to-card transfers increased by 151.6% year-on-year, while the number of transactions per active user rose by 62.15%.

    Humans Mobile: Customers Choose Unlimited Internet

    The telecom service is also reaching an increasingly larger share of the Uzbek population. The number of active telecom clients of Humans surpassed 1.56 million in 2024. Among them, 279,200 are already using unlimited internet packages, a 78.55% increase compared to last year.

    “In 2024, Humans demonstrated double-digit growth in almost all key performance indicators. We significantly strengthened our position in the telecom business and confirmed the effectiveness of our strategy aimed at transitioning telecom service users to an ecosystem product,” added Vladimir Dobrynin.

    Despite the impressive growth figures, the potential for growth in the Humans Pay fintech service has been slowed by the unprecedented actions of the Central Bank of Uzbekistan and the biased, discriminatory policies of the regulator. The Humans team did everything possible to support the growth of the ecosystem and, most importantly, to continue driving development,” noted Vladimir Dobrynin.

    Customer Support: AI Sets New Service Standards

    The quality of customer service is a high priority for Humans. Today, 92% of user inquiries are resolved on the first contact with the call center by phone, and 91% on the first contact via chat. However, to deliver ever superior standards of customer care in 2024 Humans Group implemented an AI-based personalized offer system.

    The platform selects the most relevant services for the customer based on their request, for example, mobile service plans. This ensures call center operators recommend only relevant and optimal services for customers, saving their time. As a result, the AI platform simultaneously improves communication efficiency and user satisfaction.

    Team: The “Daily Pay” Project as an Element of Social Responsibility

    Reflecting Humans Group dedication to corporate social responsibility and employee well-being, in 2024 the company introduced a ‘Daily Pay’ system for its customer support employees. This system rewards staff with bonuses the morning after they have hit daily targets.

    The speed of this remuneration is unprecedented and provides team members with confidence in their financial planning, leading to increased motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction. The system had previously been trialled, with enormous success, across the Humans retail network among salespeople, supervisors, and couriers.

    About Humans

    Humans.uz is a super app that combines the fintech service Humans Pay, mobile communication services Humans Mobile, the grocery delivery service from bazaars Humans Yaxshi, and the product marketplace Humans Market. The project was launched in June 2020 in Uzbekistan as part of the Humans Group operations which also includes the employee search platform Humans.net in the USA. The group’s offices are located in the USA, Uzbekistan, Poland, Singapore, and Germany.

    Website

    https://humans.uz/en/

    Contact

    Natalia Ikonnikova
    pr@humans.net

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by the Humans. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information shared in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment, financial, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you conduct thorough research and consult with a professional financial advisor before making any investment or trading decisions. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/62483b00-501d-4c1f-b4b9-9e26fbafe651

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government going further and faster to bring growth to Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Chancellor has committed to going further and faster to put more money in working people’s pockets across Wales.

    HM Treasury

    Working people and businesses across Wales are to benefit from reforms to drive investment and get Britain building. The Chancellor has committed to going further and faster to put more money in working people’s pockets across Wales and deliver on the UK Government’s Plan for Change. 

    Below sets out specific benefits for Wales as a result of the Chancellor’s decisions today (29 January).

    Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone 

    • Having confirmed funding for the Investment Zones programme at Autumn Budget, the government can now confirm that the Wrexham and Flintshire Investment Zone (IZ) will focus on advanced manufacturing.
    • There are major international businesses in the region including JCB and Airbus, which the IZ will support, as well as the wider advanced manufacturing supply chain in the region. At present the IZ is expected to generate £1bn of private investment, creating up to 6000 new high quality jobs.
    • The IZ’s interventions will be focused around sites in: 
      • Deeside and Deeside industrial estate which houses Tata Steel and Toyota; 
      • Hawarden Airport, where Airbus are based; 
      • Llay Industrial Estate – which houses a number of key aerospace businesses; and 
      • Wrexham Industrial Estate – which houses a wide range of advanced manufacturing business, including JCB. 

    Sustainable Aviation Fuel

    • The UK government is investing £63m into the Advanced Fuels Fund in 2025-26 and has today set out the details of how it will deliver a Revenue Certainty Mechanism to encourage investment into this growing industry. These measures will encourage more investors to back production in the UK, bringing good, high-skilled jobs to areas like South Wales.

    Inactivity Trailblazers

    • Getting more people back into work is crucial if we want a dynamic economy, and it is good for jobless people too. Over nine million people are inactive, of which a record 2.8 million people are out of work due to long-term sickness. The outdated employment support system is ill equipped to respond to this growing challenge.
    • We have committed £240m of investment towards 16 trailblazers including one for every MCA and one in Wales to tackle the root causes of inactivity, eight of which will be used to support the Youth Guarantee, the remaining eight will be focused on tackling health-related inactivity.
    • The Inactivity trailblazers will be delivered across Wales.

    National Wealth Fund Support

    • The government remains committed to working in close partnership with the Welsh Government through the National Wealth Fund to maximise investment opportunities to deliver growth in all corners of the UK.

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said:

    I’m delighted that we are moving forward with the Investment Zone for Wrexham and Flintshire with £160 million from the UK Government to drive economic growth in advanced manufacturing.

    In December I met leaders from the advanced manufacturing sector at Toyota in Deeside and visited two hugely successful supply chain businesses. I saw the huge potential for growth and for building on the talent and expertise that already exists in this part of Wales.

    This Investment Zone will super-charge economic growth, create up to 6000 new jobs and generate £1bn of private investment which will have a transformational impact for people living and working in northeast Wales.

    The Chancellor is also reviewing the Treasury’s investment guidance in the Green Book to ensure it is being used to provide objective, transparent advice on public investment across the country, reporting at Phase 2 of the Spending Review.

    Pushing forwards with strategic infrastructure and investment across all four corners of the UK is key to delivering the UK Government’s Growth Mission. Bringing the productivity of major cities to the national average would deliver an extra £33bn in economic output, and measures set out today extend beyond this to kickstart a decade of national renewal.

    This is just the start, and further regional growth announcements will follow through the year. The government is hardwiring plans for regional growth into the Spending Review, and into plans for infrastructure, investment and the industrial strategy. The UK Government is also working with the Welsh Government to ensure the benefits of growth can be felt across Wales, including by partnering on the Industrial Strategy to support Wales’s considerable sectoral strengths.

    Tim Knowles, Founder and Managing Director of FI Real Estate Management, said: 

    As an investor in Wrexham for almost 20 years, we’re delighted to see the announcement that Wrexham and Flintshire will receive Advanced Manufacturing Investment Zone status, with three of our schemes on Wrexham Industrial Estate – Wrexham 1M, Wrexham 152, and Bridgeway Centre – forming part of the designated zone.

    Across these sites, we’ll be investing £115m to create new, high-quality industrial accommodation, supporting the creation of over 1,000 new jobs and delivering an estimated economic value of £1.2bn in Wrexham over the next 10 years.

    This is a significant milestone for North Wales, and we look forward to working in partnership with stakeholders to leverage this opportunity for strategic investment in the area, helping to supercharge the region’s advanced manufacturing sector.

    In collaboration with local authorities and wider stakeholders, we need to ensure that we capitalise on all the opportunities this moment brings. We’ve long recognised the potential for North Wales to become a thriving hub for innovation, and we’re excited that our developments can play an important part in this next chapter.

    Mark Turner, JCB’s Chief Operating Officer said:

    JCB has been a prominent feature of the industrial and economic landscape in Wrexham and Flintshire for over 45 years. Innovation is the lifeblood of our business and we welcome the creation of an Investment Zone in North Wales and hope that it will attract many other businesses to the area. As an advanced manufacturer of precision engineering components, JCB Transmissions looks forward to other advanced manufacturing businesses coming to the area. This could go a long way towards building the supply chain resilience of existing manufacturing businesses in the area, such as JCB.

    We place a lot of values on skills in our business and we look forward to the Investment Zone positively supporting skills development in the future. JCB continues to invest in our business in Wrexham and today’s IZ announcement bodes well for the economic development of the area in the future.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations Continues 2025 Regular Session

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Meetings Coverage

    2025 Regular Session,

    3rd & 4th Meetings (AM & PM)

    (Due to the liquidity crisis affecting the United Nations, the Meetings Coverage Section was unable to cover these meetings.)

    A subsidiary body of the Economic and Social Council, the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations continued its annual session today.

    The 19-member Committee is tasked with the consideration of applications for consultative status and requests for reclassification submitted by NGOs; the consideration of quadrennial reports submitted by NGOs in General and Special categories; the implementation of the provisions of Council resolution 1996/31 and the monitoring of the consultative relationship; and any other issues which the Economic and Social Council may request the Committee to consider.

    Non-governmental organizations

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations Opens 2025 Regular Session

    Source: United Nations 4

    Meetings Coverage

    2025 Regular Session,

    1st & 2nd Meetings (AM & PM)

    (Due to the liquidity crisis affecting the United Nations, the Meetings Coverage Section was unable to cover these meetings.)

    A subsidiary body of the Economic and Social Council, the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations opened its annual session today.

    The 19-member Committee is tasked with the consideration of applications for consultative status and requests for reclassification submitted by NGOs; the consideration of quadrennial reports submitted by NGOs in General and Special categories; the implementation of the provisions of Council resolution 1996/31 and the monitoring of the consultative relationship; and any other issues which the Economic and Social Council may request the Committee to consider.

    Non-governmental organizations

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kansas Delegation Releases Statement Following the Wichita Flight Crash

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    “Our prayers are with the families and friends of those affected by the tragic plane crash that occurred in our nation’s capital. South central Kansas is a close community, and it’s likely that many of us directly or indirectly know people who were on Flight 5342 on Jan. 29. This is a sad day for Kansans and our nation, and this community, steeped in aviation and manufacturing history, will feel the pain of this catastrophe for years to come. We are grateful for the first responders and rescue crews who worked through the night. Our focus now is supporting the family and friends of those who perished, including the crew and military personnel, and then getting answers for the grieving individuals who have lost a loved one and making sure this doesn’t happen again.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Reports Presented on Culture and Inclusion Along with Health

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on January 31, 2025

    The Advisory Committee on Francophone Affairs presented the Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs, Alana Ross, with two new reports detailing their on-going review and analysis of programs and policies in both the culture and inclusion sector, as well as the health sector. These reports are used to guide the implementation of Saskatchewan’s French-language Services Policy. 

    “The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to ongoing engagement with the Francophone community,” Ross said. “We look forward to continuing to work together on these and other important opportunities to address the needs of French communities across the province.”

    In preparing these reports, the committee met with representatives from ministries and agencies, as well as representatives of Francophone community organizations. The resulting reports contain several recommendations. 

    “I am honored to support the vitality of the French language and culture in Saskatchewan,” Advisory Committee on Francophone Affairs Chair Alpha Barry said. “The two reports released today offer thoughtful and actionable recommendations on culture and health that would improve access to French-language services across the province, in alignment with the French-language Services Policy. These efforts underscore our collective commitment to meeting the needs of Saskatchewan’s Francophone community and fostering its continued growth and vibrancy.”

    For more information on the Advisory Committee’s work and the full reports, visit: www.saskatchewan.ca/fab.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: London ETO celebrates Year of Snake and promotes liquor trade in Scotland

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London (London ETO), in collaboration with the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC), hosted the “Toast to the Snake” reception in Glasgow, the United Kingdom (UK), in the evening of January 30 (London time) to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

         Speaking at the reception, the Director-General of the London ETO, Mr Gilford Law, highlighted Hong Kong’s unique advantages under “one country, two systems” including the common law regime, the free flow of capital, people and information, and policy support from the Mainland. Mr Law emphasised that those strengths did not go unnoticed. He said, “Hong Kong saw a record number of 9 960 non-local companies operating in the city last year, representing a 10 per cent year-on-year increase, with 720 of them coming from the UK. The International Monetary Fund had also reaffirmed Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre and recognised the resilience of the city’s financial system.”

         Around 270 guests from the business, academic and cultural sectors as well as the Chinese community attended the reception. Among the guests were the Minister for Business of the Scottish Government, the Lord Provost of the City of Glasgow, and the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Edinburgh.

         In the morning of the same day, the London ETO and Invest Hong Kong sponsored CBBC’s China Consumer Scotland 2025 event, featuring among others a panel discussion on the opportunities arising from Hong Kong’s reduction of liquor duty as announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address”. Mr Law highlighted in his welcome speech that various high value-added sectors, such as logistics and storage, tourism as well as food and beverage would also benefit from this new measure. He encouraged Scottish brands to grasp this opportunity.

         Speaking at one of the panel discussions, the Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion of the InvestHK London Office, Ms Daisy Ip said, “Hong Kong boasts a thriving premium spirits market and a diverse range of high-end bars and dining establishments, making it a significant growth market for spirits. The city offers well-developed cold chain logistics services, robust logistics networks, and seamless connection with the Mainland and key Southeast Asian markets. Hong Kong can serve as Asia’s hub for liquor trade and distribution.”

         The China Consumer Scotland 2025 event was attended by close to 50 business representatives who were related to the spirits industry or interested in the opportunities in the Chinese market.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint Press Release: Agencies Announce Second Public Outreach Meeting as Part of Their Review of Regulations

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
    Federal Reserve Board
    Office of the Comptroller of the Currency

    Federal bank regulatory agencies will hold a virtual public outreach meeting on March 6, 2025, as part of their review of regulations, as required by law. The Economic Growth and Regulatory Paperwork Reduction Act (EGRPRA) requires the agencies, with input from the public, to review their regulations at least once every 10 years to identify any outdated or otherwise unnecessary regulatory requirements applicable to their supervised institutions.

    The outreach meeting is an opportunity for interested stakeholders to present their views on the six categories of regulations listed in the first two Federal Register notices: Applications and Reporting; Powers and Activities; International Operations; Consumer Protection; Directors, Officers and Employees; and Money Laundering.

    Individuals interested in providing oral comments must register by February 14, 2025, and indicate the regulatory category or categories they would like to discuss. The agencies will notify those individuals selected to provide comments. Advance registration is not required to attend this virtual public meeting as an observer.

    Additional details, including a link to attend the meeting, will be available on the EGRPRA website under the outreach page.

    The agencies will announce additional public meetings in 2025.

    ###

    MEDIA CONTACTS:

    FDIC

    LaJuan Williams-Young

    (202) 898-3876

    FRB

    Chelsea Grate

    (202) 452-2955

    OCC

    Anne Edgecomb

    (202) 649-6870

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Update on Alert: Extracorporeal Blood Circuit Issue from Nuwellis

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This communication is part of the Communications Pilot to Enhance the Medical Device Recall Program. This recall involves removing certain devices from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it. The affected products and recommendations below have not changed. 

    Affected Product

    The FDA is aware that Nuwellis has issued a letter to affected health care providers recommending certain lots of AquaFlexFlow UF 500 Plus extracorporeal blood circuits be removed from use:

    • AquaFlexFlow UF 500 Plus Extracorporeal Blood Circuit
    • Catalog #: A06163
    • Model #: 114156
    • UDI: 10853072007111
    • Affected Lot Numbers:
    22697 22698 22699 22700 22701 22702
    22703 22704 22705 22706 22707 22708
    22721 22722 22723 22724 22733 22734
    22735 22736 22737 22738 22739 22740

    What to Do

    • On December 11, 2024, Nuwellis sent all affected customers an Urgent: Medical Device Recall recommending the following actions:
      • Immediately discontinue use of these affected lots to minimize risk of injury.
      • Review the lot number on the device labeling to preemptively visually identify affected product. The image below is an example AquaFlexFlow UF 500 Plus Label. In this example, the lot number is circled in red to highlight where to find this information on the product labeling. 
      • Do not ignore or override any console alarms.

    Reason for Alert

    The AquaFlexFlow UF 500 Plus extracorporeal blood circuit, used with the Aquadex SmartFlow and FlexFlow Systems, may indicate “Ultrafiltrate Weight Mismatch” or “Excessive Weight Mismatch” alarms while in use. If too many weight mismatch alarms occur, the Aquadex console will terminate therapy with that blood circuit. If therapy is terminated, it could cause excess fluid removal from a patient, leading to acute volume depletion, which could also be referred to as hypovolemia or dehydration, which is especially serious in pediatric patients. A new blood circuit must be primed if continued therapy is desired.

    Nuwellis has reported 3 injuries associated with this issue.

    Device Use

    The AquaFlexFlow UF 500 Plus is a single use blood circuit set indicated for use with the Aquadex SmartFlow Systems. The Aquadex SmartFlow System is indicated for continuous ultrafiltration therapy for use in adult and pediatric patients whose fluid overload is unresponsive to medical management, including diuretics.

    Contact Information

    Customers in the U.S. with adverse reactions, quality problems, or questions about this recall should contact Nuwellis Customer Service at orders@nuwellis.com or 855-786-2778.

    Additional FDA Resources

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)

    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from distribution to use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified more quickly, and as a result, problems potentially resolved more quickly.

    How do I report a problem?

    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Goodwood Inc. Announces Suspension of Redemptions and Suspension of NAV Calculation for the Goodwood Capital Fund

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Goodwood Inc. (“Goodwood”), the manager of Goodwood Capital Fund (the “Fund”), pursuant to an exemptive relief decision obtained from the Ontario Securities Commission, announced today that the Fund has received (a) approval to permit the Fund to suspend for a period of 90 days the right of its unitholders to request that the Fund redeem their units of the Fund (the Suspension of Redemptions); and (b) an exemption from the requirement for the Fund to calculate its net asset value once a week during the period of suspension for the purposes of processing subscriptions and redemptions (the Suspension of NAV Calculations).   

    Goodwood believes that it is in the best interest of unitholders to terminate the Fund and intends to commence actions to terminate the Fund. However, the Fund’s termination cannot be effected immediately. In order to protect the interests and ensure the equal treatment of its investors, Goodwood believes that suspending redemptions at this time and proceeding with an orderly wind-up of the Fund is in the best interests of unitholders of the Fund. This will enable the Fund to distribute the maximum amount of assets pro rata to all its unitholders as quickly as possible in an orderly manner and to allocate termination costs equally across the remaining investor base. It will also ensure that all current unitholders are treated in a similar manner in connection with the termination of the Fund, rather than providing an advantage to “first moving” unitholders who are quicker to submit their redemption requests.

    Goodwood will not earn or collect management fees from the Fund while the Suspension of Redemptions and the Suspension of NAV Calculations remains in effect. Any request for redemption submitted but not yet filled will be similarly suspended. Goodwood will continue to determine the net asset value of the Fund for purposes other than processing redemptions and subscriptions.

    Goodwood will reach out to unitholders of the Fund directly with additional information and communication regarding the process for termination.

    Additional information about Goodwood is available at www.goodwoodfunds.com.

    Curt Cumming
    President, Goodwood Inc.
    (416) 203-2522, cscumming@goodwoodfunds.com
    Website: www.goodwoodfunds.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Prosafe SE: Fourth-quarter results 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    (Figures in brackets refer to the corresponding period last year)

    31 January 2025 – Prosafe SE reported EBITDA of USD 4.9 million (negative USD 2.7 million) for the fourth quarter of 2024. The company had four active vessels during the quarter.

    Operations and HSSE

    • Good operating and safety performance on all vessels
    • 57% utilisation (50%), four out of seven vessels operating during the quarter
      • 100% utilisation on the operating fleet in Brazil and US Gulf of Mexico
    • Strong commercial performance during 2024 with 44% increase in backlog from prior year
      • Backlog of USD 370 million (USD 238 million)
      • Safe Zephyrus extension to Q3 2027 finalised, adding USD 109 million to backlog
      • Contracts for Safe Boreas and Safe Caledonia plus Safe Concordia contract extension

    Q4 financials

    • Revenues of USD 37.0 million (USD 29.6 million) and EBITDA of USD 4.9 million (negative USD 2.7 million)
    • Cash flow from operations of nil (USD 3.8 million) due to Safe Boreas and Safe Caledonia SPS/reactivation
    • Capex of USD 8.0 million (USD 4.8 million)
    • Liquidity position of USD 46.8 million with expected runway to mid-2025, compared to USD 63.5 million at end Q3 2024 and USD 74.6 million at year-end 2023
    • Refinancing expected to complete H1 2025, likely to include equity component in form of debt for equity conversion and/or equity injection as part of the overall structure

    Market and outlook

    • Brazil market strengthening with new tenders for up to 6 units
    • North Sea operators continue to plan for future campaigns
    • Increased backlog and improved outlook create a platform to strengthen liquidity and achieve a sustainable capital structure

    See Q4 presentation for further details

    Terje Askvig, the CEO of Prosafe, says, “The global accommodation market continues to strengthen led by growing demand in Brazil, in line with expectations. The new long-term Petrobras tenders may absorb further capacity from outside Brazil on top of units already in the country. Prosafe stands to benefit as the market leader in Brazil. Improved market fundamentals, increased backlog and high operational efficiency support our expectations of future earnings growth and provide a robust foundation for establishing sustainable capital structure prior to 2025 maturity.”

    Presentation 

    Terje Askvig, CEO, and Reese McNeel, CFO, will present the results at Pareto Securities, located at Dronning Mauds gate 3, 0115 Oslo, on 3 February 2025 at 10:00 CET.

    This presentation is open to the public and will be live-streamed on Prosafe’s website.

    https://wwww.prosafe.com

    It will be possible to ask questions during the presentation by using the Q&A tool embedded in the audiocast. These questions will be answered after the presentation.

    A replay of the audiocast will be made available on Prosafe’s website shortly after.

    The Q4 2024 press release and presentation is attached and can be downloaded from https://www.prosafe.com and www.newsweb.no (https://www.newsweb.no). The 2024 annual report will be published 30 April 2024.

    Prosafe is a leading owner and operator of semi-submersible accommodation vessels. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with ticker code PRS. For more information, please refer to www.prosafe.com (https:///www.prosafe.com)

    For further information, please contact: 

    Terje Askvig, CEO Phone: +47 952 03 886

    Reese McNeel, CFO Phone: +47 415 08 186

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Laken Riley’s Mother: President Trump “Is a Man of His Word”

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    “I thank President Trump for the promises he made to us. He said he would secure our borders and that he would never forget about Laken. And he hasn’t. He’s a man of his word.” –Laken Riley’s mother Allyson Phillips

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2H6U1MYLtIw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Agencies announce second public outreach meeting as part of their review of regulations

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    .

    January 31, 2025
    Agencies announce second public outreach meeting as part of their review of regulations

    Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
    Federal Reserve Board
    Office of the Comptroller of the Currency

    For release at 11:00 a.m. EST

    Federal bank regulatory agencies will hold a virtual public outreach meeting on March 6, 2025, as part of their review of regulations, as required by law. The Economic Growth and Regulatory Paperwork Reduction Act (EGRPRA) requires the agencies, with input from the public, to review their regulations at least once every 10 years to identify any outdated or otherwise unnecessary regulatory requirements applicable to their supervised institutions.
    The outreach meeting is an opportunity for interested stakeholders to present their views on the six categories of regulations listed in the first two Federal Register notices: applications and reporting; powers and activities; international operations; consumer protection; directors, officers and employees; and money laundering.
    Individuals interested in providing oral comments must register by February 14, 2025, and indicate the regulatory category or categories they would like to discuss. The agencies will notify those individuals selected to provide comments. Advance registration is not required to attend this virtual public meeting as an observer.
    Additional details, including a link to attend the meeting, will be available on the EGRPRA website under the outreach page.
    The agencies will announce additional public meetings in 2025.

    Last Update: January 31, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU research team develops ‘superglue’ to help fight cancer more effectively

    Source: European Union 2

    We all know someone touched by cancer. And although science is all about facts and evidence, it can also be about our personal stories and emotions.  

    Erika Pineda Ramírez lost her dad to cancer. Alba García-Fernández lost her grandmother and aunt, also to cancer. They are now doing research with the goal of finding more effective treatments for cancer patients.   

    In 2024, Alba and Erika started working on NanoGlue, a new approach to help the immune system fight cancer more effectively. Their project is funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), through the ARISTOS Postdoctoral Program in Biomedicine and Health Sciences and it is developed at CIBER-BBN, Centro de Investigación Principe Felipe, and Universitat Politècnica de València. 

    To mark World Cancer Day, they joined our European Research Executive Agency colleague and breast cancer survivor, Sofia Pereira Sá, for a conversation on the cancer cells’ ability to hide from the immune system, the heavy side effects of treatments and the hope NanoGlue can bring to millions of patients. 

    More effective treatments with less heavy side effects 

    Sofia Pereira Sá: Let’s first talk about your MSCA-funded project. What is NanoGlue and what can its results and findings mean for patients like me? 

    Alba García-Fernández: Our ultimate goal is to provide more effective treatments with less side effects to improve patients’ quality of life. We do this by designing new nanoparticles and then activate the immune system of the patients to attack the tumour.  

    This kind of immunotherapy would be more effective and would help avoid and limit undesirable side effects, that we see with current treatments.  

    Erika Pineda Ramirez: We also want to study the interaction between the cancer cells and the immune cells in a metabolic level. We would then be able to propose novel and more efficient therapies.  

    Recent reports in Spanish news outlets have referred to the NanoGlue innovative treatment as a “superglue” for triple negative breast cancer, a notoriously aggressive form of the disease. 

    Sofia: Can the project’s approach have broader applications, benefiting patients with other types of cancer?  

    Erika: First, I want to explain why we called it a “superglue”; it is because our nanoparticles will enhance the immune system’s ability to detect and respond to cancer, helping the body to attack the cancer and kill it.  

    Alba: The nanoparticles are a versatile platform, and we can select and modify them depending on our needs. We chose to test it with triple negative breast cancer because it represents a major health challenge. It’s a good starting point for validating our nanoparticles.  

    Sofia: How are you combining different scientific areas and how can that be crucial to achieve better scientific results? 

    Erika: We work with experts in nanotechnology, biotechnology, biology, metabolomics, and oncology. Having all these people with different expertise helps us see the problems from different angles and find better solutions. 

    The future of cancer research – a patient’s perspective 

    Erika: What was the biggest challenge for you as a patient?  

    Sofia: The side effects played a big role when it came to my physical and mental wellbeing. Especially because all these side effects prevented me from being the mum I wanted to be for my one and half-year-old son. I couldn’t play with him, I couldn’t bathe him, I couldn’t take him to school. This was the hardest part of the whole treatment. It was heartbreaking.  

    My diagnosis was made in summer 2023 and after 20 rounds of chemotherapy I still feel some side effects, such as the so called “chemo brain”. I’d love to see therapies advance in a way that gives patients a better quality of life. 

    Erika: Besides reducing side effects, what do you think researchers should be aware of doing cancer research?  

    Sofia: Being only 34 years old and seeing the chemotherapy medication going into my bloodstream and knowing that I was somehow “poisoning” myself to get treated was a very traumatic experience. Thankfully, you and other cancer researchers are already tackling that by trying to find more targeted therapies.  

    A second thing I think is important is fertility. More and more young women are being diagnosed with hormonal breast cancer exactly when they are planning to have children. I wish researchers could find a way to preserve breast cancer patients’ possibilities of still becoming mothers. 

    The future of cancer research – a scientist’s perspective 

    Sofia: What do you think cancer researchers will be focusing on in the next years?  

    Alba: My immediate thought is personalised medicines for both treatment and diagnosis. 

    Erika: I totally agree with Alba – personalised medicine is the future but also having more multidisciplinary because we need expertise from different areas. 

    Sofia: What is your experience with EU funding, and how do you think it will be relevant for your work on NanoGlue? 

    Alba: I have had previous experience with EU funding, as I was part of a project funded by the EIC Pathfinder programme for cancer therapy. It is thanks to EU funding that us researchers can work on innovative ideas like this and explore different paths. I believe NanoGlue is a next level initiative for our future.  

    Erika: EU funding helps us take ideas and turn them into actions. I wanted to do cancer research for years, but in Mexico, my home country, I didn’t have much support to do it. The MSCA funding gave me this great opportunity of working in this field with top researchers, and to use equipment I didn’t have the opportunity to use before. For me, it was a dream come true. 

    Discover more

    Check out what the European Commission is doing to improving the lives of more than 3 million people by 2030 through cancer prevention and cure – EU Mission: Cancer. For more MSCA news and funding opportunities, visit out our dedicated page.

    Curious to find out more about Alba and Erika’s research? You can check out ARISTOS’s website and follow them on social media:

    Alba García-Fernández: LinkedIn

    Erika Pineda Ramírez: LinkedIn, X

    ARISTOS Program: LinkedIn, X

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NIE reps available in Derg area

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    NIE reps available in Derg area

    31 January 2025

    NIE representatives will be on site today Friday, 31 January 2025, for anyone in the Derg area that needs support and advice.

    They will have officials on site from 11am to 7pm at the following : –

    Plumbridge, Glenelly House

    Derg Valley LC (3-7pm only)

    For more info visit – https://www.nienetworks.co.uk/news/article/2025/storm-eowyn-assistance-centre

    Meanwhile our other Leisure Centres remain open and available for warmth, hot drinks, showers and power to charge devices

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bringing art to life at the Tower Museum

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Bringing art to life at the Tower Museum

    31 January 2025

    This February the Tower Museum will be bringing the stories behind some famous art works to life as part of the Playful Museums Festival, which is supported by the Northern Ireland Museums Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council and funded by Art Fund.

    As part of this programme a series of events will be held in the Tower Museum on February 12th and February 19th, aimed at children under five.

    Led by the wonderfully creative MakeyUppers, the ‘Living Art – Stories behind the Art’ events will take a peep behind the frames of some well-known art pieces, to find out more about their history.

    The aim of the festival is to nurture creativity in young children from an early age, by promoting better understanding of the work through story-telling and interactive activities.

    Four sessions will take place in the Tower Museum’s learning space at 11am and 2pm on the 12th and 19th February and can be booked by families, carers and nurseries/ playschools.

    Archivist with the Tower Museum, Bernadette Walsh, encouraged people to book early to avoid disappointment. “The Art UK’s ‘Superpower of Looking’ learning programme is the inspiration for this series and the museum team here want to find new ways to make art and history more accessible to a wider audience. The events will provide an opportunity for children – as well as their carers and teachers – to really engage with art and see how the selected pieces link to their emotions, as well as people, places and objects they are familiar with.

    “Storytelling, based around the selected artworks, will allow the children to play, create and communicate. It’s a fun way to help equip children with the lifelong skill of visual literacy and nurture a love of not only viewing art but also making art. I would really advise booking ahead to ensure a space at the free events.”

    Each session will include a craft-based activity, constructive play and, or, sensory sessions and children can take home their own piece of art to enjoy.

    To book a place contact [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A taste of South Africa at LegenDerry Food Month

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    A taste of South Africa at LegenDerry Food Month

    31 January 2025

    Fairley’s Flavours, the local artisan brand bringing the vibrant tastes of South Africa to Northern Ireland, is hosting exclusive cooking classes as part of this year’s LegenDerry Food Month.

    The programme is delivered by the LegenDerry Food Network with support from Derry City and Strabane District Council, and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Regional Food Programme.

    It’s the third outing for the festival which has become a firm favourite among local foodies, bringing new and exciting experiences to a growing audience keen to find out more about the authentic flavours of the North West’s dynamic food scene.

    The hands-on cookery classes will take place on Saturday, 15th February, at Eglinton Community Hall, offering couples a chance to dive into the rich, dynamic world of food, learning how to prepare dishes that highlight the best of both South African traditions and Derry’s exceptional local produce.

    Known for its bold artisan hot sauces, South African-inspired street food, and private catering, Fairley’s Flavours celebrates the fusion of global flavours with local ingredients, creating a unique culinary experience that’s both exciting and authentic.

    Two class times are available: 12pm–2.30pm and 3.30pm–6pm, with tickets priced at £120 per couple. Spaces are limited, so book now at fairleysflavours.co.uk.

    Hannah Ramraj of Fairley’s Flavours says: “Our mission at Fairley’s Flavours is to bring the bold and vibrant tastes of South Africa to Northern Ireland, using the incredible local ingredients we’re so proud of here in Derry. These classes are a celebration of flavour, culture, and creativity – a chance to share our passion for great food in a fun and interactive way. We’re thrilled to be part of LegenDerry Food Month and can’t wait to welcome everyone to cook, learn, and enjoy with us.”

    Guests will be greeted with a stunning cheeseboard featuring Dart Mountain Cheese, alongside soft drinks, tea, and coffee. At their cooking stations, participants will create their own sweet and savoury charcuterie boards, featuring a carefully curated selection of local and LegenDerry produce. Guests can take their finished boards home or enjoy them during the event.

    The main event is a BBQ masterclass, where Chef Fairley will share tips on lighting a traditional charcoal BBQ (or “braai” as it’s known in South Africa) before guiding guests in cooking their choice of ribeye steak or Foyle Bia Mara mussels. The meal will be completed with a freshly prepared sauce, Broighter Gold Rapeseed Oil, freshly baked bread, and a crisp green salad.

    To finish, guests will be treated to an indulgent dessert (soon to be revealed) that promises to leave a lasting impression.

    Book Now to Secure Your Spot: Spaces for these exclusive cooking classes are limited, so don’t miss your chance to experience the unique fusion of South African and Northern Irish cuisine.

    • Tickets: £120 per couple
    • When: Saturday, 15th February (12pm–2.30pm and 3.30pm–6pm)
    • Where: Eglinton Community Hall
    • How to Book: Visit fairleysflavours.co.uk

    Visit www.legenderryfood.com/events for full event listings and booking details.

    Or explore Visit Derry for things to see and do, accommodation. Plus, for places to eat and drink ww.visitderry.com.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Neighbours’ stand against drug-related activity helps Council evict a nuisance tenant

    Source: City of York

    Following a ruling by a District Judge yesterday, a Council tenant has been evicted as his drink and drug-related activities and anti-social behaviour caused misery for his neighbours

    The Council was granted a possession order by York County Court to end the tenancy of Dawon Belleh, aged 42 of 8 Oldman Court, Foxwood. Mr Belleh was evicted yesterday, Thursday 30 January 2025.

    This follows reports from neighbours to the Council and police about drink and drug taking and dealing, loud noise and arguments at the apartment, and an endless succession of visitors. The anti-social behaviour in the property and area was a continual source of disruption and concerns for local people who were worried about its impact on their families.

    City of York Council officers served a legal warning of eviction (a Notice of Intention to Seek Possession) on Mr Belleh, which he breached. This resulted in the Council being granted an eviction order (a Suspended Possession Order) by York County Court, to be activated only if further breaches were found.  

    Following complaints from neighbours and evidence of loud noise, drink and drug taking, numerous and anti-social visitors, the Council returned the case to York County Court where, after considering evidence, the Judge granted the Council permission to apply for a warrant of eviction.

    Mr Belleh asked the court to suspend the warrant of eviction which was refused on 30 January by the District Judge. Council officers then evicted Mr Belleh, advising him where he could apply for new housing, should he need it.

    Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said:

    Our tenancy agreements specify that criminal or anti-social behaviour can result in tenancies being ended. Thanks to Mr Belleh’s neighbours co-operating with the Council and police, their evidence and reports ensured that we were able to stop the nuisance they experienced from this tenant. This case sends a clear message we will take action to protect neighbours and free homes to tenants who respect and abide by the tenancy agreements.”

    Sergeant Charlotte Gregory of North Yorkshire Police, added:

    Drug use and antisocial behaviour has a detrimental impact of the quality of life for local people. It’s unacceptable and we’ll use all the powers and resources available to us to take action against those who make other people’s lives a misery.

    “This result is evidence of our joint working with City of York Council and my thanks go to them for their work that has culminated in this eviction. I hope local people are reassured that we will take action and will continue to do so, as part of Project Titan, a York-based operation to tackle drugs and the impact on our communities.”

    Please report anti-social behaviour here or report it to the police on 101 if a non-emergency.

    Anti-social noise levels can be reported here or by calling 01904 551525 Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm, or by calling the Noise Patrol 01904 551555 from 9pm Friday to 3am Saturday and between 9pm Saturday to 3am Sunday.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Communities Together Grant – APPLY NOW!

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council is creating a new plan to bring communities together and prevent future unrest following the widespread disorder last summer. We want local voluntary, community, and faith groups to join us in shaping this strategy.

    As we prepare to develop this strategy, we have received £57,000 from HM Government to support local projects. We invite voluntary, community, and faith groups in Liverpool to apply for funding to run small projects in their communities.

    Liverpool based VCF organisations can apply for a one-off grant up to a maximum of £2,500. Eligibility criteria and a list of project examples are provided within the Grant Specification available here.

    Organisations will be required to feedback to us what has been delivered, and play an active role in shaping the cohesion strategy throughout 2025. This might be through a written submission, a survey, or an informal meeting/conversation, whichever suits your organisation and community.

    We welcome involvement from both long-established and recently established groups across the city.

    • Helps communities to respond to periods of tension through initiatives that strengthen connections, promote unity and shared values.
    • Supports local partnerships in building stronger and more connected communities by funding projects in at-risk areas. 
    • Equips communities to challenge extreme narratives and ideologies that create division.
    • Brings communities together to improve cohesion and reduce divisions in places facing extremism challenges. 

    Apply online here for the Communities Together Grant programme.

    If you have a query that is not included in the Grant Specification please email communitestogether@liverpool.gov.uk  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on Everton Park Lifestyles Centre

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Earlier this month, the City Council had to close part of Everton Park Lifestyles Centre due to structural damage to the roof.

    This means the dry-side facilities, like the sports hall, gym, and squash courts, are temporarily closed, and we’re asking members to use these facilities at an alternative Lifestyles Centre. The swimming pool at Everton Park Lifestyles remains open and operational as usual.

    The City Council is working with a contractor to carry out a detailed assessment to inform recommendations on next steps. Once this is completed, there will be a tender and procurement process for the necessary remedial works.

    Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “We understand the concerns raised by our Lifestyles members, community and gymnastic groups who use the centre, and will keep listening and working with you to address them.

    “I am in regular contact with the City Council teams involved to ensure the issue will be resolved as soon as possible.

    “We’d like to thank everyone for their understanding and patience, and we’ll provide a further update once plans are finalised.”

    In relation to the Community Asset Transfer, discussions with Notre Dame Catholic Academy are ongoing, and the City Council remains committed to working together with them, to ensure the facilities have a sustainable future.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New service set to help Liverpool “Liv Life” to the full

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool residents looking to achieve and maintain a healthy weight can get support from a brand new service that has now launched.

    Liv Life Liverpool is free to access for anyone in the city and is informed by the findings set out in Public Health Liverpool’s groundbreaking State of Health in the City: Liverpool 2040 report.

    The programme is underpinned by behaviour change approaches following consultation with partners including the NHS, as well as the wider community. The aim is to support up to about 1,000 families and 2,000 adults in the first year.

    Anyone can sign up for Liv Life Liverpool via the website, they do not have to be referred by a professional, but need to meet eligibility criteria before a personalised plan is developed.

    Designed to support individuals, families and pregnant women, Liv Life Liverpool will also be aligned with the council’s Neighbourhood Model to ensure that services throughout Liverpool’s communities will be engaged.

    Liv Life Liverpool plans last for 12 weeks and include:

    • One-to-one coaching, with sessions taking place either in person or virtually
    • Weigh-and-stay or weigh-and-go groups
    • Physical activity groups.

    There will also be on-the-go support from the free Best-You app which can also help with reducing alcohol consumption and stopping smoking.

    All the different elements of the programme have been tailored to support people to develop knowledge and practical skills around food and cooking and physical activity which will ensure a successful and sustainable journey towards achieving a healthy weight.

    Almost two thirds of adults in Liverpool, 63 per cent, are overweight and about a quarter of children start primary school overweight, increasing to one in three children aged 11 being overweight or obese by the time they enter secondary school.

    You can follow Liv Life Liverpool on Facebook and Instagram.

    Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing Cllr Harry Doyle said: “Liv Life Liverpool is a brilliant toolbox for residents to use to support them to eat healthily and to get more active.

    “Trying to achieve a healthy weight can be daunting for many people. The team at ICE Creates understands this so have developed an evidence-based programme that has plenty of support built in to make sure that change is not only sustainable but enjoyable.

    “Whilst losing excess weight is important for reducing the likelihood of serious health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type-2 diabetes, Liv Life Liverpool is about more than just the numbers on a scale. It’s about building healthy habits that will last a lifetime.”

    Matt Ashton, Liverpool’s Director of Public Health, said: “I am thrilled we are now offering the right support to create a healthy weight culture, that benefits everyone in Liverpool.

    “We’re excited to be on this journey to improve the health and wellbeing outcomes with our residents, and working in multiple partnership including ICE Creates, Liverpool City Council’s Neighbourhood Managers, Food Active and Feeding Liverpool.”

    ICE Creates’ Liv Life Liverpool’s service and engagement lead Jamie Prescott, said: “As service lead I am looking forward to engaging with the many excellent partners we have in this city, with the ultimate aim of helping people to make small but crucial changes. We want to help families and adults across Liverpool to improve their long-term health and believe this service can really make a difference.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Changes to Assets Eligible as Collateral under the Bank of Canada’s Standing Liquidity Facility

    Source: Bank of Canada

    As announced on June 11, 2024, the Bank of Canada made Secured General Collateral (SGC) Notes eligible as collateral under the Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF), pending necessary system enhancements. Today, the Bank is announcing that it has completed these system updates and is operationally ready to accept SGC notes as collateral once they are issued. This milestone marks a significant step in supporting the development of this new market.

    The Bank is also updating the policy to streamline Lynx participants’ access to liquidity for exceptional cases. Specifically, it will now agree to accept requests to increase a participant’s non-mortgage loan portfolio (NMLP) concentration limit on a same day basis in exceptional cases, for a very limited period, to accommodate the liquidity needs of individual Lynx participants when there are extremely large FMI critical payment flows. This change is reflected in the concentration limits condition of the policy and is being implemented to better support Lynx participants in managing their liquidity needs.

    Further, the Bank has reviewed the margin requirements that apply to NMLP collateral. Margin requirements for two categories have been updated: The haircut for secured consumer loans decreased by 5 percentage points to 65% and the haircut for unsecured business loans decreased by 10 percentage points to 40%. The updated margin requirements will apply as per the table below. The overall haircut for NMLP continues to be the weighted average margin for these categories.

    Non-mortgage loan category Margin Requirement
    Unsecured consumer loans 85%
    Secured consumer loans 65%
    Unsecured business loans 40%
    Secured business loans 30%

    The list of Assets Eligible as Collateral under the Bank of Canada’s Standing Liquidity Facility has been updated to reflect these changes. For further information, please contact:

    Director
    Financial Markets Department
    Bank of Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Legislation considered under suspension of the Rules of the House of Representatives during the week of February 3, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives announces bills that will be considered under suspension of the rules in that chamber. Under suspension, floor debate is limited, all floor amendments are prohibited, points of order against the bill are waived, and final passage requires a two-thirds majority vote.

    At the request of the Majority Leader and the House Committee on the Budget, CBO estimates the effects of those bills on direct spending and revenues. CBO has limited time to review the legislation before consideration. Although it is possible in most cases to determine whether the legislation would affect direct spending or revenues, time may be insufficient to estimate the magnitude of those effects. If CBO has prepared estimates for similar or identical legislation, a more detailed assessment of budgetary effects, including effects on spending subject to appropriation, may be included.

    CBO’s estimates of the bills that have been posted for possible consideration under suspension of the rules during the week of February 3, 2025, include:

    • H.R. 42, Alaska Native Settlement Trust Eligibility Act
    • H.R. 43, Alaska Native Village Municipal Lands Restoration Act of 2025
    • H.R. 226, Eastern Band of Cherokee Historic Lands Reacquisition Act
    • H.R. 235, National Museum of Play Recognition Act
    • H.R. 776, Nutria Eradication and Control Reauthorization Act of 2025
    • H.R. __, 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act
    • H.R. __, To require the Secretary of Agriculture to convey the Pleasant Valley Ranger District Administrative Site to Gila County, Arizona
    • H.R. __, Emergency Wildfire Fighting Technology Act of 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Suffolk City, VA

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Suffolk City, VA

    Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Suffolk City, VA

    PHILADELPHIA– FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Suffolk City, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period. The 90-day appeal period began Jan. 15, 2025.The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator: Margaret Pittenger at mpittenger@suffolkva.us. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Region 3 Flood Map Changes Viewer.For more information about the flood maps:Use a live chat service about flood maps at FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX). Click on the “Live Chat” icon.Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.Suffolk City, VA Flood Mapping MilestonesMarch 30, 2023 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.April 29, 2024 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.May 29, 2024 — Community Coordination Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.Jan.15, 2025 –Appeal Period starts.June 2026* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov. ###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.Follow us on “X” at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
    erika.osullivan
    Fri, 01/31/2025 – 14:49

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Veterans get more time to transition to new online login system

    Source: US Department of Veterans Affairs

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lankford Applauds Competitive Federal Transportation Grant Awards in Eastern Oklahoma

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford

    WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) applauded the award of competitive federal grants to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT). ODOT was awarded grant funding for two projects in Oklahoma from the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program (Rural) under the consolidated Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant (MPDG) opportunity.

    The MidAmerica Connectivity Project in Pryor, OK, was awarded $38.7 million to expand and improve the safety of infrastructure supporting the MidAmerica Industrial Park. The project includes roadway reconstruction, widenings, new and improved interchanges, and enhanced pedestrian accessibility. The MidAmerica Industrial Park is one of the largest in the nation. Another project award consisted of $30 million to widen US-259 through Hochatown to accommodate the dramatic growth of this vibrant destination in southeast Oklahoma. 

    “The United States has many critical infrastructure needs, including the vital infrastructure needs in Oklahoma,” said Lankford. “I have worked for years to help Oklahomans in Hochatown raise relevant concerns and preferences for how to safely and efficiently widen the US highway through town for increased commercial and tourism traffic, while also prioritizing the local community’s needs and the significant pedestrian traffic in the area. As the MidAmerica facility continues to grow and bring in significant economic opportunities to eastern Oklahoma, their infrastructure and connectivity needs to also grow,. I am grateful for these investments in our state and for the ongoing work of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to address the needs of critical infrastructure in our state with the help of competitive federal grants and state matching dollars.”

    “Our cooperative investments in transportation infrastructure are vital to improving safety and connecting Oklahoma communities. The enhancements at MidAmerica Industrial Park and in the Hochatown community are critical in supporting Oklahoma’s continued growth and strengthening the state’s transportation network,” said Tim Gatz, Oklahoma Department of Transportation Executive Director. “We are grateful for Senator Lankford’s infrastructure leadership and for the support of Oklahoma’s delegation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –