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  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads Senate Armed Services Committee in Secretary of the Army Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led his committee colleagues in a hearing examining the nomination of Mr. Daniel P. Driscoll, President Trump’s nominee to serve as the next Secretary of the Army.
    In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker recounted the many challenges facing the United States Army in its effort to modernize and develop new ways of deterring our adversaries.
    The Army, Chairman Wicker noted, is failing to realize the full potential of recruitment opportunities.  He also noted the Army’s need to refocus on transforming its material readiness to ensure it can properly support conflict in Europe or the Western Pacific. Specifically, Chairman Wicker called for Mr. Driscoll to improve army initiatives on small unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS).
    “I believe Mr. Driscoll’s record, his Army service, his legal background, and financial experience have prepared him to handle the myriad responsibilities of Army Secretary. If he’s confirmed, Mr. Driscoll will face the challenges I’ve already outlined. He will be handed a budget that has not kept pace with inflation. He’ll also take the helm at a time of increasing danger around the world,” Chairman Wicker said. “…[The Army] must choose to remain relevant in today’s complex threat environment, the Army should accelerate its transformation efforts and focus on new portions of the defense industrial base. It should expand its work on small unmanned aerial systems, or UAS, and counter-UAS.”
    Chairman Wicker previously met with Driscoll, commenting that the nominee that “would bring relevant combat experience, a decorated military career, and a proven track record at the highest levels of law and business to keep the Army focused on its mission.”
    Read the remarks as delivered below or watch them here.
    The hearing will come to order. We thank the witnesses for being here, and those in attendance.
    Certainly, all of us are concerned and saddened by the tragedy which occurred near Reagan National Airport last night, and I ask that the committee observe a moment of silence before we begin the hearing.
    Thank you very much.
    The Committee on Armed Services has convened this hearing to consider the pending nomination of Mr. Dan Driscoll to be the 26th Secretary of the Army. In support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Mr. Driscoll served our country in Iraq, spending four years with the Army. So, we thank him, and the entire Driscoll family: his wife Dr. Cassie Driscoll, and their two children, Daniel and Lila, who could not be with us today, for their willingness to serve this country again, by accepting this new assignment.
    After his military service, Mr. Driscoll received his law degree from Yale and has worked in private equity and venture capital, all the while he’s retained many ties to his former service.
    The Army faces a complex array of challenges. Recruitment and retention improved last year, but the Army still has more than 10,000 fewer recruits than it did in 2023. Since the beginning of the Biden administration, the service is down 36,000 soldiers. On top of that, the Army is not taking full advantage of opportunities to nurture interest in military service. Almost 300 high schools sit on a waiting list to get their own Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps unit. These units mean more than potential individual recruits. They represent communities where the Department of Defense can put down roots, developing the Army of leaders for tomorrow, as well as excellent citizens for our entire society.
    As the service catches up on recruitment, it must also ensure that those who do enlist are equipped for the mission. The nature of large-scale combat operations is changing. The world sees this every week in Ukraine. To be ready for potential combat in the Western Pacific, the Army must expedite modernization efforts.
    On top of recruitment and modernization projects, the next Secretary of the Army must address the service member quality of life issues that afflict this, the largest service. In the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, the Army increased funding for barracks maintenance problems, but the effects of decades of neglect cannot be fixed overnight. The Army has a facility backlog of more than $100 billion. I offered an amendment which passed the most recent NDAA requiring all of the service to adopt minimum annual facility sustainment levels. My colleagues and I need to see evidence that this change has been embraced within the service.
    I believe Mr. Driscoll’s record, his Army service, his legal background, and financial experience have prepared him to handle the myriad responsibilities of Army Secretary. If he’s confirmed, Mr. Driscoll will face the challenges I’ve already outlined.
    He will be handed a budget that has not kept pace with inflation. He’ll also take the helm at a time of increasing danger around the world.
    The Army is playing a largely quiet but crucial role in the Western Pacific. It is deepening partnerships with our allies and partners in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, the service is helping us maintain deterrence against the Chinese Communist Party, and it ensures that our South Korean allies are postured to prevent North Korean aggression.
    Soldiers from across the United States remain stationed in Europe. Their presence helps deter Russia and helps assure our NATO allies.
    In the Middle East, the Army continues to play a lead role in combating Iranian aggression.
    Clearly, the Army’s work has been instrumental in these theaters. It must choose to remain relevant in today’s complex threat environment, the Army should accelerate its transformation efforts and focus on new portions of the defense industrial base. It should expand its work on small unmanned aerial systems, or UAS, and counter-UAS. And I say that even as I recognize and appreciate the chief of staff the Army’s focus in this area.
    In the Western Pacific theater, the Army’s contribution to sensing and shooting remains in its infancy. The service has the chance to realize its key logistics role for the joint force in contested areas, but it can do so with significant investment and focus.
    So, I look forward to this hearing on how Mr. Driscoll will work to change the culture around the issues I have listed, as well as other pressing matters. And I now recognize my friend, the ranking member of the committee, Senator Jack Reed for any opening remarks he may offer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Baldwin Pens Op-ed Outlining Her Opposition to RFK, Jr.’s Nomination to be Nation’s Top Health Official

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Newsweek published the following op-ed penned by U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) ahead of her questioning of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., nominee for Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, in front of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP):
    Newsweek: RFK Jr. Is Bad for Our Health
    When I was 9 years old, I was diagnosed with a serious illness similar to spinal meningitis. The experience not only landed me in the hospital for three months, it also shaped the rest of my life. I was a child with a pre-existing condition, uninsurable for more than a decade after I got better.
    I got into politics because of my experience with health care, and it informs how I think about keeping Americans safe and well today. I know what it’s like to be a child in a hospital bed and just how important it is to protect children from life-threatening diseases.
    I’m committed to giving President Donald Trump’s nominees a fair shake and continue to carefully evaluate if each nominee will help or hurt my constituents. This, of course, includes the position to lead our nation’s largest public health agency. While I have been proud to support various Republican nominees—I even introduced former Wisconsin Rep. Sean Duffy in front of the Senate Commerce Committee to be secretary of transportation—there are some that clearly will hurt American families.
    Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is one of them. RFK Jr. has been nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), an agency that is responsible for keeping our nation healthy. HHS is charged with overseeing vaccines to stop the spread of diseases like polio and measles, spearheading lifesaving research into cures for cancer and Alzheimer’s, and so much more.
    Make no mistake, this agency has helped save the lives of millions from diseases through safe vaccines. It has given hope to millions who now have treatments and cures for cancer and other illnesses. The agency is far from perfect and needs reforms—and I have some good places to start—but the head of the HHS better believe in its core mission to keep people healthy and believe the experts, not conspiracy theories. That’s why I believe Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is simply unfit for this position.
    Kennedy is one of the top spreaders of misinformation about vaccines, peddling bogus conspiracy theories that these safe and effective protections for Americans are harmful. He said that “no vaccine is safe and effective.”
    Well, I’d bet the tens of millions of people who don’t have polio, measles, mumps, and many other diseases because of vaccines would beg to differ.
    He’s questioned the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine that was first developed under President Donald Trump and even tried to stop it from being used just six months after its rollout. This vaccine saved millions of lives and allowed Americans to return to work and school safely.
    RFK Jr. helped spread anti-vaccination conspiracy theories, fueling a measles outbreak in Samoa that led to the deaths of 83 people, primarily infants and children. He’s threatened to downsize the National Institutes of Health, which work every day to find lifesaving breakthroughs and treatments for cancer, Alzheimer’s, infectious diseases, chronic health conditions, diabetes, and so many other illnesses that have an impact millions of American families.
    As a child who spent months in a hospital bed, I know the consequences of not protecting our kids from serious illness. I know the toll it takes on a family, emotionally and financially, to have a loved one hospitalized for a serious disease. I also know what it’s like to have science-backed medicine and good health care. And that all starts at the top of the federal government’s largest health agency, the Department of Health and Human Services. All of us have the responsibility to protect our kids and families, and that includes soundly rejecting a nominee who has spent much of his career spreading misinformation that endangers American lives.
    Americans deserve a leading health official who believes in science, not conspiracies. And Americans agree. I urge my colleagues to ask themselves a simple question: will this nominee keep your constituents safe, or harm them? For Robert F. Kennedy Jr., I think the answer is clear.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Warning of Serious Public Health Threats from Trump Administration Freeze on Critical Health Alerts, Including Disease Outbreak and Food Contamination

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WISCONSIN – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined a group of her colleagues in introducing a resolution calling for uninterrupted health warning services for the American people following reports that the Trump Administration has paused critical communications from federal health agencies, including warnings on disease outbreaks and food contamination.
    “Wisconsinites need to know if diseases are spreading nearby, if there are food recalls, or about ongoing outbreaks, like the avian bird flu. But, this misguided directive stops that and could put families and businesses in harm’s way,” said Senator Baldwin. “Keeping people informed and healthy all starts with communications and this freeze prevents that and needlessly puts lives at risk.”
    The resolution is co-sponsored by Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD.), Peter Welch (D-VT) Ed Markey (D-MA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Tina Smith (D-MN).
    The full text of the resolution is available here and below.
    Expressing the sense of the Senate that the people of the United States should have continuous access to timely, up-to-date, and accurate health information.
    Whereas the Department of Health and Human Services provides crucial external communications to protect the health and well-being of the people of the United States;
    Whereas urgent communications provided by the Department of Health and Human Services help health care providers and the public learn about and respond to public health incidents and threats, including outbreaks of infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and the opioid overdose epidemic;
    Whereas the United States has published the epidemiological digest, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, every week since 1961;
    Whereas foodborne disease outbreak notices published by the Department of Health and Human Services are essential in coordinating and investigating illness, helping to respond to the estimated 48,000,000 people who get sick from foodborne disease each year in the United States; and
    Whereas in 2024, public health information reported through the Health Alert Network of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention included information regarding increased risks in the United States of avian influenza, dengue virus, and measles: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved, That it is the sense of the Senate that the people of the United States should have continuous access to timely, up-to-date, and accurate health information provided through the Department of Health and Human Services.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – Tiwai Peninsula vegetation fire update #3

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews have made good progress in clearing hotspots out of the burnt scrub and wetland on Tiwai Peninsula today.
    Incident Controller Hamish Angus says that despite warmer conditions this afternoon, firefighters have been able to hold down any potential flare-ups.
    “As well as having four helicopters dousing the fireground from above, we’re using four excavators to widen firebreaks around the perimeter so the fire doesn’t spread if the wind gets up,” he says.
    “This work will also help firefighters if they need to deal with any more fires here in the future.”
    Fire crews will work until 6pm, and one crew will remain overnight to monitor the fireground.
    “Our crews will be back on-site tomorrow morning to continue mopping up and ensuring there are no hotspots left,” Hamish Angus says.
    “They’ve all worked incredibly hard over the last two days, and done a great job at getting such a large vegetation fire under control.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Pothole repairs are paying off

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    Transporting New Zealand says the intensified focus on road maintenance and pothole repair is paying off, preventing damage to vehicles, supporting road safety and keeping Kiwis moving.
    Transport Minister Chris Bishop announced this afternoon that 98 per cent of potholes on state highways were repaired within 24 hours of identification every month since targets were introduced by the Coalition Government.
    Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says this will be welcome news to its road freight members across the country.
    “Potholes and other road surfacing issues can be a nightmare for our members and other motorists. Transporting New Zealand has consistently called for a greater share of road user charges and fuel excise revenue to be directed to road maintenance and rehabilitation.” says Kalasih.
    “Over the past couple of years, we’ve been hearing more complaints from our members and other road users about potholes and road surfacing issues, and these concerns were borne out by the data. In 2023, more than 62,000 potholes required repair on state highways, the highest figure in a decade.”
    “Potholes can easily do thousands of dollars of damage to trucks and trailers vehicles.
    “We’ve had members report erratic driving from other motorists trying to avoid them, or slowing to a crawl, which can be very dangerous.”
    Kalasih says that with 92.8 per cent of New Zealand’s freight moving via road, potholes and other road surface issues are a major drag on economic growth and labour productivity.
    “The Coalition Government’s establishment of the $3.9 billion Pothole Prevention Fund and ambitious targets for the repair of potholes on main state highways and regional state highways is now paying dividends.
    “It’s a big endorsement of providing clear directions and targets to the New Zealand Transport Agency, and we encourage the new Minister Chris Bishop to continue the hands-on approach of his immediate predecessor, Simeon Brown.”
    However Kalasih also says while Transporting New Zealand is grateful for how these repairs are going, the reality is that in an ideal world, the work shouldn’t be needed.
    “Potholes are isolated failures in stretches of road. When roads are built to a high and consistent standard, these should be minimal. We’ll be engaging with NZTA to ensure road quality remains a priority and that our roads are built to last.”
    About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand 
    Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand https://www.transporting.nz/ is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter-regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country. 
    Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy To RFK Jr.: It Isn’t Believable You Will Become Consistent With Science If You Become HHS Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    January 30, 2025

    [embedded content]

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, on Thursday questioned Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at a hearing on his nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Murphy challenged Kennedy’s credibility and pressed him on past statements comparing America’s vaccine program to the Holocaust and the Catholic Church’s pedophilia scandal. Murphy argued that Kennedy’s long history of spreading misinformation about vaccines raises serious concerns about his ability to lead HHS, emphasizing the need for a Secretary who prioritizes science and public trust.

    A full transcript of Murphy’s exchange with Kennedy can be found below:

    MURPHY: “Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Kennedy, thank you for joining us here today. Listen, credibility matters so much when you lead the most important health agency in the world. The Secretary of HHS has got to be trusted that he’s telling the truth, that he cares about science, [and] has no political agenda.

    “Mr. Kennedy, I want to go back to some of your testimony yesterday, before the Finance Committee, when you either feigned ignorance about some very clear statements that you have made in the past, or you outright denied saying things about the vaccine program that you have undoubtedly said.

    “So with a day’s hindsight, I want to give you another chance to be honest about the things you have said. Senator Warnock asked you yesterday if you had compared America’s vaccine program to the Catholic Church’s pedophilia scandal. You said you never said that. Now I’m not asking you to explain what you said.”

    KENNEDY: “I didn’t say I never said that. I did not say that I hadn’t said that, Senator. I said [I didn’t say] the other question he asked me, about the Nazi death camps.”

    MURPHY: “That’s fine, you’re doubling down on that. Senator Warnock also asked you if you compared America’s vaccine campaign to the Nazi death camps and the Holocaust. Again, you said yesterday you didn’t say that.”

    KENNEDY: “I did not say that.”

    MURPHY: “Senator Bennett asked you yesterday if you had made an allegation that AIDS is a different disease in Africa than it is in America. On that one you said you didn’t recall. Having had a day to think about it, do you recall saying that AIDS is a different disease in Africa than it is in the United States?”

    KENNEDY: “I looked up that passage in my book and found that indeed the diagnostics for AIDS are very different in Africa and the United States– that the list of symptoms is almost completely different.” 

    MURPHY: “So let me just– I’ll submit this for the record, but having denied the first two statements, let me just read what you said. You said in 2013, ‘Is it hyperbole to say that the people who run our vaccine program should be in jail? They should be in jail. To me, this is like Nazi death camps. Look at what it does to the families [who participate in the vaccine program]. I can’t tell why somebody would do something like that. I can’t tell you why ordinary Germans participated in the Holocaust. I can’t tell you what was going on in their minds.’ 

    “With respect to the pedophilia scandal, you said: ‘The pedophilia scandal in the Catholic Church is a perfect metaphor for what’s happening in the United States. The vaccine program– it’s the same reason we had a pedophilia scandal in the Catholic Church. It’s because people were able to convince themselves that the institution of the church was more important than these little boys and girls who were being raped. 

    “I don’t disagree with Senator Mullin. I don’t want a HHS Secretary that’s not going to question science. I think it’s important to question science. But you’re not questioning science– you’ve made up your mind. You have spent your entire career undermining America’s vaccine program. You make these purposeful comparisons to those that are administering the vaccine program to the Nazi executioners, to the people who covered up the Catholic Church’s pedophilia scandal, because you have made a decision that there is a comparison; that there is evil in the vaccine program as there was evil in the pedophilia scandal and the Nazi death camps. 

    “You aren’t exploring science, you have made up your mind. You have spent your entire career trying to undermine these programs. The reason that these statements–these incredibly aggressive, over-the-top statements–matter to us is because it just isn’t believable that when you become secretary, you are all of a sudden going to be consistent with science. People who have spent their career saying these kinds of things, running the kinds of campaigns that you have run, don’t all of a sudden change their stripes. So Mr. Chairman, I will submit these statements into the record.”

    KENNEDY: “Can I respond to that, Senator? My statement about the Catholic Church is almost identical to the findings of the Government Oversight Investigation Committee that investigated the CDC’s vaccine program in 2003. Senator Burr was Chairman of that committee. And he said that the certain individuals in that program had written off a generation of kids because of ‘misplaced institutional loyalty to the CDC’ and because of ‘entanglements with the drug companies.’”

    MURPHY: “You equate pedophilia to the administration of vaccines?”

    KENNEDY: “It wasn’t pedophilia.”

    MURPHY: “You said it was a perfect metaphor.” 

    KENNEDY: “If you have one in 36 kids who has neurological injuries, and if that is linked, that should be studied.”

    MURPHY: “Is it a perfect metaphor?”

    KENNEDY: “It’s not a perfect metaphor, but there’s no metaphor that’s perfect. I am pro-vaccine. I am going to support the vaccine program. I want kids to be healthy, and I’m coming in here to get rid of the conflicts of interest within the agency and make sure that we have gold standard, evidence-based science. And if you show me where I’m wrong on this, show me a single statement I’ve made about science that is erroneous.”

    MURPHY: “Thank you.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong marks Chinese New Year with dazzling fireworks display

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    As the clock struck eight on Thursday evening, the sky above Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour erupted in a kaleidoscope of colors, marking the arrival of the Chinese New Year.

    Fireworks illuminate the sky over Victoria Harbour in celebration of the Spring Festival in Hong Kong, south China, Jan. 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Duo)

    This year’s 23-minute fireworks display, a dazzling spectacle of 23,888 pyrotechnic bursts featuring nine scenes, drew over 250,000 residents and tourists to the waterfront, united in celebration of the Year of the Snake.

    The annual event, co-organized by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, is a must-see for many Hong Kong residents and tourists.

    Addressing the crowd on Thursday night, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee underscored the significance of the fireworks display as a centerpiece of the Chinese New Year festivities in Hong Kong, noting that each year’s performance features new elements, bringing fresh brilliance to the skies above Victoria Harbour. Much like the agile snake symbolizes flexibility and adaptability, this reflects the spirit of innovation and resilience of the people of Hong Kong.

    As dusk settled, the promenade at Tsim Sha Tsui buzzed with anticipation. Families, couples, and international visitors staked out prime viewing spots hours in advance, eager to witness the grand spectacle. From Wan Chai to Causeway Bay, the atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and the chatter of excited spectators.

    The show began with the first scene, titled “A Brand New Beginning,” igniting cheers from the crowd. The scene “Blossoming Prosperity” painted golden ingots in the sky, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The eighth scene, “Double Luck and Goodness,” featured giant panda images against a backdrop of green lighting representing bamboo and decorative silver illumination. Six adorable “panda head” images representing “An An,” “Ke Ke,” “Ying Ying,” and “Le Le,” along with the newborn twins “Elder Sister” and “Little Brother,” illuminated the sky, signifying reunion and happiness.

    The fireworks display reached its climax in the final act, “Harvesting Year of the Snake.” The vibrant scene featured wandering star pattern fireworks dancing against the powerful gongs and drums of the background music “Golden Snake Dance,” wishing continued prosperity for the nation and peaceful lives for the people.

    For many, this was more than just a show; it was a moment of collective celebration and hope. Seventy-year-old local resident Mrs. Suen shared her thoughts: “This is one of the most crowded displays I’ve ever seen. The influx of tourists has added to the festive spirit, and it fills us all with optimism for the year ahead.”

    Among the visitors was Mr. Xu from Zhejiang, who expressed his awe, saying, “Incredible! Emotional!” He had long heard of Hong Kong’s spectacular celebrations and had planned this trip specifically to experience the fireworks. “This is a highlight of our family trip and is definitely worth it,” he said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Victorian Goldfields World Heritage bid celebrates tentative listing

    Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2

    The Victorian Goldfields has been officially included on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, a promising step on the road to the goldfields receiving World Heritage Listing.

    The City of Greater Bendigo, City of Ballarat and 13 other Local Government counterparts involved in the bid are today celebrating the exciting news.

    The Tentative List is controlled by the Australian Government. Inclusion on the Tentative List means the Victorian Goldfields is considered a strong candidate to be submitted to UNESCO for World Heritage Listing, which can only be applied for after 12 months on the Tentative List.

    Six sites across the region have been included in the Tentative List, with three additional places identified as being subject to further investigation and the possibility other sites may also be added.

    Over the next 12 months all possible sites will be assessed in preparation for the Victorian Goldfields bid to be submitted formally to UNESCO in February 2026, with a final outcome likely to be determined after mid-2027.

    Getting the Victorian Goldfields on the Tentative List now was critical, as Australia can only make one nomination to UNESCO per year and there are many other places from around Australia that are being considered.

    Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said securing a World Heritage Listing was a long process but today’s Tentative Listing announcement represented a significant milestone.

    “In 2020, international world heritage expert Barry Gamble confirmed the Victorian Goldfields was the best surviving landscape from the 19th century goldrush anywhere in the world. This validation propelled the efforts of the 15 councils involved to continue our push to celebrate and protect this outstanding example of global significance,” Cr Metcalf said.

    “If World Heritage Listing is achieved, it puts the Victorian Goldfields on the same map as the Pyramids of Egypt or the Taj Mahal in India. This would be an incredible achievement for our region, with economic modelling forecasting a Victorian Goldfields World Heritage site could attract 2.5 million new visitors to the region over 10 years, injecting more than $500M into local economies.

    “The sites selected for the Tentative List demonstrate outstanding global heritage significance and celebrate the region’s multi-layered history – from the First Peoples living on Country to the goldrush, and subsequent waves of immigration and the contribution made by people who were chasing riches.”

    The Victorian Goldfields is currently represented in the Tentative List submission by:

    • Castlemaine Goldfields and Historic Townships – pre-eminent alluvial diggings of an early major gold rush in Victoria
    • Creswick and the Deep Lead Landscape – unparalleled example of this rare type of gold mining
    • Bendigo Historic Urban Landscape – one of the world’s most notable gold rush cities 
    • Lalgambuk (Mt Franklin) – an area that evidences Aboriginal connection to Country before, during and after the gold rushes 
    • Great Nuggets Historic Landscape – these diggings yielded the greatest concentration of the largest gold nuggets the world had ever known
    • Walhalla Alpine Mining Landscape –steep topography that guided settlement centred on Victoria’s richest gold mine

    Other places mentioned in the Tentative List submission for inclusion at the World Heritage nomination stage, which will be developed in 2025/2026, include:

    • Ballarat Historic Urban Landscape
    • Beechworth Historic Township and Sluicing Landscape
    • Whroo and the Balaclava Open Cut Mine

    Cr Metcalf said further investigations over the coming 12 months were likely to mean an updated list would make up the final nomination.

    “A working group, led by Heritage Victoria and including Traditional Owners and councils involved in the bid, will lead consultation with the communities where each of the sites are located, including with site owners and nearby residents,” she said.

    “Tentative Listing should be considered a placeholder only. Sites may change and are all subject to consultation, but the focus will be on confirming a list that ensures the best examples of the lasting legacy of the Victorian Goldfields are celebrated and this critical piece of Australia’s history is conserved and shared with future generations.”

    The World Heritage bid is the initiative of a regional partnership made up of 15 councils and the Victorian Goldfields Tourism Executive, led by the City of Greater Bendigo and the City of Ballarat. The Victorian Government announced $2M to progress the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage nomination in 2023.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Waikato & Bay of Plenty state highway works January/February 2025 

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    State Highway 29 continues to be a hive of activity with night works starting on the Kaimai Range from Sunday 9 February for 10 nights. 

    SH29 Kaimai Range night closure schedule: 

    • Sunday 9 February to Friday 14 February, 8pm to 4.30am 
    • Sunday 16 February to Friday 21 February, 8pm to 4.30am 

    “The SH29 scheduled full closures for maintenance are providing huge safety benefits for both our crews and road users,” says Sandra King, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi System Manger, Bay of Plenty.  

    The Kaimai Range closures are enabling crews to carry out scheduled maintenance more efficiently. By locking in a schedule, regular road users including freight operators, can make plans to minimise disruption to themselves and their customers. 

    We’re taking advantage of the closure to do other work on SH29, increasing the effectiveness while traffic volumes are reduced across the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty state highway network.   

    “With so much work taking place it is inevitable road users will come across worksites and traffic management. When you see roadworkers out on the road, travel safely through their site, follow signage and any instructions you receive, and give them a wave to say thanks for their tremendous work,” says Ms King. 

    And, it’s likely there’s another long weekend in the mix for a lot of people, for those who decide to take Friday 7 February off after Waitangi day. If you do take the break with friends and whānau, don’t let your extra day lose its charm by getting stuck in the car, beat the traffic by using the NZTA Holiday Journey Planner, which shows predicted traffic flow across popular journeys. 

     “Patience is key when driving public holidays. Keep a safe following distance from vehicles in front so you can stop safely and drive to the conditions. We want to see people enjoying the long weekend and arriving at their destinations safely,” says Ms King. 

    To plan ahead and see where disruptive works are, people can use the NZTA Journey Planner (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)) This is kept up to date in real time so you can see all disruptive activity and potential hazards on the state highway network. 

    Waikato Bay of Plenty works as at 31 January 2025 [PDF, 334 KB]

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Further rockfall protection and slip repair work at State Highway 6 Dellows Bluff

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Drivers can expect to see more work on State Highway 6 at Dellows Bluff with work to fix a new slip site set to get underway in February.

    Resilience work has been ongoing at the area since a major rockfall in July 2022. This has seen rock scaling and rock blasting to remove overhanging rock and debris from the cliff face above the highway. Rock anchors, steel mesh, and protective shipping container barriers have also been installed at the site.

    SH6 Dellows Bluff rockfall, July 2022.

    Rob Service, System Manager Nelson/Tasman, says bad weather late last year caused a slip less than 200 metres away from the original rockfall site.

    “This site also has an ongoing rockfall risk that we need to fix. From 10 February we’ll have crews and heavy machinery on site for around six to eight weeks carrying out remedial work.”

    “Contractors will need to excavate and remove roughly 10,000 cubic metres of clay and rocks to establish a more stable face and create a bench above the road to capture any further rock falls,” Mr Service says.

    Slip clearing, SH6 Dellows Bluff slip site – October 2024

    He says the job is a big one and cannot be completed without affecting traffic on State Highway 6.

    “We will have to close the highway’s southbound lane during the project. The space is needed to allow heavy machinery to operate and also to provide a safety buffer zone for traffic.”

    “Reducing the road to one lane also means we will have to use stop/go traffic management and there will be times when we will have to stop traffic in both directions for 45-minute periods to ensure material, particularly dangerous overhanging boulders and trees, can be removed safely. Night closures are also likely to be used to help complete tree-felling too,” Mr Service says.

    He appreciates the work will create significant delays for traffic.

    “The nature of the work and the need to keep the public safe means this is unavoidable. Please bear with us while we get this job done. State Highway 6 is a critical transport link and resilience work like this is all about make the highway safer and more resilient in the future. There will be short-term pain, but it’s all about getting a long-term gain for road users and the local community.”

    Steps will be in place to ensure access is available when needed. Allowances are being made to ensure school buses and school traffic can get through the work site, and access will always be available for emergency services. Updates on the project will be shared with the community as it progresses, including updates on any changes to traffic management at the slip site.

    Works schedule

    • 10 February to 13 March. Monday to Friday, 7 am to 6 pm
    • Southbound lane closure.
    • Stop/Stop controls will operate from 13 February to 15 February, 8 am – 6 pm.
      • These will be on the hour with the road to reopen at 45 minutes past the hour to allow queued traffic to clear.
      • Stop/Stop may occur outside of these times if there is a risk to road users, like a tree or boulder dislodged. 
      • Outside these times stop/go will be in place, when necessary, please plan accordingly.
    • Drivers can expect delays of up to 10 minutes under stop/go.
    • There will be lot of truck movements from the works area up to 1.5 kms to the north of the site. Drivers must follow all speed signs and warnings in place.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Our Tamariki Deserve Better than Seymour’s Slop

    Source: Te Pati Maori

    Te Pāti Māori is appalled by the government’s blatant mishandling of the school lunch programme. David Seymour’s ‘cost-saving’ measures have left tamariki across Aotearoa with unidentifiable meals, causing distress and outrage among parents and communities alike.

    “What’s the difference between providing inedible food, and providing no food at all?” Said Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Education Tākuta Ferris.

    “Many tamariki rely on these meals as their only nourishment of the day, it is disgraceful that the government has put the wellbeing of their books over the wellbeing of our mokopuna.

    “David Seymour may as well have cut the program entirely instead of insulting our tamariki with this slop.

    “You do not sweep this kind of failure under the rug by blaming “teething problems.” This should have been thoroughly planned and tested before it was rolled out to ensure it worked for all tamariki. Instead, we have a system that has failed them, and now, it seems, no one wants to take responsibility.

    “For every serious issue in this country, the government’s only solution has been to hand off their responsibility to someone else.

    “We don’t have enough housing? Get overseas investors to sort it out. Our education system is failing? Charter schools will save us.

    “School lunches are ‘too expensive’? Let’s get the cheapest contractor we can find and hope our kids don’t get food poisoning.

    “It’s time for these Ministers to stop passing the buck. They must apologise- publicly and without delay- to all the tamariki, mātua, and kura affected by this. They must own their mistakes and fix the system, because right now, it is failing the very people it was supposed to help”, said Ferris. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Durbin Seek Presidential Explanation for IG Dismissals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) are requesting President Trump provide the lawfully-required substantive rationale behind his recent decision to dismiss Inspectors General (IGs) from 18 offices. The senators are additionally asking President Trump to share the names of each official who will serve in an acting IG capacity, and are urging the President to quickly nominate qualified and nonpartisan individuals to permanently fill the current IG vacancies.
    IGs are nonpartisan watchdogs responsible for identifying and rooting out waste, fraud and abuse at federal agencies. IGs serve at the President’s disposal. However, a Grassley-authored amendment signed into law as part of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requires the President to provide written, detailed communication informing Congress of the President’s decision to dismiss or transfer an Inspector General at least 30 days before taking action to do so.
    “While IGs aren’t immune from committing acts requiring their removal, and they can be removed by the president, the law must be followed. The communication to Congress must contain more than just broad and vague statements; rather, it must include sufficient facts and details to assure Congress and the public that the termination is due to real concerns about the Inspector General’s ability to carry out their mission,” the senators wrote.
    “This is a matter of public and congressional accountability and ensuring the public’s confidence in the Inspector General community, a sentiment shared more broadly by other Members of Congress,” the senators continued. “IGs are critical to rooting out waste, fraud, abuse, and misconduct within the Executive Branch bureaucracy, which you have publicly made clear you are also intent on doing.”
    The Honorable Donald J. Trump
    President of the United States
    Dear President Trump:
    We write to you today concerning the reported firing of Inspectors General (IGs) from 18 offices.[1]  Congress was not provided the legally required 30-day notice and case-specific reasons for removal, as required by law.[2]  Accordingly, we request that you provide that information immediately.
    On December 23, 2022, the “James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023” was signed into law and included provisions from the Securing Inspector General Independence Act, which was introduced by a bipartisan group of members.[3]  Those provisions require that the President “shall” communicate to Congress in writing 30 days before removing or transferring an IG from office the “substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” for the removal or transfer.[4]  The law also prohibits an IG from being placed on non-duty status during the 30-day period preceding the date of removal or transfer unless the continued presence of the Inspector General in the workplace poses a threat as described by requirements in the Administrative Leave Act and the President submits a report to Congress.[5]  
    While IGs aren’t immune from committing acts requiring their removal, and they can be removed by the president, the law must be followed.[6]  The communication to Congress must contain more than just broad and vague statements, rather it must include sufficient facts and details to assure Congress and the public that the termination is due to real concerns about the Inspector General’s ability to carry out their mission.[7] 
    This is a matter of public and congressional accountability and ensuring the public’s confidence in the Inspector General community, a sentiment shared more broadly by other Members of Congress.  IGs are critical to rooting out waste, fraud, abuse, and misconduct within the Executive Branch bureaucracy, which you have publicly made clear you are also intent on doing.
    Accordingly, we request that you provide Congress with a written communication that contains the “substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” for each of the IG’s removed.  Further, we request the name of each official that will serve in an acting capacity and that you work quickly to nominate qualified and non-partisan individuals to serve in these open positions.
    -30-

    [1] Yamiche Alcindor, Vaughn Hillyard and Laura Strickler, Trump fires 18 inspectors general overnight in legally murky move, NBC News (Jan. 25, 2025) https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/trump-fires-multiple-inspectors-general-legally-murky-overnight-move-rcna189261.  
    [2] Id.; see Pub. L. 117-263.
    [3] See S. 587, Securing Inspector General Independence Act of 2021, 117th Congress (introduced Mar. 4, 2021) https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/587/text.
    [4] Pub. L. 117–263.
    [5] Id.; see 5 U.S.C. § 6329b(b)(2)(A)(i)-(iv) (2) Requirements.-An agency may place an employee in leave under paragraph (1) only if the agency has-(A) made a determination with respect to the employee that the continued presence of the employee in the workplace during an investigation of the employee or while the employee is in a notice period, as applicable, may- (i) pose a threat to the employee or others; (ii) result in the destruction of evidence relevant to an investigation; (iii) result in loss of or damage to Government property; or (iv) otherwise jeopardize legitimate Government interests.
    [6] Pub. L. 117–263.
    [7] Pub. L. 117–263.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Secures HHS Nominee Kennedy’s Support for Rural Health Care, Ag, Key Agency Issues

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, laid out his priorities and expectations for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) during a hearing to consider Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to be HHS Secretary. Grassley discussed the importance of lowering prescription drug prices, holding pharmacy benefit managers accountable, bolstering rural health care, answering congressional oversight and more.
    In response to Grassley, Kennedy said: “I agree with all those provisions, Senator. My approach to the administration of HHS will be radical transparency. If members of this committee or other members of Congress want information, the doors are open… If Congress asked me for information, you would get it immediately.”
    Video and excerpts from Grassley follow.
    [embedded content]
    VIDEO
    Oversight: 
    “A key responsibility of each member of Congress is oversight. Oversight allows us to hold bureaucrats accountable to the rule of law, and it helps keep faith with taxpayers. I expect HHS to provide timely and complete responses to congressional oversight.”
    PBMs: 
    “I’ve been working to hold Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) accountable in order to lower prescription drug costs. I expect you to work with us to hold PBMs accountable and ask for your support for legislation that’s before Congress.”  
    Prescription Drug Pricing: 
    “Senator Durbin and I have been trying to get a bill passed that requires price disclosures on TV ads for prescription drugs. Knowing what something costs before buying it is just common sense. President Trump tried to do this by regulation in his first term and Vice President Vance cosponsored our bill last Congress. I ask you to support my bill, or if you can do it by regulation, do it by regulation.”
    Rural Health Care: 
    The previous administration dragged its feet in opening up slots for the Rural Community Hospital demonstration program. It also ignored concerns from rural pharmacies when implementing changes to Medicare Part D and ignored rural needs when it comes to distributing physician residency slots. I expect you to prioritize rural Americans’ health care needs.”
    Agriculture: 
    “In our meeting earlier this month, we talked at length about agriculture. You prefaced the conversation by saying you will not have jurisdiction over those issues. I expect you to leave agricultural practices regulations to the proper agencies, and for the most part that’s USDA and EPA.”
    Dietary Guidelines: 
    “I’ve sent letters to the Secretaries of Agriculture and HHS requesting they provide information regarding conflicts of interest on the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee to increase transparency. I expect you to provide Congress with confidential financial disclosures from the Advisory Committee before finalizing the Dietary Guidelines, so we know that nobody has a vested interest in it.”
    HHS Office of Refugee Resettlement Oversight (ORR): 
    “Last year, I expanded my investigation into HHS’s Office of Refugee Resettlement. I wrote to two dozen contractors and grantees whose job it is to place unaccompanied children with sponsors. In many cases, children have been placed with improperly vetted sponsors, placing them at risk of trafficking. The Biden administration’s HHS directed these taxpayer-funded contractors and grantees to not respond to my inquiry. This is obstruction by the executive branch. 
    “I expect you to produce to me the records and data I’ve requested and instruct HHS contractors to fully cooperate as well. I also expect HHS to not retaliate against any whistleblowers, including those who identify ORR’s failures in vetting sponsors of unaccompanied [children].”
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Cruz Seek to Boost Penalties for Repeat Criminal Illegal Immigrants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in introducing the Stop Illegal Reentry Act. The legislation would impose a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for any person who illegally enters the country with multiple convictions, or a conviction for an aggravated felony. Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. 
    “America is a sovereign nation, and our borders shouldn’t be abused. We need tougher penalties for individuals who re-enter our country illegally, especially those who do so with a criminal history. The Stop Illegal Reentry Act would help keep dangerous criminals off the streets and crack down on those who consistently disregard our nation’s immigration laws,” Grassley said. 
    “I first introduced the Stop Illegal Reentry Act, also known as Kate’s Law, a decade ago. It is named in honor of Kate Steinle, who was murdered by an illegal alien and convicted felon who had reentered our country. President Trump and the new Republican Congress are taking decisive action to restore order and address the chaos created by the Biden administration. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and pass it expeditiously,” Cruz said. 
    Sens. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) cosponsor the bill. 
    Find bill text HERE. 
    Background:
    The Stop Illegal Reentry Act was inspired by Kate Steinle, a 32-year-old woman tragically shot and killed by an illegal immigrant with several felony convictions who had previously been deported five times. In 2015, as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Grassley?convened a hearing?with testimonies from the Steinle family and others who lost loved ones to criminal illegal immigrants. 
    Earlier this month, the Senate passed the Grassley-backed Laken Riley Act to detain illegal immigrants found guilty of theft or burglary. Among the amendments adopted to the bill was Sarah’s Law, legislation Grassley co-led alongside Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) to hold accountable illegal immigrants who commit violent crimes. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Cassidy, Heinrich Propose Permanent Scheduling Fix for Fentanyl-Related Substances

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today joined Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) in introducing the Halt Lethal Trafficking (HALT) Fentanyl Act. The bipartisan bill would permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act.  
    Grassley will chair a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to examine permanent fentanyl scheduling on Tuesday, February 4. 
    “Today, roughly 150 Americans will die from fentanyl poisoning. Cartels fuel this crisis by marketing their poison as legitimate prescription pills. They also avoid regulation by chemically altering the drugs to create powerful fentanyl knock-offs,” Grassley said. “Congress closed that loophole by temporarily classifying fentanyl related substances under Schedule 1. The HALT Fentanyl Act would make permanent fentanyl related substances’ Schedule 1 classification and ensure law enforcement has the tools they need to combat these deadly drugs.” 
    “The Biden administration’s open border was an invitation to drug cartels smuggling Chinese fentanyl into the U.S., fueling the U.S. overdose epidemic,” Cassidy said. “Law enforcement must have the tools necessary to combat this trend. We cannot let this Schedule I classification lapse.” 
    The HALT Fentanyl Act is cosponsored by Sens. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Maggie Hassan (D-Nev.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H). 
    Background:
    Fentanyl is a controlled substance, meaning U.S. statute prohibits its use. Illicit drug manufacturers and traffickers sidestep the law by producing fentanyl-related substances – drugs that are substantially similar to fentanyl, but chemically tweaked ever so slightly – to push potent drugs into the U.S. on a technicality. 
    To keep pace with rapidly evolving drugs and combat opioid-related deaths, in 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration under the leadership of President Trump temporarily restricted all fentanyl-related substances. Congress has extended President Trump’s temporary scheduling order multiple times since. The HALT Fentanyl Act would permanently extend the 2018 Schedule I classification for fentanyl-related substances, which is set to expire on March 31, 2025. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Johnson Make Public Whistleblower Records Revealing DOJ and FBI Plot to Pin Trump in Jack Smith Elector Case

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) are releasing legally protected whistleblower disclosures that prove the genesis of the federal election interference case brought against President Trump began at the hands of a prolific anti-Trump FBI agent who acted outside of established protocol for opening cases.
    Internal FBI emails and predicating documents provided to Grassley and released jointly by the two senators show Timothy Thibault, a former FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) who was forced to retire from the Bureau after Grassley exposed his public anti-Trump bias, authored the initial language for what ultimately became Jack Smith’s federal case against Trump regarding the 2020 presidential election. Records show Thibault essentially opened and approved his own investigation. The FBI titled the ensuing investigation “Arctic Frost.”
    Records further reveal Richard Pilger, an official in the Justice Department (DOJ)’s Public Integrity Section, reviewed and approved the FBI’s Arctic Frost investigation, authorizing DOJ to move forward with a full field criminal and Grand Jury investigation that ultimately transformed into the Trump elector case. Grassley published a 2021 report that raised concerns regarding Pilger’s troubling record at DOJ.
    Grassley in 2022 additionally questioned Thibault’s role at the FBI, writing, “I remain very concerned that political bias by a select group of Justice Department and FBI officials has infected the Justice Department’s and FBI’s usual process and procedure to open and pursue high-profile and politically charged investigations.” Grassley and Johnson in November called on Jack Smith to preserve all records related to Trump-targeted investigations.
    The records released by Grassley and Johnson are linked below:
    Grassley provided an overview of the records in his opening statement during the Senate Judiciary Committee’s hearing on Kash Patel’s nomination to be FBI Director. Excerpts from Grassley’s opening statement follow:
    “In my hand are a series of FBI emails.
    “The first is an email that Thibault sent to a subordinate agent on February 14, 2022.
    “He said, ‘Here is draft opening language we discussed.’  The draft opening was attached, and it included material that would later become part of Jack Smith’s elector case.
    “The second email is a February 24, 2022, email from Thibault to John Crabb, a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, saying, ‘I had a discussion with the case team and we believe there to be predication to include former President of the United States Donald J. Trump as a predicated subject.’  This FBI case would later be codenamed Arctic Frost.
    “The third email is a February 24, 2022, email from Thibault to John Crabb noting that Attorney General and FBI Director approval will be sought to open the case.
    “The fourth email is a February 25, 2022, email from Thibault’s subordinate agents saying they added Trump, and others, as a criminal subject to the case.  Thibault responded ‘Perfect.’
    “The fifth email is a March 22, 2022, email from Thibault emailing a version of an investigative opening for approval.  This didn’t include President Trump as a criminal subject. 
    “The sixth email is an April 11, 2022, email from Thibault approving the opening of Arctic Frost.
    “The seventh email is an April 13, 2022, email from an FBI agent to Thibault stating that the FBI Deputy Director approved its opening. 
    “The eighth email on that same date had Thibault emailing John Crabb that the elector case was approved.  Crabb responded, ‘Thanks a lot. Let’s talk next week.’
    “Between March 22 and April 13, other versions of the document opening the investigation existed, because a ninth email shows that the FBI General Counsel’s office made edits on March 25. 
    “Was Trump still removed as an investigative subject?  If so, which Justice Department and FBI officials – other than Jack Smith – later added him for prosecution?
    “I expect the production of all records on this matter to better understand the full fact pattern and whether other records exist.”
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Schenectady Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Drug Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – James Alvin Boone, II, age 30, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty today to possession of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute, distribution of fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino, III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement.

    Boone admitted that: he and another person conspired to distribute fentanyl and cocaine throughout the Capital Region; he directed his co-conspirator to store over 25,000 fentanyl pills weighing over 3 kilograms, two handguns, ammunition, and several hundred grams of cocaine in a storage unit and at her home; he personally distributed fentanyl and directed his co-conspirator to do the same; and, before this conspiracy, he personally possessed over 1.4 kilograms of cocaine and a pistol in a safe in his home on July 28, 2023.  Law enforcement seized these narcotics, firearms, and ammunition from Boone and his co-conspirator in its investigation.  Boone also admitted that after his arrest, he instructed another individual to dispose of additional fentanyl pills.  

    Boone faces a minimum term of 15 years and up to life in prison, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life.  He will be sentenced on May 30, 2025, by United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.

    The DEA investigated the case with assistance from the Colonie Police Department, Schenectady Police Department, and New York State Police.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikayla Espinosa is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic Well Venturing into the Future of Family Wellness

    Source: Panasonic

    Headline: Panasonic Well Venturing into the Future of Family Wellness

    Yoky Matsuoka, Executive Officer of Panasonic Holdings Corporation and Panasonic Well Director, took the stage with Yuki Kusumi, Group CEO, during the opening keynote at CES 2025. She announced that Umi, a holistic digital family wellness platform and coach, will be launched in the US as an example of Panasonic Go.*1 We interviewed Yoky about Panasonic Well, the vision to commercializing Umi, and the outlook for the future.
    ＊1: A global corporate growth initiative promoting business transformation using AI.

    Integration of wellness and technologies: Panasonic Well taking up challenges

    Panasonic Well, led by Yoky, is a venture and business incubator committed to building new services and technologies that improve the well-being of all people, with a focus on the wellness of modern families. Yoky is an accomplished executive and technologist with over two decades of leadership experience. She is a renowned robotics and neuroscience expert, recognized for her groundbreaking work and honored with the MacArthur Genius Award.
    Yoky: Partly due to my past experiences, Panasonic Well tends to be seen as simply a developer of AI or technologies. However, we are able to create solutions at the intersection of responsible tech and human care because we understand what is needed to achieve wellness. This is Panasonic Well’s strength.

    Yoky Matsuoka and Panasonic Well staff (at the CES 2025 Panasonic booth)

    The first project that Yoky initiated at Panasonic was Yohana, a next-generation family concierge service.
    Yoky: During the COVID-19 pandemic, people’s work styles and how they spent time with their family saw drastic changes. At that time, we conducted surveys to get a deeper look at the challenges underlying their problems and did exhaustive research on how we could develop relevant solutions. We launched Yohana in 2021 in the US, then later in Japan, to respond to the time-consuming needs of families by proposing suggestions for meal menus, birthday presents, and so on. The Yohana team, composed of actual humans, has completed over 300,000 tasks on behalf of our customers. This work accumulated to a total of more than one million hours for our customers’ time, which we were able to give back to them. However, we have been unable to provide adequate solutions for using the time created by Yohana to strengthen family ties or improve self-care.
    At Panasonic Well, we have continued our research to ensure that AI will be able to resolve challenges facing families in the future. Furthermore, a survey*2 conducted in the US revealed that half of the “sandwich generation”*3 parents, including myself, feel overwhelmed by stress and that 65% feel lonely. This shows that strengthening family ties and self-care are indispensable for the elderly. Consequently, we developed Umi*4 to address these crises in family ｗell-being.
    ＊2: U.S. Surgeon General Issues Advisory on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Parents (August 2024).＊3: A generation simultaneously supporting aging parents while raising children.＊4: The word “umi” means ocean in Japanese. This name was chosen because it evokes an image of health and well-being, since it not only has a calming effect but also gives people the feeling of vastness and the availability of unlimited resources.

    Umi: A new AI partner supporting family wellness

    Yoky: Umi will start by providing an app as a family well-being coach that facilitates behavioral changes toward achieving family wellness. By encouraging multi-generation families to cultivate wellness habits that fit their diverse needs and lifestyles, it can be a family partner that supports their health and well-being. Activities & fitness, nutrition, sleep, and stress management are essential for wellness, and among these, the first two have been increasingly attracting attention in recent years. Accordingly, Umi’s AI agent assists in behavioral changes for all family members from their childhood, especially in the areas of activities & fitness and nutrition.

    From the video shown during the keynote. Left: Umi suggests ideas for enjoying a weekend, and family members exchange opinions.

    Right: Umi explains key points of communication with elderly parents based on advice from experts.

    Specifically, using wide-ranging data learned through questions and communications with family members, Umi’s AI sets personalized goals for individuals and suggests necessary actions to meet these goals while considering their feasibility. For example, Umi may propose a monthly target number of steps for a user, but if it learns through conversations that it is not feasible due to the user’s busy schedule, Umi may set another more achievable target for eating more nutritious meals. Since the priorities of activities & fitness and nutrition vary among individuals, it is essential to tailor this process for each family member.
    One of Umi’s features enables all family members including children to share conversations, not only 1-to-1 communication. This coordinates family wellness through communication and eventually leads to behavioral change. We delve deeply into the app features like tone of voice and tweak between strong and soft tones to make suggestions best suited for encouraging behavioral changes. Umi also visualizes your progress and enables you to review the outcomes to establish actions as routines.

    Panasonic Well: Committed to building a wellness ecosystem

    Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO of AARP

    During the keynote, Yoky introduced the Panasonic Well Partner Collective, which consists of leading health and wellness businesses, organizations, and research institutions, as well as a partnership with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP),*5 an NPO with approximately forty million members in the US. Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO of AARP, took the stage and emphasized that technology is critical to living a healthy life for an increasing number of older people and their families around the world. Yoky also introduced the Family Wellness Innovation Challenge, a global competition co-sponsored by AARP and Panasonic Well for start-ups who pursue relevant technologies and services, and the prize winners were announced at the end.
    ＊5: Aiming at improving the quality of life of older people, AARP provides information and support related to health, economic, and social challenges.

    Yoky: During the development of Umi, we placed much emphasis on building a business ecosystem.*6 Typical examples are partnerships with companies that provide services as needed or those that give expert advice based on the communications carried out between users and Umi.
    ＊6: A large economic network of various companies and organizations that collaborate to create greater value.

    Group CEO Kusumi joined the award ceremony of the Family Wellness Innovation Challenge and praised the grand prix winner.

    The sandwich generation is under a great deal of emotional, time, and economic pressure, and more than half of the families in the US face these burdens.*7 Partnerships are critical for resolving such issues. The Family Wellness Innovation Challenge is a significant step toward expanding such partnerships. We received over 550 applications from around the world, including Japan. I joined the latter half of the screening process myself and interviewed applicants in person. We announced the winners at CES partly to find partners who align with our initiatives, and many participants actually approached us demonstrating their interest. By taking this opportunity, we want to further expand the ecosystem and respond to a wider range of use cases.
    ＊7: World Economic Forum “More than half of Americans in their 40s are ‘sandwiched’ between an aging parent and their own children” (April 2022).

    Daniela Amodei, Co-founder and President of Anthropic

    Since collaboration with AI partners is indispensable in promoting Panasonic Go, Group CEO Kusumi announced in his keynote a strategic partnership with Anthropic in the US, a company that shares the Panasonic Group’s belief that AI must be safe, understandable, and designed to deeply align with human values. In response, Yoky stated that Umi will be equipped with Anthropic’s Claude AI assistant. Daniela Amodei, Co-founder and President of Anthropic, joined her and explained that Claude has added value in all aspects of business, from customer service to decision-making, over the years. She expressed her determination to help the Panasonic Group enhance its overall creativity while delivering better business results by leveraging Claude’s high reliability and safety.
    Yoky: Anthropic has grown while placing great emphasis on ethics, privacy, and responsibility, and its large language models (LLMs) have gained a high reputation in the US. Umi, committed to supporting the health and well-being for all with wellness as a gateway, cannot be viable without innovations based on Anthropic’s AI ethics. Anthropic AI is particularly excellent at family calendar management and chat promotion, so we will be able to provide a service where Umi discusses the scheduling of hospital visits with users, prepares and manages their schedule with AI, and then even reserves a taxi. We expect further collaboration with a diverse range of partners by expanding the breadth of services in this way.

    Umi and Panasonic Well’s future strategy

    Yoky: I feel that being able to demonstrate Umi’s capabilities at CES was very meaningful. Umi’s first key vision for the future is to provide a one-stop solution. We hope to develop Umi into a platform that knows all family members well, capable of making good suggestions in response to their wellness consultations without the need to access different sources.

    The Umi booth at CES 2025, where many visitors attentively listened to the explanations of booth staff while trying out screen demonstrations

    In front of the Partner Collective panel displays. Quite a few representatives of companies expressed their support and consulted with staff of Panasonic Well.

    The second vision is to strengthen the ecosystem by expanding our network of partnerships. We will select partners based on their attitudes toward AI ethics and customer needs. We hope that more companies and organizations will participate in the Umi ecosystem in the future, even if their various services overlap. We believe that optimal solutions for problems and concerns can be provided to more customers only when Umi is backed up by a diverse range of partners.
    Umi will launch services from the US while aiming to establish a global ecosystem to ensure deployment in other countries and regions. The Panasonic Group is unrivaled in its touchpoints with customers in households and it is important to leverage this advantage. We, as the provider of Umi, look forward to collaborating closely with the business divisions to identify mutually beneficial approaches to solve our customer pain points.

    While Panasonic Well is a company capable of making customers around the world healthy and happy through wellness solutions, we want to be the forerunner that will lead Panasonic Go, an initiative to promote corporate transformation of Panasonic. We will pioneer the creation of new products and businesses by leveraging AI and other advanced technologies. We will also establish AI platforms in collaboration with partners and our operating companies.
    Furthermore, we are conscious of our contributions to the AI-based transformation of the entire Panasonic Group. In addition to promoting teamwork with departments in charge of AI at Panasonic Holdings and other organizations, we will provide inspiration and lead initiatives to encourage every Panasonic Group employee to embrace AI, unleashing tremendous progress in their tasks and in the products and services they develop.

    Panasonic Go aims to expand AI-driven hardware, software, and solutions businesses to approximately 30% of the Panasonic Group’s revenue by 2035. However, the Panasonic Group won’t be able to meet the goal only through the efforts of Panasonic Well and Blue Yonder. All business divisions and departments across the Panasonic Group need to create AI-driven revenue streams. We at Panasonic Well hope to contribute to the attainment of our goal by implementing the approaches I’ve described. If we succeed in meeting our goal, the day may come when the entire Panasonic Group is regarded as a leader in AI technologies.

    Under Yoky’s leadership, Panasonic Well will continue to provide innovative solutions driven by AI and other advanced technologies, thus contributing to family wellness. It will also promote AI use throughout the Panasonic Group’s businesses and work at the forefront of Panasonic Go.

    The content in this website is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change without notice.Please note therefore that these documents may not always contain the most up-to-date information.Please note that German, French and Chinese versions are machine translations, so the quality and accuracy may vary.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Optimizing Health Financing: Digital Solutions Against Health Care Inefficiencies, Waste, Abuse, and Fraud

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Addressing fraud, waste, and abuse (FWA) remains a significant challenge of maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of health care systems. This report explores the complexities of identifying and managing FWA within health systems, drawing on extensive quantitative and qualitative research conducted from April 2023 to March 2024. The findings highlight the necessity of robust government actions, advanced analytics, and innovative technology to detect and manage FWA effectively.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Monitoring Business Cycle Fluctuations in Asia

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The paper explains how the index can monitor monthly business cycles in Asian economies using updated economic indicators across six categories: consumption, investment, trade, government, financial, and external sectors. It shows that machine learning algorithms accurately track output gap movements, offering a robust tool for monitoring economic fluctuations.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Libre determinación y unidad nacional popular ante el irredentismo imperial

    Source: Council on Hemispheric Affairs –

    Opinion

    By Abdiel Rodríguez Reyes

    Ciudad de Panamá

    A los pueblos les asiste el derecho a decidir su propio destino colectivo según lo estableció la Conferencia de Bandung en 1955 y el Pacto Internacional de Derechos Civiles y Políticos de 1966, lo cual no fue gratuito, sino producto de la lucha de los países periféricos por su descolonización. Ante esta realidad, Estados Unidos nunca renunció a extender la doctrina Monroe hasta el presente. Empeorando la situación, el irredentismo imperial con el presidente Donald Trump se hace explícito. La desconfianza de la población hacia la élite política en esta coyuntura se está reproduciendo en el imaginario colectivo en un marcado desinterés por el irredentismo imperial de Trump. Esto último, busca la anexión y recuperación de territorios, aunque no compartan fronteras, como el caso de Groenlandia y Panamá. Y, no se trata del capricho de una persona, en este caso Trump, sino de una racionalidad imperial.

    Ante las amenazas de Trump de anexarse territorios, recuperar otros, como el Canal de Panamá y, ultrajar a países como Canada, Colombia, México, Cuba y Venezuela con falacias y sanciones, una vía para resistir es la organización de los pueblos y la puesta en marcha de una agenda en común cuyo contenido sea la autodeterminación de los pueblos, la integración regional y la unidad nacional popular. La élite política panameña no necesariamente va a defender los más caros intereses del pueblo. Estados Unidos es nuestro principal socio comercial y con el coloso del Norte mantenemos una relación de dependencia. Nuestra élite es cipaya en esa conjunción. Lo demuestra cada vez que puede, con la soga al cuello patea el banco. Recientemente ante el altercado en redes sociales entre los presidentes Gustavo Petro y Trump, el Gobierno de la República de Honduras, ocupando la presidencia Pro Tempore de la CELAC, convocó a una reunión urgente para atender la situación, pero fue cancelada por “falta de consenso” (https://surl.li/ctjijs).

    En el caso particular de Panamá, las élites políticas panameñas tienen más de un siglo negociando con los estadounidenses en beneficio propio. Al pueblo le tocará organizarse para garantizar los suyos, así como lo hizo el 9 de enero de 1964. Los intereses del pueblo no necesariamente son los mismos de la élite, aunque por momentos puedan coincidir. El problema de fondo no es Trump, sino, el irredentismo imperial. Hoy es Trump, mañana será otro presidente y, en el fondo, subyace esa racionalidad irredentista. Por lo tanto, es necesario diseñar mecanismos de defensa y resistencia, táctica y estratégicamente. Es imperativo enrumbar las acciones hacia una correlación regional de fuerza distinta en función de la unidad latinoamericana hasta la constitución de un nuevo “bloque histórico” como diría Gramsci.

    Siguiendo con el espíritu irredentista expresado por el presidente Trump en su red social Truth Social y, en su discurso presidencial, la Comisión Marítima Federal de los Estados Unidos convocó a una audiencia para discutir la supuesta presencia China en el Canal. El internacionalista Julio Yao hizo un análisis de la resolución de la Comisión y concluye con la necesidad de consultar a la Corte Internacional de Justicia si las peticiones de Estados Unidos no constituyen una violación al derecho internacional. Peticiones a todas luces injerencistas. En particular: “EE. UU. no puede instar a Panamá “a reafirmar su compromiso con el Tratado de Neutralidad permanente del Canal”, ya que Panamá lo ha hecho siempre, contrario a EE. UU. que lo ha violado cada vez y exclusivamente para satisfacer sus intereses de seguridad para sus fuerzas armadas” (https://surl.li/mwpuos).

    Ese es el argumento de fondo del irredentismo imperial, invocar el Tratado Concerniente a la Neutralidad Permanente del Canal y el Funcionamiento del Canal de Panamá, en particular la Enmienda DeConcini: la cual posibilita que Estados Unidos “pueda tomar medidas militares en suelo panameño sin el consentimiento del Gobierno de Panamá” (https://surl.li/kvxhkh). Para justificar esta acción han recurrido a falacias sobre la presencia China en Panamá hasta la cantidad de muertos en la construcción del Canal por los estadounidenses en 1914. El historiador y diplomático Omar Jaén Suarez aclaró este último punto en uno de sus recientes artículos, “La mortalidad durante la construcción del Canal interoceánico […] entre 1904 y 1914, sólo hay 350 estadounidenses (6 %) según la Comisión del Canal Ístmico, mientras que los empleados afroantillanos muertos fueron 4.049 (72 %) […] los datos no señalan más de 6.280 muertes entre los empleados de las compañías del canal francés desde 1881 hasta 1903” (https://surl.li/kybccq). Y, así sucesivamente el irredentismo imperial se sostiene sobre falacias para justificar su interés de recuperar el Canal.

    Como señala Greg Grandin, profesor en Yale, en un reciente artículo en el New York Times: el “lenguaje desinhibido [que utiliza Trump] aumenta la volatilidad de un mundo ya de por sí volátil” (https://surl.li/oziinq), esa táctica de choque, en la cual una de sus principales armas son las redes sociales, busca desestabilizar para alcanzar sus objetivos. En última instancia, MAGA (Make America Great Again) es su sueño por “un nuevo imperio estadounidense”, como lo planteó Grandin. Para ese cometido, necesitará doblegar aún más a sus ya arrodillados socios. Allí cobra importancia las posiciones antiimperialistas y descolonizadoras, cuando ya muchos la daban por muertas. No se trata de sacar una bandera panameña a última hora e invocar un patriotismo abstracto; a diferencia del pueblo panameño consciente y organizado de su historia de lucha, que recuerda a sus mártires de la lucha generacional por la recuperación de nuestra soberanía.

    En esa misma línea de Grandin, el abogado y académico panameño Alonso Illueca, escribió en el El País: “Parado sobre una tradición sepultada a mediados del siglo XX, Trump relanzó el pasado 20 de enero de 2025 la política expansionista del destino manifiesto y la doctrina Monroe” (https://surl.li/zzqzdx), en detrimento nuestro, particularmente por sus “criterios” en torno al manejo del Canal; pero, también como policía del mundo, inicia una cruzada contra la izquierda como en los grises días de la guerra fría. No es casualidad que los presidentes en la asunción de Trump tengan algo en común: odian a la izquierda. Su toma de posesión fue un retrato a cuerpo entero, rodeado de los milmillonarios magnates de la tecnología. Veremos un despliegue del fetichismo del capitalismo digital, hostigamiento hacia las izquierdas y contra defensores de Derechos Humanos.

    No vemos a una élite política defendiendo los más caros intereses del pueblo panameño ante la afrenta imperial, en cambio sí sus privilegios. La unidad popular no es otra cosa que la unidad en base a intereses colectivos. Sin la autodeterminación de los pueblos, la integración regional y la unidad nacional popular sobre la mesa, el patriotismo abstracto de la élite política negociará sus privilegios en el marco del irredentismo imperial.

    Photo credit: Pedro Silva

    Abdiel Rodríguez Reyes es Doctor en filosofía por la Universidad del País Vasco y profesor e investigador en la Universidad de Panamá

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: More than 5000 Australian victims receive text warning over romance scam

    Source: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

    This is a joint media release between the AFP, National Anti-Scam Centre, Philippines Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and National Bureau of Investigation

    Editor’s note: Text message screenshot, images from investigation, and audio grabs from AFP Commander Graeme Marshall are available via Hightail

    Authorities have texted more than 5000 potential victims in Australia to warn they may have been targeted by romance scammers based in the Philippines.

    The National Anti-Scam Centre (NASC), in partnership with the AFP-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Collaboration Centre (JPC3), has today texted potential victims, who are mostly male, urging them not to send money to people they’ve met online and outlined next steps to take if they have already sent money to the scammers.

    The potential victims were identified following an investigation by Philippines authorities into a scam compound operating in central Manila, in November 2024.

    More than 300 computer towers, 1000 mobile phones, and thousands of SIM cards were located by Philippines authorities and evidence gathered during the investigation has been shared with international law enforcement partners to help identify potential victims, including those who may not be aware they have been targeted.

    Under Operation Firestorm, the JPC3 identified more than 5000 Australian-based phone numbers linked to messages found on an end-to-end encryption platform on the devices.

    Operation Firestorm is a global operation launched by the JPC3 in August 2024, to address and disrupt offshore organised crime networks deceiving Australians through romance, cryptocurrency and investment scams. 

    The significant amount of technology located during the operation required extensive analysis, and JPC3 technical and cryptocurrency experts spent hundreds of hours extracting crucial evidence.

    It is alleged the scammers, using popular online dating apps, tricked victims into a fake online romantic relationship, before convincing them to purchase legitimate cryptocurrency. They would request a minimum first investment between AUD $300 – $800 dollars, before encouraging the victim to invest more money.

    The suspected scammer would then deceive the victim into transferring funds from the legitimate crypto exchange account into the scammer’s account.  

    Most of the Australian victims targeted were men over 35. The fraudsters posed as either a Filipino female working in Australia or a local female resident in the Philippines.

    The investigation has so far resulted in the arrest of more than 250 suspects by Philippine law enforcement authorities.  

    AFP Commander Cybercrime Operations Graeme Marshall said the investigation highlighted the importance of international partnerships in disrupting serious organised cybercrime networks while supporting victims.

    “The AFP worked closely with our partners, the National Anti-Scam Centre and Philippines Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the National Bureau of Investigation, to ensure Australians targeted by this malicious scam were identified and given advice to help protect themselves online,” AFP Cmdr Marshall said.

    “We urge anyone who received a text message warning from the National Anti-Scam Centre to take it very seriously and refrain from sending money to people you’ve met online.

    “If you have already sent someone money or cryptocurrency, please report it to your bank immediately, then to police via ReportCyber. To help others avoid similar scams, you can also report it to ScamWatch.

    “When it comes to romance scams, our message to the public is simple: protect your heart and your wallet. If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.

    “There are many warning signs someone you’ve met online could be trying to scam you. In this case, the scammer would ask to move the conversation from an online dating app to an end-to-end encryption messaging platform.

    “Cybercriminals commonly use this technique to protect themselves from being reported and removed from online dating or social media platforms.

    “We urge the public to familiarise themselves with the warning signs of romance scams to help protect themselves, loved ones, friends and family when interacting with people online.”

    Australian Competition & Consumer Commission Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe said in 2024, Australians reported losing $23.6 million to dating and romance scams.

    “Romance scammers prey on people seeking connection.  Criminals build trust over time and often abuse this trust by encouraging people to make large investments leaving victims with significant financial losses and emotional distress,” Ms Lowe said.

    “We encourage people to always independently verify any investment opportunity via trusted sources such as an Australian registered financial advisor.”

    How to stop, check and protect yourself from romance scams

    • Never send money or cryptocurrency to anyone you’ve met online. Be sceptical of any requests for money, no matter how genuine the story may seem.
    • Verify the person’s identity. Take things slow and be wary if their story doesn’t add up or if they refuse to video chat or meet in person. Conduct reverse image searches on their profile pictures at https://images.google.com.
    • Beware of overly affectionate behaviour. If someone you’ve just met online starts professing love quickly, it’s a red flag.
    • Be careful of what you share. Never disclose personal information or send intimate photos to people you don’t know as this may be used to blackmail you or steal your identity.

    What to do if you’re a victim of a scam

    • Stop all communication with the scammer
    • Take screenshots of conversations and profiles before blocking the scammer on all platforms.
    • Contact your bank if you have transferred money or suspect unusual account activity.
    • Report it to police at www.cyber.gov.au.
    • Report suspected scams to www.scamwatch.gov.au to help others avoid similar scams.
    • If you were contacted via social media, report it to the social media platform.
    • Use strong, unique passphrases on your accounts and enable Multi-Factor Authentication wherever possible.
    • If you are concerned your identity has been compromised, contact the national identity and cyber support service, IDCARE, at www.idcare.org. 
    • If you, or someone you know needs help, we encourage you to contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, who provide 24/7 support services.

    The JPC3 brings together Australian law enforcement and key industry and international partners to fight cybercrime and prevent harm and financial loss to the Australian community.

    We are committed to equipping all Australians with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves against cybercrime.

    Watch our cybercrime prevention videos and protect yourself against being a victim.

    If there is an immediate threat to life or risk of harm, call 000.

    Media enquiries:
    AFP Media: (02) 5126 9297

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Introduces Bipartisan ‘Fire Ready Nation Act’ to Strengthen Federal Wildfire Forecasting and Firefighting Tools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    01.30.25

    Cantwell Introduces Bipartisan ‘Fire Ready Nation Act’ to Strengthen Federal Wildfire Forecasting and Firefighting Tools

    Estimates put cost of this month’s California fires at $135B-$150B, making them the costliest in U.S. history

    WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Yesterday, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, introduced the Fire Ready Nation Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) ability to help forecast, prevent, and fight wildfires. The Fire Ready Nation Act will formally establish a permanent Fire Weather Services program within NOAA and authorize funding for new technologies to forecast weather conditions that cause and impact wildfires.

    “Over 300,000 acres burned in the State of Washington last year and this month’s California wildfires demonstrate we are facing costly, unpredictable wildfires year-round,” said Sen. Cantwell. “The Fire Ready Nation Act can help save homes and lives by giving scientists and weather forecasters on the front lines of wildfires innovative tools to better predict wildfire and smoke conditions.”

    NOAA is already a major player in wildfire preparedness and response. However, the agency has no defined authority in law for its wildfire services. And while NOAA is a world leader in wildfire forecasting, better coordination and funding for new high-tech initiatives would help improve forecasting and preparedness.

    In 2024, the United States faced 61,685 wildfires that burned more than 8.8 million acres across the nation. In the State of Washington, 308,000 acres burned in the 2024 fire season, and firefighters faced more than 1,400 ignitions. Preliminary estimates for this month’s California fires put the damage and economic losses at between $135 billion and $150 billion, which would make it the costliest wildfire event in U.S. history.

    Currently, NOAA helps fight wildfires in several ways:

    • Their climate data and fire season forecasts help federal, state, and local emergency response agencies and Tribes plan for wildfire season.
    • When potential fire conditions are severe, NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS) offices issue “Fire Watch Warnings” or “Red Flag Warnings” to help communities prepare.
    • During fires, NOAA deploys specially-trained forecasters called Incident Meteorologists (IMETs) to travel, work, and provide real-time lifesaving forecasts on the frontlines to keep firefighters safe.
    • NOAA’s High-Resolution Rapid Refresh-Smoke model helps predict how smoke moves and affects air quality and weather across the country.  

    The Fire Ready Nation Act would:

    • Establish an official Fire Weather Services Program within NOAA to authorize wildfire response services at the agency.
    • Fund the research and acquisition of new technology to improve forecasts of wildfire conditions.
    • Create a Fire Weather Testbed to deploy new tools to fight fires, including a pilot program for unmanned aircraft to gather data such as chemical information and survey damage.
    • Share NOAA data across multiple federal agencies to improve fire weather data collection and coordination.
    • Codify the Incident Meteorologist Service into law to continue deploying IMET forecasters to assist emergency responders. It will also ensure IMETs’ receive fair compensation for longer term deployments.

    As wildfires in the West become more frequent and intense, Sen. Cantwell is working to ensure communities have access to the resources to prevent, prepare for, fight, and recover from major wildfires. She secured billions of dollars to support wildfire prevention, response, and recovery in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    In January 2024, Sen. Cantwell co-introduced the Making Aid for Local Disasters Equal Now (MALDEN) Act, a bipartisan proposal to improve coordination between local, state, tribal, and federal agencies to deliver resources faster in the aftermath of disastrous wildfires. The MALDEN Act is named for the town of Malden, WA, which was destroyed by the 2020 Babb Road Fire.

    Following 2023’s devastating Gray and Oregon Road fires in Eastern Washington, Sen. Cantwell sent a letter to the Biden administration in support of Gov. Inslee’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration, and sent another letter in January 2024 asking for an immediate update on the status of this request. Shortly after Sen. Cantwell sent that letter, President Biden declared a major disaster declaration for Spokane County to deliver funding and assistance for residents and business owners.

    After the Bolt Creek Fire in 2022, Sen. Cantwell helped secure emergency funding to stabilize fire-scarred land around Highway 2 near Sultan. Just last year, the Senate unanimously passed two of Sen. Cantwell’s bipartisan bills to modernize the nation’s weather communication and radio service to keep communities better informed during intense weather events.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Wildlife Management Advisory Council (North Slope) and Government of Yukon host conference on Indigenous Conservation Economies

    Wildlife Management Advisory Council (North Slope) and Government of Yukon host conference on Indigenous Conservation Economies
    jlutz

    This is a joint release between the Wildlife Management Advisory Council (North Slope) and the Government of Yukon.

    The Wildlife Management Advisory Council (North Slope) and the Government of Yukon welcomed representatives from 28 Indigenous nations, along with representatives from diverse sectors, governments and conservation-focused organizations to the Yukon North Slope Conference 2025: Indigenous Conservation Economies in Whitehorse from January 28 to 30.

    The goal of the conference is to promote public discussion of co-management of the Yukon North Slope area. It is also an opportunity to celebrate Inuvialuit culture and successes in collaborative implementation of the Inuvialuit Final Agreement.

    This year’s theme, Indigenous Conservation Economies, was inspired by the new Aullaviat/Anguniarvik Traditional Conservation Area on the Yukon North Slope. The theme provided Indigenous governments and groups, as well as other partners, the opportunity to connect and discuss how Indigenous Peoples can use their traditional economies to thrive across a variety of sectors and geographies. This includes Indigenous-led conservation areas, conservation finance, harvesting and on-the-land support, guardians and monitoring programs, climate adaption initiatives, ecotourism, research economies and artistry.

    Frank Brown, a Hereditary Chief of the Heiltsuk Nation from Bella Bella in British Columbia gave the keynote address to over 200 participants attending from across the Canadian North. The Yukon North Slope Conservation Award was also given out during the conference and a film celebrating the Aullaviat/Anguniarvik Traditional Conservation Area Agreement premiered during the conference. 

    The Inuvialuit Final Agreement was signed in 1984 and identified the Yukon’s North Slope as a place for conservation of wildlife, habitat and traditional Inuvialuit use. 2024 marked the 40th anniversary of the Inuvialuit Final Agreement. This year’s conference is the 11th Yukon North Slope Conference since the agreement was signed.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Premier Pillai on the crime prevention programming available with the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce

    Statement from Premier Pillai on the crime prevention programming available with the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce
    jlutz

    This statement has been updated to correct the name and title of the representative from the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce.

    Premier and Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

    “In December, the Government of Yukon and the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce announced joint efforts to address community safety in downtown Whitehorse. Today, I was pleased to be joined by Chair of the Safety Committee of the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce Joel Gaetz to formally announce the Safebiz: Whitehorse Community Safety Pilot Program, designed to support businesses and non-government organizations with practical tools to enhance safety and security.

    “This program is funded by the Government of Yukon and administered by the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce. Based on program models in British Columbia, Manitoba and Alberta, as well as discussions with members of the Whitehorse business community, phase 1 of the Safebiz program will help provide businesses with funding for security assessments, safety and de-escalation training and resources to help businesses improve their security measures.

    “Business owners and organizations can sign up for the program by visiting whitehorsechamber.ca/safebiz. Appointments for comprehensive security assessments are available now on a first-come, first-served basis. Business owners and organizations can also sign themselves and their employees up for training sessions designed to enhance security.

    “I want to thank the chamber’s Executive Director Andrei Samson and their Executive Committee for all their hard work and continued partnership in supporting the Yukon’s entrepreneurs. The Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce is highly regarded by our business community and I am grateful that they are taking on this critical task that will make our capital city a safer place for people to work, live and visit.

    “Our territory’s entrepreneurs are known for their community-centric practices and for giving back to those in need. My hope is that this program will empower local businesses to create safer spaces for their staff and customers so they can continue their important work with fortitude.

    “This program is only one piece of a larger picture and we know there is more work to do. Improving security in our downtown area means addressing a multitude of social inequities in our community and supporting both prevention and policing. Our government remains committed to working on these issues alongside our partners. Together, we will continue work to foster a vibrant and safe downtown community.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Updates on micro-generation program pause

    The Government of Yukon is extending the pause of intakes to the micro-generation renewable energy program until January 15, 2026. The area of the pause is expanding to include all communities connected to the Yukon grid.

    The pause began in December 2023 to allow the Government of Yukon and the utilities time to assess what system upgrades are needed to ensure the grid remains reliable and stable as more renewable energy comes online. The Government of Yukon has completed phase one of a two-part study which recommends not adding any additional micro-generation systems at this time while additional analysis is completed. The second phase is expected to be completed in 2025 and will focus on evaluating the effects of proposed micro-generation and utility system upgrades.

    The micro-generation program remains open for intake for Watson Lake, Beaver Creek, Old Crow, Burwash Landing and Destruction Bay – with limits in place.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: 27-2025: Scheduled Outage: Saturday 16 February to Sunday 16 February 2025 – BICON, EXDOC

    Source: Australia Government Statements – Agriculture

    31 January 2025

    Who does this notice affect?

    All clients required to use the Biosecurity Import Conditions System (BICON) during this planned maintenance period.

    All clients required to use the Export Documentation (EXDOC) system during this planned maintenance period.

    Information

    Due to scheduled infrastructure maintenance, there will be an outage to BICON and EXDOC from 23:59 Saturday 15 February to 05:00 Sunday 16 February 2025 (AEDT).

    Action

    …

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sipekne’katik  — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Jerome Patrick Paul

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Sipekne’katik RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 48-year-old Jerome Patrick Paul who was last seen in Sipekne’katik (Indian Brook).

    Paul is described as 5-foot-8 and 200 pounds. He has short dark brown hair, brown eyes and is known to wear glasses. Paul is believed to be wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants.

    At this time, investigators believe that Paul may be driving a dark blue Chevrolet cargo van with the rear passenger window smashed out.

    When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jerome Patrick Paul is asked to contact the Indian Brook RCMP detachment at 902-758-3388. 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 #: 2025-136698

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Viper Energy Announces Pricing of Upsized Class A Common Stock Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIDLAND, Texas, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Viper Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: VNOM) (“Viper”) announced today the pricing of an underwritten public offering of 24,640,000 shares of its Class A common stock at a price to the public of $44.50 per share (the “Primary Offering”). Viper’s offering of 24,640,000 shares of Class A common stock represents a 2,640,000 share upsize to the originally proposed 22,000,000 share offering. The underwriters have a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,696,000 shares of Class A common stock from Viper at the public offering price (less the underwriting discount).

    Net proceeds to Viper from the sale of the 24,640,000 shares of its Class A common stock, after the underwriting discount and estimated offering expenses, will be approximately $1.1 billion (or $1.2 billion, if the underwriters exercise their option in full).

    Viper intends to use the net proceeds from the Primary Offering to fund the cash consideration for its previously announced pending acquisition of all of the equity interests of certain mineral and royalty-interest owning subsidiaries of Viper’s parent, Diamondback Energy, Inc. (the “Pending Drop Down”), if it closes. If the Pending Drop Down does not close, Viper will use the net proceeds from the Primary Offering for general corporate purposes.

    The Primary Offering is expected to close on February 3, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

    J.P. Morgan, Citigroup, Mizuho and Morgan Stanley are acting as joint book-running managers for the Primary Offering. Copies of the written base prospectus and prospectus supplement for the Primary Offering may be obtained on the website of the Securities and Exchange Commission, www.sec.gov or, when available, may be obtained from J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717 or by email at prospectus-eq_fi@jpmchase.com; Citigroup, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717, by telephone at (800) 831-9146; Mizuho Securities USA LLC, Attn: Equity Capital Markets, 1271 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10020, by telephone at 1-212-205-7600 or by email at US-ECM@mizuhogroup.com; or Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Attn: Prospectus Department, 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10014.

    The Class A common stock will be issued and sold pursuant to an effective automatic shelf registration statement on Form S-3ASR previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Registration Statement”).

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. The Primary Offering may only be made by means of a prospectus supplement and related base prospectus.

    About Viper Energy, Inc.

    Viper is a publicly traded Delaware corporation that owns and acquires mineral and royalty interests in oil and natural gas properties primarily in the Permian Basin.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    The information in this press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this press release, regarding the completion of the Primary Offering, Viper’s strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, prospects, plans and objectives of management are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words “could,” “may,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “goal,” “plan,” “target” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and assumptions about future events and are based on currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Be cautioned that these forward-looking statements are subject to all of the risk and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond Viper’s control, incident to the development, production, gathering and sale of oil and natural gas. These risks include, but are not limited to, commodity price volatility, inflation, lack of availability of drilling and production equipment and services, risks relating to the Pending Drop Down, including its consummation or the realization of the anticipated benefits and synergies therefrom. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including, but not limited to, those set forth in Viper’s filings with the SEC, including the base prospectus and prospectus supplement relating to the Primary Offering, the Registration Statement, its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, under the caption “Risk Factors,” as may be updated from time to time in Viper’s periodic filings with the SEC. Any forward-looking statement in this press release speaks only as of the date of this release. Viper undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by any applicable securities laws.

    Investor Contacts:
    Adam Lawlis
    +1 432.221.7467
    alawlis@diamondbackenergy.com

    Austen Gilfillian
    +1 432.221.7420
    agilfillian@viperenergy.com

    Source: Viper Energy, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mount Logan Capital Inc. Completes Strategic Minority Investment in Runway Growth Capital LLC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mount Logan Capital Inc. (Cboe Canada: MLC) (“Mount Logan” or the “Company”) today announced it has successfully completed its previously announced minority investment in Runway Growth Capital LLC (“Runway”), alongside BC Partners and its affiliates, which are acquiring the remaining outstanding ownership in Runway. On closing, Mount Logan issued to former Runway members an aggregate of 2,693,071 common shares of Mount Logan at a deemed price of C$2.67, which was determined based on the 20-day volume-weighted average price prior to and including January 27, 2025.

    With approval of a new investment advisory agreement, Runway will continue to serve as investment adviser to its managed funds, including Runway Growth Finance Corp. (Nasdaq: RWAY) (“Runway Growth Finance”), a business development company, and to other private funds. Mount Logan looks forward to working with BC Partners and Runway’s management and investment teams to capitalize on the opportunities available in the North American credit markets.

    Management Commentary

    Ted Goldthorpe, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Mount Logan, stated, “We are thrilled to officially welcome David and the talented team at Runway to the Mount Logan family. We are excited about partnering with the Runway team to scale their specialized capabilities in providing financing solutions to late-stage growth platforms. Since the announcement, we have already seen significant benefits of our alignment with the Runway team. Runway’s expertise enhances our credit capabilities, and we are confident in our ability to leverage their strong investment acumen to expand our product suite and further diversify our private credit fund offerings.”

    Advisors

    Wildeboer Dellelce LLP acted as Canadian legal counsel to Mount Logan. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP acted as legal counsel to BC Partners. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Runway Growth Capital LLC. Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz acted as legal counsel to Runway Growth Capital LLC and Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP acted as legal counsel to the independent directors of Runway Growth Finance.

    About Mount Logan Capital Inc.

    Mount Logan Capital Inc. is an alternative asset management and insurance solutions company that is focused on public and private debt securities in the North American market and the reinsurance of annuity products, primarily through its wholly owned subsidiaries Mount Logan Management LLC (“ML Management”) and Ability Insurance Company (“Ability”), respectively. Mount Logan also actively sources, evaluates, underwrites, manages, monitors and primarily invests in loans, debt securities, and other credit-oriented instruments that present attractive risk-adjusted returns and present low risk of principal impairment through the credit cycle.

    ML Management was organized in 2020 as a Delaware limited liability company and is registered with the SEC as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The primary business of ML Management is to provide investment management services to (i) privately offered investment funds exempt from registration under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) advised by ML Management, (ii) a non-diversified closed-end management investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company, (iii) Ability, and (iv) non-diversified closed-end management investment companies registered under the 1940 Act that operate as interval funds. ML Management also acts as the collateral manager to collateralized loan obligations backed by debt obligations and similar assets.

    Ability is a Nebraska domiciled insurer and reinsurer of long-term care policies and annuity products acquired by Mount Logan in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2021. Ability is also no longer insuring or re-insuring new long-term care risk.

    About Runway Growth Capital LLC

    Runway Growth Capital LLC is the investment adviser to investment funds, including Runway Growth Finance Corp. (Nasdaq: RWAY), a business development company, and other private funds, which are lenders of growth capital to companies seeking an alternative to raising equity. Led by industry veteran David Spreng, these funds provide senior term loans of a target of $30 million to $150 million to fast-growing companies based in the United States and Canada. For more information on Runway Growth Capital LLC and its platform, please visit www.runwaygrowth.com.

    About Runway Growth Finance Corp.

    Runway Growth Finance is a growing specialty finance company focused on providing flexible capital solutions to late- and growth-stage companies seeking an alternative to raising equity. Runway Growth Finance is a closed-end investment fund that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Runway Growth Finance is externally managed by Runway Growth Capital LLC, an established registered investment advisor that was formed in 2015 and led by industry veteran David Spreng. For more information, please visit www.runwaygrowth.com.

    About BC Partners & BC Partners Credit

    BC Partners is a leading international investment firm in private equity, private debt, and real estate strategies. BC Partners Credit was launched in February 2017, with a focus on identifying attractive credit opportunities in any market environment, often in complex market segments. The platform leverages the broader firm’s deep industry and operating resources to provide flexible financing solutions to middle-market companies across Business Services, Industrials, Healthcare and other select sectors. For further information, visit www.bcpartners.com/credit-strategy.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the expressions “seeks”, “expects”, “believes”, “estimates”, “will”, “target” and similar expressions. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts but reflect the current expectations of the Company regarding future results or events and are based on information currently available to it. Certain material factors and assumptions were applied in providing these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements discussed in this release include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the Company’s business strategy, model, approach and future activities; portfolio composition, size and performance, asset management activities and related income, capital raising activities, future credit opportunities of the Company, portfolio realizations, the protection of stakeholder value, the expansion of the Company’s loan portfolio, including through its investment in Runway, synergies to be achieved by both the Company and Runway through the Company’s strategic minority investment, any future growth and expansion of each of both the Company and Runway, any change in earnings potential for the Company as a result of any growth of Runway, the business and future activities and prospects of Runway and the Company. All forward-looking statements in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions; however, the Company can give no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized by certain specified dates or at all. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations, including that the expected synergies of the investment in Runway may not be realized as expected; the risk that each of the Company and Runway may require a significant investment of capital and other resources in order to expand and grow their respective businesses; the Company has a limited operating history with respect to an asset management oriented business model and the matters discussed under “Risk Factors” in the most recently filed annual information form and management discussion and analysis for the Company. Readers, therefore, should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, a forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any such statement or to reflect new information or the occurrence of future events or circumstances except as required by securities laws. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release.

    This press release is not, and under no circumstances is it to be construed as, a prospectus or an advertisement and the communication of this release is not, and under no circumstances is it to be construed as, an offer to sell or an offer to purchase any securities in the Company or in any fund or other investment vehicle. This press release is not intended for U.S. persons. The Company’s shares are not registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Company is not registered under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”). U.S. persons are not permitted to purchase the Company’s shares absent an applicable exemption from registration under each of these Acts. In addition, the number of investors in the United States, or which are U.S. persons or purchasing for the account or benefit of U.S. persons, will be limited to such number as is required to comply with an available exemption from the registration requirements of the 1940 Act.

    Contacts
    Mount Logan Capital Inc.
    365 Bay Street, Suite 800
    Toronto, ON M5H 2V1
    info@mountlogancapital.ca

    Nikita Klassen
    Chief Financial Officer
    Nikita.Klassen@mountlogancapital.ca

    Scott Chan
    Investor Relations
    Scott.Chan@mountlogan.com

    The MIL Network –