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  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer to Chair Senate EPW Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
    Click here for audio. Click here for video.
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee announced U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) will serve as Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure  (T&I) Subcommittee for the 119th Congress. Cramer previously served as Ranking Member of the subcommittee from 2021 to 2024.
    The T&I Subcommittee has jurisdiction over the Federal Highway Administration, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water projects and management, public buildings, and regional economic development. During Cramer’s tenure on EPW, the committee has debated and unanimously passed the most substantive highway bill in history and three consecutive Water Resource Development Acts, all of which were signed into law.  
    “The T&I Subcommittee is one of the few places left in Congress where bipartisanship and regular order are the norm, and why not? Americans expect and they understand their roads, bridges, waterways, and efficient interstate commerce is both a federal responsibility and a priority,” said Cramer. “My goal on the committee is to improve the nation’s infrastructure by getting the next highway bill and the Water Resources Development Act done on time and, at the same time, right-sizing this bloated federal real estate portfolio that we have. We have a lot to do and I’m look forward to working with Chairman Capito, and Ranking Member Whitehouse, and my colleagues on the committee, and of course the Trump administration to get the job done.”
    Cramer will serve on the Senate Environment and Public Works Clean Air, Climate, and Nuclear Innovation and Safety Subcommittee as well as the Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife Subcommittee.
    More information can be found here and on the EPW website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Statement on Trump Moving Closer Towards Authoritarianism

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, Jan. 28 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement after the Trump Administration ordered a pause in all federal grants and loans, a sweeping decision that could disrupt education and health care programs, housing assistance, disaster relief and a host of other initiatives that depend on billions of federal dollars: 

    Let’s be clear. The Trump Administration’s action last night to suspend all federal grants and loans will have a devastating impact on the health and well-being of millions of children, seniors on fixed incomes, and the most vulnerable people in our country. It is a dangerous move towards authoritarianism and it is blatantly unconstitutional. Our Founding Fathers explicitly gave Congress the power of the purse. Under our system of checks and balances, no president has the right to choose which laws to follow and which laws to ignore.

    Further, this illegal action raises more questions than it answers:

    Will our nation’s community health centers receive the federal grants they need to continue to provide primary health care to more than 30 million Americans who desperately need it? Or is that on pause?

    Will Head Start programs throughout the country receive the federal grants they need to provide high-quality early education to nearly 1 million children? Or will their parents find that they are no longer enrolled in Head Start?

    Will pregnant mothers and their babies receive the vital nutrition assistance they need to stay healthy through the WIC program? Or will they be denied the food they need?

    Will states be denied the federal grants Congress passed to keep millions of seniors on fixed incomes and families with children warm in the winter through the LIHEAP program? Or will these vulnerable Americans freeze because they are no longer able to pay their heating bills?

    These are just a few of the questions that Trump’s dangerous and illegal action has raised.

    Bottom line: This unconstitutional memo must be rescinded. The American people — Democrats, Republicans and Independents — must come together to defeat this move towards authoritarianism. If President Trump wants to change our nation’s laws he has the right to ask Congress to change them. He does not have the right to violate the United States Constitution. He is not a king.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrests Honduran illegal alien charged with sex crimes, assault and battery, armed robbery

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Boston apprehended an illegally present, previously removed Honduran when officers with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston apprehended Juan Alberto Rodezno-Marin in Boston Jan. 22. Rodezno, 39, was charged in Massachusetts with indecent assault and battery on person over 14, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, masked armed robbery and assault to rape.

    “Mr. Rodezno will have his day in court, but he stands accused of some horrific crimes,” said acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde of ICE ERO Boston. “Not only did he repeatedly break U.S. immigration laws, but he apparently presents a substantial threat to the residents of Massachusetts. ICE ERO Boston cannot tolerate illegal criminal threats to our neighborhoods. We will continue our mission to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing the illegal criminal elements from our New England communities.”

    U.S. Border Patrol arrested Rodezno Oct. 10, 2007, after he illegally entered the United States without inspection or admission by an immigration officer. The Border Patrol issued Rodezno an order of expedited removal and

    ERO Harlingen removed Rodezno to Honduras Nov. 22, 2007.

    Immigration officials twice arrested Rodezno for illegally re-entering the U.S. between Aug. 10, 2008, and Dec. 8, 2009, and removed him after each occasion.

    Officers from ICE ERO Boston encountered Rodezno Dec. 20, 2022, at the Middlesex House of Correction and issued an immigration detainer against Rodezno later that day.

    The Middlesex Superior Court in Woburn, Massachusetts, arraigned Rodezno March 9, 2023, for the offenses of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, masked armed robbery, and assault to rape.

    Middlesex Superior Court ignored the ICE detainer and released Rodezno back into the community Dec. 4, 2024.

    Officers from ERO Boston arrested Rodezno Jan. 22 in Boston and he remains in ERO custody.

    ERO conducts removals of individuals without a lawful basis to remain in the United States, including at the order of immigration judges with the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. EOIR is a separate entity from DHS and ICE. Immigration judges in these courts make decisions based on the merits of each individual case, determining if a noncitizen is subject to a final order of removal or eligible for certain forms of relief from removal.

    ERO is one of ICE’s three operational directorates and is the principal federal law enforcement authority in charge of domestic immigration enforcement. ERO’s mission is to protect the homeland through the arrest and removal of those who undermine the safety of U.S. communities and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws, and its primary areas of focus are interior enforcement operations, management of the agency’s detained and non-detained populations, and repatriation of noncitizens who have received final orders of removal. ERO’s workforce consists of more than 7,700 law enforcement and non-law enforcement support personnel across 25 domestic field offices and 208 locations nationwide, 30 overseas postings, and multiple temporary duty travel assignments along the border.

    Members of the public with information regarding child sex offenders can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ERO Boston’s mission to increase public safety in our New England communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Washington, D.C. arrests Bolivian illegal national convicted of DWI in Virginia

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Bolivian national convicted of driving while intoxicated in Fairfax County, Virginia. Officers from ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C., arrested Daniel Bustamante-Cespedez Jan. 15 in Fairfax County.

    “Not only is Mr. Bustamante in our country illegally, he decided to risk the safety of Virginia residents by driving while he was intoxicated,” said ICE Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Liana Castano. “We will not tolerate criminal alien offenders to threaten the safety of our Washington, D.C. and Virginia communities. ICE ERO Washington, D.C. will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing illegally present offenders.

    Bustamante lawfully entered the United States on May 23, 2022, but violated the terms of his lawful admission.

    Bustamante was convicted in Fairfax County, Virginia, of driving while intoxicated Dec. 18, 2024.

    Officers with ERO Washington, D.C. issued Bustamante a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge after his arrest and he remains in ERO custody.

    ERO conducts removals of individuals without a lawful basis to remain in the United States, including at the order of immigration judges with the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. EOIR is a separate entity from DHS and ICE. Immigration judges in these courts make decisions based on the merits of each individual case, determining if a noncitizen is subject to a final order of removal or eligible for certain forms of relief from removal.

    As one of ICE’s three operational directorates, ERO is the principal federal law enforcement authority in charge of domestic immigration enforcement. ERO’s mission is to protect the homeland through the arrest and removal of those who undermine the safety of U.S. communities and the integrity of U.S. immigration laws, and its primary areas of focus are interior enforcement operations, management of the agency’s detained and non-detained populations, and repatriation of noncitizens who have received final orders of removal. ERO’s workforce consists of more than 7,700 law enforcement and non-law enforcement support personnel across 25 domestic field offices and 208 locations nationwide, 30 overseas postings, and multiple temporary duty travel assignments along the border.

    Members of the public with information regarding child sex offenders can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ERO Washington, D.C. by following us on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROWashington.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONSUMER ALERT: Watch out for charity scams seeking to profit from the California wildfires

    Source: Washington State News

    OLYMPIA — The Attorney General’s Office Consumer Protection Division is warning Washingtonians to be on the lookout for scammers targeting donations aiding those affected by the wildfires in California. Attorney General Nick Brown asks Washingtonians to report any suspicious solicitations to his office.

    “The catastrophic damage from these fires makes us want to support relief and recovery efforts,” Brown said. “I urge potential donors to give with caution and look out for potential scams or fraudulent solicitations. If you see charity solicitations that look suspicious, please file a complaint with my office.”

    Anyone who believes they have detected or been the victim of a charity scam can submit a complaint to the Attorney General’s Office using this online complaint form. If the charity is located in California, donors can also submit a complaint form, located here.

    The Attorney General’s Office reminds donors that they can help protect themselves from scams by slowing down and researching any charities they want to support. For instance, donors should pause and consider whether an advertised charity has an actual history of providing the type of work needed in response to a disaster.

    You can take additional steps to protect yourself from scams by doing the following:

    • Research the charity before giving. Ensure the charity is registered with the Washington Secretary of State at www.sos.wa.gov/charities. If the charity is registered, you can review a summary of its financial records and tax status. You can also check the charity’s rating on Charity Navigator at www.charitynavigator.org, Guidestar’s Nonprofit Directory at www.guidestar.org or use the IRS’s Tax Exempt Organization Search tool, located here, to verify the entity’s status.
    • Don’t give in to high-pressure tactics. If is someone is demanding immediate payment or sensitive personal information, it’s likely a scam.
    • Verify a Charity’s Tax Status: You should remember that giving to a specific individual or a family’s crowdfunding efforts presents more risk than giving to an established charity. Additionally, a donation to an individual or family is not a tax-deductible gift, in most circumstances. If you are unsure about the charity’s designation, use the IRS’s Tax Exempt Organization Search tool to verify the entity’s status.
    • Report Unwanted Robocalls and Robotexts: Generally, unsolicited robocalls and robotexts are illegal. Recipients of those calls and texts can report them using the Attorney General’s Telephone Scam Reporting Form, located here.
    • Watch Out for Imposters: Fraudulent organizations may use names that closely resemble those of well-established charitable organizations to mislead donors. Look out for fraudulent websites that have a slightly different web address than that of a legitimate charitable organization. Similar-looking web and email addresses are sometimes used by scammers to lure in donors.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Elma Rest Area in Grays Harbor County closes to complete water system work Feb. 3-14

    Source: Washington State News 2

    ELMA – Travelers who use the Elma Rest Area along eastbound State Route 8 in Grays Harbor County will soon need to make other plans.

    Beginning 8 a.m. Monday, Feb. 3, contractors working for the Washington State Department of Transportation will close the rest area around the clock until 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. 

    The planned closure will allow crews to finish upgrades to the facility’s water system.

    The work includes installation of new, larger water pipes. New well pumps and an automated water management system were installed in November 2024.

    When complete, the work will reduce long-term maintenance costs and extend the service life of the system.

    About the rest area

    The Elma Rest Area opened in 1967. Amenities include water fountains, restrooms, picnic areas, vending machines, a visitor information center, short term parking and a recreational vehicle wastewater disposal area.

    Alternate facilities

    The next available rest area, located 31 miles east at Scatter Creek along northbound Interstate 5 in Thurston County, is also scheduled to close for water upgrades Feb. 10-28.

    The next nearest rest area with restrooms, short term parking and picnic areas is located 35 miles east near Maytown along southbound I-5 in Thurston County.

    Travelers are encouraged to sign up for email updates about work on state roads in Grays Harbor County. Real-time travel information is available from the WSDOT app and statewide travel map.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Announces Pratt & Whitney Will Expand Manufacturing Operations in Asheville

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Announces Pratt & Whitney Will Expand Manufacturing Operations in Asheville

    Governor Stein Announces Pratt & Whitney Will Expand Manufacturing Operations in Asheville
    bwood

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Stein announced that Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business (NYSE: RTX), will expand its turbine airfoil manufacturing plant in Buncombe County, a significant vote of confidence in western North Carolina. The company’s expansion project will create 325 additional jobs and includes an additional investment of $285 million in Asheville.  

    “Western North Carolina’s economy took it on the chin after Hurricane Helene, yet still it remains an incredible place to work and do business,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Pratt & Whitney clearly sees the opportunities in North Carolina and the strength of our highly skilled workforce. We look forward to welcoming them here.” 

    Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture, and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units.  More than 17,000 customers operating in more than 200 countries and territories use Pratt & Whitney engines, with more than 90,000 engines currently in service.  The company’s Asheville facility, first announced in October 2020, produces high-tech turbine airfoils, an important component in aircraft jet engines.  The company’s new project will expand its production capacity to meet growing customer demand.

    “Pratt & Whitney’s continued investment in Asheville is critical to meet the growing demand for our products, such as the GTF for the A320family and the F135 for the F-35 Lightning II,” said Asheville General Manager for Pratt & Whitney Dan Field. “We would like to thank the state, Buncombe County and Governor Stein for their support on this project. This latest round of investment allows us to add critical process elements for the manufacture of turbine airfoils and increase the overall delivery output of this facility, enabling us to deliver on our customer commitments while creating hundreds of new jobs in the Asheville community.” 

    “The aviation industry is a key driver of North Carolina’s economic success and Pratt & Whitney’s decision strengthens our aerospace ecosystem substantially,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley.  “We will continue to invest in support systems, like our community colleges and universities, that help employers like Pratt & Whitney succeed in our state—and bolster Western NC’s economy.”

    The North Carolina Department of Commerce led the state’s support for the company during its site evaluation and decision-making process.

    The average salary for the new positions will be $62,413, compared with an average wage in Buncombe County of $55,416.  The new positions will bring an annual payroll impact to the community of more than $20 million per year. 

    The company’s project in North Carolina will be facilitated, in part, by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee earlier today. Over the course of the 12-year term of this grant, the project is estimated to grow the state’s economy by nearly $2.1 billion. Using a formula that takes into account the new tax revenues generated by the new jobs and the capital investment, the JDIG agreement authorizes the potential reimbursement to the company of up to $4,202,250, spread over 12 years. State payments only occur following performance verification by the departments of Commerce and Revenue that the company has met its incremental job creation and investment targets. 

    The project’s projected return on investment of public dollars is 317 per cent, meaning for every dollar of potential cost, the state receives $4.17 in state revenue. JDIG projects result in positive net tax revenue to the state treasury, even after taking into consideration the grant’s reimbursement payments to a given company.  

    Because Pratt & Whitney chose to expand in Buncombe County, classified by the state’s economic tier system as Tier 3, the company’s JDIG agreement also calls for moving $1,400,750 into the state’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account. The Utility Account helps rural communities finance necessary infrastructure upgrades to attract future business. Even when new jobs are created in a Tier 3 county such as Buncombe, the new tax revenue generated through JDIG grants helps more economically challenged communities elsewhere in the state. 

    “Many local, regional, and state organizations have worked hard to bring this new economic development project to Buncombe County, all while working diligently through the many details of storm recovery,” said Representative Eric Ager. “We look forward to seeing Pratt & Whitney continue to thrive in our great community.” 

    Partnering with the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina on this project were the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, the North Carolina Departments of Revenue and Transportation, N.C. Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, the Office of Congressman Chuck Edwards, the Golden LEAF Foundation, Duke Energy, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Biltmore Farms, Buncombe County, the City of Asheville, and the Economic Development Coalition of Asheville and Buncombe County.  

    Jan 28, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Charges Second Los Angeles Realtor for Price Gouging Victims of Eaton Fire

    Source: US State of California

    DOJ has additionally sent more than 650 price gouging warning letters to hotels and landlords

    Price gouging restrictions remain in effect through March 8, 2025

    LOS ANGELES — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the filing of charges against a real estate agent, alleging that she attempted to price gouge a family who was evacuated due to the Los Angeles Eaton Fire. This investigation was the result of review of complaints received by the California Department of Justice (DOJ). The investigation revealed that after being evacuated in the Eaton fire, the family began searching for rentals through their real estate agent and inquired about renting a Glendale home. The defendant, another Southern California real estate agent, offered the family a new price that exceeded the listing price by more than 50%, which is in excess of the 10% limit laid out in Penal Code section 396 while the Governor’s Emergency Orders are in effect.

    As part of Attorney General Bonta’s work to protect Californians following the Southern California wildfires, DOJ continues to actively investigate and prosecute price gouging, and has sent more than 650 warning letters – and counting – to hotels and landlords who have been accused of price gouging. 

    “In the face of natural disaster, we should be coming together to help our neighbors, not attempting to profit off of their pain,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Today’s charges are another example of DOJ’s commitment to put an end to price gouging. I urge the public to report any such incidents to local authorities, or to my office at oag.ca.gov/report or by reaching out to our hotline at (800) 952-5225. To date we have sent more than 650 warning letters, and continue to actively investigate and hold accountable those who disregard the law. May this announcement serve as a stern warning to those who would seek to further victimize people who have lost everything in the face of Southern California’s wildfires: We won’t stop until the price gouging does.”
     
    DOJ has opened several active investigations into price gouging as it continues to ramp up deployment of resources to Los Angeles County to investigate and prosecute price gouging, fraud, scams, and unsolicited low-ball offers on property during the state of emergency. Working alongside our District Attorneys, City Attorneys, and other law enforcement partners, DOJ has been working diligently to tackle this unlawful conduct since a state of emergency was declared on January 7, 2025, and to further those efforts, the launch of a website dedicated to its response: oag.ca.gov/LAFires.
     
    California law – specifically, Penal Code section 396 – generally prohibits charging a price that exceeds, by more than 10%, the price a seller charged for an item before a state or local declaration of emergency. For items a seller only began selling after an emergency declaration, the law generally prohibits charging a price that exceeds the seller’s cost of the item by more than 50%. This law applies to those who sell food, emergency supplies, medical supplies, building materials, and gasoline. The law also applies to repair or reconstruction services, emergency cleanup services, transportation, freight and storage services, hotel accommodations, and long- and short-term rental housing. Exceptions to this prohibition exist if, for example, the price of labor, goods, or materials has increased for the business. 

    Violators of the price gouging statute are subject to criminal prosecution that can result in a maximum penalty of one-year imprisonment in county jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000. Violators are also subject to civil enforcement actions including civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation, injunctive relief, and mandatory restitution. The Attorney General and local prosecutors can enforce the statute.

    TIPS FOR REPORTING PRICE GOUGING, SCAMS, FRAUD AND OTHER CRIMES:

    • Visit oag.ca.gov/LAfires or call our hotline at: (800) 952-5225.
    • Include screenshots of all correspondence including conversations, text messages, direct messages (DMs), and voicemails
    • Provide anything that shows what prices you were offered, when, and by whom.
    • If you’re on a site like Zillow, you can also send screenshots of the price history and a link to the listing. 
    • Include first and last names of the realtors, listing agents, or business owners you spoke to. Be sure to include phone numbers, email addresses, home and business addresses, websites, social media accounts.
    • Don’t leave out any information that can help us find and contact the business or landlord.

    Californians who believe they have been the victim of price gouging should report it to their local authorities or to the Attorney General at oag.ca.gov/LAfires. To view a list of all price gouging restrictions currently in effect as a result of proclamations by the Governor, please see here.

    It is important to note that criminal charges must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    A copy of the complaint can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fall River — RCMP responds to vehicle-pedestrian collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a vehicle-pedestrian collision in Fall River yesterday morning.

    On January 27, at approximately 7 a.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment, fire services, and EHS, responded to a report of a collision near the 1400 block of Fall River Rd. RCMP officers learned that a Ford Ecosport was travelling on the roadway when it collided with a pedestrian.

    The pedestrian, a 32-year-old Fall River woman, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to hospital by EHS.

    The driver of the Ford, a 30-year-old Fall River man, did not suffer physical injuries.

    A summary offence ticket was issued to the driver of the Ford for Failing to Operate a Vehicle at a Careful and Prudent Speed for Existing Conditions.

    File #: 25-12472

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nebraska Man Pleads Guilty to Violent Carjackings in Minneapolis

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – A Nebraska man has pleaded guilty for two violent carjackings, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents, on June 16, 2024, Nathan Mathias Sughroue, 31, approached his first victim and told her to get out of her black Hyundai Elantra. He then reached inside to physically remove her from the vehicle and threatened her with a knife. Shortly afterwards, a Shakopee Police Department officer spotted the black Elantra and attempted a traffic stop by activating his siren, but Sughroue evaded arrest. Sughroue then drove the stolen Elantra to a gas station in Bloomington, Minnesota, where he told his second victim to give him the keys to his Nissan Murano SUV. The second victim refused, and a fight ensued. Sughroue stabbed the second victim multiple times, left him bleeding profusely on the pavement, and drove away in the Nissan Murano.

    Sughroue pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking and one count of carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury in U.S. District Court yesterday before Judge John R. Tunheim. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Shakopee Police Department, Robbinsdale Police Department, Minneapolis Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol, and the FBI.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Classen is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Belvoir woman pleads guilty to brutally beating her 10-year-old child

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Fort Belvoir woman pled guilty yesterday to assault with a dangerous weapon; assault by striking, beating, and wounding; and cruelty to children.

    According to court documents, on Oct. 8, 2024, China Ashley Charles, 38, was enraged at her 10-year-old child because his bedroom was messy. She struck him with a chair, dresser drawers, a hot iron, a charging wire, a hairbrush, and a large serving spoon. She attempted to strike his face with the iron, but he blocked it with his hands.  When Charles hit the child with the charging wire, his finger was cut and began bleeding.

    Charles tried to hide her crime by making the child sit in a cold bath and splashing cold water on his face.

    The child dropped onto the roof from his second-floor bedroom and then jumped down from the roof and fled. He was recovered by police with substantial bruises, abrasions, a knot on the back of his head, and a cut and bleeding finger. The child was transported to the emergency room at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital by ambulance.

    Law enforcement recovered numerous items from China’s residence, including the iron, chair, hairbrush, spoon, multiple dresser drawers, and a sweater and a shirt with “I’M ON PUNISHMENT” written on them in black marker. Several of these items appeared to have blood on them, and further examination confirmed that the child’s blood was located on the iron and at least one dresser drawer.  The child’s sister reported that China had been beating him for the past four years.

    Charles is scheduled to be sentenced on May 9 and faces up to 16 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jake Cameron, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Office, Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema accepted the plea.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys April N. Russo and Marc J. Birnbaum and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Claire M. Horrell are prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-248.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Philadelphia Union & Atomic Data Announce Multi-Year Partnership Extension

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHESTER, Pa. and MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Philadelphia Union and Atomic Data announced today that they have extended their partnership for five more years, bringing a wide range of managed IT services to the Major League Soccer Club through 2029. Under the official IT partnership, Atomic Data and Game Day Technologies will continue to oversee all of the Union’s IT operations and security measures.

    “We are excited to announce the extension of our multi-year partnership with Atomic Data,” said Chief Revenue Officer Charlie Slonaker. “Since our collaboration began in 2022, Atomic Data has significantly enhanced our technology operations and IT resources. Their 24×7 support has been instrumental in helping us achieve several key club goals. We look forward to continuing to develop innovative strategies to drive growth over the next five years.”

    As the official IT provider for Philadelphia Union, Subaru Park, & WSFS Bank Sportsplex, Atomic Data manages their servers and endpoints, monitors their network around the clock, and provides 24×7 end-user help desk support. They also strengthen the team’s cybersecurity with advanced tools and offer on-site tech support for the organization as needed.

    Atomic Data’s Yagya Mahadevan, head of sports and entertainment division Game Day Technologies, commented: “This multi-year extension reaffirms the strong partnership we’ve built with Philadelphia Union over the past three years, and we’re thrilled to enter the next phase. Looking ahead, we’re committed to helping Philadelphia Union implement robust processes to enhance their technology operations and deliver world-class infrastructure for the WSFS Bank Sportsplex.”

    About Atomic Data & Game Day Technologies
    Atomic Data, trusted IT provider for hundreds of enterprises, sports teams, and large venues, is on a mission to deliver always-on, custom-tailored technology solutions and objective IT leadership.

    Game Day Technologies® powered by Atomic Data enables owners and teams to right size and modernize their venues, districts, training facilities, and back offices with objective, holistic technology oversight and activation.

    For more information, please visit www.philadelphiaunion.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Supports Bessent for Treasury Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–The United States Senate today confirmed Scott Bessent to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury by a bipartisan vote of 68-29.  In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) highlighted Mr. Bessent’s qualifications and urged colleagues to support his nomination. 
    “Mr. Bessent is committed to restoring the prosperity and opportunity experienced under President Trump’s leadership,” Crapo said.  “I look forward to working closely with him to ensure we extend the policies that benefitted Americans of every income bracket and enabled families and businesses to get ahead.  If qualifications–and, I might add, character–are one’s test for supporting a nominee, voting to confirm Mr. Bessent is one of the easiest votes we could ever take.” 
    Mr. Bessent’s nomination was previously reported favorably out of the Senate Finance Committee by a bipartisan vote of 16 to 11. 

    Read Senator Crapo’s full remarks below:
    “I rise today to urge my colleagues to vote in favor of the confirmation of Mr. Scott Bessent, who has been nominated to serve as Secretary of the Treasury.
    “Over the weekend, the Senate voted with broad bipartisan support to advance Mr. Bessent’s nomination.  In fact, fifteen of my Democrat colleagues joined Republicans in advancing Mr. Bessent’s nomination.
    “Despite Mr. Bessent’s prolific experience and qualifications—which cannot be disputed—a few detractors frame their policy preferences as if these are compliance issues with respect to his taxes. 
    “Let me be clear: Mr. Bessent followed all applicable laws and met the Committee’s longstanding and rigorous diligence standard.  The Finance Committee has the most rigorous standard of vetting nominees of any committee in the Congress, including looking at their past tax returns and having tax experts come in and evaluate their tax returns with us.
    “His diligence matched that which has applied to nominees in previous administrations. 
    “Contrary to what you have heard, he provided extensive supporting material for all of the attacks on him, including more than 3,000 pages worth, and he and his staff spent countless hours with Republican and Democrat Senate Finance Committee members and staff going over all of these allegations and all of these claimed failures to pay taxes.  
    “He’s gone further by not only divesting all of his business ties, which is no small task, but by publicly committing that if there is any change in the law in the future on these policy arguments, that he would comply with those changes in the law.
    “Let me state this again, as clearly as it can be said, Scott Bessent paid his taxes.
    “I’ve heard it said twice on this floor that he did not pay his taxes.  Experts have gone over his tax returns, and he has complied with standard, prevailing interpretations of the tax code every time.
    “The issue here is that the IRS wants to change the interpretation of the tax code, but the IRS doesn’t get to decide what our tax code says.  Congress does, and Congress has not made the changes that the IRS wants to see.
    “Even in the face of that, arguing that he should have done what the IRS wanted him to do, in fact, they didn’t even say they wanted him to do it, they said it to other taxpayers, and other taxpayers have taken the IRS to court over this issue.  Mr. Bessent has said, if the IRS prevails and changes the tax code–the interpretation of the tax code–he will comply.
    “But the argument that he has not complied with long standing tax policy and interpretation is false, and I don’t know anybody who could go through a more rigorous standard than what we put him through in the Finance Committee.
    “As for the nominee, Mr. Bessent has worked for the last three decades as one of the sharpest minds in the global finance industry.  He has decades of academic, professional and leadership experience relevant to the position of Treasury Secretary.  
    “His performance at the Committee was stellar.  His background and training are tailor-made for this role, and he has the demeanor and character to be an effective Secretary.
    “Mr. Bessent is committed to restoring the prosperity and opportunity experienced under President Trump’s leadership. 
    “This includes ensuring that we avert an over-$4-trillion tax hike on the American people if the Trump tax cuts are allowed to expire, which he rightly described at his nomination hearing as a pass/fail exercise. 
    “There should be no question that we will extend these tax cuts.
    “I’ve also heard it argued on this floor here today that this is just a tax cut for rich billionaires.  The reality is that the vast majority of the tax cut goes to everyday people–to people making less than $400,000 a year.
    “The vast majority of those tax cuts go to people in the lower-and-middle income tax brackets. The tax cuts that we are talking about gave tax cuts to every single solitary income cohort in the tax code, and the greatest tax cuts went to those in the lower- and middle-income categories.
    “It would be terrible if we did not extend these tax cuts, and yet, Mr. Bessent is attacked for saying he supports extending these tax cuts.  It doesn’t make sense.  
    “I look forward to working closely with him to ensure we extend the policies that benefitted Americans of every income bracket and enabled families and businesses to get ahead.
    “I should also say that under this tax policy, when it was passed, the richest in America paid a greater percentage of the overall tax burden than they had before.  Yet he is attacked for wanting to extend these tax cuts that will hammer every single tax paying American if they are allowed to expire
    “If qualifications–and I might add, character–are one’s test for supporting a nominee, voting to confirm Mr. Bessent is one of the easiest we could ever take. 
    “In previous congresses, many of my Republican colleagues and I have voted for candidates we considered to be qualified to serve as Treasury Secretary, even when they were nominated by Democratic presidents and we disagreed with many of their policy positions.  
    “Mr. Bessent’s candidacy ought to enjoy similar bipartisan support and I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join with me in confirming his nomination.
    “He is the right person for this job, and I commend President Trump in making such an excellent selection.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Universal Periodic Review 48: UK Statement on Iraq

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Statement at Iraq’s Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Thank you, Mr President,

    The United Kingdom welcomes the steps taken by Iraq in 2024 to implement the Yazidi Survivors Law, a groundbreaking piece of legislation and an important first step to provide justice for survivors.

    We urge the Government to ensure the protection of freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly, and to strengthen legal protection guarantees for journalists, the media and civil society.

    We recommend that Iraq:

    1. Protects the right to freedom of assembly, including by holding accountable any perpetrators of violence against protestors.

    2. Strengthens the capacity and independence of the judicial system to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of sexual violence, and provide effective and necessary support for victims.

    3. Ensures that amendments to Iraq’s Personal Status Law, including the code to be subsequently developed, are in line with Iraq’s International Commitments on women and children’s rights.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Secures $450,000 from Companies Selling Home Security Cameras that Failed to Secure Private Videos

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James secured $450,000 from three companies that distribute eufy home security video cameras for failing to secure consumers’ private home security videos. The companies, Fantasia Trading LLC, Power Mobile Life LLC, and Smart Innovation, LLC distribute a line of video cameras, video doorbells, and video smart locks under the eufy brand. An investigation by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) found that video streams from the cameras were not always securely encrypted and could be accessible to anyone with the relevant link without authentication. The settlement requires these companies to take steps to ensure stronger protections for customers’ data and pay $450,000 in penalties and costs.

    “New Yorkers buy home security cameras to protect themselves and their homes,” said Attorney General James. “The eufy cameras’ poor data security allowed anyone to access people’s security camera footage, defeating the purpose of having a home security system. Today my office is taking steps to ensure eufy cameras’ developers improve their data security so that New Yorkers home security footage is private and protected.”

    In November 2022, a security researcher publicly disclosed tests indicating that marketing claims about the eufy products’ security and “end-to-end encryption” of data might not be accurate. The OAG opened an investigation focused on a line of eufy-branded internet-enabled video cameras, video doorbells, and video locks distributed by Fantasia Trading, Power Mobile Life, and Smart Innovation. The marketing for these home security products assured consumers that their data would be kept private and secure.

    The OAG’s investigation revealed that, in certain situations, video sent over the internet from eufy home security products was not protected by end-to-end encryption, and that at least a portion of the connection did not use any type of encryption at all. The investigation also uncovered that an active video stream could be accessed by anyone with the relevant URL, without authentication, and that it may have been possible to deduce the URL without obtaining it from a user. The companies had not previously identified these security vulnerabilities because they did not have the necessary processes in place to test their safeguards or to identify risks to the security and privacy of consumers’ video.

    As a result of this settlement, Fantasia Trading, Power Mobile Life LLC, and Smart Innovation will pay $450,000 in penalties and costs and take steps to ensure the eufy home security products they sell better protect consumers’ private videos. The agreement requires that the companies regularly substantiate that the developer of the eufy home security products:

    • Maintains a comprehensive information security program designed to protect the security, confidentiality, and integrity of consumer information;
    • Uses secure software development processes, including the use of third-party tools for testing software for security vulnerabilities;
    • Maintains a vulnerability management program that includes regular penetration testing and vulnerability testing; and
    • Implements appropriate encryption processes, including the encryption of video in storage and in transit.

    Today’s announcement continues Attorney General James’ efforts to protect New Yorkers’ personal information and hold companies accountable for their poor data security practices. Last month, Attorney General James secured $500,000 from an auto insurance company for failing to protect New Yorkers’ data.  In November 2024, Attorney General James and DFS Superintendent Adrienne Harris secured $11.3 million from GEICO and Travelers for having poor data security. In October 2024, Attorney General James secured $2.25 million from a Capital Region health care provider for failing to protect the private information and medical data of New Yorkers. In August 2024, Attorney General James and a multistate coalition secured $4.5 from a biotech company for failing to protect patient data. In July, Attorney General James launched two privacy guides, a Business Guide to Website Privacy Controls and a Consumer Guide to Tracking on the Web, to help businesses and consumers protect themselves. In April 2023, Attorney General James released a comprehensive data security guide to help companies strengthen their data security practices. In January 2022, Attorney General James released a business guide for credential stuffing attacks that detailed how businesses could protect themselves and consumers.

    This matter was handled by Assistant Attorney General Nathaniel Kosslyn, Senior Enforcement Counsel Jordan Adler, and Deputy Bureau Chief Clark Russell of the Bureau of Internet and Technology, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Kim Berger. The Bureau of Internet and Technology is a part of the Division for Economic Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Chris D’Angelo and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy. 

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Mattermost to Deliver AI-Powered Collaboration for Azure Secret and Top Secret Environments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Palo Alto, California, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At the AFCEA West 2025 conference, Mattermost, the leading collaborative workflow platform for air-gapped edge operations, today announced its intent to develop an AI-ready platform for Azure Secret and Top Secret cloud environments. This initiative will leverage the power of Azure AI, including OpenAI’s GPT-4o, which recently received authorization for use in Microsoft’s Azure Government Top Secret cloud, as announced by Microsoft on January 16, 2025.

    Mattermost is purpose-built for disconnected, edge-based environments, enabling secure collaboration and workflow execution even in the most isolated and sensitive operations. This includes one-to-one and group messaging, file sharing, systems integration, automation, audio calling, and screen share. This new initiative will extend these capabilities to Azure’s air-gapped cloud environments, empowering defense and intelligence agencies to leverage the latest advancements in AI while maintaining the highest levels of security and compliance.

    Key Use Cases:

    • Out-of-Band Incident Response: Securely coordinate and manage incident response activities in disconnected environments. This is critical for maintaining communication and operational continuity when primary communications infrastructure may be breached or unavailable, especially in emergency situations to prevent data spillage of classified information to other platforms.
    • Red Team and Pen Test Workflows: Facilitate collaboration and information sharing for red teaming and penetration testing exercises within a protected, segregated environment designed to manage highly sensitive classified information about vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure.
    • DevSecOps in Classified Environments: Enable secure collaboration and automation for software development and security operations, including integrations with continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) platforms and popular developer infrastructure like on-premise versions of GitLab, GitHub Enterprise, Jira, Jenkins, and other similar platforms.
    • Mission Operations and Command and Control: Provide a reliable and secure platform for critical communications and coordination.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • Secure Collaboration: Enables secure chat operations, file sharing, audio calling, and screen sharing, along with integration with legacy and custom systems, automation and customization, all within classified environments.
    • Workflow Automation: Streamlines repetitive tasks, boosts efficiency with secure workflows and digital playbooks, and speeds up the execution of standard operating procedures, training, and onboarding.
    • AI-Powered Assistance: Acts as a force multiplier to address talent and personnel shortages by leveraging Azure AI and OpenAI to provide real-time analysis, automated workflows, and intelligent insights, alleviating the stress of spreading mission-critical teams too thinly across responsibilities.
    • Integration with Microsoft Teams: Offers interoperability options with Microsoft Teams, allowing for collaboration across different security domains.
    • Compliance with Stringent Standards: Meets the rigorous security and compliance requirements of Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 503. 

    “The material rise in geopolitical instability and the dramatic increase in global cyber threats, including adversarial use of AI and digital attack vectors, requires rapid augmentation of capabilities within air-gapped environments to more rapidly detect, analyze, and defend against new categories of threats,” said Corey Hulen, CEO of Mattermost Federal Inc. “This initiative represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing the secure and innovative solutions required for mission success in this challenging environment.”

    About Mattermost:

    Mattermost is the leading collaborative workflow platform for air-gapped edge environments. We serve national security, government, and critical infrastructure enterprises, from the U.S. Department of Defense, to global tech giants, to utilities, banks and other vital services. We accelerate out-of-band incident response, DevSecOps workflow, mission operations, and self-sovereign collaboration to bolster the focus, adaptability and resilience of the world’s most important organizations.

    Our enterprise software and single-tenant SaaS platforms are built to meet the custom needs of rigorous and complex environments while offering a secure and unrivaled collaboration experience across web, desktop and mobile with channel-based messaging, file sharing, audio calling and screen share, with integrated tooling, workflow automation and AI assistance.

    For more information visit mattermost.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bybit Web3 Launches Telegram Mini Wallet to Simplify Wallet Creation for Web2 Users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bybit Web3, the Web3 division of Bybit, today announced the launch of its Telegram Mini Wallet, a significant step towards bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3. This innovative feature empowers users to seamlessly create and manage their Bybit Wallets directly within the popular Telegram messaging app, eliminating the need for separate app downloads and streamlining their Web3 journey. This integration reflects Bybit’s strategic commitment to simplifying access to blockchain technology for a broader audience, particularly Telegram’s active user base. 

    Key Features and Benefits of the Bybit Telegram Mini Wallet:

    • Simplified Onboarding: Allows users to create a Bybit Wallet easily within the Telegram interface.
    • Integrated Asset Management: Enables depositing, withdrawing, and managing crypto assets directly within Telegram.
    • Improved User Experience: Offers opportunities to participate in campaigns, engage with the Bybit ecosystem, and explore Web3 within Telegram.
    • Enhanced Accessibility: Aims to break down the barriers to entry for Web2 users and support broader blockchain adoption.

    “We’re thrilled to introduce the Telegram Mini Wallet — it’s a big step in our mission to bridge CeDeFi and become the gateway to everything on-chain,” said Emily Bao, Head of Spot and Web3. “By making wallet creation and management simpler, we’re opening the door for more people to experience the amazing possibilities of Web3. It’s all about making blockchain technology easy and accessible for everyone.”

    Exploring New Possibilities: Bybit Telegram Mini Wallet and FarmX Campaign

    The launch of the Telegram Mini Wallet aligns with the latest edition of FarmX, Bybit SpaceS’ flagship token farming initiative. This campaign features a prize pool exceeding $100,000, and an expanded selection of token rewards, including $PinEye, $FLOCK, and $USDT (via Tanssi).

    Over 20,000 users have already won USDT in previous FarmX campaigns, with more than 5,000 joining within 24 hours during a first-come, first-served event. One user earned around 50 USDT, demonstrating the potential rewards available. The upcoming campaign provides an expanded scope, featuring 50,000 slots available for users to claim potential rewards.

    The Telegram Mini Wallet addresses a common industry challenge: for many beginners, getting started with DeFi can be confusing, especially when it comes to choosing and setting up a Web3 wallet. By leveraging Telegram, a trusted platform familiar to millions, the Bybit Mini Telegram Wallet simplifies the process by allowing users to create and manage their Web3 wallet directly within the app. This seamless integration provides an easy and secure way for users to explore decentralized finance, offering a smoother introduction to owning and managing digital assets.

    Users can seamlessly connect via the Telegram Mini Wallet or their Bybit Wallet, streamlining their participation in FarmX. Moreover, holding or staking $TON unlocks exclusive perks, such as boosted rewards in the TON Pool, further enhancing the earning potential.

    Bybit’s Telegram Mini Wallet and FarmX campaign exemplifies its innovative approach to integrating social engagement with blockchain technology, empowering users with intuitive tools and generous rewards.

    #Bybit / #TheCryptoArk / #BybitWeb3

    About Bybit Web3

    Bybit Web3 is redefining openness in the decentralized world, creating a simpler, open, and equal ecosystem for everyone. We are committed to welcoming builders, creators, and partners in the blockchain space, extending an invitation to both crypto enthusiasts and the curious, with a community of over 130 million wallet addresses across over 30 major ecosystem partners, and counting.

    Bybit Web3 provides a comprehensive suite of Web3 products designed to make accessing, swapping, collecting and growing Web3 assets as open and simple as possible. Our wallets, marketplaces and platforms are all backed by the security and expertise that define Bybit as the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, trusted by over 60 million users globally.

    Join the revolution now and open the door to your Web3 future with Bybit.

    For more details about Bybit Web3, please visit Bybit Web3.

    About Bybit

    Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

    For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com 
    For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media
    Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

    Contact

    Head of PR
    Tony Au
    Bybit
    tony.au@bybit.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/663c0477-8b1e-44e7-a7f4-fdd6a69a6018

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Alliance Witan PLC – Dividend Declaration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Alliance Witan PLC (‘the Company’)
    LEI: 213800SZZD4E2IOZ9W55

    Dividend Declaration

    58 Years of Rising Dividends

    Alliance Witan PLC declares a fourth interim dividend of 6.73p per share, up 6.2% on the equivalent dividend of 6.34p paid in the same period in the last financial year. The total dividend for 2024 is therefore 26.70p, an increase of 6.0% on the Company’s 2023 dividend. This sustains dividend growth for legacy Witan shareholders and marks the 58th consecutive annual increase for the Company, one of the longest track records in the investment trust industry. With substantial reserves, the Board is confident that it can go on increasing dividends well into the future.

    The dividend will be paid on 31 March 2025 to shareholders on the register at the close of business on 28 February 2025. The ex-dividend date is 27 February 2025.”

    Juniper Partners Limited
    Company Secretary

    28 January 2025

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Western Financial Group Honoured as a Top Alberta Employer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HIGH RIVER, Alberta, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thanks in part to our exceptional workplace culture, commitment to work-life balance and care for our people, customers, and communities in which we live and work, Western Financial Group (Western) has been recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers 2025.  

    First published in 2006, Alberta’s Top Employers is an annual competition organized by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers. This special designation recognizes the employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. 

    “It’s an honour to receive this kind of recognition, particularly in a time when many industries are facing a war for talent,” said Grant Ostir, Western’s Chief Executive Officer. “This really reinforces our commitment to caring for our people, ensuring professional growth opportunities and giving them the tools they need to succeed. This commitment carries across all teams, from coast to coast.” 

    Western was also recently named to the Forbes’ Canada Best Employers 2025 list for the second time. 

    “From our inclusive environment and generous vacation time, to our commitment to the local communities in which we live and work, there are many reasons why people are drawn to work at Western,” said Kristy Rachkowski, Chief People and Culture Officer. “I’m really proud of the workplace culture we’ve cultivated and the philosophy that our people and our customers are at the heart of all we do. We can feel that at all levels throughout the organization.”  

    Founded in 1905 in High River, Alberta, Western stands out as a workplace committed to fostering a positive environment for its approximately 2,200 employees across Canada, from coast to coast. 

    Click here for more information about Western’s culture and staff insights. For more information about Western Financial Group, visit www.westernfinancialgroup.ca. 

    Western Financial Group Inc.  

    Headquartered in High River, Alberta, Western Financial Group is a diversified insurance services company focused on creating security and peace of mind and has provided over one million Canadians with the proper protection for over 100 years. Western is committed to community service, customer service, innovation, growth, and people while providing personal and business insurance through our engaged team of over 2,000 people in approximately 200 communities, affiliates, and various connected channels.  

    Since the very beginning, supporting our local communities has guided everything we do – it’s who we are. In 2001, the Western Financial Group Communities Foundation (our non-profit charity) was created as a way for our team members to give back and positively impact the people and pride in the places where we live, work and play – to date we have granted over $9 million back into our communities.  

    Western Financial Group is a subsidiary of Trimont Financial Ltd., a subsidiary of The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company. Visit https://westernfinancialgroup.ca for more. 

    For more information, please contact:  

    Nichola Petts, PR Manager: Nichola.petts@westernfg.ca  

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/239fad2e-3930-406d-bedf-d41e0dedd2ac

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bybit Brings Gold and Forex Trading to the Forefront with Exclusive Copy Trading Fiesta

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Jan. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has unveiled the Copy Trading Gold & FX Fiesta, an exclusive event offering a total prize pool of 130,000 USDT. This unique opportunity invites crypto traders to explore Gold and Forex markets through Bybit’s innovative Copy Trading platform, which simplifies trading for beginners and experienced participants alike. The event runs from now until Feb. 24, 2025, providing a seamless gateway for crypto traders to expand their strategies into new asset classes.

    Participants can unlock rewards by completing a variety of engaging tasks. Traders who register as Master Traders and complete their first trade on the Copy Trading Gold & FX platform will be eligible to receive a 50 USDT airdrop. Those who choose to follow a Master Trader and execute their first copy trade are eligible for a 10 USDT airdrop. Participants can enhance their chances of winning by completing a daily trading task. By trading at least 2 lots of Gold or forex, they can unlock one Lucky Draw opportunity each day, adding more potential rewards to their experience.

    Bybit’s Copy Trading Gold & FX Fiesta is designed to help traders diversify their portfolios, moving beyond traditional cryptocurrency markets to explore the potential of Gold and Forex. With the global economy showing positive growth, this is a chance to discover new opportunities and expand into promising asset classes. Bybit’s platform ensures convenience by leveraging USDT instead of fiat, simplifying transactions and making it easy for users to participate. Beginners can follow the strategies of experienced traders through Copy Trading, gaining confidence and insights as they trade alongside industry pros.

    Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director at Bybit, shared her thoughts on the event: “By combining exclusive features with a user-friendly platform, we’re making it easier than ever for our users to explore new trading opportunities and diversify their portfolios. This event is the perfect gateway for those looking to enter the Gold and Forex markets while leveraging the expertise of seasoned traders.”

    Rewards for this event are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Lucky Draw rewards will be credited to winners’ Rewards Hub and must be claimed within 14 days. To qualify, participants must register via the designated event page and complete Identity Verification Level 1. Restrictions apply, and users are advised to read the terms and conditions. 

    For any questions or assistance, users can contact Bybit’s Customer Support team.

    #Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

    About Bybit
    Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

    For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com 
    For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media
    Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

    Contact

    Head of PR
    Tony Au
    Bybit
    tony.au@bybit.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d39060a8-34cf-4f63-bc50-08e09e6d083d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Alliance Witan PLC – Director Declaration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Alliance Trust PLC (‘the Company’)
    LEI: 213800SZZD4E2IOZ9W55

    Director Declaration

    In accordance with Listing Rule 6.4.9R (2), the Company announces that Milyae Park, non-executive Director of the Company, has been appointed as a non-executive Director of THG PLC with effect from 28 January 2025.

    Juniper Partners Limited
    Company Secretary

    28 January 2025

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Fox Business The Bottom Line: We Have a New Sheriff in Town

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Fox Business’ The Bottom Line to discuss President Trump’s America First foreign policy strategy and the Senate confirming Scott Bessent as Secretary of the Department of Treasury.
    Senator Marshall sits on the Senate Finance Committee, met with Bessent ahead of his confirmation hearing, and voted yes to confirm him as Treasury Secretary. The Senator strongly believes that Bessent is the right leader to revive America’s economy.
    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include: 
    On President Trump’s proposed tariffs on Colombia:
    “This whole week’s been nothing but shock and awe. It’s been a blitzkrieg for Donald Trump. It’s been a long time since we’ve seen a leader like this, so this sends a clear message to all the leaders – don’t mess with the United States right now, that we have a new sheriff in charge.”
    “What was impressive was the speed this came out. In years past, this would take weeks for a policy to develop. There’s President Trump between swings saying, enough of this – Colombia, take back your criminals. So indeed, a new sheriff in town.”
    On Scott Bessent passing Senate confirmation to become the next Secretary of the Treasury:
    “Of course, I voted yes, and it went through with flying colors, 68 to 29. Scott Bessent is approved to be your next Secretary of the Treasury. Scott’s going to do a great job. He’s going to bring some South Carolina common sense to everything here. He was raised in a small town, but yet he’s financially brilliant, so I think he’ll be part of the solution as we work forward on the legislation and balancing our budget.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Media advisory: Corruption Perceptions Index to be published on 11 February 2025

    Source: Transparency International

    Transparency international will release its 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index on Tuesday, 11 February 2025 at 6:01 CET (12:01 EST).

    The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) is the leading global indicator of public sector corruption, providing an annual comparative snapshot of 180 countries and territories. The index for 2024 is calculated using data from 13 external sources.

    Watch the CPI explainer video

    The 2024 CPI edition assesses how countries have responded to corruption over time, reviewing progress and failures in the past year, while focusing particularly on how corruption is undermining climate action around the world. It shows how the biggest recipients of climate finance are facing governance and corruption challenges and that undue influence from the fossil fuel industry is limiting the ambition of wealthy nations to tackle climate change.

    2024 Corruption Perceptions Index

    11 February 2025 at 06:01 CET

    Published online at  www.transparency.org/cpi/

    Embargoed materials will be available on Tuesday, 4 February. To request interviews or press materials under embargo until publication, please email Felix Arbenz-Caines at di:ga Communications [email protected] or the press office at Transparency International Secretariat [email protected].

    For national enquiries, please contact the appropriate Transparency International chapter.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Visit by EFTA parliamentarians

    Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

    European Free Trade Association (EFTA) parliamentarians met with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on 28 January 2025 to discuss the importance of a rules-based multilateral trading system. The meeting addressed EFTA’s commitment to global trade, the need for WTO reform, and the role of trade in improving living standards. Both parties emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable and predictable trading system in the current geopolitical context.

    Download this video from the WTO website:
    https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ga2RXooYwyM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Our Golden Age Has Just Begun

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

    “We will stand bravely, dream boldly, and nothing will stand in our way, because we are Americans. The future is ours, AND OUR GOLDEN AGE HAS JUST BEGUN.” –President Donald J. Trump

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MEyBTmV42X4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Universal Periodic Review 48: UK Statement on Iran

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    UK Statement at Iran’s Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. Delivered by the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, Eleanor Sanders.

    Thank you, Mr President.

    The United Kingdom welcomes Iran’s engagement with the UPR.

    We have noted President Pezeshkian’s election campaign comments on human rights issues, including the negative implications of hijab enforcement and internet filtering.

    We remain deeply concerned about Iran’s failure to uphold its international legal obligations. In particular, its violent enforcement of mandatory veiling, intimidation of human rights defenders and journalists, and discrimination against minority groups. 

    We recommend that Iran:

    1. Guarantees all individuals, but especially those facing charges carrying the death penalty, a fair trial, consistent with obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Right, including access to a lawyer of their choosing.

    2. Grants access to Human Rights Council mandate holders, including the Special Rapporteur on Iran.

    3. Ratifies the UN Convention Against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

    Updates to this page

    Published 28 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reappointment of Ofgem Chief Executive

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Jonathan Brearley reappointed as Chief Executive Officer of Ofgem.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has today (14 January 2025) confirmed the reappointment of Jonathan Brearley as Chief Executive Officer of Ofgem.

    The reappointment will run from 1 February 2025 until 31 January 2030.

    The Secretary of State has also extended the terms of 2 non-executive directors – Myriam Madden to 31 March 2025 and Barry Panayi to 16 March 2027.

    Biographies

    Jonathan Brearley – Chief Executive Officer

    Jonathan Brearley was appointed as an executive member of the Ofgem Board in 2018. Jonathan became Ofgem’s Chief Executive Officer on 3 February 2020. This follows his previous appointment as Executive Director for Systems and Networks in April 2018.

    He has wide-ranging energy sector experience, having led Electricity Market Reform as the Director for Energy Markets and Networks at the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC).

    Prior to this, he was Director of the Office of Climate Change, a cross-government strategy unit focussed on climate change and energy issues, where he led the development of the Climate Change Act. Earlier in his career, Jonathan was a senior adviser in the Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit.

    Appointed: 3 February 2020
    Reappointed: 1 February 2025
    Term ends: 31 March 2025

    Myriam Madden – Non-Executive Director

    Myriam was appointed to the Ofgem Board in January 2020. She has held senior executive finance and operational positions in global technology companies, financial services in the UK, US and Europe, as well as the public sector. An experienced Executive Director, Myriam specialised in business transformation, operational restructuring and finance in both the private and public sectors.

    Myriam is a chartered management accountant and a Board member of the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA). She is a Board member of Home Group, chairman of their Scottish subsidiary, a board member of the Traverse Theatre and chairman of their Audit committee.

    Myriam previously served as a non-executive member of the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee of BEIS. She was also a Board member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and President of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, both global accounting bodies.

    Appointed: 1 January 2020
    Extended: 1 February 2025
    Term ends: 31 January 2030

    Barry Panayi Madden – Non-Executive Director

    Barry was appointed to the Ofgem Board in March 2020. He specialises in data and digital transformation and has worked in data for the whole of his career. He is currently Chief Data and Insight Officer for John Lewis.

    Prior to John Lewis, Barry spent the majority of his early career at Ernst & Young helping to lead the data and analytics practice and has subsequently headed up data and digital teams in organisations such as Bupa, Virgin and Lloyds Banking Group.

    Appointed: 16 March 2020
    Extended: 1 February 2025
    Term ends: 16 March 2027

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Black Blizzard” at the Stanislavsky Electrotheatre

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    “Stanislavsky Electrotheatre” invites you to Denis Azarov’s play “Black Blizzard”.

    The main character of the production based on the play by Anastasia Bukreeva is 40-year-old (give or take) Sverdlov, who is on a business trip and is stuck in Norilsk. The flight to Moscow is cancelled because a bear has chewed through the cable, and the city is expecting a black snowstorm. Sverdlov does not like museums, but has to go to a local history museum, which becomes the meaning-forming space in the play. Inside it, the audience, together with the actors, passes through a variety of pavilions and meets objects of living and inanimate nature.

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

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

    https: //vv.mos.ru/afisha/event/330035257/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New Affordable Housing Units in Prince Albert Provide Homes for Families in Need

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on January 28, 2025

    Construction is completed on 12 new affordable housing units for low-income families in Prince Albert at the newly reconstructed Meadow Green housing development. The Government of Saskatchewan has invested $3.3 million in the project to develop additional two- and three-bedroom social housing to meet the need for larger family units in the community.

    “Safe and affordable housing is the foundation for families to thrive and build a better future,” Social Services Minister and Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation Terry Jenson said. “This project reflects our ongoing efforts to provide housing that meets the needs of our communities, ensuring families have the stability and opportunity they need to succeed.”

    The project reconstructed a portion of the Meadow Green housing development, which was destroyed in a fire in 2021. The newly constructed building includes four three-bedroom units and eight two-bedroom units in a modern, low-rise apartment complex. The Saskatchewan Housing Corporation owns the development, and families will rent through the Prince Albert Housing Authority, ensuring affordable and accessible housing for those in need. 

    This milestone aligns with the Government of Saskatchewan’s ongoing commitment to social housing. In 2024-25, Saskatchewan Housing Corporation is investing $83.4 million in the repair and maintenance of provincially owned housing units, including an additional $9.6 million to reduce vacancies and meet demand for social housing across the province.

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Mourns On-Job Death of Member at Charlotte International Airport

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM released the following statement following the tragic on-the-job death of a member at Charlotte Douglas International Airport:

    “An IAM member has lost their life on the job at Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The IAM is coordinating with authorities to conduct a full investigation. The IAM has dispatched a safety committee and EAP representatives to assist and will provide support to our affected members. Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our deceased member.”

    IAM District 141 also released a statement on the tragic incident.

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